Chicago Parent May 2015 by Chicago Parent

MAY 2015

113 reasons to love May

Tea time royalty Toast mom in style

Free ranger? Take our quiz

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connecting with families

Oh baby How to survive and thrive

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Kids will have a blast staying active, making new friends, and exploring our creative weekly themes. Our energetic camp counselors are dedicated to your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s progress throughout the camp, encouraging them to reach new heights on the rock wall, great lengths in the pool, and most importantly, to have fun!

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CAPTAIN YOUR OWN ADVENTURE OPENS MAY 8

ChicagoChildrensMuseum.org AT NAVY PIER Open daily at 10 am

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50 Over

Big Screen, Small World At GEMS World Academy – Chicago, innovative technology in every classroom connects cultures.

years of experience and leadership worldwide

Attend An Open House To learn more about GEMS World Academy - Chicago, tour the school and meet faculty and staff, join us for an Open House with our Director of Admissions, Ryan Hannon. To learn more and reserve your spot, visit gemschicago.org/parent 312.809.8910 admissions@gemschicago.org

When most students first learn about other cultures, they open a book. At GEMS World Academy – Chicago, a premier JK - 12 school, they do it face-to-face via international teleconferences. With 70-inch interactive touch screens in every classroom, students collaborate globally beginning as early as first grade. Building authentic relationships with others around the world enables our students to understand the universal experiences that make us responsible global citizens. That’s learning on a higher level.

2 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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“one test of the correctness of the educational procedure is the happiness of the child.” – Dr. Maria Montessori

Join us for summer, stay for school

call 312.243.0977 to attend an uPcominG eVent! InformatIonal Coffee & tour

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ChicagoParent.com May 2015 3

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Allergies can be scary.

‘‘

Nylah can’t be near peanuts, but Comer Children’s Hospital taught us how to recognize the potential dangers and how to respond when the unexpected happens.

’’

— Tiffani Washington

Tiffani with her daughter, Nylah

Nylah’s doctor, Raoul Wolf, MD, answers allergy questions at

chicagoparent.com/comer

Call Today Learn how Comer Children’s Hospital can help your child

1.888.824.0200

Did you know...? » About 20 percent of children with a peanut allergy will outgrow their allergy. » Food allergies are increasing in prevalence, with rates of peanut allergy nearly tripling in the past 10 years. » Manufacturers can change ingredients at any time. Always check food labels, even on items you regularly purchase.

or visit uchicagokidshospital.org/request/ for an appointment

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CELEBRATING 4 UCM83_ChicagoParent_May-FullPgAd May 2015 ChicagoParent.com 4.indd 1

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YEARS

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Learn. Ready to Grow. Ready to Discover. Little GEMS International Pre-School in Lincoln Park is the place where your child can learn and explore, grow and develop, and enjoy discovering the world. As part of GEMS Education’s global network of award-winning schools, children at Little GEMS International Pre-School receive an early start on a world-class education in structured and safe learning environments. We may be the new kid in Chicago, but GEMS Education has been the world’s foremost provider of private education for children from birth through Grade 12 for over fifty years. www.lgipreschool-chicago.com

Schedule a pre-school tour today! To learn more about Little GEMS International Pre-School and our newest Chicago school, GEMS World Academy-Chicago (K–12), call us at 312-361-3539.

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Get on the Fast Track to Becoming a Safer Swimmer! Why wait? Accelerate! Our Jump Start Clinics are the perfect way for your child to get a head start on learning to swim. What: 4 or 5 consecutive 30-minute lessons with the same instructor. Jump Start Clinics run Monday-Friday. Why: To get a jump-start on the learn-to-swim process, brush up on technique or achieve skills needed to advance to the next lesson level. When: June-August 2015

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6 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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contents IN THIS ISSUE 15

GOOD TO GO

BEST IN CHI

SELF-AWARE PARENT

We check out Glazed & Infused and amphibians at Shedd, plus we found three places that make picnics easier Best places to get pedaling

Overthinking what people think

MAY 2015 | VOLUME 31 | NO. 5

FEATURES

35 38

WELL PLAYED

CRAFT

PARENT PANEL

Hooray, it’s May! Mighty mugs moms will love When mom disagrees with your parenting

ON THE COVER MAY 2015

GREAT MOTHER’S DAY TEAS FOR GREAT MOMS Places in the city to treat mom like the royalty she is READY, SET, PLAY! An insider’s guide to the new Maggie Daley Park

113 3 reasons to love May

Tea time royalty Toast mom in style

Free ranger? Take our quiz

KIND OF 41 WHAT MOTHER ARE YOU?

Three moms share philosophies on child rearing, plus take our quiz to find your parenting style

RAINBOW BABIES 45 Stories of infant loss, strength and new blessings I SURVIVED 49 Challenges show parents they

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CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES CONNEC

Oh baby How to SURVIVE and THRIVE

Cover kid: Levon Philippe, 7 months, Chicago Photography: Thomas Kubik of TK Photography Design: Claire Innes

Coming this month

Going Places Available beginning May 18

are more resilient than they think GET UP AND GO 52 Must-have products for baby to grab right now ChicagoParent.com May 2015 7

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EDITOR’S NOTE SPONSORED

Tales the tree rings tell Inside every tree, there are rings that can tell us a story. Have you ever wondered what the inside of a tree looks like? If you go to the Children’s Garden of The Morton Arboretum, you may see a round slab of wood cut from the trunk of a tree. Look closely, and you’ll find it is made up of rings, one inside another. Where did the rings come from? Every ring is one year’s growth of wood. The dark spot in the middle is the wood from the very first year, when a skinny little tree sprouted from a seed. The first ring forms around that center. Every year, a new ring forms around the last one, so the tree gets wider and wider. You can count the rings and tell how old the tree was when it was cut. There are light rings and dark rings, like circular stripes. The lighter rings are from springtime, when the tree grows fast. The darker rings are from fall, when it grows more slowly. But every year is different. When it rains more, the tree grows faster and the rings are wider. So the rings can tell us which years were rainy and which years were dry. Scientists use tree rings to learn about the weather in the past and to understand how trees grow. They even can take a sample from inside a living tree to see its rings without cutting it down. They read the stories that the rings tell. And now so can you.

What kind of mother am I? If you ask my mom, she’ll tell you I’ve ruined my kids. I love my mom with all of my heart, but when she gets on her soapbox about me doing too much for the kids, I tune her out. Yes, I rarely ever say no to them. Yes, I am exhausted keeping up with them. Yes, I still sometimes make three different dinners to please them. TAMARA L. Yes, I spend more of my income than O’SHAUGHNESSY is reasonable or good for my 401(k) to fuel their interests. No, they do not have chores around the house. When my mom is on her soapbox, I think back to my own childhood and the crazy dangerous things I did that make me wonder how I even survived. Building on my own mother’s free-range style of parenting before free-range came into vogue, I do tend to give my kids more freedom than many of their friends have. They know that if they violate my trust and my rules, though, that ripped away. freedom is rip good. I have So far, so g rule followru ers er who are relatively happy happ most days. So I can’t days messed up have m so badly. I never really think about my parenting style. I’ve always done what felt right. So it was with great interest that some of our Chicago Parent editorial staff took this month’s quiz (Page 43) to see what kind of mothers

ILLUSTRATIONS BY STEPHEN SCHUDLICH

we are (or will be). Elizabeth has a Safety First parenting style; Jackie is an even split between Safety First and Helipad style. Me? I am a Helipad Parent all the way. Here’s the thing: No matter what your own parenting style is, be confident and own it. Don’t let anyone’s criticism—even your own mom’s—dissuade you from doing what you feel in your heart and gut is best for your family. You are doing great. Happy Mother’s Day.

4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, Ilinois 60532 mortonarb.org • 630-768-0074 8 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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Real Food. Real Families.

We’re right down the road – families a lot like yours. The same full schedules, busy days and skinned knees. And just like you, we want the very best quality and nutrition in the food we put on our table. We’re Illinois farmers – 97 percent of Illinois farms are family farms – and the food we provide your local grocery goes on our plates too. We’re ready to share our stories. We want to hear yours. Let’s talk about what’s on your table – visit us at www.watchusgrow.org.

ChicagoParent.com May 2015 9

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CONTRIBUTORS

My perfect Mother’s Day

EDITOR

Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy SENIOR EDITOR

Elizabeth Diffin DIGITAL EDITOR

Jackie McGoey ASSISTANT EDITOR

Emily Adams ART DIRECTOR

Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNERS

Brunch with my husband and girls. Dinner with the rest of my family including my mom and grandma. Yoga/me time in between. The perfect day. Lindsay Pinchuk

It’s important for me to celebrate with the moms in my life—from my mom, to my sister and sister-in-law, to my mother-in-law. They’ve all helped me become the mother I am and I’m beyond grateful for them. Megan Murray Elsener

Homemade card, local coffee shop for breakfast sans tantrums, a few hours alone so I can read in bed, followed by a family bike ride to the ice cream parlor. Danielle Braff

It includes all my loves—the kids, my hubs, the other mothers who mean so much to me, yoga, massage, crab legs. Ah perfection! Cortney Fries

Jacquinete Baldwin, Sky Hatter IT AND DIGITAL DEVELOPER

Mike Risher CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Danielle Braff, Megan Murray Elsener, Sara Fisher, Keely Flynn, Cortney Fries, Linda Marsicano, Lindsay Pinchuk, Meredith Sinclair, Marianne Walsh DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES

Dawn Engelhardt, Erika Goodman, Ursula Hourihane, Lourdes Nicholls, Mark Seger, Karen Skinner SALES AND MARKETING COORDINATOR

Kamil Brady

ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER

Philip Soell

ADVERTISING DESIGN MANAGER

Andrew Mead

ADVERTISING DESIGN

Debbie Becker, Mark Moroney CIRCULATION MANAGER

Kathy Hansen CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Jill Wagner

EXERCISE & WELLNESS PREGNANCY STUDY The University of Minnesota is seeking women who are currently pregnant or less than 6 weeks postpartum to participate in a research study examining the effect of exercise and wellness on mood following childbirth  Participants receive a motivational exercise program or a health and wellness program, which begins after the birth of your baby (participants can sign up for the program during pregnancy)  Program delivered to you via the mail and phone  Must be 18 years of age or older  Must not currently exercise regularly  Must not take antidepressants  Must have a history of depression  You will receive $100 for your time

Call 612-625-9753, send the word ‘TEXT’ to 612-345-0325, or email mompro@umn.edu to see if you qualify for this research study.

CREDIT MANAGER

Laurie Myers PUBLISHER Dan Haley VP/OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Andrew Johnston

COMPTROLLER Ed Panschar FOUNDERS Natalie Goodman,

Carolyn Jacobs

HOW TO REACH US 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 (708) 386-5555 ChicagoParent.com EDITORS

chiparent@chicagoparent.com TO FIND A COPY

circulation@chicagoparent.com ADVERTISING

dhaley@wjinc.com

Chicago Parent is published monthly by Wednesday Journal, Inc. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Chicago Parent, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL, 60302. © 2015 Wednesday Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

10 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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When your family is complete, consider Essure® permanent birth control. Essure is the only non-surgical permanent birth control • Over 99% effective* • FDA-approved and available in the US for over 10 years

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The Essure® inserts are permanently placed in your fallopian tubes. Unlike getting your tubes tied, the Essure procedure is non-surgical. It can be performed right in your doctor’s oﬃce in about 10 minutes. There’s no downtime to recover—most women go home about 45 minutes after the procedure and return to their normal activities within 1 to 2 days. The Essure Conﬁrmation Test is given 3 months after the procedure to verify the inserts are placed correctly and your fallopian tubes are completely blocked, providing permanent birth control. To learn more about Essure and find a doctor, visit essure.com or call 1.877.ESSURE4 (1.877.377.8734)

Indication Essure® is permanent birth control that works with your body to create a natural barrier against pregnancy.

Important Safety Information Essure is not right for you if you are uncertain about ending your fertility, can have only one insert placed, are or have been pregnant within the past 6 weeks, have had your tubes tied, have an active or recent pelvic infection, or have a known allergy to contrast dye. Talk to your doctor if you are taking immunosuppressants. WARNING: You must continue to use another form of birth control until you have your Essure Confirmation Test (3 months after the procedure) and your doctor tells you that you can rely on Essure for birth control. It can take longer than three months for Essure to be effective. Talk to your doctor about which method of birth control you should use during this period. Women using an intrauterine device need to switch to another method. If you rely on Essure for birth control before receiving conﬁrmation from your doctor, you are at risk of getting pregnant. Please see additional Important Safety Information about Essure on next page.

*Based on 5-year clinical study data. †Some restrictions may apply. Visit essure.com/aca to learn more or contact your health insurance provider.

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Important Safety Information (continued) WARNING: Be sure you are done having children before you undergo the Essure procedure. Essure is a permanent method of birth control. During the procedure: In clinical trials some women experienced mild to moderate pain (9.3%). Your doctor may be unable to place one or both EssureÂŽ inserts correctly. Although uncommon, part of an Essure insert may break off or puncture the fallopian tube requiring surgery to repair the puncture. Your doctor may recommend a local anesthetic. Ask your doctor about the risks associated with this type of anesthesia. Immediately following the procedure: In clinical trials some women experienced mild to moderate pain (12.9%) and/or cramping (29.6%), vaginal bleeding (6.8%), and pelvic or back discomfort for a few days. Some women experienced nausea and/or vomiting (10.8%) or fainting. In rare instances, an Essure insert may be expelled from the body. During the Essure Confirmation Test: You will be exposed to very low levels of radiation, as with most x-rays. In rare instances, women may experience spotting and/or infection. Long-term Risks: There are rare reports of chronic pelvic pain in women who have had Essure. In rare instances, an Essure insert may migrate through the fallopian tubes and may require surgery. No birth control method is 100% effective. Women who have Essure are more likely to have an ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the uterus) if they get pregnant. This can be life-threatening. The Essure insert is made of materials that include a nickel-titanium alloy. Patients who are allergic to nickel may have an allergic reaction to the inserts. Symptoms include rash, itching and hives. The safety and effectiveness of Essure has not been established in women under 21 or over 45 years old. Essure inserts do not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases.

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Talk to your doctor about Essure and whether it is right for you. You are encouraged to report negative side effects or quality complaints of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

is part of your favorite social networks Find us on Facebook Join the Twitter party! Follow us @ChicagoParent

BAYER, the Bayer Cross and Essure are registered trademarks of Bayer. ÂŠ 2015 Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc., Whippany, NJ, 07981 All rights reserved. PP-250-US-0606 Printed in USA February 2015

On Pinterest pinterest.com/chiparent

12 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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ON THE WEB

The scoop at ChicagoParent.com indoor water parks 1Great you have to check out It’s spring in Chicago—time to break out the swimming suits! It might not seem like the ideal season for wet-and-wild fun, but that doesn’t mean splishing g and splashing is out of the question. stion. Writer Cortney Fries and her er family of four checked out some low-cost indoor pools to give you the inside scoop.

connect with us

New favorite spots

We are always on the lookout for new places for you to have fun with your kids ki and we try them out before we recommend them to you. That includes recom finding new hotels, such as Loews find Chicago Hotel, which has some Ch great packages for families, g aand the Edgewater Hotel in Madison, Wis. Plus, we have reviews of the latest h plays to hit the stage and pl visits to new restaurants to vis shake up family dinners, such shak Aboard Family Dining and as All A Amusement in Frankfort. There’s Amuse something new every day.

Weekend fun

If your family is like ours, planning things to do on the weekend is often spur of the moment. That’s why we make it easy for you to find something to please everyone with our weekend picks, lists of places to play and our great calendar. But to make it even easier, sign up right on the homepage for our email newsletters, which give you the top picks right in your inbox every Thursday.

Turtle Rock Underwritten by: Kendra & Thys Wallace & Family

Opens May 2015

DISCOVER NATURE’S WAY OF TEACHING.

Meet Kohl Children’s Museum’s newest permanent residents in a live animal display opening this May: Turtle Rock! Watch these young reptiles (don’t call them amphibians, please!), play, swim, feed, bask, and grow up before your eyes in this cooperative venture with Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. Join us for National Turtle Day on Saturday, May 23 for more turtle-themed activities!

2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview | (847) 832-6600 | kcmgc.org ChicagoParent.com May 2015 13

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14 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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Am mphibians Includ ded in To T ta tall Experience c Pas asss an a d CityPASS S; $5 upg pgra rade de to Shedd Pass Shedd Aq A uaari r um um,, 1200 S. Lake Shooree Dri rive ve, Chicago sheddaquar a ium. m or og

CURiOSiTiES

toad that lays eggs on her back. A newt whose ribs can puncture its sides. A frog with claws. Salamanders that bark like dogs. Overgrown earthworms with tiny eyes.

They might sound like candidates for Animal Planet’s “Weird, True and Freaky,” but these creatures are actually some of the stars of Shedd Aquarium’s new exhibit, opening later this month. Amphibians explores the world of the cold-blooded, non-scaly

group usually represented by frogs and salamanders. There are actually more than 6,000 types of amphibians, and more than 40 of those species will be part of the exhibit, at Shedd through 2017. According to Kris Nesbitt, director of exhibits at Shedd, the exhibit is designed for families, with animals that are on kids’ eye level and habitats that groups can cluster around spy the animals. Visitors can expect to see bright poison dart frogs, a 50-pound Japanese giant salamander, Suriname toads (the egg layers), Iberian newts (sharp ribs), African clawed frogs (self-explanatory), mudpuppies (those noisy

Good

COLD-BLOODED salamanders) and Caecilians (the earthwormy guys), among others. “One of the reasons we chose this exhibit topic is the astounding diversity,” Nesbitt says. “They’re very engaging animals and there’s a very important conservation story.” She hopes families learn how to help at-risk amphibians through the exhibit’s interactive elements. And the emphasis on local species means that families can make connections to the exhibit when they’re in their own backyards. After all, those salamanders that bark like dogs? They live right in Lake Michigan. Elizabeth Diffin

ChicagoParent.com May 2015 15

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BEST IN CHI

Get pedaling One of my favorite things about raising kids in Chicago is the city’s dedication to improving biking for its residents. I’ve always loved to bike, but for the first 10 years I lived here I never felt safe doing it. Luckily, with the city’s investment in bike lanes and mapped-out routes, I feel that I can easily take my kids on a ride. SARA R. FISHER My 9-year-old loves to bike, too, and together we can get pretty much anywhere we need on two wheels. Since May is National Bike Month, I want to share some of my favorite city rides.

Bike the Drive Sunday, May 24, 5:30 a.m., bikethedrive.org Our favorite family biking activity in the city has to be the incomparable Bike the Drive. Once a year, the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend, the city shuts down Lake Shore Drive to traffic and opens up 30 uninterrupted miles for bikers. The views are unbelievable, and so is the energy. Since we live on the North Side, we make it just about to the Loop, but I hear the South Side views are even better. Maybe this year. $47 for adults, $16 for kids 17 and under.

gardens and the newly renovated $6 million riverfront restoration project. A home run!

Horner Park route cityofchicago.org, search keyword bike maps Horner Park, on the city’s northwest side, boasts not only an amazing sledding hill in the winter, but some great city biking in the summer. We like to bike up California Avenue to get there. (California has a newly paved road, plus a new bike lane for easy travel.) Once at the park, you can do several loops on the 55-acre park past baseball and softball fields, tennis courts, playground,

A secret place Rockwell Street and Clark Park, between Melrose and Addison Shhh, don’t tell, but just west of Lane Tech High School is a little forest, and in that forest is a homegrown BMX offroading course for pros and amateurs—and kids like mine who just want a little adventure close to home. Tour the bumps in the woods or ride past along the North Branch of the Chicago River for a little scenic nature ride.

16 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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THREE TO TRY

1 Mall. 135+ Stores.

The Roost Carolina Kitchen

Picnic packing

made easy

t’s almost Memorial Day, and that means it’s time for one thing: picnics! The question isn’t whether to eat outdoors, it’s what to put in your basket. Here are three places that provide perfect picnic eats for summer:

The Roost Carolina Kitchen: This relatively new fried chicken joint makes chicken in three flavors: herb seasoned, spicy and Nashville hot. All are scrumptious, but be warned, the Nashville hot could require resuscitation (and a lot of water). Throw in some extras like baked mac and cheese, handcut potato chips and the peach cobbler for dessert. theroostcarolinakitchen.com.

you order the turkey and cheese, Italian sausage or any other of about a dozen options, what makes the meal is the seasoned coleslaw that comes right on top. luckysandwich.com. TION...

DID WE MEN

es ntury Theatr Stratford Ce offers now $7 movies!

The Florentine

3 Lucky’s Sandwich Company

Lucky’s Sandwich Company: These huge sandwiches make any picnic a hearty success. Whether

The Florentine: Too busy to pack your own basket? This Chicago Loop gem does the work for you, with a choice of lavish baskets brimming with meats, cheeses, crunchy breads, grilled veggies and fruit. e2hospitality.com. Linda Marsicano

ething fun ay? m o s r o f Looking m for Mother ’s D o do with M here's a fun idea…

Try BOWLING, DINNER and a MOVIE at Stratford Square Mall!

STRATFORD SQUARE MALL Located at the corner of Schick Road & Gary Avenue Bloomingdale, Illinois www.StratfordMall.com | 630-539-1000

ChicagoParent.com May 2015 17

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GOOD TO GO

Glazed & Infused (and delicious)

largest doughnut in town. We passed on the massive doughnut and decided to diversify so we could sample as many variations as possible (which left the regulars behind us slightly and understandably annoyed). Some of the kids’ favorites included the red velvet smeared with a healthy dose of cream cheese frosting, the glazed vanilla bean and the old-fashioned made from classic spiced buttermilk cake. The sprinkles doughnut, which we thought would be a winner, was actually a bit too densely sprinkled and while good (what doughnut isn’t?) proved to be the crowd’s least favorite.

e set out recently to find out if the rumors we heard were true, that Glazed & Infused in Chicago’s Lincoln Park has the city’s best doughnuts. We brought a handful of master taste-tasters, ages 7-10, who were hungry for breakfast after a raucous sleepover. First, the setting on Armitage Avenue is charming and there’s plenty of room to eat on site if you choose, although we ordered ours to go. The cases lined with doughnuts in unique flavors can be overwhelming—and then there’s a huge “happy birthday” doughnut almost daring customers to buy the

The grownups were just as impressed with the offerings as the kids. Our picks were the maple bacon long john, layered with real maple glaze and candied bacon; the blackberry cheesecake with homemade blackberry jam and filled with vanilla bean cheesecake; and the chocolate-peanut butter Bismarck filled with peanut butter cream filling. Given their ample size, the group agreed one was more than enough for a filling breakfast, which makes the $2 to $3 per doughnut price

Glazed & Infused

939 W. Armitage, Chicago goglazed.com Other locations include the West Loop, River North, Streeterville and Wicker Park, the only location with a last night window from 8:30 p.m.-2 a.m. (great for late night pregnancy cravings!)

quite reasonable. Glazed & Infused also offers doughnut-decorating sessions—a hit for birthday parties—where guests can create doughnuts of their dreams. Linda Marsicano

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18 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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CGS Summer Program 2015 Sapere Aude – Dare to Know

Summer 2015 PS-K Themes • Light Time/Shadow Time • Bugs! Bugs! Bugs! • Does it Sink? • Blowing Hot and Cold • Magnet Mania • Pets & Vets Themes for Grades 1-6 • Model Rocketry • Learn to Code! • Chess Camp • Fun with &*6 Problem Solving! • Engineering Challenge Aude - Dare to be Wise • Sapere Games of Skill Standardized Test Prep for Grades 7 and 8 • NWEA-MAP, HSPT, and ISEE

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Noah

Adventures. C l a r k e Dirt. Memories. And all their gear. It’ll all come home from camp with them.

