Chicago Parent - April 2019

APRIL 2019

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

| FREE

B-DAY party trends

Character

BASH

@Playdate

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Tidy.ish Keep calm with clutter

3/7/19 1:46 PM

Keynote Speaker: Angel Price Attractions Engineering Services Manager, Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Get Your Geek On!

Saturday, April 27, 2019 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. • Free Physical Education Center (PEC)

College of DuPage staff and industry experts will be on hand to provide an inside view into some of the most in-demand and cuttingedge careers of today and the future. Come for the knowledge. Stay for the fun!

Highlights:

“Authentically YOU” Learn how to trust your potential and find a career that allows you to be authentically you. Also, visit the Disney booth to learn how science, technology, engineering and math are making dreams come true every day.

• Learn to solder with Build-a-Blinkie • Experience virtual reality • Engineer your dream with Disney Youth Education Series

Interactive displays, hands-on exhibits and more! cod.edu/stemcon

For ADA accommodations, call (630) 942-2141(voice) or (630) 858-9692 (TDD). Please call two weeks in advance. This event is funded pursuant to a grant from the Illinois Community College Board and funded partially through the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006. ©2019 College of DuPage. All rights reserved.

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3/14/19 10:20 AM

SPRING BREAK camps IMPROV • SKETCH • MUSICAL IMPROV

MARCH 25-29 & APRIL 15-19 AGES 6-18

230 W North Ave. • 312.664.3959 secondcity.com/tc

ChicagoParent.com April 2019 1

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3/14/19 9:31 AM

Get lost in wonder Experience nature’s wonders at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum.

Gasp in awe at 1,000 fluttering butterflies. Splash through a river system.

Climb into a tree house. Meet live turtles, snakes, frogs, and more.

With so much to discover, the Nature Museum is the ideal family adventure, right in the city!

Plan your visit today: naturemuseum.org

2 April 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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Š2019 Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

3/14/19 2:24 PM

FEATURING: BOWLING • GRAVITY ROPES • LASER TAG • 100+ ARCADE GAMES & MORE HOFFMAN ESTATES (847) 645-1111

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Offer to be used on or before 6/25/19.

Must mention promo code LMJA19 at time of booking.

Excludes online bookings. Birthday party must be held by June 25, 2019, in order to redeem offer. Offer not valid on holidays or with any other offer or discount. Reservations required, 10 child minimum. Certain restrictions may apply.

EVERYDAY OFFER!

$ FREE 20 IN ARCADE PLAY

WITH PURCHASE OF $20 IN ARCADE PLAY!

Valid for arcade game play only. Card is not entitled to a cash refund for unused portion, unless required by law. One coupon per person, per day. Expires June 25, 2019. All promotional FUNcard values valid for arcade game play only and cannot be used as cash or payment towards an activity, food, beverage or group event. Offers subject to change, may end at any time without notice and cannot be combined with other offers. Must bring coupon in from original advertising. Copies or duplicates or digital renditions will not be honored.

*Gravity Ropes and Laser Tag have a height requirement of 48” to play.

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3/14/19 9:30 AM

4 April 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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3/15/19 11:20 AM

contents EDITOR

Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy MANAGING EDITOR

Hillary Bird DIGITAL EDITOR

Katina Beniaris ART DIRECTOR

Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNERS

Jacquinete Baldwin, Javier Govea IT AND DIGITAL DEVELOPER

Mike Risher CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Matt Boresi, Jerry Davich, Megan Murray Elsener, Keely Flynn, Cheryl Leahy, Lori Orlinsky, Marianne Walsh, Shannan Younger DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES

10

Annette Coffee, Christine Griffith, Lourdes Nicholls, Karen Skinner ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER

Philip Soell ADVERTISING DESIGN MANAGER

Andrew Mead ADVERTISING DESIGN

Debbie Becker, Mark Moroney

APRIL 2019 | VOLUME 35 | NO. 4

CIRCULATION MANAGER

Jill Wagner

FEATURES

DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR

Wakeelah Cocroft-Aldridge

20

KEEP THEIR TOYS (and your temper) AT BAY Tidy tips all parents can tackle even on busy, messy days

23 FINDING NATALIE

Helping an old friend fill her home with family

25

CHARACTER BASH Chicago Parent’s fourth annual spring Playdate is Aug. 28 and filled with even more fun

27 SISTER TAKEOVER

Moms of 17 juggle their family business

EVENTS COORDINATOR

LIFE IN CHI

Carmen Rivera BUSINESS MANAGER

13

INSIDE VOICE

15

FAILING WITH GUSTO

16

VIVA DADDY

17

YOU

43

CALENDAR

64

CRAFT

Joyce Minich PUBLISHER

Dan Haley 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 APRIL 2019

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

| FREE

B-DAY party trends

Character

BASH

@Playdate

Tidy.ish Keep calm with clutter

ON THE COVER

circulation@chicagoparent.com

Cover kid: Jasper Schoeny,

dhaley@wjinc.com

ADVERTISING

5, of Chicago Photography: Samie Deyo of TK Photography Design: Claire Innes 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. © 2019 Wednesday Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

ChicagoParent.com April 2019 5

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3/14/19 9:30 AM

EDITOR’S NOTE

Spring cleaning

Let Us Help You Protect Your Relationship With Your Children.

Give us a call for a free consultation regarding your family law issues.

I am ashamed to admit I neglected the spring cleaning last year. I can’t remember what was going on with the kids a year ago, but I was too busy (or too lazy!) to scrub the house from top to bottom.