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20 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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Overthinking what people think

Need to know

THE SELF-AWARE PARENT

Too often we pull back from an innovative idea, allow ourselves to be treated poorly or decide to not try something new because we find ourselves thinking, “I don’t want people to think that I’m…” What? Too successful? Too outspoken? Too self-loving? Instead of believing that it’s OK to CATHY CASSANI do what feels good or right to us, we ADAMS prioritize what we think others want. We assume that others will view our choices or changes negatively, so we stay safe rather than risk judgment. Maybe it’s because we’ve become judgmental of other people’s choices and failures. We’ve talked so much about why others should or shouldn’t be doing what they are doing that we’ve restricted our own ability to live outside the box and take some risks. Maybe it’s because we’ve been told to make others comfortable. We fear selfcare because people may actually think that we (gasp!) like ourselves. If people think we like ourselves, we might be called self-absorbed, or we might find ourselves isolated. This thinking is backward. If we want our partner to be appreciative, we have to appreciate who we are. If we want our children to be self-loving, we have to demonstrate how that looks. If we want a promotion, we have to verbalize and stand behind our skills. It’s in our best interest to embrace uncertainty and give martyrdom a rest. We are much better off doing what makes us feel alive than attempting to deflect

or decipher the needs and opinions of others. If we begin to understand and respond to our own needs, we might find that we feel better. We might find that people like to be around people who feel good. When we feel good, our desire to criticize lessens. We find ourselves more empathetic when it comes to others’ needs and challenges. The less we judge, the freer we will be to try something new, to do what feels right, and to take risks and learn from our experiences. All of the sudden we discover that our worry over others is an energy drain that keeps us separated from our true selves. This is when we start to ask the questions that help us identify our needs. And rather than worry about what others may think, we embrace the importance of what we think about ourselves. Cathy Adams is an author, the host of Zen Parenting radio and the mom of three girls.

ChicagoParent.com May 2015 21

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MOM OF THE MONTH

For hearts that need MENDing

The heart’s full mom Sara Hintz

Husband, Greg; kids Louis, 17; Caleb, 15; Anna, 12; Elijah, 10; Samuel, would be 6 ½; Hope, 6; Levi, 4; and Isaiah, 2 Schaumburg

{M.O.M}

Launched Chicagoland area’s only MEND (Mommies Enduring Neonatal Death) infant loss support group You do so much from raising seven kids, flying to Uganda to help at a foster home for kids with special needs, running a support group for other grieving parents, what is your secret? I did not want all of my pain or sorrow wasted. We were open to what (God) might have for us. I just feel like he has used all of that sorrow and sadness to bring forth kind of a new me. ... To see those good things come out of (my son’s) sweet, short life is huge. I’ve grown to be way more organized than what I am naturally by nature.

my kids laugh. I love that. It’s peaceful. Really, honestly, I love it all. People think I’m crazy, but I always wanted a big family, I feel so blessed. What is your very best piece of advice to other moms? I think sometimes we can get so bogged down trying to teach our kids, make sure they are well behaved and all that. Give yourself permission to really just enjoy who they are and not sweat the small stuff, it’s just not worth it.

How can people who mean well but don’t know what to say express their sympathy for a child’s death? Be there practically by cooking meals for them, offering to help with their kids, things like that. Then make sure they know that you are there for them. You don’t really have to say a whole lot, just give them a hug and let them know to take as long as they need to grieve. Don’t be afraid to mention their child.

The MEND support group meets 7-8:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of every month at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Schaumburg. The free meetings are open to moms and dads who have lost a baby due to miscarriage, stillbirth or through the first year. After Sara Hintz’s fullterm son, Samuel, was born stillborn in 2008, she turned to a MEND chapter in Oklahoma for help. When the family moved to Schaumburg, she says she wanted to create a chapter here to help other moms and dads through their grief. “You don’t have to grieve alone,” says Hintz, who leads the group’s meetings. The group is there for people “trying to find that new normal” after a loss, she says. For information, visit mend.org or email Hintz at saraann@mend.org.

Restless babies: 3 steps to easier diaper changes So your baby is growing up and won’t be still when you change diapers? Here’s how I make it easier: 1) Be prepared: Open up the diaper, take out some wipes and be ready to go. 2) Give your baby a toy to hold. 3) Use those acting skills: Now’s the time to show off your dormant talent. Belt out a song, perform a dramatic story or put on some funny faces. Keep your baby mesmerized with your talent. He’ll think you deserve an Oscar (for parenting)! Kaila Weingarten, 30 Second Mom contributor

What is your happiest time as a mom? Just hanging out as a family, hearing

22 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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GOOD SENSE EATING

YOUR ISSUES,

their issues?

Megan* was so fearful of food that when her 5-year-old son wanted to keep playing rather than stop to eat, she was relieved she didn’t have to deal with it. At other times, she tried eating meals with him, but would only pick at a salad. Needless to say, Megan (not her real name) was a poor role model for her son who was underweight. A mom’s past experience with weight and CHRISTINE eating certainly influences how she feeds PALUMBO her children. But how much do women carry their eating issues into motherhood? “I actually see this all the time,” says Jessica essica Fishman Levinson, n, MS, RDN, founder er of Nutritioulicious. “Moms may havee eating issues after growing up overweight or with eating disorders and often fear their children will havee the condition they ey had.” One common situation featuress a mom who fears her daughter is putting ng on weight after being overweight most of her own life. As a result, Levinson vinson sees two differentt reactions. One group roup up of mothers is often en hypervigilant over er what their children are eating. The other group of moms tries to make it a nonissue and let their kids eat everything and anything with no limits.

Neither of those extremes is providing your child with a c balanced diet or o teaching them how to eat e once they’re on their own.

If you’re struggling If yo you had an issue in the past eating is or you’re still s struggling with one and an you feel like it could be impacting how you’re feeding your child, seek out an eating therapist o or registered dietitian nutritionist nu who specializes in eating special disorders. “The hard hardest thing you need to do is go with the Levinson says. flow,” Levin “If “I If you don’t let yyour our child have treats at the thee tr birthday party or at the friend’s house when all the other kids are having them, your child is going to feel left out and they’re going to seek (the food) elsewhere.”

Bacon-stuffed shell salad Serves 8 Prep time 25 minutes Cook time 15 minutes

Ingredients 12 ounces Canadian-style bacon, sliced 1 cup zucchini, shredded ½ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped d 2 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese, grated ted 3 Tbsp. vegetable oil 3 Tbsp. red wine vinegar 1 clove garlic, minced ½ tsp. Italian seasoning ½ tsp. sugar ¼ tsp. salt 1⁄8 tsp. pepper 16 conchiglioni (jumbo shells) Romaine lettuce Instructions

1. Cut Canadian bacon into thin strips. In a large bowl combine bacon, zucchini, red pepper and Parmesan cheese; set aside. 2. For dressing, combine oil, vinegar, garlic, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt and pepper. Pour dressing over bacon mixture; toss gently to mix. Cover and chill 30 minutes. 3. Cook conchiglioni according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the bacon mixture into each conchiglioni. Place the shells, filled side up, in a baking dish. Cover and chill two to four hours. 4. To serve, arrange romaine lettuce leaves on salad plates and place two shells on each plate. Nutritional information per serving: 160 calories, 8 g carbohydrates, 11 g protein, 9 g fat (2 g saturated), 0 g fiber, 700 mg sodium Recipe is courtesy of the National Pork Board, porkbeinspired.com

Christine M. Palumbo, RD, is a Naperville-based nutritionist. Follow her on Twitter @PalumboRD, Facebook at Christine Palumbo Nutrition or ChristinePalumbo.com

ChicagoParent.com May 2015 23

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8th Annual

Family Event

AND CRAFT / VENDOR SHOW Saturday, June 27, 2015 Ë 10:00 am – 6:00 pm Sunday, June 28, 2015 Ë Noon – 6:00 pm Located at the intersection of Arlington Heights Road and Devon Avenue in Elk Grove Village The “Little Boots Rodeo” is an event where families help their children participate in 14 events in a non-competitive atmosphere. After completing all events, the children will be certified as an official Cowboy or Cowgirl on stage, their name announced over the speaker and receive a certificate!

Rodeo Participant Events Find a Pearl

Qwacky Track ~ Marble Madness ~ Cow Milking ~ Pick-a-Star ~ Sandy Candy Pick-a-Pearl ~ Corn Stripping ~ Chicken Toss ~ Bow and Arrow ~ Jaws Panning for Gold ~ Ant Eater ~ Pig Puzzle ~ Dinosaur Breath Find a Shark’s Tooth

Pick up a Star Fish

General Public and Family Events

Mmmmm … Chocolaty

Raffle ~ Bronco Riding ~ Face Painting ~ Large Petting Zoo ~ Lasso ~ Jail Pig Races ~ Meet Rexie the “Live” T-Rex ~ Buffalo & Brady’s Magical Musical Show Wagon Rides ($2 / person) ~ Mechanical Bull ($2 / person) ~ Pony Rides ($2 / person) Little Boots Railroad ($2 / person) ~ Camel Rides ($3 / person) ~ Bungee Fun ($3 / person) Best Dressed Cowgirl and Cowboy Contest (Trophy awarded every hour)

Meet Rexie the “Live” T-Rex

Mechanical Bull

Pig Races

Pony Rides

Corn Stripping

Camel Rides

Bungee Fun

See Bubba the Alligator

Visit Oscar the Lemur

Panning for Gold

FREE OSCAR MEYER HOT DOG AND DRINK FOR PUNCH CARD PARTICIPANTS Huge Model Train Display on site from LGB Model Railroad Club of Chicago Proceeds will benefit The District 59 Education Foundation, The Elk Grove Farmers Market, The Lion’s, Lioness, Leo Clubs of Elk Grove Village and the Kenneth Young Center Rodeo organized and sponsored by the Little Boots Foundation in Elk Grove Village, IL We requested each child bring a non-perishable food item to be donated to one of Elk Grove’s various food banks Certification events entrance fee is $12.00 per punch card (only 1 child per punch card) Main: 630-766-8980 / Cell: 630-878-7627 / www.littlebootsrodeo.org / www.facebook.com/littlebootsrodeoegv

Subject to Change

24 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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WELL PLAYED

Hooray, it’s May!

MEREDITH SINCLAIR

Time to fling open the windows, spruce ourselves up, and head back out into the world to play! Here are four fun ways to add a touch of fun and playfulness to the next 31 days.

Play with your kiddos If you have enough Matchbox cars and BRIO Trains to transport a large pretend army, then you and your youngsters are going to LOVE “PlayTape.” It’s an ingenious new way to build custom roads and rails perfect for all those plastic cars and trucks and things that go, providing hours of creative playtime. I love that the tape sticks to any flat surface and is easy to tear, place and reposition. PlayTape would be super-fun on an outdoor dining table, too! Plus it’s recyclable and made in the USA. Start those engines! Starts at $7.99 per role, inroadtoys. com

Play with your mom

Play with your look It’s time to lash out, ladies! I recently had the opportunity to try the newest trend in beautiful eyewear— lash extensions! Imagine thick, dark, gorgeous lashes, all the time, sans mascara. You’ll be shocked at how awake and “finished” you look first thing in the morning. And then there’s the time saved not having to put on eye makeup. I’m loving extensions, and think they’re a fun must-have for all of your upcoming summer festivities like reunions, graduations and weddings. One hour and $150, then you’re ready to go. So worth it. Get your own at ’60s Beauty Lash in Winnetka.

Play with your baby

Can you think of a smarter or yummier collaboration than one between PBS Kids and Whole Foods? Me either. These two kid-friendly companies have joined forces to produce a line of non-toxic toys and products that not only educate and entertain, but also give back. I am smitten with their beautiful and wellpriced wooden cars, trucks, shape sorters and stacking toy toys. Plus, 1 percent of the total of these toys is donated to Whole purchase o Food Kids Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the nizat lives of children through proper liv nutrition. Win/win. See the whole line of PBS Kids products at shop.pbskids.org.

When I’m looking for a quirky and playful gift, I always check the locally grown shop, Paper Source. And it never disappoints. Instead of the same old bunch of flowers or brunch this Mother’s Day, treat your mama to something fun and happy. I’m fully loving the quippy graphic tea towels that will match any kitchen décor. Or one of the many unique journals, such as the “One Line a Day” journal, the “What I Love About Mom” journal, or my favorite, the “just between us” journal that encourages kids and moms to write back and forth to each other. Find all of the fun Mother’s Day gifts at one of the Chicagoland shops or at papersource.com.

ChicagoParent.com May 2015 25

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CRAFT

Mighty MUGS

Make your own personalized zed and dishwasher safe cupss

PHOTOS AND STORIES BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER R hether you are looking for a Mother’ss Day project for all the mamas in yourr life or just a great craft, these mugs are a must. Make your own monogram, name or design for a keepsake that will ill last use after use.

Directions

Select a plain white mug for your creation. They are available for cheap at craft or dollar stores.

Use scrapbook stickers to create your monogram or name on the mug. Make sure the sticker is firmly applied to the mug.

the stickers and add a second or third color as desired. If you make a mistake, use rubbing alcohol on a Q-tip to correct.

Once the paint is completely dried on the mugs, carefully remove the scrapbook stickers to reveal your final design.

5 3

Use oil-based paint pens—medium tip or larger work best—to dot all around the scrapbook stickers. (Sharpie makes a brand of these, just make sure they are the oil-based ones.) Fill in the entire area around

Do not preheat oven. Just turn oven on to 350 degrees and immediately put painted mugs into the oven. (Preheating can cause mugs to break because of the dramatic temperature change.) Set timer for 30 minutes and then turn the oven off. Leave mugs in the oven until both the mugs and oven return to room temperature.

Supplies White mugs Oil-based paint pens Scrapbook stickers Oven

Enjoy mugs with your favorite beverage and feel safe cleaning them in the dishwasher because the design will remain!

26 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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4/16/15 3:51 PM

Swimming Lessons Empower Your Children At Bri'sh Swim School we do more than teach swimming. We teach survival skills that foster a life'me of love, respect and enjoyment of the water. Our students have fun while learning new skills. Contact us to ﬁnd the right class for your liBle one.

24 Convenient Chicagoland Locations Downtown & North Shore Chicago Suburbs 708-613-5179 630-833-8145 www.BritishSwimSchool.com ChicagoParent.com May 2015 27

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4/17/15 10:08 AM

YOUR DREAMS AREN’T JUST DREAMS YOUR DREAMS AREN’T JUST DREAMS

THEY’RE WISHES MADE REAL. A FLIGHT OF FANCY ALL YOUR OWN. THEY’RE WISHES MADE REAL. FLIGHT OF FANCY ALL YOUR OWN. BECAUSE SOME DAYSAJUST DESERVE A CROWN. BECAUSE SOME DAYS JUST DESERVE CROWN. SHARE THE #ARTOFYOU AND EXPLORE AT A PANDORA.NET SHARE THE #ARTOFYOU AND EXPLORE AT PANDORA.NET SHOWN: THE CINDERELLA COLLECTION IN .925 STERLING SILVER, SHOWN: THE CINDERELLA COLLECTION .925 STERLING SILVER, MURANO GLASS ANDIN PAVÉ. MURANO GLASS AND PAVÉ.

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28 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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4/16/15 4:44 PM

FAILING WITH GUSTO

The sleepover

One can hardly blame the poor host parents. Their sunken eyes and drooped shoulders during pick-ups reflect a valiant attempt at crowd control and order. Sadly, defeat is inevitable. Hell hath no fury like 10-year-old boys amped up on junk food and Xbox. Some of my favorite memories from childhood were born during such sleepovers. Those evenings were spent contacting dead celebrities with our Ouija boards and making friendship pins. There was endless talk about boys we liked and teachers we didn’t. Mandatory viewings of Grease occurred with the sacred understanding that the movie reflected EXACTLY what high school was going to be like. It was under this nostalgic influence that I finally

agreed to host my very first sleepover. I quickly realized that boys are a tad different from girls in the overnight arena. My charges were not interested in crafting potholders. They did not talk about girls. The one movie they all begged to watch (the hockey film, Miracle) captured their attention for exactly seven minutes. Operating in a household without a finished basement or gaming system, the guys seemed confused. How would they expend their limitless energy for the all-nighter they had thoroughly planned? More importantly, how would they keep edgy Mrs. Walsh from losing her precarious mind? They opted for shinny hockey. Which they then played for five straight hours.

With knees red from rug burn, egos hurt from losses, and heads matted down from excessive sweat, I directed my mini-Patrick Kanes to where they would be sleeping. Having been assured by every overnight parent out there that not a single kid would drop off before 2 a.m., I hunkered down for a long night. Ten minutes later, one boy decided to move over to the guest bedroom, citing his need for some serious rest. Fifteen minutes later, all six boys were OUT. It was 11:30 p.m. Based on the warnings I received, I had consumed enough caffeine to hold vigil until dawn. But now? I was wide awake in a house full of sleeping

Talk back

Over the years, I have reluctantly allowed my kids to attend overnight parties with friends. While safety issues are handled after careful screening for appropriate firearm lock-up, working smoke alarms, and the absence of transient relatives, there are still concerns. Namely, I know my children will be returned with zero MARIANNE sleep after a steady overnight WALSH diet of Sugar Smacks and Skittles. The next day, kids are prone to meltdowns and a prodigious channeling of Regan from The Exorcist. lads. I tossed and turned for hours, trying to make sense of what exactly went wrong. At 7 a.m., that smart little guy who claimed the guest room poked and prodded his buddies until they were all awake and armed with shinny hockey sticks. It was time for the “Gold Medal Round.” Expecting the unexpected has been a central theme of motherhood. I assume things will always go wrong and nothing will ever go as predicted. As one little boy leapt out of my minivan during dropoffs, he stopped abruptly to declare: “This was the best day of my ENTIRE life, Mrs. Walsh!” Just like that, my sleepover phobia ended and I promised the kid to do it all again soon. And by “soon,” I mean sometime before college. I still am only human. Marianne Walsh is a Chicago mom of three boys. Want more? Go to

ChicagoParent.com and webandofmothers.blogspot.com.

ChicagoParent.com May 2015 29

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VOICE

Listen

to your mother! Nine people who admit they should have

others. We all have them. Sometimes we listen to them. Sometimes we don’t. There’s no denying, though, the impact they have on our lives. On May 3, 12 Chicago people will take the Athenaeum Theatre stage for the fourth annual Listen to Your Mother Show to talk motherhood. Expect laughs. Even a few tears. Here are nine of the folks you should know.

AS A TODDLER I WANTED A

I wish I listened to my mother during her pregnancy with me. I was born three weeks after myy due date. NOW

I’M LATE FOR EVERYTHING. David Slattery “Put on some lipstick.

You need more blush,” my mom always said. I ignored her u until I bumped into Rod Stewart on the street in New Orleans and realized he was prettier than me!

Kathleen Buckley

PURPLE HOUSE, SHE DID NOT, BUT I SET OUT TO COLOR THE

ALUMINUM SIDING S OF OUR HOUSE WHITE

WITH A PURPLE CRAYON ANYWAY. I GOT G ONE CRAYON TIP WIDTH AROUND THE WHOLE HOUSE BEFORE I GAVE UP.

Stephanie Kush

I wished I had listen to my mother when she told me not to get

credit cards as a college student. What was I thinking?

Lyletta Robinson

ChicagoParent.com CommunityCalendarEducationBabiesWebExtrasFamilyMuseums PartyPlanningSpecialNeeds TravelWeekendScoopCPrEwards ...and much more! Visit us today.

30 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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I WISH I WOULD HAVE LISTENED TO MY MOTHER WHEN SHE SA “IT’S NOT WHAT YOU SAY, SAID,

it’s how

you say it.” SUCH A TRUE STATEMENT— THE WAY WE SAY SOMETHING CAN REALLY A AFFECT THE WAY PEOPLE NOT ONLY HEAR US, BU UNDERSTAND US AND RELATE TO US. BUT

Patti Minglin

“CLEAN AS YOU GO!” When I was

Tracey Becker MY MOTHER IS MY BIGGEST SUPPORTER R

My mom always said,

AND SO I SHOULD HAVE LISTENED TO HER

younger I thought that slowed things down, but after years of cleaning up huge messess AFTER a recipe or project, I finally started doing it her way. Oops. She was right!

Melisa Wells When I had to go on a trip and leave my 8-month-old at home, my mom said, “Don’t

ADVICE: WEAR A GREAT BRA. I SPENT MY 20s AS A WANNABE

hippie AND

DIDN’T (WEAR A BRA, THAT IS). AT CLOSE TO 70, HER GIRLS ARE AS PERKY AS COULD BE. MINE, WELL, THEY STILL NEED A LOT OF SUPPORT.

Pamela Valentine Chicago’s 4th annual Listen To Your Mother Show

have fun

Athenaeum Theatre

and don’t feel worry, guilty!” Of course, I did feel guilty. But I still appreciated her telling me to enjoy my time away. Sometimes you really need it!

2936 N. Southport Ave., Chicago Tickets available online at athenaeumtheatre.org, by phone at (773) 935-6875 or in person at the box office.

Angela Bahng

Summer Fun

I wish I had believed my mother when she would promise me that someday, I would also say “Because I said so” when my kids as asked “WHY?” about Every. Single. Thing. I swore that would never be the case and that I would be the kind of mother who LISTENED to their children! To give her credit, she rarely says “I told you so” as I’m shouting “BECAUSE I SAID SO!” to my own kids

CHICAGO PARENT’S SUMMER ACTIVITIES GUIDE June and July For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com

10 percent of ticket proceeds benefit The Red Pump Project, a nonprofit organization raising awareness about the impact of HIV and AIDS on women and girls.

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www.grins4kids.com ChicagoParent.com May 2015 31

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REAL PARENTS IN THE TRENCHES

Want more? Visit ChicagoParent.com/parentpanel

What should you do when your mom openly disagrees with how you are raising your kids?

My go-to response is “but the doctor recommended it...” Gia Lee, Chicago

Pat myself on the back for a job well done. I kid, sort of. Sorry, Mom. Ryan Salzwedel, Chicago

To keep the peace, I would choose to ignore her. At the end of the day, they are your kids and you make the decisions. Sometimes staying silent is the only way to go. Tracie Guzolek, Chicago

Unless she lives in your house and deals with them on a daily basis, she has no say. Then again, you can always turn the tables on her and say “they are the way they are because you didn’t raise me better.” Jeff Mezydlo, Chicago

She often does, and I smile and nod. Out of respect, I won’t argue with her, but how I raise my children is solely up to me. I remind her my grandmother didn’t agree with how she raised us either— and I turned out OK (I think!). Rani Morrison, Oak Park

It does take a village to raise a child. But times are different and parents are allowed to raise their children how they want. I would listen to her opinion, but respectfully explain the decisions you have made. If it comes down to it, ignore her. Jackie Sergeant, Richton Park

Are you ready for summer? June 29th August 7th

Register Now! Financial assistance is available for eligible city of Chicago residents. Learn more at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/day-camp/. For more information about your Chicago Park District visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com, or call 312.742.7529 or 312.747.2001 (TTY). City of Chicago, Rahm Emanuel, Mayor Chicago Park District Board of Commissioners Chicago Park District, Michael P. Kelly, General Superintendent & CEO 32 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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4/16/15 3:50 PM

VIVA DADDY

Lordy, lordy,

look who’s in his 40s! May is my birthday month! Unfortunately, this year I turn 38 for the third time—no longer a young man, no longer a new dad, no longer someone who knows which apps are “the bombs” or whatever the hepcats are saying. Just a grownup with gray hair, a mortgage and a crush on Diane Lane. MATT ROCCO The only good news is that I’m currently 13x older than my 3-year-old. Soon I’ll be 40 and she 4, which makes me only 10x her age—I’m getting younger! Our generation had kids far later in life than previous generations. When my dad was my age, I was getting my driver’s license. The only car my daughter drives is pedaled Flintstone style. So, how will the aging dads of Gen X keep up with our toddlers as we wheeze toward dinner at 4:30 p.m.? I’m focusing on flexibility—of limb, temperament and mentality. If we could go back in time, we’d all tell our high school selves to preserve our knees and backs—what you need most when chasing toddlers, lifting them and begging them to stop tantruming. At 40, I’m going to have to start stretching. What makes a grumpy old man? Lack of patience. I played with princesses for FOUR ILLUSTRATIONS BY STEPHEN SCHUDLICH HOURS today. If I’m going be that flexible of spirit, I’m going to need a steady regimen of meditation, breathing and whiskey. Our grandfathers could never have imagined smoking bans or the persistence of rock ‘n’ roll. Our dads can’t get their heads around Twitter or the Affordable Care Act. What are WE going to need to learn to understand? Robot son-in-laws? Prom dresses made of kale? Logan’s Run-style liquidation of senior citizens as the Social Security pool runs out? We’ll need to keep our attitudes flexible. So, wish me luck and an abundance of cartilage as I enter my fourth decade. I’m going to need it. Viva 40. Viva Viva. Viva Daddy.

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ChicagoParent.com May 2015 33

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Specıal Parent CHICAGO

A Chicago Parent EMPOWERMENT GUIDE

Chicago’s only local magazine and resource guide to life for families who have children with special needs. • 50,000 copies distributed in early intervention specialist offices, and local libraries • Expanded special needs resource directory online at ChicagoParent.com

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Winter 2015

An empowerment guide from

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Winter edition now available!

1/30/15 12:23 PM

For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com

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we take special care of

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34 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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Great Mother’s Day teas for great moms Places in the city to treat mom like the royalty she is

oms are sweet, and now you can celebrate Mother’s Day with something equally as sweet—tea, scones and an abundance of sweet treats. We sampled nearly all the afternoon tea selections in the Windy City with two girls ages 3 and 6 who love to do tea, so that you can determine which will be the best fit for your family on Mother’s Day.

Danielle Braff

Spencer’s Jolly Posh Foods 3755 N. Southport Ave.; (872) 802-3840, jollyposh.com Atmosphere This is one of the most casual—and authentic— tea spots in Chicago, as it’s owned by a Brit. The restaurant is contemporary and cozy, and while it’s not formal, it’s inviting and it’s one of the only spots that allows one person to order a tea service while the other people can order anything else they want off the menu (they have a full menu of English food). High tea The adult’s and kid’s teas are similar—both have a selection of finger sandwiches, a scone with clotted cream and jam and pastries for adults and for children—though they sub a nutella sandwich for the smoked salmon in the kid’s selection, for example. The afternoon tea can be ordered at any time of day and is offered throughout the year, $22 adults, $12.50 kids.

Ritz-Carlton 160 E. Pearson St.; (312) 266-1000, fourseasons.com/ chicagorc Atmosphere The Ritz is totally upscale and posh. You’re served in the lobby, which is opulent and overlooks a massive indoor fountain. Fortunately, there’s carpeting, which soaks up the noise of tantrums (we tested this theory, and it works). High tea It’s served only during holidays and Mother’s Day, and it’s fancy. Adults get an assortment of sandwiches including egg salad, chicken salad and smoked salmon—all of which are complete with special garnishes that set them apart from what you’d

Ritz-Carlton

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Spencer’s Jolly Posh Foods

make at home. The kids’ tea plate looks like it jumped off of a Pinterest page, with all of the sandwiches cut into various cute shapes. Mother’s Day tea is $45 adults, $22 kids ages 5-12.

The Peninsula 108 E. Superior St.; (312) 337-2888, chicago.peninsula.com Atmosphere The string duet performing live above the lobby where tea is served totally sets the mood for tea. The duet is also loud enough to dull the sound of any tantrums, though it’s not the place to go if you expect your child to be CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

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TEAS

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rowdy—this is a fancy, special place. High tea Every detail is accounted for here. The chicken salad sandwich has herb aioli and coconut cream while the smoked ham sandwich has a rum raisin spread and is served on pretzel bread. The children get hot chocolate or chocolate milk instead of tea, and they also snack on jello, gummy bears, mini hamburgers and everything else their little bellies desire. It’s

Soho House

served throughout the year for $55 adults, $25 kids.

The Palmer House Hilton 17 E. Monroe St.; (312) 726-7500, hilton.com Atmosphere It’s served at the Lockwood Restaurant & Bar alongside other diners, some of who may be there for lunch, so this is a little more casual. High tea They serve an assortment of classic tea sandwiches for adults, ranging from a delicious roast beef to a crab sandwich with a dusting of caviar. The children’s sandwiches are cut into cute shapes, which always makes them more fun to eat. Desserts include scones, plus more unusual treats like a tiny lemon crème brulee. It’s served throughout the year for $40 adults, $20 kids.

The Langham

Soho House 113 N. Green St.; (312) 521-8000, sohohousechicago.com Atmosphere While Soho House is only open to members, the lounge, The Allis, is open to the public. It seves high tea daily. You’d think it would be pretentious, but it’s the opposite. It’s everything you’d want your living room to be if you love the industrial chic style (cozy couches, exposed brick walls,

massive chandeliers). High tea This is a bargain, and also the most traditional high tea that we sampled. My family lived in England for two years, and when we went for high tea there, this is what we got: simple sandwiches (egg salad on white bread, smoked salmon on a tougher bread, or a thin ham and cheese sandwich) plus a few small scones and fancy cakes. Tea is $18 (there isn’t a separate kids’ tea), though they

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told us that they’d be minimally raising the prices in the near future.

The Drake 140 E. Walton Place; (312) 787-2200, thedrakehotel.com Atmosphere Famous for its high tea, The Drake set the stage with a harpist who sits in front of a fountain. It’s elegant, but the room is nice and cozy. Be sure to check out the bathrooms, which are incredible. (Take note, nursing moms! These are some spacious, beautiful, elegant bathrooms with ample seating.) High tea While the food here wasn’t as creative as others’ (the kids’ sandwiches were simply sandwiches), we enjoyed the lobster sandwich and the swan-shaped dessert. The scones tasted a little doughy, though they made up for it with perfectly baked macarons. Tea is $40 adults, $20 kids.

The Langham 330 N. Wabash Ave.; (312) 923-9988, chicago.langhamhotels.com Atmosphere It’s contemporary and chic, and accompanied by a pianist. You can either have a view of a modern fireplace or a soaring view of Chicago—and both are dazzling. This is not your mama’s tea service, and that’s why we loved it. High tea It’s all about attention to detail here, and we were

The Peninsula blown away by the truffled egg salad, served in an egg shell. The raisins from the scones were soaked in Earl Grey tea before they were baked. Make sure you order the kids’ tea service a day ahead, as they need ample time to get it ready. $50 adults and $25 kids.

American Girl Place 835 N. Michigan Ave.; (877) 247-5223, americangirl.com Atmosphere This is where girls and their dolls go to have some girl time. Kids can borrow an American Girl doll to dine with them. The dolls even get a place setting of their own (they can take the doll mug and plate home with them). The harpist adds the final girly touch. High tea Since this is catered more toward the little ones, it comes with pigs in a blanket, a meatball, a mini turkey sandwich, a chocolate chip scone, Jell-o, etc. The kids’ tea and the adult tea are identical—and it includes items that kids and adults will enjoy, plus a small craft. $19 adults and kids.

American Girl Place

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Make Your Mother’s Day Meaningful ChicagoParent.com May 2015 37 4/17/15 11:22 AM

Ready, set,

PLAY!

An insider’s guide to the new Maggie Daley Park

BY KEELY FLYNN n what’s arguably the most exciting thing to happen to downtown Chicago recently, Maggie Daley Park (and its unparalleled Play Garden) is moments away from welcoming the city of broad shoulders into a wonderland for little legs. Eager for some insider information on this three-acre playground extravaganza? Here’s the good stuff to know before you—as the Chicago Park District encourages—“come out and play.”

The scoop This p past December, the only activity getting more pas buzz th than ha seeking out a Santa was the opening of skating ribbon at Maggie Daley Park. The first the sk kat part of the grand landscape to be completed, thee ““rink” consisted of a quarter mile of winding ice, holding up to 700 skaters at a w ttime. Chilly Chicagoans were hooked and anxiously awaited more details about the powerhouse project that would connect the Daley Bicentennial Plaza to the already world-famous Millennium Park. The ribbon will now feature roller skaters. T

The strategy Slated for a grand opening in June, the play spaces are rarin’ to go even as other sections are still being completed. (Besides, what kid isn’t thrilled by a bulldozer or two?) That said, as it’s bordered by Columbus Drive, Randolph Street, Monroe Street and Lake Shore Drive, Maggie Daley Park is prime (and popular) real estate for parking. Save yourself a headache and map out the best public transit route at transitchicago.com. Definitely driving? You can save yourself a chunk of change at the plentiful parking garages by using a prepaid service like SpotHero.com or ParkWhiz.com. As a last resort, there’s a tiny amount of metered parking along Randolph Street right next to the park, underneath the Brown Line tracks, and around the Mag Mile’s side streets.

The shelter Even in comparison to Chicago’s many green een areas, this park is big. Especially since most visits to Maggie aggie Daley Park will include a trek across the BP Bridgee (which connects to Millennium Park mainstays ays like The Bean!), you might want to toss a wagon in the back of the ol’ wagon. And if there’s still room in there, maybe toss in a grownup friend or two—the kind who doesn’t mind rescuing one kid from a lighthouse tower while you chase a toddler across a shaky moat bridge. This is definitely going to join the ranks off the play spaces where you’re glad you brought ght a lightweight stroller, too. And even though looming ooming trees and manmade shade structures will eventuventually pepper the park, allow for the fact that your kid will be in supremely wide open spaces with a supremely

38 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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Suzy loved the ship.

Maggie Daley Park

337 E. Randolph Ave., Chicago chicagoparkdistrict.com

unforgiving amount of sun. SPF and hydrate up, friends.

The Shangri-la T Take a moment and think back on the best playground b ffrom your childhood: the one with the tallest structures for w climbing, the expanses for running amok and the ability for pure whimsy. This one leaves tthem all in the dust. For starters, did the park of yyour youth feature separate ((and separately awesome) areas with their own fancy names? w Distinct play areas called the D Lagoon, the Sea, the Harbor, L

and the Slide Crater offer innumerable ways to create, dream and move. Your kids will have a hard time choosing their favorite sea-faring structure: The marvelously accessible ship or the spiral slide jutting out from the kid-powered lighthouse? Which slide jets them down the quickest, and which ones let you zoom down while holding hands with a friend? According to my 3- and 5-year-olds, the answers are as follows: the ship is great for resting, climbing and yelling into the “talking” tubes; the lighthouse is the place they’d like to stay all day; and Slide

Crater’s center chutes (equidistant between the two towers!) are the best for tandem sliding. And for the smaller set, my 1-year-old highly recommends the Harbor’s boat swings, that is, when he could get a squeal in edgewise.

Stay tuned! Even more magic is being planned for this cross between Wonderland and Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. There’s the wave lawn, perfect for games of Capture the Flag, exploring the prairie wildflowers, or—a personal family favorite—rolling

downhill until dizziness strikes. The Enchanted Forest, with its 3,500 square feet of upside down trees, a giant tea party table, and mirrored kaleidoscope maze promise an inspiring (and shady!) respite. Add in climbing walls for beginners to the advanced (some reaching heights of 40 feet), and Maggie Daley Park might just be the “something for everyone” tourists and Chicagoans will adore. Keely Flynn is a Chicago mom of three, a playwright and frequent Chicago Parent contributor.

ChicagoParent.com May 2015 39

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Girls on the Run–Chicago is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident. Using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running, the innovative program combines training for a 5k event with interactive lessons that encourage positive social, emotional, mental and physical development. Over the past 15 years, Girls on the Run–Chicago has served more than 42,000 young girls across seven Chicagoland counties. This year, more than 1,000 coaches will mentor 8,000 girls, empowering them with the confidence and character they need to become strong, healthy women.

Girls on the Run–Chicago is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident. Using a fun,

experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running, the innovative program combines training for a 5k event with interactive lessons Girls on the Run–Chicago is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident. Usin that encourage positive social, emotional, mental and physical development. Over the past 15 years, Girls on the Run–Chicago has served more experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running, the innovative program combines training them for awith 5k event with interactive than 42,000 young girls across seven Chicagoland counties. This year, more than 1,000 coaches will mentor 8,000 girls, empowering the that encourage positivethey social, mental andwomen. physical development. Over the past 15 years, Girls on the Run–Chicago has serve confidence and character need emotional, to become strong, healthy than 42,000 young girls across seven Chicagoland counties. This year, more than 1,000 coaches will mentor 8,000 girls, empowering them confidence character they need to become strong, healthy women. 40 May 2015and ChicagoParent.com

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What kind of mother are you?

THREE MOTHERS SHARE THEIR PHILOSOPHIES ON CHILD REARING

BY EMILY ADAMS

t’s hard being a parent in 2015. Or rather, it’s hard being a parent under the microscope of other parents in 2015. How much should we spend on this birthday present so Jack’s dad doesn’t think we’re cheap? Quick, take this picture and post it on Facebook so they know we are fun and well-adjusted. Sophie’s mom brought organic snacks to the holiday party. She must think we let our kid eat garbage. Heaven forbid the class have Doritos and Capri Sun. The desire to look like the perfect parent at every backyard barbecue, social media site and PTA meeting is enough to give any parent an ulcer.

ILLUSTRATIONS BY STEPHEN SCHUDLICH

kickball in the street without any parental supervision. If it had been written back then, in the ’60s, this anecdote wouldn’t have turned any heads. Today, it could be reasonable cause for a mother’s arrest for negligence. And that is exactly what “This idea that is Skenazy says is her When Lenore constantly pushed down con point. Skenazy was a Now, as the 5-year-old kid in the our throats that anyone creator and Chicago suburbs, for she walked to and everyone our kids meet spokesperson Free Range Kids, school by herself. she advocates for She had to cross is out to get them a parenting style exactly one street, is just wrong.” that she says wholly with the help of a rejects the idea that 10-year-old crossing Lenore Skenazy kids are in constant guard, to get there. danger. Her goal, which She felt independent, she hopes to achieve through confident and responsible. So public speaking events, her book did the crossing guard, who would called Free Range Kids and her new reality one day become her husband. Skenazy also rode her bike around her neighborhood TV show, World’s Worst Mom, is to reinvent and sat in the car to wait for her mother to finish running errands. She even played CONTINUED ON PAGE 42 Lenore Skenazy, Katie Slivovsky and Amy Hill are sick of the competitive, and sometimes narrow, views of what being a good parent means. So they’re changing them.

The free range mom

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FREE RANGE MOMS

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society’s perception of stranger danger to “give children their childhoods back.” She hasn’t shied away from the controversy surrounding her ideas. She found herself in the spotlight after writing an article about letting her then 9-year-old son ride the subway alone. After receiving very passionate reactions from parents who both agreed and disagreed with her, she began a seven-year campaign against parental fear. “This idea that is constantly pushed down our throats that anyone and everyone our kids meet is out to get them is just wrong. It’s the 24-hour news cycle, society, the fear of blame, that tell us to always fear the worst possible scenario. That is an ideology that is hurting communities and causing our children not to enjoy the same things we did as kids,” she says. The free range kids movement advocates a simple message for parents to tell their children: “You are allowed to talk to anyone, but you don’t go off with anyone.” Skenazy says the most ironic thing about parents who disagree with the free range kids movement is that most parents today were raised in a free range lifestyle, without seat belts and without the lack of trust in humanity that society has today. To the many parents’ belief that the world is more dangerous than the one in which they grew up, Skenazy says it’s the fear that’s grown, not the danger. “There is no 100 percent guarantee of safety,” she says. “But there’s never been such a thing as that.”

The safety first mom Amy Hill’s first concern is safety. She did let her 9-year-old supervise her 6-year-old every day when they walked home from school, but not until she had gone over routes with them and timed how long the walk would take, so she would know when to worry. In her neighborhood, she says she believes kids are given the freedom to roam. But she also says there are ways you can prevent harm to your children without stifling their independence. Although Hill, a representative of Safe Kids Chicago, says she doesn’t view herself as an overprotective mother, she still believes in taking safety precautions with her kids. “Do I wrap my kids in bubble wrap?” Hill says. “No, but I do want to take precautions for their safety. You certainly shouldn’t live

do is try and hope that you’re doing the in fear, but you also can’t live like nothing right things. is ever going to happen to you either.” And maybe the safety first parents are Safe Kids Chicago advocates for preventdoing a good job because, according to ing unintentional injury and making Safe Kids Worldwide, there families aware of risks in their has been a 60 percent everyday lives that can decrease in child deaths be lessened by things related to unintensuch as wearing “Do I wrap my tional injury from a seat belt and 1987-2013. child proofing kids in bubble wrap? “We want to your home. No, but I do want to take empower parAccording to ents, through the Safe Kids precautions for their safety. You information Worldwide and tips, so organization’s certainly shouldn’t live in fear, but they don’t 2015 research, have to be 2,200 children you also can’t live like nothing afraid,” Hill die each year is ever going to happen says. because of an “We have more injury in the to you either.” information now home and more than we used to than 10,000 children Amy Hill about how to prevent are seen in emergency harm and we should take rooms every day. advantage of that. Parents have And although Hill recognizes the ability to make their child’s lives safer that there is absolutely no way to prevent and that’s on them.” all harm for your child, she says all she can

42 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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QUIZ

Parenting check P k

The helipad mom When Katie Slivovsky’s children were growing up, they chose their own electives, made their own personal finance decisions and picked their own friends. Even when the electives included hockey—something she, a nature-loving museum director, had no interest in—even when the financial decisions were as significant as buying a car, and even when her son told her the friend he had chosen smoked pot. She has never been the type of mother who hovers over her children, and she never wanted to be that parent either. She had very few hard-andfast rules—don’t drink and drive and never have unprotected sex. Sometimes, it’s hard for her not to hover, but she has always told herself that she can’t tell her kids “no” just to make herself feel better. “It’s uncomfortable at times to let my kids take risks, but I’m willing to let them make mistakes and get a few bumps and bruises if it means they get to be who they are and live adventurous lives,” she says. Slivovsky is a Chicago mom of two who, like a lot of modern day parents, ran into parents who couldn’t understand her particular parenting style. She was bothered enough to label it—she’s a helipad parent. She has since written articles and is developing a website to reach out to fellow helipads. “I don’t have the attention span, desire or skills to hover over my child’s every move like a helicopter parent,” Slivovsky says. “I prefer to be a safe place for them to land in times of trouble. That’s what a helipad parent is.” Slivovsky says she’s excited to offer parents like her a voice and validation that other parents feel the same way. “One of the best feelings is to get to follow your kids wherever their lives take them,” she says. “I never intended to be the perfect parent. I knew that I would make mistakes, and my kids would, too. But that’s OK with me. I just want to enrich the conversation about the spectrum of what being a good parent means.”

Which parenting style best describes you? Pick the answer that most illustrates your decisions in different dilemmas.

Your 9-year-old lives five blocks from school. Do you let her walk home alone? A. Yeah, absolutely! It’s not that far, and hey, I walked all over the place at her age. B. Yes, but I make sure she has a way to reach me if she has problems. C. Over my dead body. I pick her up myself and walk with her home. Either that or I have a family member walk with her. The buddy system is very important to me.

Your son wants to play hockey for his school team. Do you let him do it? A. Hey, whatever he wants. Go Blackhawks!

B. Well, it’s really not my thing. But as long as he plays safely and enjoys it, I’ll be in the crowd, foam finger and all. C. Hockey is a recipe for a trip to the emergency room. I might let him play, but if I do, you better believe he’s going to be wearing every inch of padding I can find. And the coach will know that I’m watching.

A. Rules? Heck, he’s a kid. I let him play. If he gets a little scraped up, it’s just another story to tell. B. He can ride it on our street if there aren’t any cars coming. As long as he knows to be safe and responsible, I let him be. C. He can ride in the driveway. With pads and a helmet on. And not after dark.

The dreaded teen years are quickly approaching. What’s the most important thing to teach your child? A. Follow your heart? Do whatever makes you happy? Their life is their life; they decide what lessons to learn. B. Don’t make any mistakes you can’t fix. They should live their life, but know I am always here in times of trouble. C. There is a neverending list of things to teach my child, and I will never stop trying to help them. Where do I start?