So this month my focus is all about getting it back to tidy-ish and maybe a little more, such as replacing the kitchen floor and repainting a few rooms.

For those of you on top of your spring cleaning, you’ll find some fun, simple ideas for embracing this year’s design TAMARA L. trends and keeping things tidy with O’SHAUGHNESSY messy kids.

Of course, all work and no play makes for really unfun parents, so we also have more than 100 ideas of things to do with the kids, including egg hunts galore. Find even more at ChicagoParent.com/egghunts.

I hope to see you at our huge Chicago Parent Spring Playdate Character Bash April 28 in Northbrook. It’s going to be super fun with all of the characters, entertainment and activities we have planned for you.

Happy April.

312/263-4730 Dissolution | Custody | Support | Paternity

Marilyn F. Longwell

111 W. Washington St. Suite 1625 Chicago, IL 60602

312-263-4730

1301 West 22nd St. Suite 603 Oak Brook, IL 60523

630-954-1480 (by appointment only)

W W W .L ONGWE L L -L AW .CO M

We’re gold again Everything we do at Chicago Parent is for you and your littles. So it is always nice to have others in our industry tell us when we get it right.

Last month, judges for the national Parenting Media Association’s Design and Editorial Awards again recognized Chicago Parent as the best of the best, awarding us the top award, gold for general excellence.

We also brought home 16 other awards, including: Gold Humor column: Failing with Gusto, Marianne Walsh Best Use of Multimedia: Masters in Parenting podcast: School anxiety, Hillary Bird, managing editor Personal essay: Lilah’s first haircut, Brittany Farb Gruber Best blog: Natalie Dal Pra Ancillary cover: Fall Going Places, Thomas Kubik, photographer

Silver Website General Excellence: Katina Beniaris, digital editor Calendar: Bird Humor column: Viva Daddy, Matt Boresi Ancillary Overall Design: Going Places, Art Director Claire Innes, Designers Jacquinete Baldwin, Javier Govea Best E-Newsletter: Weekend, Beniaris Best Use of Social Media: “Being Mind-full, Beniaris, Bird Bronze Ancillary General Excellence: Summer Going Places Profile: Adelaide’s Shot, Jerry Davich Special Section Within A Publication: Hey Baby Overall Design: Innes, Govea, Baldwin Ancillary Overall Writing: Summer Going Places Read the details at chicagoparent.com/learn/ news/pma-awards-2019

6 April 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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Spanish Immersion available!

Discover your capable, confident Montessori child.

Children learn best when they’re working with activities they love. At Guidepost, your child will enter the wonderful world of Montessori lessons and learning materials, designed to captivate and inspire.

Montessori Spanish Immersion is now available for toddlers through kindergarten-age children.

Wicker Park (773) 663-4732 1530 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL 60622

Magnificent Mile NEW CAMPUS!

West Loop NEW CAMPUS!

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Visit us online today to RSVP for an event or schedule a tour!

Grand Opening at Magnificent Mile Campus Saturday, April 6, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

GP030819

guidepostmontessori.com/chicago l Toddler • Preschool • Kindergarten

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3/14/19 9:28 AM

ON THE WEB

Spring fever at

ChicagoParent.com Easter fun

KATINA BENIARIS

Here comes Peter Cottontail!

Easter marks the time of spring outfits, bunny brunches, egg hunts and more. We’ve put together the ultimate Chicagoland Easter guide for you at ChicagoParent.com/ Easter. If you don’t celebrate the holiday, you’ll find plenty of other fun family events at ChicagoParent. com/weekend—including our Spring Playdate on April 28!

Spring cleaning Now’s the time to Marie Kondo your life. Spring cleaning season has begun and as parents, we know it’s not an easy project. We’ve gathered up a list of practical ideas to help you reach those goals. Start organizing at ChicagoParent.com/Clean.

Enter to win We’ve got plenty of prizes to give away this month including a package from Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater and movie tickets to “The Missing Link” and “UglyDolls” from Classic Cinemas. Enter our giveaways this month at ChicagoParent.com/Contests.

FREE KID’S MEAL!*

*With the purchase of an adult entrée. Not valid with any other offer, discount or promotion including Landry’s Select Club. Offer valid at Downtown Chicago, Gurnee and Woodfield Mall locations only. One coupon per table, per visit. Expires 12/31/19. Code: 342-326-900

DOWNTOWN CHICAGO 605 N. Clark St. (312) 787-1501

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GURNEE MILLS 6170 W. Grand Ave. (847) 855-7800

Listen in Have you been listening to our Masters in Parenting podcast?

Our latest episodes have covered sleep baby training, saving for college, dental health practices and mom-shaming.

Catch up at ChicagoParent. com/Podcast.

8 April 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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3/15/19 11:09 AM

SHAPING NATIONAL STANDARDS OF CARE Comer Children’s Hospital at the University of Chicago Medicine is ranked among the nation’s best children’s hospitals by U.S. News and World Report.

We are shaping national standards of care from infants to young adults.

From studying the importance of a healthy microbiome in early development to caring for kids with asthma in our community.

From research advancing cancer treatment for adolescents and young adults to focusing on a cure for celiac disease.

Personalized care for your child.

Now throughout Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana: Chicago – Elmhurst – Evergreen Park – Orland Park – Merrillville - Naperville

Experience the forefront of kids’ medicine at ComerChildrens.org

ChicagoParent.com April 2019 9

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3/14/19 9:26 AM

REAL LIFE LIFE REAL

TableTalk

H

aving a husband who is also a chef must have been a dream come true for Hillary when she was pregnant. What are some of the things you made for her?