It’s yet another school night. Do you check your kid’s homework? A. No way. I have done my fair share of homework in my day. She’ll figure it out. It’s called learning, right? B. Not really, but if they are struggling with something, I’ll try my best to help. C. Always. Education is very important.

Your 10-yearold son just got a new skateboard for his birthday. What are the rules?

What kind of parent are you? Mostly As—Free Range Parent

Mostly Bs—Helipad Parent

Mostly Cs—Safety First Parent

You believe in letting kids be kids. You don’t get in the way of what they want to do, and you let them find their own way.

You believe in letting your kids follow their own paths in life, but you are always there as a safe place in times of trouble.

Some might call you a helicopter mom, or maybe even a worrywart, but you know it’s just because you care. Better safe than sorry.

Emily Adams is Chicago Parent’s assistant editor.

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Rainbow

babies

LIAM RUTHMAN PHOTO BY THOMAS KUBIK

THREE MOMS’ STORIES OF INFANT LOSS, STRENGTH AND NEW BLESSINGS

ainbows, considered the beauty that comes after a storm, are known as a symbol of hope. For that reason, mothers often use the term “rainbow baby” for their babies that are born after a miscarriage, stillbirth or infant loss. Despite the profound loss, these mothers share their experiences with losing their babies and how they were able to emerge from the darkness to see light again.

Megan Murray Elsener

‘My body recovered quicker than my heart’ Merav Ruthman, Chicago Today, I cuddle and kiss my soon-to-be 5-year-old and 1-year-old feeling happy and blessed, yet I become equally filled with sadness and grief over the little boy I had to say goodbye to on March 12, 2013.

I was 24 weeks pregnant, and it still shakes me to the core the moment I knew that the baby in my tummy who had been kicking for weeks was gone. My hope and dreams for him and my family disappeared instantly, too.

I delivered Colin, considered a “stillborn,” at 24 weeks and 2 days, all of his tiny body weighing just 13 ounces. We held him, named him and buried him that week. I wondered if I was a bad mother because I couldn’t keep my child. I added that to the list of questions like, “What did I do wrong? Did I make this happen? Why did this happen?” Three months after we lost Colin, I discovered I was pregnant. My body recovered quicker than my heart. To be completely honest, being pregnant, and so soon after my loss, was the farthest thing from my mind. Thank goodness for counseling because I was an emotional mess. Until I held a healthy baby in my arms, I couldn’t

take a deep breath. We welcomed baby Liam, joining big sister Haley and angel brother Colin, on March 9, 2014. He arrived a mere three days before Colin’s first annual remembrance. I remember sitting in the darkness in my hospital room as the clock struck midnight, in heaps of sadness and tears remembering Colin, while holding a beautiful baby boy that would join us at home. Colin’s passing is still a mystery to me, but if it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t have a little man crawling at my feet, trying to open every cabinet door in my kitchen. Life works in a mysterious way. CONTINUED ON PAGE 46

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RAINBOW BABIES

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 45

‘I cried the first time I saw her’ Ashley Mays, Arlington Heights My journey to becoming a mother was an easy decision to make because I always knew I wanted children. We had been married a little under two years when we got pregnant. Dexter Jeffery Mays was born on Jan. 29, 2012. He was beautiful, happy and healthy— even scored a nine on his Apgar test. When he was born I cried with joy, and I couldn’t contain the love that filled my heart. We brought him home and started the most carefree five weeks of our lives. On Saturday, March 3, 2012, we got out of the house and went to our good friend’s house for dinner. When we got home, my husband, Andrew, started to change Dexter. He saw that Dexter had turned ghost white, but was still breathing. We knew right away it was bad. The doctors did everything they could. They tried for more than 30 minutes to bring him back, but finally at 11:58 p.m., the doctor turned to us and said, “I’m so very sorry.” And that was it. In three hours, we went from having a nice evening with friends and our baby to being childless and devastated. When he was gone, we had no center. I felt like my life was spinning in wobbly circles with no axis to anchor to. Absolutely nothing would fill the void in our hearts except trying for another baby. In a twist of fate, we found out we were pregnant exactly one day after receiving the results of Dexter’s autopsy that reported he died from an undiagnosed heart defect. It felt like the universe gave us as much closure as it could before starting the next chapter in our lives. Our beautiful rainbow baby, January Hope Mays, was born on March 19, 2013. She is named after the month in which

I want parents to know it’s hard, terrible and unfair. Life is never quite the same. But life can also be filled with joy, happiness and more children if you choose, if you can find the strength to keep going.

Ashley Mays

her brother, mother and father were all born, and for the hope she brought back into our lives. When she arrived, I was terrified. I cried the first time I saw her, but more out of terror than out of love. I loved her instantly, but with a guarded heart. It took awhile to finally let myself fully love her and accept that she was going to stay with us, and maybe she wouldn’t, but to love her with no restrictions. We are excited to welcome

our third baby in July. Now whenever anyone asks how many kids I have, Dexter is always included. I never thought I could be truly happy again, but I am. I still think about Dex every day, and a pain runs through my heart. But I made the decision to move on and be happy and we are. I think a lot about why. Why us? We’ll never know, but I do know the one thing I wanted

to hear after Dexter passed was that it would be OK, from someone who came out the other side. I want parents to know it’s hard, terrible and unfair. Life is never quite the same. But life can also be filled with joy, happiness and more children if you choose, if you can find the strength to keep going.

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‘We were trying to be a normal married couple’ Zoe Hoeppner, Chicago

After several years of marital bliss, we gave birth to our daughter, Aubrey, on March 23, 2011. Having a little bundle of joy was wonderful, and around July 2012 we began trying again for a second child. By August 2013, we still weren’t pregnant and I was getting worried. We began to speak more seriously with my physician about next steps. We were so happy when we found out we were pregnant in November and had planned to tell our family at Christmas when everyone was together. Unfortunately, the bleeding began on Christmas Eve. The thick red blood came on Christmas Day, and I knew I had lost the baby. Our baby boy was 11 weeks at the time of miscarriage. For me, my faith was a large source of comfort and hope during and after the loss. A tangible thing we did was to

name our son, James Nicholas. It makes him real. It validates that he existed and was a part of our family, and it allows us to have closure as well. Aubrey knows she has a brother in heaven. It was a loss for her, too, so we wanted to include her in it. Despite feeling emotionally brittle, we got pregnant in March 2014. I hadn’t had a regular period since the miscarriage, so we had no idea if I could get pregnant. I think we just were trying to be a normal married couple. My rainbow baby, Annemarie, was born nine months later. The loss of children is still a taboo subject in our society. By keeping these losses under wraps we keep women in shame. I want women to know that it’s not your fault if you lose your baby. You are not less of a mother or less of a woman if you had a miscarriage. Being a

My faith was a large source of comfort and hope during and after the loss. A tangible thing we did was to name our son. It makes him real. It validates that he existed and was a part of our family, and it allows us to have closure as well. Zoe Hoeppner mother is so linked to our being a woman that there is so much tangled up in losing a child.

I also want women to know there is healing from this loss— and there is hope.

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Still Accepting Applications for: Early Childhood, Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten For more information:

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9340 Weber Park Place, Skokie • (847) 674-1500, ext. 2900 ChicagoParent.com May 2015 47

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Caring

It’s All About

At The Gardner School, we care for your children as if they were our own. From connecting with infants in a nurturing setting, to providing encouragement to our toddlers to help them gain independence, to fostering autonomy and self-confidence in independent and increasingly social older students, our teachers create a supportive and loving environment for your children to learn and thrive.

West Loop Campus 312.229.4299 • Bucktown Campus 773.661.0151 Naperville 630.657.5029 • Glenview-Northbrook 847.770.6260 Oak Brook 630.576.4740 www.thegardnerschool.com

Make Mom Proud

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I SURVIVED

Parenting challenges show parents are more resilient than they think

Photo by Jason Monaco Photography

BY CORTNEY FRIES aybe you’ve read the “I Survived” books with your kids and talked about what it means to persevere. Or perhaps you’ve just been pondering how you’ll make it through another sleepless night or tantrum-filled day. Parenting is challenging, even under the best of circumstances. These three Chicago families faced some big challenges and made it through to tell you how.

Survived: Raising six boys under 5 years old Parents: Chad and Kristie Miller Kids: Andrew and Alec, now 9, Nicholas, Brady and Benjamin, now 6, Owen, now 4 “Congratulations,” Kristie Miller’s ultrasound technician exclaimed, “there’s three babies in there!” Glancing at her husband, Chad, and their twin toddler boys, the tears gushed. “I knew what we went through with the twins. Finding out we were going to add three more was very scary,” she recalls. After struggling to get pregnant for two years, the Millers underwent intrauterine insemination to facilitate fertilization. They were thrilled to deliver healthy twin boys, Andrew and Alec. Since Chad had wanted two kids and Kristie four, they decided to go for a second treatment, hoping for one more child. They got three: Nicholas, Brady and Benjamin. Two and a half years later, surprise baby, Owen, their sixth boy, came along. “We both got what we wanted,” Kristie laughs. Two plus four equals six. Just thinking about the feedings every

two hours, endless diapers and mounds of laundry can make your head spin. But with Kristie and Chad’s easy-going demeanors, you can see how they made it. “It would not have worked if he was not a hands-on dad,” Kristie says. They also have an extremely supportive family and Chad’s six-week paternity leave to thank. Their secrets? Schedules and creativity! “You run baby shifts,” says Chad. “When one cries, you get them all up,, change and feed them all at the samee time. I became a station connoisseur with swings, tummy time mats and Bumbo seats.” You also have to be crafty to get chores done. How does he cut the grass with six kids? “You get a wagon!” the Millers chuckle. Or six toy mowers and the kids all follow like ducklings. But you have to respect that each parent has their own way of doing things. “When they were with me, the babies were all in onesies for easyy access,” Chad says.

Preparing and paying for Christmas is mindboggling. Packing school lunches and managing four different baseball team schedules requires a lot of planning. But they do it. “We are very lucky to have six healthy boys,” Kristie says. “We are grateful and wouldn’t ever change a thing.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 50

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I SURVIVED

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 49

Survived: Giving birth to twins at 25 weeks while out of town Parents: Clayton and Kendra Hutchinson Kids: C.J. and Keagan, now 4 Kendra Hutchinson, 25 weeks pregnant with twins, awoke at 1 a.m. with pain in her abdomen while visiting her brother in Bloomington. When her husband, Clayton, called their obstetrician in Arlington Heights, they all agreed it seemed like the flu. Yet, something in Kendra’s ndra’s voice made the doctor send them to thee hospital. The Hutchinsons arrived just in time. When the doctors started an emergency C-section, Kendra’s uterus had already ruptured. d. The twins were tiny. It was a three-month-long NICU rollercoaster before they

could m make the two-hour trek two-h home as a new ne family. “I was very focused,” Kendra says. “I appreciated all the

They started a blog, hutchnuggets.blogspot.com, to update friends and family, so that Kendra and Clayton could focus on the babies. “The blog helped send so many good vibes our way,” she says. “And it’s become wonderful documentation of our kids’ lives, an unexpected source of good memories.” Once C.J. and Keagan were home, they had catching up to do. By the time they were 2, the Millers hoped the twins would hit their developmental milestones. And they did! Today they love swimming and reading, playing and talking, just like another other preschooler. Kendra credits it to extra care and good parenting. “If Photo by Maureen Levanti your kids qualify for therapy or someone is offering to help, small milestones and good why not take it? It’s never a things that were happening. If I bad thing. Therapists are good thought about how sad it was, people that can give you great I would have been down all the advice.” time.”

Learning Disabilities Association of Illinois

Has your child been diagnosed or do you suspect that your child has a learning disability? For information contact:

LDA of Illinois 10101 S. Roberts Road, Suite 205, Palos Hills, IL 60465 Phone: 708.430.7532 email: ldaofil@ameritech.net

www.ldail.com 2015 Fall Workshops September 12 - Bullying and Its Impact on Children with Disabilities: What Can Teachers & Parents Do September 26 - A Transition Toolkit October 3 - The Top 15 Behavioral Interventions for Achieving Success October 17 - Practical Tips for How Special Education Teachers Can Prepare for Performance Evaluations through Appropriate Data Collection

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Survived: Having twins, one with Down syndrome Parents: Mary Ann and Chris Bain Kids: Nora, 7, Maggie, 5, Ronan and Deirdre, 4 Despite his sister, Deirdre, being born just two seconds after him, Ronan thinks of her as a baby. Deirdre has Down

syndrome. She is a smiling miling delight, but at 4, she’ss still in diapers and hass a limited vocabulary. The parenting path with twins can be uneven, but it’s exponentially different nt

t can’ e time together u o y ag , n g and laughing a n i ent can m r a about the silly p u f o o y e t things helps. gam rds, bu them. s i The Bains h a ood In t your c ou play g truly believe t a y rol ave reat H that th it takes how . cont e g v a vvillage and reati self with c e e r B r ’ trust all people trus u . u sitive round yo orry, yo . that have a stake o p Stay gh. Sur Don’t w rful job their family’s in the development. develo lau eople. wonde p hard to have “It’s h ga doin when one has speciall needs. h d “How do you explain to a small child that his sister is way more involved than he is right now?” Mary Ann asks. She and Chris try to be as honest and upfront as they can. Special

special needs, but specia it’s also al the greatest on the planet. gift o We have all these amazing people l in our lives because of Deirdre,” Mary Ann says. “When you have this diagnosis, it’s meant to be life bending. I think it’s life lifting.”

Cortney Fries is a frequent Chicago Parent contributor, a freelance writer and Chicago mom of two.

Photo by Heather Mikulskis

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HEY BABY

Get up and

GO, GO,

BY LINDSAY PINCHUK

pring is here and summer is around the corner! Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a first, second or third time parent, we know youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re knocking down the door to get outside. From the beach and pool to picnics and festivals, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never been easier to explore Chicago and the surrounding areas than now, with the current lineup of baby gear at local stores. Must-haves for summer fun with baby include:

Skip Hop Outdoor Blanket and Cooler Bag, $45: Perfect for the park, an outdoor concert or a picnic, this versatile blanket is water resistant and features an insulated cooler bag to keep everything chilled. Itzy Ritzy Travel Happens Large Wet Bag, $21.95: This lined wet bag keeps the wet contained and everything else dry.

GO Must have products to grab right now

Doona Infant Car Seat, $499: (See up top) One of the most anticipated baby gear launches of the year, this award-winning car seat also doubles as a stroller. The handle comes out and the wheels pop down, making it into the perfect travel stroller/infant car seat-inone (and the first of its kind!). Doona makes air travel incredibly easy for everyone in the summer and all year round.

Babyganics Outdoors Essentials Kit, $13.99: This brand makes safe products for all aspects of your life with kids. The kit comes with natural insect repellent, sunscreen, and one of the all-time best hand sanitizers. Summer Infant Pop Nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Play Ultimate Playard, $139.99: It folds up and goes over your shoulder for easy transport and pops open easily. Jane Power Twin Pro Double Stroller, $599: New to the U.S., this import from Spain is one of the lightest double strollers on the market and makes transporting two kids a cinch. Combine its suspension, non-air filled tires, and neoprene canopy with SPF 50+ protection, and you can now take your kids anywhere this summer.

Mission Critical Messenger Diaper Bag, $145: A bag actually exists for the whole family. Dad wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind toting this one around at Ravinia or Naperville Ribfest this summer! Its reverse opening allows for easy access into its many pockets, and everything has its place inside (or clipped outside) this awesome new bag designed with him in mind. (Now momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hands will be free for the kiddos!)

Ergobaby Ventus Carrier, $140: Keep baby cool on the hottest of summer days with a newer take on the Ergobaby Classic! Its mesh panel down the center provides ventilation for baby and wicks away moisture so your precious cargo stays comfortable while in the carrier.

ZoLi Dash, $26: Stayy hydrated this summer and keep your drinks cool with one of the best water bottles on the market. The bonus? In the winter it will keep your drinks hot. But whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thinking about that now?

Lindsay Pinchuk is founder and CEO of Bump Club and Beyond, co-founder of Hey Baby Chicago and Chicago mom of two little girls.

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directory to advertisers // College Nannies & Tutors Building Stronger Families Glenview (847) 998-5657 Lincoln Park (773) 697-9326 collegenannies.com

First Class Care, Inc. Agency Full Time, Part Time, Live in, Long Term or Temporary. Nannies, Newborn Care & Babysitters. (847) 733-2700 * (312) 786-9700 (773) 546-9248 * (630) 313-2045 firstclasscare.com

Focuscope Earn Cash For Your Opinions! Chicago * Oak Park * Oak Brook (708) 386-5086 Focuscope.com

The Gardner School Where Learning Begins Ages 6 wks – 5 yrs Chicago-West Loop (312) 229-4299 Warrenville (630) 657-5029 Glenview-Northbrook

(847) 770-6260 Naperville (630) 657-5029 Chicago Bucktown (773) 661-0151 Oakbrook (630) 576-4740 TheGardnerSchool.com

Kiddie Academy Educational Childcare Infants-Preschool Arlington Heights (847) 595-0722 Batavia (630) 761-4500 Bolingbrook (630) 679-9400 Carpentersville (847) 844-8600 Crystal Lake (815) 893-0924 Naperville (630) 416-8000 Plainfield (815) 609-0900 Streamwood

Maternity

(630) 497-0200 kiddieacademy.com/Chicago

Montessori Academy of Chicago

Kohl Children’s Museum

Admissions for 6 weeks to 24 months (infant to toddler) 1335 West Randolph, Chicago 312.243.0977 Ask for Cassie www.montessoriacademychicago.org

2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview (847) 832-6600 kohlchildrensmuseum.org

Sweet Dreams Infant Care Specializing In Night Time Infant Care (708) 429-BABY SweetDreamsInfantCare.com

Kidwatch Plus Child Care Center Infant Care 3901 N. Ridgeway, Chicago (773) 539-5431 Kidwatchplus.com

The University of Chicago Medicine 5841 S. Maryland Avenue, Chicago Appointments: Call UCM Connect at (888) 824-0200 Or Online: https://www.uchospitals.edu/request/index.html http://www.uchospitals.edu/programs/maternity-tour.html

University of Minnesota

Mabel’s Labels Personalized Mabel’s Labels are perfect for identifying all lookalike baby gear! RPO Dundurn, PO Box 33561 Hamilton, ON Canada L8P 4X4 (866) 306-2235 mabelslabels.com

Exercise & Wellness Pregnancy Study (612) 625-9753 Email: mompro@umn.edu to see if you qualify

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camp 2015 // special advertising section

54 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section // Day Camps

camp 2015

Brickton Montessori School 8622 W. Catalpa, Chicago (773) 714-0646 Brickton.org Brickton Montessori School is fully accredited by the American Montessori Society and the Independent Schools Association of the Central States. Summer enrichment classes are taught by expert instructors in science, sports, art, circus performing, drama, music and dance. Serving children 24 months thru 6th grade. More info at Brickton.org/ summer.

American Dance Center 10464 W. 163rd Place, Orland Park (708) 349-4964 1933 Ridge Road, Homewood (708) 747-4969 americandancecenter.net “Dance Like the Stars!” Join the American Dance Center NOW for a summer of fun. Get a jump start for our 45th Anniversary Elaborate Student Showcase, June 2016. All ages and abilities will learn exciting choreography in hip-hop, jazz, tap, or ballet and dance for audiences of over 6,000.

Chicago Athletic Clubs 1019 W Diversey Pkwy, Chicago (773) 529-2022 ChicagoAthleticClubs.com Chicago Athletic Club Mini Campers ages 2-4 will have a blast exploring socialization and gross motor skills through creative movement, sports, yoga, ballet, and live guitar circle. Arts and crafts, story time, and snack time will round out each day! Visit www.chicagoathleticclubs. com for dates, prices, and online registration.

The Avery Coonley School 1400 Maple Ave., Downers Grove (630) 969-0800 Educational and recreational programs for children ages 4 to 14, open to the public. Select from a wide range of courses that stimulate curiosity, creativity, and higher-level thinking while strengthening existing skills. Three sessions: June 15-June 26, June 29-July 10, July 13-24. Enriching your child’s life is our #1 priority! photo courtesy of circesteem

SUMMER ART CAMP

Make this your child’s best summer yet!

June 8 - Aug 14 Full ($180) and half ($110) day camps for ages 5 - 12 For more information: www.elmhurstartmuseum.org (630) 834-0202

Join us for a summer full of fun in the sun. Sacred Heart offers something for every child. Our day camps include a variety of academic and recreational activities.

Summer at Sacred Heart June 15 – July 24 for Ages 3-15 For a brochure or more information, please call: (773) 262-4446 www.shschicago.org

ELMHURST A R T MUSEUM

6250 N. SheridaN road ChiCago, iL 60660-1799

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camp 2015 // special advertising section

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special advertising section // Chicago Grammar School

Registration is available now online!

of the whole child. Limited availability.

900 N. Franklin, Chicago (312) 944-5600 chicagogrammar.org A full and half-day Summer Program for Preschool - 8th Grade designed to stimulate, provoke and nurture your child’s curiosity and performance. Program components for Grades 1st-8th: Weekly themed STEM academic enrichment; Sports (including swimming); Creative Arts. Preschool program includes: Weekly themes, Sports(including swimming) and Creative Arts. Dates: June 15-July 24.

CircEsteem

Elmhurst Art Museum

4730 N. Sheridan, Chicago (773) 732-4564 circesteem.org CircEsteem Summer Camp allows youth to build selfesteem and confidence through the practice of circus arts. Skills include stilt-walking, juggling, trapeze, gym wheel, trampoline, clowning and so much more. Every week of circus camp ends with a public performance so all kids can shine in the center ring.

150 Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst (630) 834-0202 Elmhurstartmuseum.org Summer Art Camps June 8 – August 14 Full ($180) Half ($110) Ages 5-12 For more information call, or check website.

Chicago Park District 200+ Locations throughout Chicago (312) 742-PLAY (7529) chicagoparkdistrict.com/daycamp/ Explore the Spirit of Chicago –My Neighborhood, Our City. Looking to keep your kids active, engaged and safe this summer? 30,000 kids do just that each summer in Chicago Park District camps, all for a reasonable cost.

Council Oak Montessori School 11030 S. Longwood Dr., Chicago (773) 779-7606 counciloakmontessori.org Council Oak Montessori School’s Summer Urban Gardening Program for children interested in community agriculture. Located on our property in the beautiful Chicago Beverly/ Morgan Park neighborhood. Camp begins in later June for 7 weeks. Daily from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Hands-on-learning centered around the development

Envision Middle School Camps Check website for locations near you (844) 320-0388 TryMyFuture.com Envision helps students try their future in an exciting range of careers. Through unforgettable experiences they become doctors, lawyers, video game designers, entrepreneurs and more. For over 30 years Envision has helped over 500,000 kids discover their passion, successfully complete middle, high school and college and make informed career choices.

camp 2015

Kiddie AcademyCamp Adventure Arlington Heights: 880 W. Dundee Road (847) 595-0722 Batavia: 2201 Main Street (630) 761-4500 Bolingbrook 540 W Boughton Road (630) 679-9400 Carpentersville: 112 Tay River Drive (840) 844-8600 Crystal Lake: 720 Cog Circle (815) 893-0924 Naperville: 2828 Patriot’s Lane Coming Soon! Plainfield: 13703 S. Route 59 (815) 609-0900 Streamwood: 1040 Sutton Road (630) 497-0200 kiddieacademy.com The Camp Adventure curriculum is built upon a series of two week themes to help reinforce learning all summer long. They inspire your child to explore, create, interact and stay active during the summer months. At Camp Adventure you child’s summer vacation is transformed

SUMMER Programs at Parker 2015 Educational and Recreational Activities for Junior Kindergarten through 12th grades

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camp 2015 // special advertising section Life Skills Summer Camp

imagination and enriching experiences that will impact your child’s success throughout life.

1409 N. Ogden Ave. Chicago (773) 231-7414 LifeSkillsEducators.com Cooking, Fitness, Nutrition, Money Management and Social Skills are taught in a fun, safe and nurturing environment throughout this 2 Week Day Camp. Boys and girls (6th-8th grade) learn team-building and leadership while gaining selfconfidence through interactive and engaging activities, concluding with a final day community service project.

Naper Settlement Camps 523 S. Webster St., Naperville (630) 420-6010 napersettlement.org/camp Is your child an explorer, detective, artist or all of the above? Camp Naper has programs that will spark their creativity and fuel their imaginations. Camps for grades 1-8 include all supplies, a snack, and are led by experienced, adult counselors. Descriptions and registration forms are available at www.napersettlement.org/camp.

Montessori Academy of Chicago

New Traditions Riding Academy

1335 W. Randolph St., Chicago (312) 243-0977 (ask for Cassie Martin) www.montessoriacademychicago.org The Academy offers a range of fun and stimulating sessions for ages 6-12 including arts, academic enrichment, outdoor education, sports, and field trips. An inspiring summer awaits in our state-of-the-art facility. Tuition includes: programming, organic lunch/snacks, field trip costs, and a flexible 7:00am to 6:30pm schedule. Five 2-week sessions begin June 6th. Minimum 3 sessions sign-up per family.

10100 S. Kean Ave., Palos Hills (708) 598-7718/7719 newtraditionsridingacademy.com Come and experience the thrill of horseback riding with a stable that has over 50 years of teaching riders the art of equitation. We have all skill levels (beginner, intermediate, and advanced) with horses big and small for camp participants of all ages. Ride your best life today!

into a strong foundation for the future

Redefining Smart. At Brickton Montessori School we measure our students’ abilities to THINK critically, MAKE responsible decisions, and SOLVE problems creatively. Call 773.714.0646 today or visit www.brickton.org. Enroll now for Summer Enrichment Camp and Fall 2015. Schedule your private tour today.

edefining Smart.

Located just south of I-90 between Cumberland and East River Road rickton Montessori School we measure our 8622 West Catalpa Avenue in Chicago ents’ abilities to THINK critically, MAKE Ages 2 - 8th grade. Accredited by the American onsible decisions, and SOLVE problems Montessori Society (AMS) and the Independent atively. Call 773.714.0646 today or visit Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS).

w.brickton.org.

ed just South of I-90 Toddlers een Cumberlanddo and not iver Road need to be toilet West Catalpa Avenue trained. cago

Good Thinking

Moraine Valley Community College Valley Learning Center Summer classes & camps 9000 W. College Pkwy., Palos Hills (708) 974-5735 morainevalley.edu/vlc Offering classes and camps for every child’s special interests. Some of the fun things to do are create arts and crafts, discover exciting careers, improve your computer skills, learn a new language, do scientific experiments, build Lego robots, take music lessons, & improve academic skills.

Morgan Park Academy 2153 W. 111th St., Chicago (773) 881-6704 morganparkacademy.org Join us for Summer Camp June 8-August 14,2015. Help your child embrace and discover hidden talents and interests at the world- class Morgan Park Academy summer programs. These exciting, educational programs foster independence,

Pump it Up Chicago (312) 664-PUMP (7867) Orland Park (708) 479-2220 pumpitupparty.com The #1 indoor inflatable party place in the country! With private arenas and party rooms and our dedicated staff, Pump It Up isn’t just for birthday parties. We will customize field trips and special events for any group! No matter the size of your group, your event will be private~no sharing of inflatables with other groups guaranteed!

Resurrection College Prep High School 7500 West Talcott Avenue, Chicago (773) 775-6616 www.reshs.org Resurrection College Prep High School is offering Summer Programs for grammar school and high school students in a variety of academic courses and athletic camps. Programs are open to all students in the community, including male and female students attending other schools. Schedules and registration can be found at www.reshs. org.

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camp 2015

North Shore School of Dance SUMMER DANCE CAMPS Fairy Tale and Favorite Story themes for ages 3 - 5 Ballet & Contemporary Camps for ages 6 - teen Intensive Study Programs for ages 10 - teen

847-432-2060

ballet, jazz, modern, hip-hop, bollywood, pointe, variations, character, and contemporary

Celebrating 25 years Professional faculty State of the art facility

505 Laurel Avenue Highland Park

Starbound Day Camp Dance Camp Theatre Camp Fashion Camp Photography Camp

445 Pine • Deerfield www.northshoredance.com nssdance@aol.com

Summer Fun

ChiCago Parent’s summer aCtivities guide JUNE 2014 | FREE

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

WE DIG DIRT

New places to play

FAB FESTS

Heroes!

Dads to the rescue

Brain drain BUSTERS CP_CoverTest_June_2014.indd 3

5/9/14 12:49 PM

June and July For more information, call (708) 386-5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com ChicagoParent.com May 2015 59

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camp 2015 // special advertising section River Forest Community Center

Summer Adventures in Learning (SAIL) at SAA provides morning enrichment classes and afternoon recreation experiences for preschool – 8th grade students. Flexible class options are available, including full and half-day preschool and kindergarten. SAIL runs from 9:00am-3:00pm, with early morning and extended day care available. Three, two-week sessions are offered: June 22 – July 31. Register for a fun-filled summer at scienceandartsacademy.org/summer.

Summer Camp Programs 8020 Madison St., River Forest (708) 771-6159 rfcc.info Offering full and part-time programs for parents & tots and children ages 3-12 years of age. Activities include arts & crafts, games, sports, swimming, field trips, special events, and more

Sacred Heart Schools Summer at Sacred Heart 6250 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago (773) 262-4446 shschicago.org Make this the BEST summer yet! Learning, and friendships, and fun…Oh my! Whether it’s fun day camps, field trips or beach excursions… don’t miss out! Full and half day camps available. Summer fun begins June 15-July 24! Visit www.shschicago.org to make your summer a Summer at Sacred Heart!

Skokie Park District 9300 Weber Park Pl., Skokie (847) 674-1500 SkokieParks.org For more than 85 years, the Skokie Park District has provided summer camps that focus on adventure, friendship, fun, exploration, discovery and safety. This summer, the district’s camp program promises to offer yet another exciting experience for kids. Check us out today!

Science & Arts Academy

Starland

Summer Adventures in Learning 1825 Miner St., Des Plaines (847) 827-7880 scienceandartsacademy.org/summer

photo courtesy of the avery coonley school

445 Pine, Deerfield (847) 914-9100 starlandkids.com

day Camps Week-long day camps for boys and girls 4-14 CelebRating ouR 10th summeR additional information & online registration available www.uicsoccercamp.com | 312.996.6755 60 May 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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camp 2015

SALT CREEK BALLET SUMMER

BALLERINA SUMMER FUN ages 3-8 6 wks. of Tuesday Afternoon Ballet June 15—July 24

SUMMER BALLET CAMPS

Photo by Cheryl Mann

themes include Cinderella, Frozen, Rapunzel & more

July 27 - July 31 (Fairy Tale & Creative) August 3-August 7 (Fairy Tale & Creative) August 10-August 14 (Fairy Tale Only)

Fairy Tale Camp Dance Training

 increases musicality  promotes teamwork  improves coordination  builds strength

Is Fun!

Ages 3-4 9 am—11 am

Creative Ballet Camp Ages 5-7 12 noon—2 pm

Boys are Welcome too!

Excellence in Dance Training 630.769.1199 saltcreekballet.org 98 E Chicago Ave., Westmont, IL 60559

The BIG Travel Issue!

Summer Learning & Athletic Camps Classes & Workshops for girls & boys in grades 9-12 Art & Music, Digital Literacy, Animation, Maker’s Lab, AP Writers Workshop, College Essay Workshop & more Academics for girls & boys in grades 6-8 Robotics, Minecraft©, Computers, Forensic Science, Drama, Latin, Research Skills & Mathematics Athletic Camps for girls - all ages Basketball, Volleyball, Softball, Lacrosse, Bowling, Soccer, Golf, Running & Tennis

www.reshs.org 7500 West Talcott Avenue, Chicago, IL 60631

The Ultimate Guide to Family Fun!

Going Places FREE | SPRING 2015

C is for

cookie Pools, playgrounds & more Slip and slide into spring

Storybooks come ALIVE!

Spring edition now Take available! a trip

7 spots to try

For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com ChicagoParent.com May 2015 61

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camp 2015 // special advertising section Starland Camps, where loving counselors encourage creativity through themed art projects, drama and dance. With low camper to adult ratios children also participate in traditional swim and outdoor activities. Starland also offers specialty camps in photography, fashion, dance and theatre.

Summer Programs at Parker 2015 330 W. Webster Ave., Chicago (773) 797-5104 fwparker.org/summers Francis W. Parker School’s Summer Programs at Parker 2015 offers exciting summer educational programs and recreational activities for students entering JK through 12th grade. Our campus offers access to many fun-filled day camp activities, enrichment courses, sports conditioning camps, performing arts classes and a wide range of STEM-based course offerings. You can learn more or register for Summer Programs at Parker 2015 at fwparker.org/ summers.

SPECIALTY CAMPS ArtReach Education Theatre 3839 W. Frontage Rd, Palatine (847) 372-7798 artreachspotlite.com ArtReach Educational Theatre offers a variety of arts and theater camps, workshops, and private lessons. Workshops take place at 3839W. Frontage Road, Palatine. One, Two, and Three Week Summer Sessions offered with after Care Sessions Available. Let your child have fun this summer while learning all aspects of the creative and performing arts activities, and explore nature trails! In addition to our Summer Camps we also offer acting, singing, and dance classes, as well as teen programs and private voice lessons all summer long!

Dolphin Swim Club Crystal Lake, Schaumburg, & Skokie (847) 854-1300 dolphinswimclub.com Save on tuition AND see faster results by enrolling in Dolphin’s week-long, summer booster camps! We also offer year-round

The Avery Coonley School

An exciting and educational summer program for children ages 4–14. Three sessions available: June 15–June 26, June 29–July 10, July 13–July 24 View the 2015 Summer Program Guide online at www.averycoonley.org/summerprogram 1400 Maple Avenue, Downers Grove, Illinois

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630-969-0800

classes for ages 4 months and up. Call for details and to schedule a FREE trial. Ask about our birthday parties.

GreenApple Campus Locations Chicago & Naperville (630) 778-8480 GreenAppleCampus.org Hey Robotics, Digital Media & LEGO Maniacs! GreenApple® Campus offers creative, challenging STEM programs preK to Grade 8. Exciting activities utilizing Robotics, LEGO, Digital Media & Technology, Game Design & App Design, Explore NASA, Coding & Minecraft! New ThinkTinkering® in the Maker space.

Intercultural Montessori Language School 301 S. Ridgeland, Oak Park 114 S. Racine, Chicago (708) 848-6626 interculturalmontessori.org Looking for Summer Fun! Intercultural 2015 Summer Program for children ages 3-12. Register now if you want your child’s summer to include cultural activities such as foreign language, art, music, folklore,

outdoor games and cooking. Our 5 two-week Summer Sessions are available at both locations.

Keshet A Rainbow of Hope for Individuals with Special Needs Chicagoland Locations (847) 205-0274 keshet.org Keshet offers various eight-week, full day and overnight-integrated camp options for individuals with special needs. Families can choose from over 14 camps to best suit their child’s interests and needs. Keshet provides opportunities for children with intellectual/ developmental disabilities that no one else does!

The Little Gym of Chicago 3216 North Lincoln Avenue (773) 525-5750 thelittlegym.com/ChicagoIL Our summer camp is an adventure filled three hour camp available to children ages 3-12. Each camp theme is based on fun exciting “quests” which involves a fun storyline that will incorporate opportunities for the kids to exercise their muscles and minds.

Summer Camps

• Music • Robotics • Gymnastics • Theater • Cooking • Baseball • Art • Star Wars • Basketball • Legos • Anime Studio • Soccer • Cartooning • Ceramics • Tennis • Science Explorers • Academic Enrichment • Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry

Preschool to Grade 8

MPASummerCamp.org 773-881-6704

June 8 to August 14 2153 W. 111th Street, Chicago

4/16/15 5:16 PM

camp 2015

Chicago Parent-QP 4c-3.5x4.625.pdf

special advertising section //

Intercultur a l Montessori Language School

Try your hands at amazing real-world experiences – build and program a robot, diagnose patients, get backstage access to Dodger Stadium, CNN and Madison Square Garden or interact with professionals on a movie set.

1/9/15

5:29 PM

E N V IS IO N

MIDDLE SCHOOL

CAMPS

Dual Language Montessori Programs

Two Locations:

• Chinese/English

Oak Park (708) 848-6626

• Spanish/English

Chicago-West Loop (312) 265-1514

• Japanese/English • Ages 3-12 years old

ENROLL NOW E-mail: admissions@interculturalmontessori.org Visit: www.interculturalmontessori.org Elementary After School Language programs in Spanish and Mandarin – Oak Park campus only

Outrageous Fun

• STEM • Sports & Entertainment • Business • Media • Leadership • Law

TryMyFuture.com (844) 320-0388

CircEsteem

New Friends

Great s Adventure

Positive Values Personal Growth

• Overnight Camp • Boys & Girls, ages 7-16 • Traditional and Specialty activities, plus HORSES, Teen Programs, Adventure Trips • Sessions from 4 days to 1 or more weeks!

Cultivating Independence, Character, and Conﬁdence in your child!

Plymouth, WI 920-893-0782 www.anokijig.com

1 week sessions June 22nd - Aug 14th ages 7 and up

www.CircEsteem.org for more details!

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camp 2015 // special advertising section Lookingglass Theatre Company 875 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 1430, Chicago (773) 477-9257, x193 lookingglasstheatre.org/education Spend your summer with Lookingglass! Our multiple camp programs for students 5-18 years old offer opportunities to explore thrilling stories about the world around us, as we create original pieces performed on the Lookingglass Main Stage. Each program, offered at multiple sites, focuses on developing theatre skills using Lookingglass core values: collaboration, invention and transformation.

Lycée Français de Chicago World Camp 613 W. Bittersweet Pl., Chicago New campus: 1929 W. Wilson Ave. Chicago (773) 665-0066 LyceeChicago.org Expand your child’s horizon at the Lycée Français de Chicago’s World Camp. Language immersion camps in Arabic, French, German, and Mandarin, co-hosted by China Friends, the German

International School, and Turath Institute, run from June through August. Sports camps (with instruction in English) run throughout August. Campers will be the first to experience our brand new campus, opening this summer on Damen and Wilson.

Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts 6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park (708) 383-3456 Master-SH-Yu.com Bring us your budding Ninja this summer, and we will guide them on a true martial arts journey to nourish their yearning for adventure on the mat. Our everpopular Ninja Camp for children ages 5-12, presents the movement, culture and history of the Asian Martial Arts.Grand Master Yu appears as a special guest, affirming and enlivening the children’s imaginations with Kumdo (Swords) demonstrations, cultural anecdotes, and traditional martial arts games. For more experienced artists, Master Yu teaches Artistic Weaponry featuring the Twin Sticks &amp; Nunchauka defense, and Airborne Kicks Camp, appropriate for youth &amp; teens, with

ongoing Swords Class throughout the year. Schedules and registration available online at www.Master-SH-Yu.com or call us!

North Shore School of Dance 505 Laurel, Highland Park (847) 432-2060 northshoredance.com North Shore School of Dance inspires dancers of all ages and levels in a variety of fun and exciting camps. All camps are held in our air-conditioned studios under the direction of warm, nurturing, professional teachers. Several 1, 2 and 4 week sessions are offered throughout the summer for pre-schoolers, grade-schoolers, and teens. We offer the opportunity to learn many dance styles while having fun and making new friends!

The Paintbrush... ...a hands-on ART studio for kids 2646 N. Halsted, Chicago 60614 (773) 636-1968 Thepaintbrush.net Pablo Picasso said every child is an artist. Learning, creating, exploring art ... at The

Paintbrush, we teach your children to love art through musicinspired, hands-on artist lesson. Stimulate their creativity and unlock their artistic potential as they discover how art relates to their world. Art camps for kids ages 4-11

Old Town School of Folk Music 4544 N. Lincoln Ave & 909 W. Armitage Chicago (773) 728-6000 oldtownschool.org Summer Camp at Old Town School is exciting, educational, and awe-inspiring! Campers will learn to think independently, work cooperatively, and discover their own creativity, all while gaining artistic confidence, engaging in active learning, and exploring the arts with their peers and our talented team of teaching artists. Join us! http:// ots.fm/camp

Salt Creek Ballet Summer 98 East Chicago Ave., Westmont (630) 769-1199 saltcreekballet.org You choose the dance option this summer! Girls and boys ages

Unique PreK-8th Grade Summer Program • 9am-3pm with early morning and extended day care • Morning enrichment classes and afternoon recreation

STEM Programs for Kids

Robotics & Invention • Adventure with LEGO Digital Media & Technology 3D Game Design ∙ App Design iPhone ∙ 3D Animation Coding ∙ Minecraft ∙ KidsCode Explore NASA ∙ ThinkTinkering

Chicago & Naperville

• New! ISO sanctioned Science Olympiad Camp • Flexible class options that fit any schedule • Full and half-day preschool and kindergarten • Three, two-week sessions: June 22 through July 31 Visit our website for schedule & brochure

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special advertising section // 3-8. Six weeks of Summer Fun on Tuesday afternoons only: June 15-July24, or Week Long Summer Ballet Camps: July 27-July 31, August 3-August 7 and August 10-August 14. Bring your energy and take home some dance enrichment! Summer programs also available for ages 9 and older.

Schaumburg Boomers Baseball 1999 Springinsguth Road Schaumburg (847) 461-3695 boomersbaseball/groups/daycamps/ Instructional Camps Attention youth baseball players! Sharpen your skills by learning from the pros at the Schaumburg Boomers baseball camps! Each camp includes two days of hands-on instruction from Boomers players and coaches, t-shirt, lunch and game tickets for $69 per session. Visit www.boomersbaseball.com/ clubhouse/youthcamp/ for details

UIC Soccer Camps UIC Campus - Chicago for Boys and Girls 4-14

camp 2015

(312) 996-6755 www.uicsoccercamp.com We believe that to enjoy the game and “get to their next level,” players need training in all facets of the game, including individual technique and improved technical ability. This allows players to react faster and to experience more success on an individual and team level. June and July sessions.

Vertical Endeavors Indoor Rock Climbing Glendale Heights (630) 784-9000 verticalendeavors/glendaleheights Vertical Endeavors is perfect for group events including birthday parties, field trips, lock-ins and slumber parties, scouting events and corporate team building events. We also offer camps throughout the year for kids ages 6–16 including week-long summer camps and winter and spring break camps.

OVERNIGHT CAMPS Camp Agawak Minocqua, WI (715) 356-5383 agawak.com

Quality, year-round training • Traditional Martial Arts • Summer and Seasonal Camps • Ancient Swords • Artistic Weaponry

PHOTO COURTESY OF ART REACH EDUCATION THEATRE

! y d a e R Get er for Summ

Adventu

Attention fun-loving kids! • 12 acres of flat-out fun • Returning - Treasure Hunters, Summer Samplings and more • New - Camp Ukulele, Pioneer Life and Settlement Sports • More camps range from fizzy, gooey to Civil War soldiers

6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park

• Adult counselors

708-383-3456

www.master-sh-yu.com | Follow Us!

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence Serving Our Community

523 S. Webster St., Naperville, IL 630.420.6010 • napersettlement.org

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camp 2015 // special advertising section Affordable Summer Arts Camps The Oakbrook Terrace Park District has lots of spring time fun for everyone!

One, Three, and Six week sessions available!

Community Garage Sale at Heritage Park

Saturday, May 2 9 am-2 pm Sellers $20 per spot (Tables are not provided; they may be rented for $10 per table)

Keeping Kids Fit Day

Saturday, June 13 Noon-2 pm Age: 3-12 years old Free Terrace View Park Enjoy games, obstacle course, snacks & prizes

Spring Celebration at the Lake View Nature Center

Acting, Singing, Dancing, Swimming, Crafts, and Outdoor Activities!

Saturday, May 16 Noon-4 pm Free Celebrate spring with fun activities, live animals, paddle boating & more.

Summer Day Camps

Registration is taking place now for Summer Day Camps. Camps available are: Camp Explorers, Teen Camp, Fun in the Sun Preschool Camp, Kids Tennis Camp & Teen Sports Agility Camp. Call the Park District for further information. Oakbrook Terrace Park District 1S325 Ardmore Avenue Villa Park, IL 60181 (630) 627-6100 www.obtpd.org

Early Registration Discounts! Camps & Workshops taught in the Palatine/Schaumburg, Rolling Meadows area For more info - visit our website at www.artreachspotlite.com or call our offices at (847) 372-7798 or (773) 604-1892. DOSC-15054

AmericAn DAnce center

nationally recognized School & Performing company

Make the most of summer with our

BOOSTER CAMPS! Planning a Party? Check out our Entertainment & Party Planning section for the perfect entertainer, party supply or service.

★

Years of Excellence!

Summer-Dance

Our affordable camps

Award-Winning children Division • 3 years and up

new Broadway Production • Scholarships • Shows

swimming skills. Call or visit our website to register today!

DOSC-15054

8 weeks - Start June 15th

• Pre dance • Beginner Dance Child •Teen • Adult • Ballet • Pointe • Hip Hop • Street Funk • Jazz • Tap • Lyrical/Contemporary • Leaps/Turns • Tumbling

propel confidence and

(847)854-1300 www.dolphinswimclub.com

Beginner to Advanced

Where Talent is Born

Save nearly 10% on tuition AND see faster results!