We got really lucky in the fact she wanted pasta, and lots of it throughout her pregnancy. I’d do spicy rigatoni with tomato sauce and carbonara. She also craved chicken so I’d find myself roasting whole chickens for her during the week—I felt like Julia Child. She was also really into gelato, and I would bring her gelato by the quart on a nightly basis.

I bet you’re looking forward to the day Luka can eat solid foods. How are you going to develop his palette?

It’s funny, when my wife got pregnant all I could think about was the meals we’d have together as a family.

I want to take him to my favorite places on the South Side, and I want him to experience good food early in life. I can’t wait to take him to farmers markets and cook together.

What was it like the first time you saw your son?

It was one of those emotions I can’t begin to describe. Exciting.

Exhilarating. I had goosebumps one

You’ve probably taken Luka out to eat quite often. Do you have any tips on taking babies to a restaurant?

Plan your feeding schedule before you go so you aren’t feeding a bottle

minute, and the next minute I was jumping up and down. It was the most thrilling moment I’ve ever been a part of.

Joe Flamm Winner of Top Chef Season 15, Executive Chef at Spiaggia Restaurant Spouse: Hillary Delich Little sous-chef: Luka William, 4 months Baby must haves: Baby Brezza, DockATot and warm blankets in every room, especially after this winter Favorite places to visit as a family: It’s no surprise they are both food related—Beverly Bakery & Café and Cà Phê Dá in Pilsen. We also have a lot of bucket list restaurants for when the weather gets warmer.

Life in Chi

PHOTO BY JUAN CARLOS PELAYO

10 April 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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3/14/19 9:25 AM

The A’s Club CUSTOM PARTIES AND EVENTS FOR ALL! ü Semi-Private or Private create-your-own party (toddlers – teens) ü Provides a safe and welcoming party and clubhouse venue for all kids to be entertained. ü Host Graduation/Promotion, 1st Birthday, Baby Shower or any Celebration ü Hang-out for tournaments, Gamer’s Night or Top 30 Dance parties ü Parents Night Out/Drop-in Events

PLAN YOUR NEXT PARTY or SPECIAL EVENT! during dinner. Go to dinner in groups—all of your friends will want to hold the baby and it’ll take the pressure off you.

How has being a dad changed you?

Parenthood gives you a new level of respect not only for your parents but for all parents. You begin to look at other parents traveling with kids in the airport and feel empathy for them. It’s also surreal to just be overwhelmed with love for this little person you just met and want to give the world to.

What’s the most unexpected thing about parenthood?

The instant bond you feel with your child as a dad.

You always hear people talk about the connection between a mother and child, but it’s surreal that all of a sudden you meet them and have this intimate connection as well.

Luka is my best friend.

“It’s also surreal to just be overwhelmed with love for this little person you just met and want to give the world to.”

What’s your parenting style?

I parent like a chef. The more prepared you are, the more you are able to deal if things go wrong. I always try to stay on top of the everyday tasks like washing bottles. I’ve also learned and have seen that everyone struggles. What works for you may not work for someone else. I’m going to let myself be OK with learning along the way.

Lori Orlinsky

**SPRING PROMOTION** $75 OFF YOUR PARTY or EVENT when you book before JUNE 30th • • •

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1801 Knapp Dr. | Crest Hill IL 60403 Phone: 815.630.5447 www.theasclub.com | info@theasclub.com ChicagoParent.com April 2019 11

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orthopaedics plastic surgery cleft lip and palate rehabilitation services spinal cord injury The head shape clinic at Shriners Hospitals for Children — Chicago offers effective, non-invasive correction of misshapen or asymetrical heads.

Shriners Hospitals for Children — Chicago, offers a broad pediatric plastic surgery service for patients with congenital, developmental and acquired deformities of the face, jaw, head and ears. In addition to surgical services, specialty clinics including a head shape and EarWell™ program bring hope to parents by providing non-invasive interventions that can offer dramatic results.

The hopes of families are met in our other areas of expertise as well. For over 90 years, parents and children in need of orthopaedic care, physical rehabilitation, and spinal cord injury care have seen their hopes realized right under our roof — by physicians, nurses, and specialists using the latest technology, innovative research, and a collaborative, family-centered approach. It’s how the Shriners Hospital system has provided care for over 1.3 million children.

Before

Ear Reshaping with EarWell* Certain ear deformities are strong candidates for the EarWell program offered at the Chicago Shriners Hospital — another non-surgical approach to patient care that can deliver noticeable results within a matter of weeks.

After

*EarWell is a trademark of Becon Medical, Ltd.

Do You Know a For a consultation, or to refer a patient, call: Child We May Be Shriners Hospitals for Children — Chicago Able to Help? 773-385-KIDS (5437)

facebook.com/shrinerschicago twitter.com/shrinerschicago shrinerschicago.org

2211 N. Oak Park Ave., Chicago, IL 60707

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INSIDE VOICE

Eat, drink and be merry

KEELY FLYNN

Even if the meteorologists don’t always agree with the calendar, it’s totally a great time to Think Spring with these (mostly) sweet offerings in the Chicago arts scene. Isn’t that a delicious thought?

PHOTO BY GENE SCHIAVONE

Malott Japanese Garden Spring Festival

‘Whipped Cream’

Maybe the fanciest pants at your home have already indulged in high tea at the Drake Hotel—but have they ever taken part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony ny and one at the gorgeous Chicago Botanic Garden, at that? (The first 50 attendees aree CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN invited to take part in a tea tasting after the demonstration!)