Crystal Lake Schaumburg | Skokie

★

Voted “Best Dance School” 19 Years Straight - SouthtownStar 6 Studios • Dancewear Shop Free New Student Evaluation

Orland Park 10464 163rd Place, 708-349-4964 Homewood 1933 Ridge Road, 708-747-4969

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special advertising section // Located in the northwoods of Wisconsin, Camp Agawak is a premier girls’ summer camp focusing on improving the skill and personal development

Camp Anokijig W5639 Anokijig Ln. Plymouth, WI 53073 (800) 741-6931 or (920) 893-0782 anokijig.com Camp Anokijig offers summer adventures filled with positive values, personal growth and outrageous fun. Coed, ages 7-16, overnight camp with sessions from four days to one or more weeks. A great variety of activities to choose from plus many specialties, horses, teen programs and adventure trips.

young people.

Play Wild Wisconsin Teen Camp Baraboo, Wisconsin (708) 341-3255 PlayWildWI.com Adventure camp includes: Rock Climbing, Caving, Kayaking, Swimming, Hiking, Zip lining, Lodging, ATV Riding, Home cooked meals, and more! One week sessions start June 22nd, 2015 Teen Adventure CampBaraboo, Wisconsin Summer is Fast approaching. Book your Teen into Adventure Camp for the best Vacation ever!! Boys and Girls, Ages 13-18 See www. PlayWildWI.com for details and more!

SPECIAL NEEDS

Camp Jorn YMCA Manitowish Waters, WI (715) 543-8808 campjornymca.org A Jewel in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, Camp Jorn YMCA is situated on the shores of pristine Rest Lake in Manitowish Waters. Since 1953, Camp Jorn has been delivering mission driven programs that have a positive impact on the lives of

The Cove School 350 Lee Rd., Northbrook (847) 562-2100 coveschool.org The Cove School Summer Program is a unique experience for K-12 students with learning disabilities. There are a variety of course offerings and electives in small classroom sizes where students’ individual needs are

supported.

FIELD TRIPS Chicago Children’s Museum Navy Pier 700 E. Grand, Chicago (312) 527-1000 chicagochildrensmuseum.org Chicago Children’s Museum is the perfect summer destination for families, camp groups, scout troops, daycare centers and field trips of all kinds. Located on historic Navy Pier, it’s three floors of hands-on fun!

Kohl Children’s Museum 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview (847) 832-6600 kohlchildrensmuseum.org Explore 17 interactive, hands-on exhibits for very young children from toddlers up to age 8. We provide an engaging environment that inspires imagination, curiosity and creativity, all using the power of play. We’re the Place Where Awesome Lives!

Schaumburg Boomers Baseball

camp 2015

boomersbaseball/groups/daycamps/ Summer Camp outings The Schaumburg Boomers are the perfect destination for day camp/day care field trips this summer! June 17, June 23 and July 29 are 11am games and include a pregame parade for campers, entertainment during the game and everyone can run the bases after the game! Visit www.boomersbaseball/groups/ daycamps/ for details

SUPPLIES Mabels Labels (866) 30-MABEL MabelsLabels.com Make sure everything you pack for camp returns back home again. Label your kids’ gear with the Limited Edition Camp Label Pack from Mabel’s Labels. These UV resistant, waterproof labels are perfect for clothes, shoes, toiletries, backpacks and more. Plus, shop now &amp; save 10% on the Limited Edition Camp Label Pack! See ad for coupon.

1999 Springinsguth Road Schaumburg (847) 461-3695

Give your kids a summer of fun and learning! Classes and camps for every interest. • Art and crafts • Sports • Drama • Music • Computers since 1962

Summer Horse Camp for Girls Western Riding • Vaulting • Trail Rides • Swimming • Boating Arts & Crafts • Field Activities • and much more!

• And much more!

Visit morainevalley.edu/vlc or call (708) 974-5735 to request a list of classes.

** Mother / Daughter weekends available! Call for details! **

Call today to learn more! Phone (810) 679-2505

www.BlackRiverFarmAndRanch.com

9000 W. COLLEGE PKWY., PALOS HILLS, IL 60465-2478

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camp 2015 // special advertising section Summer Camp for Kids with Special Needs Art camps for kids ages 4-11 In the words of Pablo Picasso, every child is an artist. Why not give your child a shot at discovering her artist within? Learning, creating, exploring art through the senses ...

Offering 8-week, full day, and overnight integrated camp options.

2646 N. Halsted, Chicago, IL

773-636-1968 • thepaintbrush.net

Teen Adventure

Camp

Baraboo, Wisconsin Summer is Fast approaching - Book your Teen into Adventure Camp for the best Vacation ever!! Adventure camp includes: Rock Climbing, Caving, Kayaking, Swimming, Hiking, Zip lining, Lodging, ATV Riding, Home cooked meals, and more! One week sessions start June 22nd, 2015

Discounts for Friends coming together are available!

Visit www.PlayWildWI.com for details and more!

For more information, call 847-205-0274 or visit keshet.org.

A RAINBOW OF HOPE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

Celebrate a Birthday They’ll Never Forget at a Schaumburg Boomers Baseball Game! Birthday Kids Receive: · Boomers T-shirt · Introduction on the P.A. · Name in Lights on the Videoboard · Meet Coop the Boomer Mascot · Stadium singing “Happy Birthday” · Option for a Ceremonial First Pitch! We’ve got party guests covered too! Packages Include: -Box Seat Tickets -Food Vouchers -Souvenirs -Inflatable Playground Wristbands -Speed Pitch Vouchers Birthday packages presented by

Call the Boomers at 847-461-3695 or visit www.boomersbaseball.com for details

PRESENTED BY

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Magic & Juggling Shows Balloon Animals and Puppets

Providing Quality, Professional Entertainment since 1991 Several Themed Characters available. Video clips and party ideas are provided on the website.

www.IYQENT.com IYQ Entertainment

847-228-0882

Journey Pals

The BEST gift for kids! Adoption packages are now available! Visit us at

myjourneypal.com for orders & information!

Unique Personalized and Educational

Let’s CLown Around Former Ringling Bros. Navy Pier Entertainer

Performer with an ActionPacked, High Energy Comedy Magic Show Includes: • Fire-Eating • Machete Juggling • Stilt Walker • & Much More

847-672-6165

www.letsclownaround.net

Mary Macaroni

Perfect 5-star rating on Yelp

Children’s Parties! Corporate Events!

Learn more: thegreatscott.com (847) 361-0924

Princess & Character Parties Magic • Clowning Guitar Sing-a-Longs Face Painting & Balloons!

Chicago’s best-reviewed magician

Call Today:

773-774-3755

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Custom Painted Wall Murals

Make your next Birthday Party a

Call for a free estimate

ELAINE SINCLAIR muralist • B.F.A.

815.344.8965

Since 1991

www.muralsbyelaine.com

• Hands-on • No mess fun • Ages 5-12!

SuE’S Party AnimAlS

Book us for your next party or event! •We Entertain •We Educate •We're Cute & Fun •We're Clean & Safe

You'll LOVE US!

new lOwer rates! MentiOn “DaisY” when bOOking fOr $25 Off*

Call Sue Johnson, Educator

847-215-8508

*expires 06/3O/15

The Bus of Fun will come to your home for your child’s next Birthday Party. “Like Us” and add a friend on Facebook and receive $25 off your Party!

We Come to You! Exciting hands-on experiments may include: • Slippery slime • Cool chemistry Also Available • Rocket launches • Cotton candy ....and lots more

...Sit back and let us run the PARTY for you!

Not only do we bring the fun, we also bring:

■ Prizes ■ Cotton Candy ■ Snow Cones (seasonal) ■ Face painting

■ Photography ■ Homemade Treats ■ Small gift for Birthday Child ■ Games

■ Creative Crafts ■ Pinata ■ Money Machine (real money) ■ Refreshments

North Cook and Lake

Rain or Shine, Hot or Cold, we always bring the FUN to you year round!

Please call (708) 388-2200 to schedule your party

www.TheBusofFun.com

As seen on WGN, WTTW, and NBC Local!

The Bus of Fun is fully insured.

Chicago 773-227-3345

224-676-1635

Award-winning magician with over 30 years experience! All Birthday Shows include balloon animals and live rabbits! Also offering Face Painting! Don’t miss our newest magic trick, “BirthDAy ChilD levitAteS”

Magical Entertainment for all occasions!

630-855-4521 toll free:855-KDM-AGIC

www.kidzmagic.biz

Western Suburbs 630-393-3322 Your Birthday Party Specialist

H Fun Magic Shows H Balloon Twisting H Goodie Bags Available And Much More! Since 1989

708- Fun-Town (386-8696) www.mrbobsmagic.com mrbob@mrbobsmagic.com Mention Chicago Parent for extra savings

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#1 Birthday magician

Amazing Tim Adamz 3 Arrives Early

3 Amazes Kids 4-9

Rated

3 As Seen on WGN 3 Live Rabbit

Traveling Players presents

Book your Birthday Parties Today!

11 (630

Call: 630-816-2288

www.AmazingAdamz.com - 630-416-4318

Email Kamil Brady at kamil@chicagoparent.com

• Magic Tricks • Games • Face Painting • Balloon Animals • Story Telling and More

Book Him Here Now:

We are looking for friendly, outgoing readers to staff Chicago Parent booths at events throughout the city and suburbs. Must have a car and flexible schedule. Events are mainly on weekends.

Diane C

CLOE the Clown

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Chicago Parent needs a few good moms and dads.

Aurora area

www.cloeclown.com

Child with balloon animals, fa Low puppetry, rates! magic, gam

Spring Special $10 Off

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Indoor & Outdoor Party Rentals for... • Birthday Parties • School Festivals • Church Events • Reunions • Picnics

Games/Concessions/Tables/Chairs also available! Face Painting!

708-620-HOPP Call to reserve and lock in low rates!

Local delivery, Setup & Pick-up included

www.hippity-hop.com

Natures Creatures Animal Show

A fun Exotic Educational Animal Show for kids & adults of all ages! Serving the Chicago land area for over 10 years!

• Birthday Parties • Block Parties • Scouts • Schools • Licensed & Insured • Veterinarian & Teacher Approved!

For more info or to book:

call Erin at

• Snakes • Frogs • Bunnies • Lizards • Giant Turtles • Spiders • Ducks • Talking Parrots • Alligators • Pony Rides

(773) 881-9379 or visit:

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Shaved Ice & Cotton Candy machines also available

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Themes to choose from: • Disney Princess • Scooby Doo • TMNT • Sports • Strawberry Shortcake • Plain • World of Disney 5 in 1 Combo • 30’ Dual Lane Obstacle • Water Slides • Slip ‘n’ Slides

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Special Needs // directory to advertisers The Cove School 350 Lee Rd., Northbrook (847) 562-2100 coveschool.org

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These flowers might not be quite the kind you had in mind for Mother’s Day, but they come with 100 percent more parent-child bonding. At Mother’s Day Flower Power, you’ll dip into science as you dissect flowers, then get a little exercise on a walk in search of some wildflowers. And while they may not be roses or irises, you do get to plant some pretty blooms to take home and brighten up your life. $12.50, $10 resident. 2-3 p.m. May 10. Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Harrison and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. (630) 871-2810, lincolnmarsh.org.

Two rockin’ ladies bring all their girl power to Playdate at Old Town: Play It, Girl! Real-life besties Lindsay Weinberg and Heather Perry jam away with a piano, a guitar and a bass as they play the music of some of their favorite female musicians. And their message that anyone can play, write, dance, groove, croon and rock out is one we can all get behind. $6. 10 a.m. May 9. Old Town School of Folk Music, 4545 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 728-6000, oldtownschool.org.

One hundred years of outdoor exploration is definitely something worth celebrating. Join the fun at Explore the Forest: 100 Years and Growing!, a daylong party that highlights all the ways families can enjoy the Forest Preserves of Cook County, from climbing trees to shooting arrows. Be sure to bring clothes that can get dirty for some special muddy activities to top off the centennial celebration. No word yet if there will be 100 candles topping a cake. Free. Noon-4 p.m. May 31. Crabtree Nature Center, 3 Stover Road, Barrington. (847) 381-6592, fpdcc.com. ChicagoParent.com May 2015 73

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CALENDAR Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. $10, $8 resident. 10-11:30 a.m. Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Harrison and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. (630) 871-2810, lincoln marsh.org.

3 | SUNDAY CHICAGO MARY MACARONI. Mary Macaroni

has entertained audiences on cruise ships, at amusement parks, Bulls games, and events throughout Chicagoland. $6, free kids under 1. Doors open at 11 a.m., show begins at noon. Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont. (773) 281-4444, beatkitchen.com.

Eartth Da Eart Ea D yy Arb Ar bo or Da D y See Ma Se May 166 May

FRIDAY

SPANISH CAMPFIRE. Build

Spanish vocabulary while taking an interactive hike and playing games, then enjoy marshmallows roasted over a campfire. Offered in conjunction with Language Stars. $10, free kids 2 and under. 6-7:30 p.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org. FAMILY CAMPOUT AT EMILY OAKS. Share the joys of tent camp-

ing close to home. Roast marshmallows and sing songs around a campfire, enjoy a breakfast cooked outdoors, and participate in other fun activities. Tents, cooking equipment and food provided. $31, $25 resident. 6:30 p.m.-10 a.m. Emily Oaks Nature Center, 4650 Brummel St., Skokie. (847) 677-7001, skokieparks.org.

Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org.

2 | SATURDAY CHICAGO FAMILY MATINEE SERIES: TCHAIKOVSKY SPECTACULAR.

Performance for families with kids 5 and up features guest dancers from Hubbard Street 2 and highlights selections from some of Tchaikovsky’s most famous repertoire including excerpts from Symphony 2, 4, 5 and 6; The Nutcracker, Romeo and Juliet and more. $6-$33. 11 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 294-3000, cso.org.

SUBURBS

MATH COUNTS. A fun program

FAIRY FESTIVAL/BREAKFAST WITH THE FAIRIES. Enjoy fairy

that introduces the basic building blocks of math. Young mathematicians will enjoy a special storytime before activities that teach sets and patterns, counting, geometry and even algebraic thinking. Free with museum admission. 2:30-4 p.m. Kohl

flower walks, discover fairy food, make enchanted crafts and be entertained by winged hostesses. Come dressed in wings, make a wand and learn a few magic words. For an additional fee, enjoy pancakes, sausage and a beverage with special fairies

visiting the tables (9-11 a.m.). $10 festival; $15 festival and breakfast. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Pilcher Park Nature Center, 2501 Highland Park Drive, Joliet. (815) 741-7277, jolietpark.org. COUNTRY IN THE PARK. View demonstrations on blacksmithing, butter making, sheep-shearing, heirloom gardening and more. Visit with calves, sheep, chickens and pigs. Noon-4 p.m. The Museum, 831 Maple Ave, Downers Grove. (630) 963-1300, dgparks.org. FAMILY GEOCACHING. Search for

hidden treasure at the Lincoln Marsh using GPS (GPS units provided).

SUBURBS BACKYARDS FOR NATURE FAIR. A native plant sale and a

backyard ecology fair for the whole family, including birdhouse building, free wildflower seedlings, games and activities in the Kids’ Garden, and a puppet show. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm, 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. (847) 985-2100, parkfun.com. FIZZICKS FIESTA – TRES DE MAYO. Celebrate the Mexican army’s

victory over the French forces on May 5, 1862, at the Battle of Puebla. Build your own catapult/slingshot to defeat Napoleon. Make a colorful maraca. Pin the tail on the piñata. Free with museum admission. 1-4 p.m. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 963-6769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the June issue is April 27. All events are subject to change. Please call the event sponsor at the number listed to confirm before you go. Events taking place on four or more dates during the month are listed in Ongoing Events, beginning on page 88.

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar

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CALENDAR TOUCH A TRUCK FAMILY FESTIVAL. Kids can explore more

than 30 vehicles such as fire engines, dump trucks, semis and tractors. The festivities include food, sweet treats, music, face painting and rides on the Great Chicago Kiddie Express, a child-sized train, with proceeds benefiting Kohl Children’s Museum. $35 family up to 6, $40 day-of family up to six. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Fields Land Rover BMW, 670 W. Frontage Road, Northfield. (847) 832-6600, kohl childrensmuseum.org. GARLIC MUSTARD GRAB.

Help remove garlic mustard from Lincoln Marsh. End the day with a campfire and roasted marshmallows. Kids under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. 1-3 p.m. Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Harrison and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. (630) 871-2810, lincolnmarsh.org. GREEN EARTH FAIR. This educational event includes speakers, exhibits, music, food, kids’ activities, tours, cooking demonstrations and a plant sale of organic vegetables and seedlings. 12:30-5 p.m. McDonald Farm, 10S404 Knoch Knolls Road, Naperville. (630) 664-5681, greenearthinstitute.org. OPEN HOUSE. Enjoy tours,

exhibits, kids’ activities and more. Members of the Cantigny Horticulture staff answer gardening questions. Some activities cost extra. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

$3 kids. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Garfield Farm Museum, 3N016 Garfield Road, Campton Hills. (630) 584-8485, garfieldfarm.org.

4 | MONDAY WONDERFUL WORLD OF WHEELS. Preschoolers can see,

touch and experience a police car, fire truck, tractor and more, as well as meet the community helpers who drive them. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Whole Foods Market, 2607 W. 75th St., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, naper villeparks.org. SENSORY STORYTIME. A series of learning, play and engagement programs designed for kids 12 and under—especially those who are on the Autism Spectrum, or those with other special needs—and their families. Storytimes were developed with help from Autism Speaks and The National Lekotek Center. 10 a.m. Thomas Hughes Children’s Library, Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St., Chicago. (312) 7474200, chicagopubliclibrary.org.

guided wildflower walks, dip netting for fish and frogs in the pond, tree climbing with ropes and a harness, animal encounters, puppet shows, a kids’ craft corner, beekeeping demonstrations and more. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

Pond and Woods with museum staff to learn about the native environment and ecosystems of Illinois. $6,

Admission STEAM Day Sunday, May 3, 2015 (Ages 4 - 12)* 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. *Reservations required

GIDDY UP! Kids 4-7 discover

how horses helped pioneers settle the prairie. Registration is required through the library. Today’s location is Naper Boulevard Library, 2035 S. Naper Blvd. 4:15-5 p.m. Naperville Public Library, 200 W. Jefferson, Naperville. (630) 637-6328, naperville-lib.org.

with a naturalist, and let nature engage the senses of infants and toddlers. $6 adult and child, $3 additional family member. 10-10:45 a.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

6 | WEDNESDAY READ AND BUILD. After a

WOODLAND WILD FLOWER WALK. Tour the museum’s Harley

An independent school for gifted children from Preschool through Eighth Grade.

5 | TUESDAY

BABIES IN NATURE. Take a stroll SPRING FESTIVAL. Enjoy

Admission STEAM Day

storytelling session of design-focused children’s books, members of the education department lead kids 3-5 and their caregivers in creating a project based on the subject of the story.

Does your child enjoy exploring science, technology, engineering, art, and math? Experience our Innovation Lab and work with our top notch teachers. Activities will include an animation station, laser cut products, Makedo creations, circuit art and more! Find out what we have to offer your family.

Apply now for 2015-16 Scan to RSVP!

Contact Director of Admission, Leslie Kovich at leslie.kovich@questacademy.org or call 847.202.8035, ext. 438 today.

questacademy.org 500 North Benton, Palatine, IL 60067

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is part of your favorite social networks

Guests explore architecture, design and the city of Chicago, and work with others to build something to take home. Today’s book is What Do You Do with an Idea? $5. 10-11 a.m. Chicago Architecture Foundation, 224 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 922-3432, architecture.org.

new materials and ways of making. Free for families with kids 12 and under. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave. (312) 280-2660, mcachicago.org.

SUBURBS MOTHER/DAUGHTER TEA PARTY.

STROLLER TOURS. Caregivers

MANNY HERRERA

discover the MCA’s exhibitions with a docent, exploring galleries without concern that their baby will disrupt the tour. Free with museum admission. 11:30 a.m. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago. (312) 280-2660, mcachicago.org.

Occupational Therapist

Volo Commerce Center 26575 W. Commerce Dr. Unit 506 Volo, IL 60073

8 | FRIDAY Find us on Facebook

T: 847.740.6229 F: 847.740.6447 e: mannyot@sbcglobal.net

Join the Twitter party! Follow us @ChicagoParent On Pinterest pinterest.com/chiparent

TOTLEARNINGCENTER Nationally-accredited educational childcare in Skokie

MOTHER/DAUGHTER BFF JEWELRY NIGHT. Make beauti-

ful treasures with assorted glass beads and charms. Each pair makes a necklace and bracelet ensemble. Bring your creativity and decorate a personalized wooden jewelry chest. Class will conclude with a treat. $41, $33 resident. 6:30-7:45 p.m. Wagner Community Center, 615 N. West Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 993-8901, epd.org. NATIONAL PUBLIC GARDENS DAY. Staff conduct spe-

cial tours highlighting spring plantings. Free admission with voucher from nationalpublicgardensday.org. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; tours at 10:30 a.m., 12:30 and 2 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org. OLD FASHIONED CAMPFIRE.

Now accepting registrations for the 2015-16 school year. Tot Learning Center is the Skokie Park District’s state-of-the-art, year-round, full day childcare facility serving infants through five-year-old children.

3701 Howard, Skokie IL 60076 (847) 674-1500, ext. 3400

Take a short hike with a naturalist along the trails, play games and enjoy marshmallows roasted over the campfire. $8, free kids 2 and under. 6-7:30 p.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

9 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

A cooking class designed for mothers and daughters. The menus include finger sandwiches and lemon scones. 4-10. $63, $42 resident, $21 sibling. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 95th Street Center Culinary Arts, 2244 W. 95th St., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, naper villeparks.org. SECOND SATURDAY: JOURNALISM. To honor Robert

McCormick’s strong ties to journalism, families with kids 6-12 can make their own Cantigny newspaper. The museum’s “selfie station” offers vintage reporter props for fun family photos. Parking fee applies. Noon-3 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org. SPRING FEVER RELIEVER.

Enjoy half-price paddleboat rides and kayak rentals at the Paddleboat Quarry. Plus, children’s entertainment and activities, live music, the Dog Disc Championships, a Bike Bald Bike Rodeo for kids and more. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The Naperville Riverwalk, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, naper villeparks.org. NATURE NAVIGATORS. Kids 6-9 enjoy a class filled with fun activities based around the theme of the day. Dress for a nature hike. Bring an extra pair of dry socks and shoes for indoor exploration. This month’s theme is “The Buzz on Bees.” $27, $22 resident. 1-4 p.m. Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 941-8747, obtpd.org/lvnc.

10 | SUNDAY CHICAGO

FAMILY DAY: TINKER. SkokieParks.org

Families can fix, tinker and take things apart, experimenting with

ISTVAN & HIS IMAGINARY BAND.

This band gives children and their

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CALENDAR

parents something to enjoy together for a long time to come. $6, free kids under 1. Doors open at 11 a.m., show begins at noon. Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont. (773) 281-4444, beatkitchen.com.

be accompanied by a participating adult. All participants must wear closed shoes and tall socks. $8. 1-2:30 p.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter. org.

SECOND SUNDAY. Drop-in,

hands-on art-making workshops for kids and families, providing an interactive experience that engages visitors of all ages in contemporary art, while also offering participants insight into the exhibits. 1-4 p.m. Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Ave. (773) 324-5520, hydeparkart.org.

MOTHER’S DAY BIRDS & BAGELS HIKE. Families with kids

4 and up celebrate Mother’s Day at Lyman Woods. Hike the trails, then gather at the Interpretive Center to observe birds and breakfast of bagels, fruit, coffee and juice. $8. 8-9:30 a.m. Downers Grove Park District, 935 Maple Ave., Downers Grove. (630) 963-1300, dgparks.org.

SUBURBS

11 | MONDAY

12 | TUESDAY GIDDY UP! NAPERVILLE. See May

5. Today’s location is Nichols Library, 200 W. Jefferson Ave.

14 | THURSDAY ALEXANDER AND THE TERRIBLE, HORRIBLE, NO GOOD, VERY BAD DAY. Laugh and sing along

with Alexander’s misadventures in this hilarious musical. Discover that sometimes, everyone has a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. Recommended for families with kids in grades K-3. $8. 10 a.m. and noon. North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie. (847) 673-6300, northshore center.org.

BEE-TASTIC MOTHER’S DAY.

Families with kids 6 and up learn about the Queen bee and her daughters, then dress in a bee suit to get a safe, up-close look inside the hives. Everyone will get a Heller Honey stick to enjoy. Children must

FAMILY STORYTIME! Join Ms.

Irica for stories, songs and networking time. 11-11:45 a.m. Merit School of Music, Joy Faith Knapp Music Center, 38 S. Peoria St., Chicago. (312) 786-9428, meritmusic.org.

signing and presentation. Register at TotallyTemple.com. $25. 8-11:30 a.m. Paramount Arts Centre and Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. (630) 896-6666, paramountaurora.com. NATURE OBSTACLE COURSE & ARCHERY NIGHT.

Attempt a nature obstacle course. Plus, join forest preserves staff for archery instruction and other activities. Staff lead hikes into or along the woods, where the group can gather natural objects (sticks, dead leaves, some preselected items, etc.) for use in creating the course. 4-6:30 p.m. Forest Preserves of Cook County, Bremen Grove, Tinley Park. (800) 870-3666, fpdcc.com.

15 | FRIDAY

“TOTALLY TEMPLE!” SPECIAL EVENT IN AURORA WITH DR. TEMPLE GRANDIN. Meet Dr.

FAMILY NIGHT OUT: BACKYARD BIRDS. A birdfeeder

Temple Grandin and hear her speak on her life with autism and animal behavior meet and greet, book

craft will be available for kids (nominal fee), as will short bird walks led by members of the DuPage Birding

9 shows this summer • still only $1 Doors open at 9AM • shows start at 10AM

Co-sponsored by

7/8

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You’re Invited

Club. A limited number of binoculars are available for borrowing. $2 parking. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org. CIVIC CHAMBER MUSIC SERIES. A series of innovative

performances. Recommended for families with kids 8 and up. Today’s location is Zhou B Art Center, 1029 W. 35th St., at 7 p.m. cso.org.

(312) 922-2110, auditoriumtheatre. org/wb. MAY FAIR FESTIVAL. The festival features Maypole dancing, games, activities, music, food and fun for the community. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Chicago Waldorf School, 1300 W. Loyola Ave. (773) 465-2662, chicagowaldorf.org.

SUBURBS

TODDLER EXPLORATION TIME. Parents and kids interact

FARM CONNECTIONS OPEN HOUSE & PLANT SALE. Buy organic

9am - 3pm • Saturday, May 9

during guided activities, facilitated by a Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory docent. 10:30-11:15 a.m. (18-30 months); 12:15-1 p.m. (3-5). Oak Park Conservatory, 615 Garfield St., Oak Park. (708) 7252400, oakparkconservatory.org.

plants, meet the farmers and visit the chickens and baby goats. Several community supported agriculture (CSA) options will be available. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Prairie Crossing Farm, 32400 N. Harris Road, Grayslake. (847) 548-4062 ext. 11, libertyprairie.org.

18451 Convention Center Drive | Tinley Park

MATH COUNTS. Glenview. See May 1.

TRAIN DAY. Kids can don conductor’s hats and navigate a Thomas the Tank Engine train or view the famous circus-themed trains courtesy of NCOG Model Railroad Club and the Circus Model Builders club. Plus activities (some with minimal cost) and gifts. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Lambs Farm, I-94 and Route 176, Libertyville. (847) 362-4636, lambsfarm.org.

9am - 2:30pm • Saturday, May 2

RENAISSANCE CHICAGO NORTH SHORE HOTEL 933 Skokie Blvd | Northbrook

TINLEY PARK CONVENTION CENTER

16 | SATURDAY

Win a trip for two to Cancun! Win a three night trip for two to Cancun, courtesy of Apple Vacations and Riu Cancun!

More than 50 vendors at each event! Gather up your friends and family to attend this FREE expo with FREE parking!

Vendors will offer women: Shopping • Samples of food and drinks • Fashion and beauty tips • Information on women's health

CHICAGO CHICAGO HUMAN RHYTHM FEST. Celebrate National Tap Dance

Day, with BAM!, Trinity Irish Dance Company, Mexican Dance Ensemble, Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago and Ensemble Espanol Spanish Dance Theater as part of the “Made in Chicago” Dance Series. $27-$67. 7:30 p.m. Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E. Congress Parkway.

JUSTPLAY! SPORTS & REC FESTIVAL. Dozens of activities,

all designed to encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to get active, have fun and try new things.

For more information, Contact: (708) 326-9170 ext. 16 or visit 22ndcenturymedia.com/22CMevents 22CMEvents

Ma M ay Fa airr F es Fe sttiv val al See Ma Se See Mayy 166

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CALENDAR 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Carol Stream Town Center, Gary Avenue and Lies Road, Carol Stream. justplay.org. YEA! FESTIVAL. A festival

of visual art in which all Evanston schools, preschool through high school, exhibit students’ artwork. A performing arts stage features music and dance by Evanston kids. The event takes place on the sidewalks of the Chicago/Dempster business district. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Raymond Park, Chicago Avenue and Lake Street, Evanston. yeaevanston.org.

S. Weber Road, Crest Hill. (800) 304FARM, ourpumpkinfarm.com. RIDE THE ROCK. The 16-mile family-friendly bike tour takes place on paved trails and includes some sidewalks and street routes. The degree of difficulty is easy to moderate. The event features music, children’s activities and more. Food available for purchase. Registration required. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Forest Preserve District of Will County, 17540 W. Laraway Road, Joliet. (815) 727-8700, fpdwc.org/ index.cfm.

EARTH DAY-ARBOR DAY.

Children’s activities include crafts, petting zoo, jump zone, storytelling, hay rides and pony rides. Exhibits feature antique cars, eco-vehicles, tractors, a green market with items for sale, energy solutions and demonstrations. Plus, a wide variety of animal exhibits, including special presentations by Jim Nesci’s Cold Blooded Creatures and Birds of Prey from Northern Illinois Raptor Rehab and Education. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. The Konow Farm, 16849 S. Cedar Road, Homer Glen. (708) 301-0632, homerglen.org. HIGHLAND PARK HIKERS: MIDDLEFORK SAVANNA. Meet

new friends and discover new favorite places to visit. Binoculars, trail map, snacks and other tools to help discover nature are provided. Transportation not included. Kids must be accompanied by an adult. $8. 12:30-2 p.m. Heller Nature Center, Lake Katherine Preserve, Palos Heights. (847) 4336901, hellernaturecenter.org. PIXIE FAIRIES & PIRATES ON THE FARM. Meet and greet Tinkerbell,

Captain Hook and Jake the Pirate. Get aboard the Neverland Voyager; grab a cup of sweet morsels to feed the pixie goats; test flying skills on the Fairy & Pirate Jumping Pillows; and play in Fort Cottonwood’s Pirate Ship and Enchanted Castle. Fairies can make a wish with the Queen of Fairies and receive a special keepsake while pirates can meet Captain Zach and receive a treasure piece. Feast on hot dog, chips and juice box or mac & cheese, chips and juice box and decorate a cupcake for dessert. $19.95; free parents and kids under 2. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Siegel’s Cottonwood Pumpkin Farm, 17259

BEAR AWARENESS WEEKEND.

Guests enjoy Zoo Chats about sloths, polar bears, grizzly bears and more. Free with admission. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. (708) 688-8000, czs.org. CIVIL WAR DAYS AT NAPER SETTLEMENT. The settlement

becomes a Civil War encampment. A battle is held each day at 2:30 p.m. $10, $5 kids 4-12; at the gate: $15, $10 kids 4-12; free kids 3 and under and members. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 523 S. Webster St., Naperville. (630) 4206010, napersettlement.org. FAMILY FUN DAY. Includes painting activities for both adults and children in a day of creativity and fun. $10. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. sdp familyfunday.org. LINCOLN MARSH SPRING OPEN HOUSE. Hike, explore and

participate in activities. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Harrison and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. (630) 871-2810, lincolnmarsh.org. SPRING CELEBRATION.

Enjoy fun activities, live animals, face painting, self-guided hike, paddle boating and more. Noon-4 p.m. Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 9418747, obtpd.org/lvnc/index.php. TWILIGHT VOYAGE. Paddle the lagoon, listen to crickets and birds, and smell the crisp spring air. Enjoy an evening of canoeing and s’mores with your family. Children must be accompanied by registered adult.

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CALENDAR Maximum of three people per canoe. $15.75, 12.50 resident. 6:15-7:45 p.m. Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Harrison and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. (630) 871-2810, lincoln marsh.org. STORY TIME AND CRAFT. This month’s theme is Planting, using the story “Curious George Plants a Tree.” Kids will be given marigold seeds and a marigold to plant. 2-3 p.m. Paperback Trading Co., Inc., 8825 S. Ridgeland Ave., Oak Lawn. (708) 598-8442, paperbacktrading.webs.com.

17 | SUNDAY CHICAGO CHICAGO YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRAS’ SPRING CONCERT. Composer, guitarist

and curator Bryce Dessner, best known from the indie rock band The National, joins Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras to perform Dessner’s “Carolyn by the Sea.” The concert also features works composed

ory

by Aaron Copland, Franz Liszt and Sergei Rachmaninov. Recommended for families with kids 6 and up. $20$40; box seats $50; kids age 7 and under free. 7:30 p.m. Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras, Fine Arts Building, 410 S. Michigan Ave., Suite 833. (312) 939-2207, cyso.org. FAMILY WORKSHOP: DESIGN YOUR OWN GARDEN.

Design the ideal miniature garden from your imagination. Using natural materials, build a mini-model of a dream garden to take home. Preregistration is required. 10 a.m.-noon. The Lurie Garden in Millennium Park, Columbus Drive and Monroe Street. (312) 228-1004, luriegarden.org. HAMBURGLARS. Lunchtime

concert appropriate for all ages. $6, free kids 1 and under. Doors open at 11 a.m., show begins at noon. Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont. (773) 281-4444, beatkitchen.com. MOVE FOR THE KIDS 5K WALK/ RUN. An inspirational, fun and

family-friendly event and a great way to bring family and friends together for an important cause—children cared for at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. $39; $5 kids 3-12; free kids 2 and under. 9 a.m. Soldier Field (Stadium Green), 1410 Museum Campus Drive. (312) 227-4000, luriechildrens.org/moveforthekids. CIVIC CHAMBER MUSIC SERIES.

See May 15. Today’s location is National Museum of Mexican Art, 1852 W. 19th St., at 2 p.m.

SUBURBS AMERICAN GIRL AT SUR LA TABLE: MAKE & BAKE FRENCH TREATS.

Students can bake like the newest doll from American Girl. Each twohour class begins with the fundamentals, then guests learn the secrets to making favorite French pastry treats, including Apple Tarts, Chocolate Éclairs and Eiffel Tower Cookies. Each guest takes home an American Girl goodie bag, including an American Girl apron, cookie cutter from Sur La

Table and more. 8-12. $39. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Sur la Table, Various locations. (800) 243-0852, surlatable.com. TCHAIKOVSKY TRIUMPHS.

Narrated and conducted by Rei Hotoda, this program explores the external challenges and internal struggles that Tchaikovsky faced. Special preview materials will be emailed to ticketholders prior to the concert. Recommended for families with kids 6 and up. $15-$20. 1:30 and 3 p.m. Neuqua Valley High School, 2360 95th St., Naperville. (312) 294-3000, cso.org. MUSIC & FAMILY FUN FEST.

An all-day outdoor festival featuring many of Midwest Youth Artists’ ensembles. Performances throughout the day, plus games, raffles, karaoke, food, drink and more. Noon-6 p.m. Midwest Young Artists, 878 Lyster Road, Highwood. (847) 926-9898, mya.org. NORWEGIAN CONSTITUTION DAY PARADE.

Includes local marching bands,

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CALENDAR folk dancers, singers and various Scandinavian groups in national costumes. Plus pre-parade entertainment, activities for children and vendors. Noon-4 p.m. Hodges Park, 20 S. Prospect Ave., Park Ridge. nnleague.org. SPRING CANOE. Heller naturalists provide canoes and everything else needed for an afternoon on the water for families with kids 6 and up. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. $20. 3-5 p.m. Skokie Lagoons, Winnetka. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

Pet Parade (1/4 mile); prizes for best dressed, most exotic, most original, smallest/largest pet. Plus, dog contests (Woof Off, Look-A-Like, Best Tail Wagger, and Hot Dog Relay), pet-friendly vendors, raffles and demonstrations. All dogs must be on a leash and all vaccinations current. 1-4 p.m. 10925 W. La Porte Road, Mokena. mokenapark.com. BEAR AWARENESS WEEKEND.

Brookfield. See May 16. CIVIL WAR DAYS AT NAPER SETTLEMENT. Naperville. See May 16.

1-5 p.m. Downtown Elmhurst. (630) 833-1457, elmhursthistory.org. RARE BREEDS SHOW. Breeders

from around the Midwest display rare and historic livestock, from horses and pigs to goats and sheep. Individual breeders may offer livestock, poultry and byproducts for sale. $6, $3 kids 12 and under. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Garfield Farm Museum, 3N016 Garfield Road, Campton Hills. (630) 584-8485, garfieldfarm.org.

19 | TUESDAY GIDDY UP! NAPERVILLE. See May

TOUCH-A-TRACTOR. Climb into

the seat of a tractor, talk to farmers and learn about farming at this event for kids and families. $3, free kids 3 and under. Noon-4 p.m. 19412 W. Sand Lake Road, just west of Route 45, Lindenhurst. (847) 968-3400, bonnerfarm.org. WOOFSTOCK & PET PARADE. All animals welcome in

5. Today’s location is: 95th Street Library, 3015 Cedar Glade Drive.

ELMHURST MUSEUM DAY. Join three Elmhurst museums

(Elmhurst Art Museum, Elmhurst Historical Museum and Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art) to celebrate International Museum Day. Park at one museum and ride a complimentary trolley to each location for free admission, exhibits, kids’ activities and refreshments. Visit all three museums to be entered in a prize drawing.

$11 resident. 4-5:30 p.m. Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 941-8747, obtpd.org/lvnc. BABIES IN NATURE. Highland

Park. See May 5.

21 | THURSDAY NATURE TOTS. Toddlers 2-3, with adult, explore nature. Includes storytime, art experience and outdoor exploration. $13, $8 resident. 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 941-8747, obtpd.org/lvnc. SENSORY STORYTIME.

JUNIOR NATURALISTS. Kids 10-14

explore nature, practice survival skills and participate in behind-the-scenes animal care. Participants will learn simple data collection and mathematical analysis methods and work with equipment used by real scientists to study plants and animals. $16,

Chicago. See May 4. Today’s location is Carter G. Woodson Regional Library, 9525 W. Halsted St., at 11 a.m.

22 | FRIDAY FROGGY WENT A COURTIN’ NIGHT HIKE. Hear one of nature’s

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CALENDAR finest musicians—the frog. Learn more about this special wetland critter, then hike the marsh in search of frogs. Program concludes with a campfire and roasting marshmallows. $11.25, $9 resident. 7-8:30 p.m. Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Harrison and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. (630) 871-2810, lincolnmarsh.org.

Park Village Nature Center, 5801 N. Pulaski Road, at 11 a.m.

SUBURBS NATIONAL TURTLE DAY. Celebrate

the inhabitants of the museum’s newest live animal display, Turtle Rock! Includes special turtle-themed artwork, turtle story time and slow-paced “turtle motion” races. Free with museum admission. Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org.

23 | SATURDAY CHICAGO CHICAGO MEMORIAL DAY WREATH LAYING CEREMONY AND PARADE. The wreath laying ceremony

begins at 11 a.m. at the Eternal Flame on Daley Plaza. The parade kicks off at noon and proceeds south on State Street from Lake Street to Van Buren Street. Participants include area high schools’ Drum and Bugle Corps as well as many veterans groups. Daley Plaza, Washington and Dearborn. (312) 7443370, cityofchicago.org/specialevents.

24 | SUNDAY CHICAGO BIKE THE DRIVE. Choose between

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See May 5. Today’s location is North

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a 15- or 30-mile loop of Lake Shore Drive with no cars. All ages and skill levels welcome. Participants receive a T-shirt, access to three rest stops and admittance to a post-ride festival with food and live music. $47 adults; $16 youth 17 and under; $8 all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast. 5:30-9:30 a.m.

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CALENDAR access to Lake Shore Drive; 8 a.m.-noon post-ride festival. Grant Park, Columbus and Jackson drives. bikethedrive.org.

Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org.

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27 | WEDNESDAY

indie-girl rocker turned indie-kids rocker. $6, free kids under 1. Doors open at 11 a.m., show begins at noon. Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont. (773) 281-4444, beatkitchen.com.

SENSORY STORYTIME.

Chicago. See May 4. Today’s location is Sulzer Regional Library, 4455 N. Lincoln Ave., at 10 a.m.

25 | MONDAY MESSY MONDAYS. Features special

theme-focused art projects with professional artists. Free with admission. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 9636769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

SUBURBS

SPRING ASTRONOMY. See the moon, Jupiter and Saturn through a telescope. Kids must be accompanied by a participating adult. This program will be cancelled if it is cloudy. 9-10 p.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

“BENEATH THE GARDEN FLOOR”: ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE.

30 | SATURDAY

26 | TUESDAY MONTHLY MAKE BELIEVE.

Come dressed up for Camping Day. Free with museum admission. Kohl

31 | SUNDAY

29 | FRIDAY

CIVIC CHAMBER MUSIC SERIES. See

May 5. Today’s location is Indian Boundary Park, 2500 W. Lunt Ave., at 3 p.m.

most exciting new works of circus art. Professionals from the Chicagoland circus community will be featured as well as advanced students from The Actors Gymnasium’s classes. $15. 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes St., Evanston. (847) 328-2795, actorsgymnasium.org.

SUBURBS CIRCUS IN PROGRESS: AN EVENING OF DARING NEW WORK 2015.

Get a sneak peek at some of Chicago’s

Regional artist Shannon Molter facilitates a drop-in workshop where children and families can help sculpt a 3-D representation of underground life that includes inhabitants like slugs, worms and bugs. Free with museum admission. Noon-4 p.m. Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org. NAPERVILLE PARK DISTRICT FRONTIER PARK KITE FESTIVAL. Enjoy gigantic kites,

exciting demonstrations, stunts and hands-on activities. Plus music, games and giveaways, and performances by Neuqua Valley High School Steel Band, Andrew Huber and Élan Dance Company. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 3380 Cedar Glade Drive, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org. OPEN CLIMB. Check out the new 50-foot climbing tower. No experience necessary, and a certified instructor will do the belaying. An adult must be present for children under 14. $18.75, $15 resident. 3-5 p.m. Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Harrison and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. (630) 871-2810, lincoln marsh.org. EVERYONE AT PLAY.

The museum will be open exclusively for the use of families with children with special needs. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org.

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PERFORMANCES THE WAA-MU SHOW: GOLD. The

story of ambitious athletes at one of the most celebrated international competitions in history: the Olympics in pre-World War II Germany. The new stage work is written, composed, choreographed and co-produced by more than 100 Northwestern students. Recommended for families with kids 10 and up. $10-$30. See website for times. May 1-10. Virginia Wadsworth Wirtz Center, Cahn Auditorium, 600 Emerson, Evanston. (847) 491-7282, tic.northwestern.edu. LES MISÉRABLES. Discover a nation in the grip of revolution, where convict Jean Valjean is on the run in early 19th century France. This much-loved musical is based on Victor Hugo’s epic novel about a man who spends his life fleeing the law and seeking redemption during some of the most tumultuous years in French history. Recommended for families with kids 10 and up. $18. May 2-10. The Wilmette Theatre, 1122 Central Ave., Wilmette. (847) 251-7424, wilmettetheatre.com. BUSYTOWN. Through May 2. The imaginative characters of Richard Scarry’s books come alive in this musical. Recommended for families with kids in preschool and older. $10-12. Shows at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays. Northbrook Theatre for Young Audiences, 3323 Walters Ave., Northbrook. (847) 291-2367, northbrooktheatre.org. THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA.

Through May 3. When Prince Wellington is forced into choosing a bride, all the princesses in the land line up to pass the “Princess Test.” Trouble arises when the Prince falls in love with a commoner who must prove her worth by sleeping on a giant stack of mattresses piled on top of a single pea. A Q&A session with the cast will follow the one-hour presentation. $17.23. Check website for schedule. Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. (847)634-0200, marriotttheatre.com. STAGES, SIGHTS AND SOUNDS.