Even if tea isn’t your, well, cup of tea, there’s so much fun to be had learning about Japan’s springtime ceremonies. Art projects abound, from designing a kimono-clad paper doll, to crafting a hanging scroll, and even creating koimobori (miniature carp kites). Koto harp and shakuhachi flute music add just the he right note as you usher in a brand new season—and against quite the lushly hly green backdrop, too!

April 27-28, Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe; chicagobotanic.org

Looking for a good entry point into the world of ballet for your sweetie? A whimsical confectioner’s comes alive with militaristic marzipan, shop that com sword-wielding sugarplums, princes and prinsword-wie with names worthy of their own dessert cesses w menus, and a world that turns into whipped men cream might just hit the spot. The American cre National Ballet Company brings the Chicago N premiere of Alexei Ratmansky’s Whipped p Cream (featuring Strauss’ rarely heard C 1924 score) to life with pop-surrealist set pieces and costumes as frothy as—you can p probably guess. Fun facts by the numbers: p In this ballet there are 20 wigs, three beards and one prosthetic nose, nine young be dancers will be covering six children’s roles dan one order for a whopping 78,000 Swarovski and on crystals w was placed for this production alone.

(Brilliant!)

April A il 11-14, 11 14 Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago; auditoriumtheatre.org

‘Fast Food Chain’

PHOTO BY JOSH DARR

Adventure Stage Chicago, a program of the Northwestern Settlement, continues its season of delving into hunger—both literal and metaphorical—with the world premiere of Fast Food Chain.

Directed by Daryl Brooks (last season’s Akeelah and the Bee), this reimagined Igbo folk tale introduces Hare and Tortoise to presentday Chicago and the food insecurity that comes with it. Rudy dreams of being a chef, but most of his schemes land him and his younger sister Akari in hot water—until they stumble upon a garden in a very unexpected spot. Chicago students helped write this one; that, combined with the magical realism of African folktales and storytelling as a community-building tool, makes this one a must-see.

April 26-May 18, Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St., Chicago; adventurestage.org ChicagoParent.com April 2019 13

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14 April 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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3/15/19 11:21 AM

FAILING WITH GUSTO

A knock at the door In surviving motherhood, I need to believe I’m right about most things.

Getting bogged down with self-doubt is far too time-consuming. Over the MARIANNE years, I have felt somewhat confident WALSH in my methodology. My kids are pretty good (so far). They are decent students (so far). They haven’t committed any felonies (yet).

My mission statement has always included steering my kids away from “the bad kid.”

Yes, I can be a haughty wench sometimes.

“Bad kids” are the ones who swear in kindergarten.

The ones who push.

The ones who can’t control themselves.

A while back, my oldest son, Dan, had an out-of-state hockey tournament. From the beginning of the season, one particular boy made it his life’s purpose to antagonize Dan. For the most part, Dan kept his cool.

I quickly assigned “bad kid” status to the boy.

As is true in all tournament weekends, the boys spent a lot of time gathering up teammates and congregating in different rooms. Dan assembled such a group and knocked on the door of “the bad kid.”

They all hung out together until the wee hours of the morning, eating, joking and re-living hockey highlights and lowlights.

I didn’t give the evening another thought until I ran into “the bad kid’s” mom.

She thanked me. Her son had certain issues that inhibited his making friends and feeling part of something.

“You don’t understand, Marianne. NOBODY has ever knocked on our door until last night.”

I choked back a sob.

This young man was not a bad kid, but I had certainly been a bad mom in trying to assign standards to him that were medically and physically beyond his control.

While it is important to my sanity to feel like I’m not messing up mothering, I appreciated this clear knock on my own door.

As I move ahead, I know I have to work harder on not labeling. I need to embrace the unique qualities of all children who cross my path. I need to be less judgey.

It won’t always be easy, but I want my family to be the type of people who will knock on someone’s door.

It can truly mean the world to the person waiting inside.

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3/14/19 9:54 AM

VIVA DADDY

Home is where the chores are

www.ourjoyinfantcare.com

Your best choice for Night Nurse, Night Nannies, and Nannies

FOR SINGLES AND MULTIPLES Our Joy Infant Care has over the years become the recommended and trusted source for finding quality baby nurse and nannies as a reliable referral agency.

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Nurturing the Potential Within Each Child Develop your child’s potential • Ages 15 months through Elementary • Beautiful, bright new building • Regular informational tours • Now enrolling Accredited through age 12 by the by Association Montessori Internationale (AMI)

Gateway Montessori 4041 N. Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60641 www.GatewayMontessoriSchool.org 773.539.3025 • info@gatewaymontessorischool.org

I’m told that youngsters can help out around the house. I’ve never seen it happen, but I’m told it’s a thing.

MATT BORESI Perhaps I wasn’t required to help out enough when I was growing up. Perhaps it’s easier to just do things myself. Perhaps I’m actively cultivating a monster, but I don’t ask much of my daughter, Viva.

According to most experts, there’s plenty a child can do. Even 2- to 3-year-olds can allegedly pick up their toys and wipe up spills, though I was happy enough during those years if toys weren’t thrown at my head and smoothies weren’t poured directly on the couch. By ILLUSTRATION BY STEPHEN SCHUDLICH 7, a child can allegedly sweep, make a bed and pick out their own outfits. Left to do those things herself, Viva will turn the sweeping into a Quidditch match, the bed into a fort and the outfits would be ball gowns every day at school.

With both my wife and I working in the arts, chores around our house can be different than in other families.

“Sweep up the sequins” is pretty common, as is, “File the libretti by draft date,” and of course there is always, “Validate us with applause.” I guess our daughter is pretty good at all of these. I named her “Viva Boresi” for a reason.