An international theater festival for

Stag St ges s, Sigh Sigh Si ghts ts an nd So Sou oun unds SSeee th this is pagge is

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families, students and theatergoers of any age. This year’s festival includes performances of The American Revolution by Theater Unspeakable (Chicago, ages 10+), Ondin by L’Illusion, Théâtre de marionettes (Montréal; ages 3+) and The Secret Life of Suitcases by Ailie Cohen Puppet Maker (Scotland; ages 5+). All performances take place at the Victory Gardens Biograph Theater. Also offers hands-on experiences, including a writing workshop with 826CHI, a Lego stop-motion animation workshop, and a camera obscura workshop with the Liminal Camera. $14, $7 kids. Visit website for schedule. May 7-20. Chicago Humanities Festival, 500 N. Dearborn, Suite 825, Chicago. (312) 454-9509, chicagohumanities.org. THE RELUCTANT DRAGON. A young boy overcomes his prejudices about dragons when he discovers the most unusual one in a cave outside his English village—one

who would rather paint and write poetry than fight and breathe fire. $10. 7 p.m. Fridays; 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturdays; 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Sundays. May 8-24. Josephine Louis Theatre, Hal and Martha Hyer Wallis Theater, Northwestern University, 1949 Campus Drive, Evanston. (847) 491-7023, tic.northwestern.edu. WORTHY. Through May 16. This

modern fairy tale whisks four young heroes on an adventurous quest, fighting dragons, monsters and villains in order to choose for themselves who they are and which paths they follow. Recommended for families with kids 8 and up. $17, $12 kids. 7:30 p.m. Fridays; 4 p.m. Saturdays (no performance May 9). Adventure Stage Chicago, Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St., Chicago. (773) 342-4141, adventurestage.org.

Henry loves technology but doesn’t love doing his homework. When his teacher, Mr. Gellert, is replaced by a mega-computer, Johnny couldn’t be happier. Recommended for families with kids 8 and older. $10, $5 kids. Chicago Playworks at DePaul University, Merle Reskin Theatre at DePaul University, 60 E. Balbo Drive, Chicago. (312) 922-1999, theatre school.depaul.edu. SPRING YOUTH CIRCUS 2015.

The Actors Gymnasium Youth Circus is a performance-based training program that culminates in a fully-produced, original show. $15, $12.50 kids. 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays; 3 p.m. Sundays. May 16-24. The Actors Gymnasium, Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes St., Evanston. (847) 328-2795, actorsgymnasium.org. FANCY NANCY: THE MUSICAL.

THE DAY JOHN HENRY CAME TO SCHOOL. Through May 16. John

Through May 17. From the top of her tiara down to her sparkly shoes,

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PERFORMANCES Nancy’s ready to take the spotlight in her first dance recital. But when someone else gets picked to be the star, Nancy is stuck playing a dreary, dull tree. Call for cost. Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 935-6100, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

performances by CircEsteem, Lifeline Theatre, Merry Music Makers, Swift School, Storytown Improv and others. Free-$20. Check website for schedule. May 29-June 7. Pivot Arts, 1443 W. Norwood St., Chicago. (773) 6090782, pivotarts.org. BINGO’S BIRTHDAY. Kids are in-

PIRATES! Through May 17. Jim’s Mermaid_ChicagoParent.pdf 1 2/18/2015 3:43:43 PM

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imaginary world collides with reality when a real pirate from 1718 appears in his bedroom. Jim is transported back in time to solve the mystery of the disappearing treasure. $12-$18. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays; 7 p.m. Sundays. Li’l Buds Theatre Company, 1206 W. Rosedale, Chicago. (773) 334-4543, lilbudstheatre.org. THE SECRET GARDEN. Opens May

21. After a vicious cholera outbreak in the British Raj claims the lives of both her parents, 10-year-old Mary Lennox is sent to England to live at her estranged uncle’s estate. $35-$45 previews; $45-$65 regular run. 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays-Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays; 3 and 8 p.m. Saturdays; 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Sundays. Court Theatre, 5535 S. Ellis Ave., Chicago. (773) 753-4472, courttheatre.org.

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24. Lewis Carroll’s beloved, poetic tale of self-actualization is brought to life by a cast of actor/musicians who create an eclectic, live rock soundtrack as 7 ½-year-old Alice searches for her own inner musical voice. Recommended for families with kids 7 and older. $10-$38. 10 a.m. Tuesdays; 10 a.m. and noon Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. Sundays. Chicago Children’s Theatre, The Ruth Page Center for Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. (872) 2229555, chicagochildrenstheatre.org. PIVOT ARTS FESTIVAL. Features

live music, theater, dance, puppetry, discussions, wine tastings, workshops, children’s performances and more. This year’s theme, “Celebrate Community!” is focused on bringing diverse neighbors together. The festival includes a first-time Community Parade on May 30 and children’s

vited to Bingo the dog’s birthday, but no one can find Bingo in this interactive performance just for the very young. Call for cost. Emerald City’s Little Theatre, 2933 N. Southport Ave., Chicago. (773) 529-2690 ext. 810, emeraldcitytheatre.com. CINDERELLA. Sing, dance and clap

along with all the familiar characters in this fantastic story. $12. 10:30 a.m. selected weekdays. Chicago Kids Company, Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St., Chicago. (773) 2059600, chicagokidscompany.com. GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS. Show is based on the classic

story of a young girl who ventures into the woods and stumbles on a cute house with three bowls of porridge. Showing at Stahl Family Theater. $12. 10:30 a.m. selected weekdays. Chicago Kids Company, 4104 N. Nashville Ave., Chicago. (773) 205-9600, chicagokids company.com. THE LITTLE MERMAID. Features whimsical costumes, stunning sets and all-star talent. $15. 10 a.m., with an additional show on Saturdays at 1 p.m. Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 530-0111, drurylaneoakbrook.com. ELEPHANT AND PIGGIE’S WE ARE IN A PLAY! Favorite characters

from Mo Willems’ beloved Elephant and Piggie series take the stage for this vaudevillian romp of a musical. $15 and up. Check website for schedule. Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 935-6100, emerald citytheatre.com. HAMLET’S HOUSE. Hamlet is the

big, fluffy dog who lives in Apartment 2B. Flip is his human best friend. One morning, they embark on an

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PERFORMANCES incredible journey. Recommended for kids 4-11. $15. 11 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays. The Public House Theatre, 3914 N. Clark St., Chicago. (800) 6506449, pubhousetheatre.com.

JUICEBOX. Parents and young children can enjoy Chicago’s best music, dance and theater in a kidfriendly setting. Kids can sit on the floor, walk around, meet the artists and sometimes play with instruments and puppets. Parents are welcome to bring snacks and juiceboxes. 11 a.m. alternate Fridays. Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., Chicago. (312) 744-6630, chicago culturalcenter.org.

THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK. The

production provides insight into the realities of life in the “secret annex,” allowing audiences to know Anne and her family in a new and strikingly honest way. $55-$75. Check website for schedule. Writers Theatre, Books on Vernon, 664 Vernon Ave., Glencoe. (847) 242-6000, writerstheatre.org.

STORYTOWN. Every show begins with the audience choosing a location for the story to take place. Children are invited on stage to decorate the backdrop and start to bring the story to life. As the tale unfolds, graphic artists construct props, paint backdrops, modify costumes and create an environment as unique as the story. A pianist supplies live music that scores the action. Recommended for families with kids 3-10. $10. 10:30 a.m. Saturdays. Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. storytownimprov.com.

THAT’S WEIRD GRANDMA. A series of sketches and songs written by Chicago Public School students in grades 3-6 and performed by the Barrel of Monkeys troupe of actors. The program changes each week. 8 p.m. Mondays. $12, $6 kids 12 and under. Barrel of Monkeys, The Neo-Futurarium Theater (2nd Floor), 5153 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago. (312) 409-1954, barrelofmonkeys.org.

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ART IN THE PARK. Features more than 100 Midwest artists, food vendors, kids’ court and live entertainment. Wilder Mansion will serve coffee, pastries and lunch provided by Cafe Amano from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. both days. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. May 2-3. Wilder Park, 175 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 834-0202, rglmarketingforthearts.com.

BABY AND ME TIME. A chance for parents of infants to meet others adjusting to parenthood, ask questions and make friends. A nurse representative from Advocate Lutheran General Hospital facilitates discussions about early childhood development. Free with admission. 9:30-11 a.m. Mondays. Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org.

MAYFEST. Music, festival favor-

ites, local vendors at the Merchant Square, and interactive games and entertainment. Special events include Chicago Kids Day, a celebration of health and wellness, and the Chicago Pet Pageant and Expo. $10. 5-10 p.m. May 15, noon-10 p.m. May 16-17. 3100 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago. (773) 665-4682, starevents.com. SKOKIE FESTIVAL OF CULTURES. Two days of ethnic folk

music and dance, plus a wide range of food, unique arts and crafts, international games, children’s events, a merchandise bazaar, and dozens of cultural booths and displays. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. May 16-17. Oakton Park, 4701 Oakton St., Skokie. (847) 6741500, ext. 2715, skokieculturefest.org. WHAT’S BLOOMING ON HARRISON STREET. Features

artist demonstrations, live music, dance performances and an art fair featuring selected guest artists and local crafts people. Fest takes over Harrison Street with the art fair and other family activities. 6 p.m. May 15, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. May 16. Harrison Street, Oak Park. oakparkartsdistrict. com. DO-DIVISION STREET FEST.

Features food, crafts, live music and a huge sidewalk sale. Family Fun Fest activities include train rides, craft tent, face painting, the Toddler Zone, inflatables, mini-golf, pony rides, inflatable jousting and a climbing wall. Plus boogie down at the Pizano’s Pizza Family Stage. $5 donation. 5-10 p.m. May 29, noon-10 p.m. May 30-31. Division Street from Ashland to Leavitt, Chicago. (312) 850-9390, do-divisionstreetfest.com.

FAMILY WORKSHOP: LITTLE LURIE GARDENERS. Program

offers kids 1-3 and their parents and caregivers an interactive exploration of the natural world through live music and movement. Come prepared to sing, dance and smell the flowers. Pre-registration is required. 10-10:45 a.m. Mondays (no session May 25). The Lurie Garden in Millennium Park, Columbus Drive and Monroe Street, Chicago. (312) 228-1004, luriegarden.org. FITNESS FOR ALL. This series of events focuses on getting and staying healthy through physical activity for children and parents alike. Families can build endurance, stretch muscles or gain motor skills outdoors in the Habitat Park exhibit (weather permitting). Kids can choose from a variety of fun and fit events including the obstacle course, and yoga in the park. Free with museum admission. 10:30 a.m.-noon Mondays-Saturdays. Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org. EXPLORATION STATION. Try hands-on activities at the Exploration Station created by the Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory. A new topic each month highlights special aspects of the conservatory. 10 a.m.-noon Saturdays; 1:30-3:30 p.m. Sundays. Oak Park Conservatory, 615 Garfield St., Oak Park. (708) 725-2400, oakparkconservatory.org. HOLD A BABY LAMB. Enjoy the

chance to hold baby lambs, goats, chicks, piglet and feed the calf. Plus, watch the sheep shearing. $5; $12

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ONGOING EVENTS

Summertime

Butterflies & Bl B oo ooms m Seee thhiss pag Se a e

family (up to four people), $20 family (five or more). 9 a.m.-3 p.m. weekends. Enjoy Pioneer Farm, 17N400 Big Timber Road, Hampshire. (847) 683-2863, enjoypioneerfarm.com. LEGO BUILD. Casual weekly builds

are inspired by a new theme each month, and are a great place to learn about design principles while exploring the playful side of architecture. $10, $5 members. 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Sundays. Chicago Architecture Foundation, 224 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 9223432, architecture.org.

EXHIBITS MODEL RAILROAD GARDEN: LANDMARKS OF AMERICA. Opens

May 9. The Model Railroad Garden delights visitors of all ages with the sights and sounds of garden-scale trains traversing bridges and trestles, past miniature scenes of America’s best-loved landmarks and beautiful gardens planted to scale. $6, $5 seniors, $4 kids 3-12, free kids under 3; $1 discount for members. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org. ROBOT REVOLUTION. Opens May

21. Exhibit explores how robots, created by human ingenuity, will ultimately change how we play, live and work together. The exhibit will come to life with a collection of cutting-edge robots that have been secured from some of the most innovative global robotics companies and universities. Guests will have opportunities to interact with robots that have rarely been shown to the public before. Check website for cost. Museum of Science and Industry,

Mar vels on the Mississippi!

5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 684-1414, msichicago.org. FESTIVAL OF FLIGHT. Opens May

23. Watch trained birds soar, swoop and dive as they demonstrate their natural flight abilities. Vultures, hawks, parrots, a hadada ibis, and a variety of other bird species will demonstrate natural behaviors as they fly overhead and interact with the audience and the host of the show. Guests will see a trumpeter hornbill catching objects, African white-necked ravens collecting cash for conservation, and more. Three shows offered daily. Free with zoo admission. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. (708) 688-8000, czs.org. BUTTERFLIES & BLOOMS.

Opens May 23. Outdoor butterfly garden where visitors can immerse themselves with hundreds of live tropical butterfly species from around the world. A field guide is available to help visitors identify dozens of species in the exhibition. Visitors can also observe butterflies hatching through a window into the pupa emergence room. $6, $5 seniors, $4 kids 3-12. Discounts for members and combination tickets available. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., weather permitting. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 8355440, chicagobotanic.org. THE SECRET LIVES OF OBJECTS.

Features extraordinary and unfamiliar objects that have emerged from the museum’s vaults to shine a light on their mysterious pasts. Whether they are artistic works, key evidence from crime scenes, or everyday objects, one thing all the items have in common is that they serve as

Write something... Sarah Loved our summer getaway to the Quad Cities! Great restaurants. Cool and highenergy festivals right on the banks of the river. Lots to see and do! Sunday at 11:02 pm • Like Ann Sounds like what all families would love to do! Tuesday at 4:32 pm • Like Sarah For sure! It’s the perfect family summer adventure, and affordable. Check out www.visitquadcities.com. Five hours ago • Like

Comment • Like • Suggest to Friends For lodging and travel information contact the Quad Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau 800-747-7800 or visit online at visitquadcities.com.

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ONGOING EVENTS

Discover Cove This Summer

touchstones of Chicago’s rich history. Free with museum admission. Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., Chicago. (312) 642-4600, chicagohistory.org. AMPHIBIANS. Developed and designed exclusively by Shedd, the one-of-a-kind exhibit will offer guests an immersive visual, audio and hands-on experience, in the changing lives of salamanders, sirens, frogs, toads, newts and more. John G. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 939-2438, sheddaquarium.org. STINGRAY TOUCH. Shedd staff

members guide guests through the 15-minute touch experience, while providing interesting facts about stingrays, including information about how choosing sustainable seafood protects stingrays in global waters. The outdoor exhibit allows visitors to see the cownose stingrays through various angles. John G. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 939-2438, sheddaquarium.org. MATERIALS SCIENCE. Learn the

he Cove School is proud to offer a comprehensive summer school program. Summer school at Cove is a unique experience for students with learning disabilities. Students at Cove feel safe and supported. Students get what they need to learn. Summer school at Cove meets a variety of student needs. Some students need to maintain skills previously learned in a variety of subjects, while others need remediation in a particular subject. Basic academic courses are offered in the morning. Electives and the majority of specialized instruction are offered in the afternoon. There is also a special multisensory based reading, writing, and math program for children entering kindergarten and first grade. Back Again This Year! STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) provides a strong academic foundation rooted in the knowledge used to solve complex problems across disciplines. This program is made possible by a grant from the Motorola Mobility Foundation.

Come discover what Cove has to offer. (847)562-2100 • www.coveschool.org

science behind familiar materials, like plastics and metals, explore where materials science is headed next, and discover how breakthroughs in materials science have shaped our world. For the first time at MSI, an Atomic Probe Field Ion Microscope will be on display. This tool allowed scientists to image materials at an atomic level and opened up a new world of understanding and innovation. Free with museum admission. Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 684-1414, msichicago.org. MONUMENTAL. Exhibit allows

children to explore the building styles, construction techniques, decorative elements, and cultural attributes of Greek and Maya monuments as they learn about the fundamental principles that helped shape modern architecture. Visitors can construct their own Acropolis using blocks and stones, or re-create the pyramids at Chichen Itza with foam blocks. Costumes and props

provide opportunities for dramatic play. Touch pads allow children to superimpose their face onto the body of Athena, Poseidon or Apollo. Free with museum admission. National Hellenic Museum, 333 S. Halsted St., Chicago. (312) 655-1234, national hellenicmuseum.org. RAINFOREST ADVENTURE.

Visitors can climb a kapok tree, explore a gorilla’s nest and meet virtual rainforest scientists. The exhibit allows museum goers to explore tropical rainforests around the world and find ways to help make a difference. Free with museum admission. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (773) 755-5100, naturemuseum.org. CHICAGO FAMILIES: WHERE COMMUNITY BEGINS. The project

explores the concept of family in different community contexts and demonstrates how cross-cultural collaboration can serve to create new and alternative perspectives on the world. Each exhibit, which showcases people coming together to share stories and break boundaries, is being curated by a project team from 17 organizations with varying community identities and perspectives. Locations are DANK Haus German American Cultural Center, Chinese-American Museum of Chicago, The Field Museum, Swedish American Museum, Casa Michoacan and Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural Center. Admission varies; check website. Chicago Cultural Alliance, 70 E. Lake St., Chicago. (312) 846-6814, chicagoculturalalliance.org. PUPPETS! AN INTERACTIVE PUPPET EXTRAVAGANZA. Include unique performances,

puppet-making workshops, and the opportunity for visitors to visit the Ryan Education Center to interact and explore creativity through puppets. Inspiration is drawn from works in the Art Institute’s collection, including the drawing The Temptation of St. Anthony, the centerpiece of the special exhibition, Temptation: The Demons of James Ensor. Free with museum admission. Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan, Chicago. (312) 4433600, artinstituteofchicago.org.

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Up, up and away!

o lesser a luminary than Mary Poppins told us to “go fly a kite.” And who are we to go against the commands of a magical nanny? The good news is, May is practically bursting with events that have families reaching the highest heights with the help of some good, old-fashioned kites.

Kites and trucks don’t seem to have much in common, but check out Motion Explosion, which combines the Kite Fly and Toucha-Truck into one big event. This day of fun includes vehicles to explore, safety information, a picnic lunch (food is available for purchase), and a kite fly. Free. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. May 1. Cypress Cove Family Aquatic Park, 8301 S. Janes Ave., Woodridge. (630) 9855620, woodridgeparks.org. The city’s most famous kite festival just got a little sweeter! This year’s Chicago Kids & Kites Festival includes an epic candy

drop, thanks to a piñata-like kite filled with candies. Plus, kids can design and create their own kites with the help of free kits. Free. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. May 2. Cricket Hill in Lincoln Park, West Montrose Drive, Chicago. (312) 744-3316, chicagokidsandkites.us. Kite flying is an easy way to get kids enjoying some fresh air, and Barrington Area KidFest builds on that with a full day of outdoor activities. Try your hand at building bird houses, climbing a tree, exploring animal habitats or creating nature note cards or get schooled in archery, slack-lining and bike safety. And be sure to stick around for the huge kite fly—this year is the 14th

annual. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. May 2. Citizens Park, 511 Lake Zurich Road, Barrington. funoutside.org. Fests are rising to new heights, thanks to the Kite Fly Festival. This full-on air extravaganza includes kite demos, races and performances, plus falcons, a candy drop and a scavenger hunt. Kids will love the Air Education Zone, which features hula hoop contests, bubbles, Airzookas and whoopee cushions. We take no responsibility for any practical jokes that might be played. Free. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. May 2. Monee Reservoir, 27341 Ridgeland Ave., Monee. (708) 5348499, reconnectwithnature.org. Elizabeth Diffin

CHIPAR ExpirEs: 07/31/15

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Building young minds New exhibit at the National Hellenic Museum just right for kids

ringing a tot into a museum of ancient artifacts is kind of like bringing a bull into a china shop. But the idea that kids can’t experience the profound learning experience of ancient architecture is completely moot once you see the new Monuments exhibit at the National Hellenic Museum. Developed by DuPage Children’s Museum, this exhibit is targeted toward kids 2-12

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and explores the ancient architecture of the Greek and Mayan cultures. The best part about it is that kids are supposed to knock things down, touch everything and mess stuff up. The exhibit shows children what ancient Greek and Mayan architecture, such as the Parthenon, looks like and gives them the tools to create their own. “It’s a really exciting exhibit because it’s all about the journey of discovery,” says Alice Kopan, who donated the exhibit to the museum. Just ask Demetrios Louis, a 5-year-old who says he has Lincoln logs at home, but not big ones like the museum offers in the exhibit. “With these,” he says, “I can build everything.” For adults, the history of the architectural masterpieces is displayed on the walls and on touch screens. The museum even draws on Chicago landmarks and references their Greek influences, such as

May 16 & 17, 2015 11 a.m.–7 p.m.

Festival of Cultures

the Field Museum, MSI and the Chicago Cultural Center. Teens will enjoy another exhibit at the museum, The Street is My Gallery, a vibrant display of street art in Athens and how it relates to contemporary Greek youth culture. Before you leave, everyone in the family will want check out The Greek Monsters display for a larger-than-life taste of mythological wonderment. Emilyy Adams

The T h N National ti l H Hellenic ll i Museum 333 S. Halsted St., Chicago (312) 655-1234 nationalhellenicmuseum.org

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WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS

Photos courtesy of Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce

Welcome spring with a kid-friendly bash

he annual Kids in the Square is one street fair you won’t want to miss this year. It includes Teddy bears, magicians, songs, face painting, crafts, dancing, candy and water balloon tosses. And best of all: it’s free! No merchants are allowed, unless they’re providing a free kids’ activity, says Shane Miller, marketing and events director for the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce. Kids in the Square organizers are working to make the party even better this year, with confirmed vendors ranging from Timeless Toys to The Book Cellar and Pickles Playroom. Children can start their

day with a free kids’ movie at the Davis Theater at 9 a.m. (4614 N. Lincoln Ave., 773-784-0893, davistheater. com). Then, they can head outside for a Teddy Bear picnic in the Square (BYO bears,

kiddos), complete with some Teddy Grahams snacks and a story. Afterward, they can visit with Corduroy at Timeless Toys Ltd. (4749 N. Lincoln Ave., 773-334-4445, timelesstoyschicago.com). Chicago celebrity storyteller Nili Yelin (aka The

Kids in the Square 10 a.m.-2 p.m. May 16 Giddings Plaza, 4731 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago (773) 728-3890 lincolnsquare.org

Storybook Mom) will be at The Book Cellar to read books—in her own special way—and neighborhood magician James Sanden will be doing a 45-minute comedy magic set on the Kids in the Square stage. If kids need to stretch (or chill out after all that excitement), they can take a special free family-and-kids yoga class via Bloom Yoga (4663 N. Rockwell St., 773463-9642, bloomyogastudio. com). And did we mention that everything will be free? Danielle Braff

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