When I do ask for more challenging chores to be done, Viva runs a pretty effective scam. She asks, “Can’t you help me, Daddy?” while batting her big brown eyes (and knowing I’m pretty obtuse). By the time I realize she’s been watching She-Ra instead of helping, I’ve already cleaned up all the toys and hung up all the costumes.

I suppose it’s time I up my expectations for work around the house. It comes with a price, though. Little hands setting the table means searching for matching Fiestaware to replace what’s been dropped. Little arms mopping means a flooded room, and little minds organizing clothes means… well, at 7 she can probably organize a drawer better than I can, so there’s that.

I’ll see what I can do to ask for more help around the house, but, really, can’t all these chores just wait until she goes to college? We’ve got playing to do.

Viva Housework. Viva Viva. Viva Daddy.

Viva is 7 years old. Daddy is about 6x that age. They live happily with Mommy in Chicago.

16 April 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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3/14/19 3:41 PM

YOU

Beauty at home

A

CHERYL LEAHY

lthough I love heading to the spa or for a blowout as much as the next gal, time and funds don’t permit this to happen more than a few times per year. Fortunately, at-home tools and products have come a long way, baby—you can get fairly professional results without leaving your boudoir.

Here are a few of my tried and tested favorites from years of research, all available for a fraction of the cost of hitting up the spa or salon.

Blowout

I can count on one hand the times I have had a professional blowout. I love it for a special occasion, but I can’t fathom regularly paying $50+ for something that washes out the next day.

My friend Elise of the blog Belle Meets World Don’t confuse this procedure introduced me to the Revlon One-Step Volumizer with shaving! Dermaplaning Hair Dryer. At just under $60, I was skeptical is a skincare treatment that that this blow dryer/round brush combo could removes vellus hair (aka peach deliver a sleek, professional-looking blowout, fuzz) while Spring is a time that I focus on but I was an instant convert after one use. clearing my skin. A professional pore-clearing Bonus: it works so well on my 5-yeardead skin facial costs at least $60. I received a old’s hair, who never lets me use a cells from GlamGlow product in one of my makeup real blow dryer but doesn’t the surface of subscription boxes and was shocked mind this tool. your skin. I have that I could actually FEEL it working. The had two professional SUPERMUD Clearing Treatment is the perfect dermaplane sessions and my spring cleaning product for your skin NEVER looked better. I was face, it also smooths texture introduced to DERMAFLASH, an and brightens in addition at-home dermaplaning system. It to sucking gunk from your takes less than 10 minutes, and pores. The L’Oreal Detox I am always shocked at how smooth and glowing & Brighten Clay Mask my skin is after using it. Added bonuses: Skincare comes in a close second at products are absorbed easier and makeup glides on a fraction of the price. like silk.

Dermaplaning

Facial

Manicure Heading to the nail salon is a treat for me; I usually get a professional mani/pedi a few times a year prior to beachy vacations or before swimsuit season. The rest of the time? I am popping on polish at home after the kids have gone to school. The issue?

My manicures generally last two days max before chipping. I found Sally Hansen Miracle Gel

on sale at the drugstore and gave it a try. In my experience, this is the longest-lasting nail polish at the best price point with a good selection of colors. Helpful hints: Let polish dry completely between coats, apply three coats of color, then apply gel top coat and let dry thoroughly in a sunny location.

This is the perfect time to grab your cup of coffee in the morning spring light and take a little time to yourself!

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Spring Sports Thrills • Character Visits • Bounce Houses Train RidesObstacle Courses • Entertainment Stage all ages welcome!

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18 April 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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3/15/19 11:56 AM

SPONSORED

Be the future See it. Touch it. Make it.

M

ake your spring break far from ordinary with a trip (or two) to the Museum of Science and Industry for a sneak peek of the creative mashup of technology and fashion that will unleash the maker in you.

From an awesome glitter cannon prosthetic to an amazing jet suit, Wired to Wear, the first-ever exhibition dedicated to the future of wearable technology, shows off the possibilities of clothing that will make us healthier, stronger and smarter in the not-too-distant future.

Then, in true MSI spirit, channel all of that inspiration, roll up your sleeves and enter Chicago’s newest hands-on maker experience, Makers United, to build your own piece of wearable technology.

“It’s taking all the best of technology and making it close up and personal,” says Kathleen McCarthy, director of collections and one of the leaders on the Wired to Wear project.

1

Get inspired. See the endless possibilities of 3D printing just like child maker Jordan Reeves, who was born without the lower part of her left arm. Determined to change attitudes about physical differences, she created the most amazing prosthetic, a glitter cannon made from a 3D printer.

2

Really feel that spidey pidey sense.

Using technology created by Chicagoan Victor Matseevitsi, try on a SpiderSense vest that helps people with low vision navigate their surroundings.

3

Look to the skies.

We’ve all been imagining personal jet suits forever, so how long will it be before we all get one? Gravity Industries’ Jet Suit moves us so much closer, showing how easy it is to fly.

4

Create something. Yes, you CAN be a maker!

At Makers United, facilitators will teach kids, moms, dads and grandparents about circuit building, then everyone gets to build their own wearable LED band.

“We want people to get home and keep iterating on what they built so they can understand their own potential to impact the future of wearable technology,” says Manny Juarez, MSI’s director of science and integrated strategies.

The fun starts now! u Wired to Wear, sponsored

by BMO Harris Bank, and Makers United, sponsored

by Arcelor Mittal, requires a timed-entry ticket u $9 kids 3-11, $12 adults, not included in museum entry admission u msichicago.org

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Tidy tips all parents can tackle even on busy, messy days Our cover boy, Jasper Schoeny, 5, of Chicago, loves making messes.

Keep their toys (and

your temper)

at bay

20 April 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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BY KEELY FLYNN

I

PHOTOS BY SAMIE DEYO

t’s the eternal struggle of parenting little ones: You want them to play (and play independently at that), but the constant battle over misplaced and disorganized toys can make even the most zen parent lose their shanti.

Here are a few tips to keep kiddo clutter at bay while riding the occasionally rough waves of parenthood.

Less is more

Truth time, now. How do you feel when your shoes and coats and paperwork cover every available surface? Overwhelmed, right? Less really can be more when it comes to creating stress-free zones for our kids.

Empty out the playroom into gigantic piles and let them help cull broken and unused things, giving guidelines like “We have 15 big trucks, let’s find two to share.”

(Does this process take 80 times longer than doing it yourself during school or nap time? Probably. But does it instill good habits that will hopefully last into their own adulthoods? Absolutely.)

Encourage them to choose a charity or organization close to your family’s heart to donate to, and talk about how some things your kid simply likes can turn into something another kid will love (and maybe even need). And don’t discount the Big Kid ego boost of hand-delivering outgrown items to a neighborhood little one.

Philanthropy can start young!

Color-code as much as possible It may sound high-maintenance, but sorting play zones and heavily used items by color can actually save time and make a ton of sense for a visual learner. It can be as simple as “dolls in the red bin” and “trucks in the green”—as long as that’s a system you and your kiddo decide together—or it can involve shelving books by color for not only a pretty pop but also a cut-and-dried way to return books to their homes. (“You find the yellow books and I’ll stand up the purples!”)

Older kids at home? Color

blocking books and knick knacks is a great way to define a space—and is highly Instagrammable, too.

Kick out the monsters from under their beds Don’t be afraid to check out what’s going on under the bed! Yes, this spot can become a dark abyss when left without hard n’ fast rules, but this terrific real estate is prime for those long rolling bins that usually hold guest room bedding, off-season sweaters and the like. Have a crazy collection of doll clothes? Tracks and building sets and tall marble runs and floor-sized puzzles? You know what to do.

Beanbags for toy storage “Out of sight, out of mind” has never been cozier. Tons of stores sell sweet beanbag seats that double as overflow soft storage, but beanbags already residing at your home can step up to this challenge as well!

Beanbag have a zippered insert?

Fantastic. Pull it out and load the beanbag shell up with toys. (Tread a little more carefully if your beanbag is filled with polystyrene “beans.” Be ready with the

trash bags for this one!)

This storage hack is great if seating is an issue on playdates, and the refilling of the bags with soft friends is an absolutely perfect chore for the youngest members of the family to understand.

DIY toy canopy Small, triangular canopies are powerhouses for keeping the floor clear—and the lovey they want in reach. Sure, many companies sell toy hammocks and readyto-hang netting, but a superbly cute (and satisfying) option is to make your own!

Fold or stitch fabric of your choice into a wide triangle.

Not handy with a needle? You’re among friends here. Simply knot the ends of each point and hammer those into the corner of the room; high enough that you can easily vacuum underneath, and low enough that they can easily grab (and ideally put away) the stuffies of their choice. Pro tip: However high you nail the outer corners of the triangle, make sure to secure the back (i.e. the corner) of the canopy about two inches lower. You want gravity to be your friend for this pal pocket!

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

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TIDY TOYS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

Think outside the toy bin If you’re looking to create welldefined spaces for your kids’ collections but can’t bear any more licensed character faces plastered on polyester, go treasure-hunting around the house.

Magnetic knife strips are practically begging to hold a racetrack’s worth of tiny metal cars, and heavy-duty milk crates can be stacked or secured to the wall for virtually indestructible shelving.

Got a bevy of unused mason jars from a planned Pinterest project? (No judgment, here.)

Those look exceptional grouped together when they store vibrant collections of marbles, beads, colored pencils…or whatever it is your preschooler just emptied from his pockets and wants to keep forever.

“Up and down” bins I hear you: Sometimes you really just can’t bring even one more thing back to its rightful home at that moment. For those times, my family has adopted what we call “up and

u To check out more Tidyish tips, head to tidyish.com and follow along on Instagram at @tidyishkeely. down” bins.

A cute box or basket is placed by the side door, tucked next to the landing step, and anywhere else that receives higher-than-normal traffic.

Yep, these are our clutter drop zones. Perfect for when you’re running late or running on empty, it’s an forgivable cheat to toss an item that needs to eventually live in another room or floor. The only catch?

When it’s full, items have to be delivered around the house as soon as possible. (My firstgrader takes immense pride when she’s a delivery person, but maybe the perk of whatever change is in my pocket sweetens the deal a little.)

Happy sorting—and an even happier play time!

Keely Flynn is a Chicago Parent writer and blogger who created a company to help real parents keep their homes tidy and organized.

22 April 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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ESSAY

Nancy, Natalie, Grant and Paul Garver Provided photo/Lifetime Treasures Photography

Finding Natalie

Helping an old friend fill her home with family

BY EILEEN HOENIGMAN MEYER

“M

illennials hate us. I need you.”

I grew up with Nancy.

Our relationship has long been free of standard pleasantries and conventions.

It didn’t surprise me to be ushered into a conversation with her via this plea. Her urgency concerned me, though.

She and Paul had been trying to adopt their second child. Their process had dragged into an exhausting third year. When she and I had last discussed it, Nancy explained that they were taking a break. I didn’t totally believe that this was her plan.

Nancy is a profoundly driven person. I was pretty sure it was a fake out—like turning your head and pretending not to watch the pot so the water boils faster.

“Listen, I can’t look at this profile anymore. I need you to overhaul it. Make us pop.

I need these birth parents to see us. It’s excruciating. The

agency makes us keep that damn room ready. It’s like haunted. Actually, it’s unhaunted. There’s nothing in there. It’s the loudest nothing ever, and it’s killing me.”

“I know, Nancy. I’m in.”

I didn’t want to be “in.” I was filled with apprehension about this project. It’s not the kind of writing I do. I’d never written or even read an adoption profile. How could I possibly guarantee results?

And it mattered so much. I’m a pro when it comes to handling rejection—it’s a huge part of my job as a freelance writer.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

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NATALIE

UNdErstaNd thE world.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

But I couldn’t stand to think about treading in this delicate space without scoring a victory for Nancy and Paul.

I started my research, sifting through various profiles on the adoption agency’s website. It was unbelievable, seeing page after page of wonderful families eager to adopt children.

I was humbled by the good people, the worthy families, with un-haunted rooms of their own.

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“One of the most amazing things about her is how she connects with her brother.

They light each other up.” that those rooms would get the children they ached to cradle.

As the manager of the project, it made me nervous. How do we make ourselves heard with so many beautiful voices singing around us?

I poured over the profile we were rebuilding. The pictures delighted and devastated me: Nancy, Paul and Grant, smiling in matching Halloween costumes; Nancy’s parents helping Grant open birthday gifts; Nancy’s brother, sister and grandparents all laughing on Nancy’s porch.

These characters populated my childhood. Now I was trying to market their goodness.

I realized that this is how we had to communicate—from our shared place of hurting.

“Nancy, the birth parents are just like us. We are all in this unexpected place—sad and searching. We’re not trying to

impress birth parents. We want them to see that we’re like them. We understand them.

We’re all in different parts of the same boat—wondering how we got here and trying to make the best of this unexpected situation we find ourselves in.”

Getting our approach down was step one. There were a lot of required elements.

Incorporating those was the easy part.

Sometimes I felt like Nancy and I were back in junior high hanging out in her bedroom, doing a school project or making posters for an event.

Our collaboration was familiar but refined. I was fascinated by the executive and the academic Nancy has become—her professional side is one I glimpse, but I was so impressed to have the chance to really see.

Our final product was honest, genuine, tangible. It’s the only adoption profile I will ever write. The process is too emotional, taxing and high stakes.

Once Nancy submitted the revision, she immediately got two inquiries. They didn’t go anywhere, but I was relieved that our work was at least turning heads. Then the attention dried up. Nothing for months. I worried and hoped.

Then Nancy and Paul learned that a couple wanted to meet them, and things progressed quickly. Several weeks ago, I met Miss Natalie—the perfect addition to their family. Natalie is calm and gentle. She smiles all the time. One of the most amazing things about her is how she connects with her brother. They light each other up. When you look at these kids you can clearly see that they are siblings.

Adoption has its own magic.

It works at its own pace. It has its own pain, and a spectacular, hard-earned beauty. I’m in awe of the process in which I was invited to share. I learned so much about the families we make and the families that make us.

24 April 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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It’s a BIG Character Bash!

Come play at Chicago Parent’s Spring Playdate

S

ing, dance and play with fave princesses, superheroes, mascots and characters April 28 at our annual Spring Playdate.

The best of the best from Royal Princess Parties can’t wait to party, including Snow Queen, Ice Princess, American Hero, American Wonder, Galaxy Scavenger, Galaxy Master, Way Finder and Sultana.

Plus, add in Baby Shark, Peppa Pig and Mickey Mouse himself from Happy Kids Chicago (11 a.m.-1 p.m.) and we’ve got one big party.

We encourage everyone to dress up as their favorite characters and look their best for plenty of photo ops. (Not required, of course.)

Wake up with a dance party!

New this year is the VIK (Very Important Kids) Hour our from 9-10 a.m. You’ll u’ll be able to hang out with a few princesses and a superhero in this pre-party event limited to 100 kids. Not to mention, we’ll have special hands-on activities, games and face painting available (think shorter lines). $15 in advance only, includes Playdate admission

Our favorite playtime guru, The Playground Games, will fill the green turf of Athletico Center with a trackless train, monster truck bounce, giant obstacle course, Connect 4 basketball game and kick darts.

On stage, you won’t want to miss the super cool reptiles from Dave DiNaso’s Traveling World of Reptiles, bendy fun

E Entertainment schedule s 10-10:30 a.m. Buddah Belly Yoga B 11 a.m. Dave DiNaso’s Traveling World of Reptiles Tra 1 p.m. p The Happiness Club 1:30 p.m. Chicago Balloon Twister 1-2 p.m. Mane in Heaven, miniature therapy horses 2 p.m. Mary Macaroni TBA CircEsteem *Schedule is subject to change

with CircEsteem and Budda Belly Yoga, the contagious high-energy dance fun of The Happiness Club and sing-alongs with Mary Macaroni. The minature therapy horses from Mane in Heaven even stop by for a visit.

Plus, we’ll have tons of hands-on activities for kids and info for parents from our trusted advertisers.

Chicago Parent Spring Playdate u 10 a.m.-3 p.m. u VIK Hour 9-10 a.m. ($15 per child includes regular admission) u Athletico Center, 1900 Old Willow Road, Northbrook u $2.50 kids under 2, $4 kids 2-3, $8 kids 4-14, free adults.

Prices increase April 27. u RSVP to our Facebook event to get the latest updates u chicagoparent.com/playdate

ChicagoParent.com April 2019 25

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Photos courtesy of JHFusion Photography

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26 April 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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Sister takeover Moms of 17 juggle the family business

BY JERRY DAVICH

M

eghan Smithe was on maternity leave when she began working part time in the family business, long known for its infectious jingle: “You dream it, we build it.”

Still, she never dreamed of working full time for Walter E. Smithe Furniture, even while growing up in Barrington with her three sisters, Maureen, Caitie and Colleen. In fact, none of the sisters seriously considered having a career in the company, founded by their greatgrandfather in 1945.

“We simply never had that conversation,” Meghan says. “We had no grand plan.”

As teens, the four sisters worked only

part time in their father’s showroom or outlet store, selling furniture and earning their first paychecks along with other eager, cash-strapped teens.

“At that age, it was very exciting to come home and brag that we sold maybe hundreds or thousands of dollars in furniture,” Meghan recalls. “Our dad always put an emphasis on hard work, and it stuck with us.”

The sisters left for college with a few prized furnishings and a work ethic that became a permanent fixture in their lives.

Along the way, they got married, had children (17 in all!) and became working moms in different industries.

And then fate gently tapped them on their shoulder.

One by one, each sister began working in the family business.

“It was an organic transition for each of us,” says Colleen, the youngest sister.

The transition took place over the span of 12 years as key positions became available in the company, starting with Maureen who became a merchandise buyer. It took the mother of six children a

few years to figure out how to juggle her demanding career and busy home life. “I gave up sleep and TV,” Maureen jokes.

The Itasca-based company has 10 locations across Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, where the sisters ply their fourth-generation talents. Meghan is director of marketing, Caitie is a designer and stylist and Colleen is director of advertising.

“Our learning curve has been steep and long, with a lot of challenges,” says Colleen, flanked by her sisters at the family’s Lincoln Park location, a 10,000-square-foot boutique store.

For decades, the public faces of the privately owned company have been the sisters’ father, Walter E. Smithe III—the 59-year-old grandson of the business’s namesake—and the sisters’ uncles, Mark and Tim. The Smithe brothers used goodnatured humor on countless TV commercials selling furniture. The Smithe sisters now serve as the face of the firm, CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

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SISTER TAKEOVER

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27

Spring refresh ideas

1

Embrace color. Whether bringing in color as an accent or making a big statement with a lot of color, your home will feel instantly transformed and personalized. I always suggest going with whatever color or colors are most pleasing to you, but some big color trends this spring are oranges, pinks, sage green and pastel blue.

2 “Like most mothers, whether they’re working or staying at home, we do what we can.” offering a female perspective that better reflects the company, the industry and the country today.

“When I first came on board, our industry was very much a good old boys club,” says Maureen, who regularly travels to marketplaces around the country to buy merchandise. “It’s no longer that way.”

The sisters get together at least twice a week, traveling from their homes in Chicago, Barrington and Riverside, leaving behind their children, husbands and home duties.

“We’re not trying to portray an image that working mothers can pull off everything without something falling through,” Maureen says candidly.

“It’s unjust to think that women can somehow balance it all,” Colleen adds.

“There is no true balance for moms in our situation.”

“We can’t be everything all at once,” Meghan says. “It takes work and sacrifice.”

For example, Meghan had to miss her son’s Valentine’s Day party at school this year, due to work responsibilities. To make up for it, she woke up early to make heartshaped pancakes.

“Like most mothers, whether they’re working or staying at home, we do what we can,” she says.

The sisters can measure the span of their careers by their children’s ages and development, so they clearly understand what it’s like to worry about furniture at the mercy of young, messy children.

“Personally, I don’t want to stare at ugly furniture for all those years,” Meghan says.

As their father, the company president, has told customers for decades, “Life is too short to sit on uncomfortable furniture.”

The sisters laughed at hearing this family adage, knowing that home furnishing has been woven into the tapestry of their lives.

As mothers, they’ve learned it’s not only possible, but preferable, to have a functional yet beautiful home.

“If you find the right furniture, it will last even through your kids,” Colleen says.

For instance, finding that perfect piece of decorative furniture that creatively doubles as a toy box for kids’ games, toys and video devices. Or using a new high-tech application to keep couch fabric truly “worry free” from children’s spills, everything from spaghetti sauce to Kool-Aid. “As mothers, all of us have cleaned up a child’s spill, or even their vomit, from our furniture,” Colleen jokes.

“We understand that customers see a certain look on, say, Instagram and they want it replicated in their own home,” Colleen says. “We not only respect this, we embrace it.”

Texture, texture, texture! Bringing new and various textures into a room can take it from plain and lacking in interest to exciting and memorable. Some ways to do this include mixing fabrics and leathers such as pairing linens with velvets, shag rugs, fur throws, organic elements such as rattan and bamboo… even the reflectiveness of chrome can add texture to a room!

3

Mix away! Don’t burden yourself with the boredom of a matching wood set. Mix together different, but complimentary, elements such as woods, metals and stones…and feel free to mix various metals together. There is no rule book that says they all need to match—metals always compliment one another.

4

Go for the unexpected. I love incorporating an unexpected element into a room. There are so many cool and unique materials being used to manufacture furniture these days—such as capiz shells, bone inlay, faux shagreen, concrete, rope and slate.

5

Give your outdoor space some love, too! While it may not be usable 365 days a year, the days that your outdoor space are in fact usable should be embraced. Our lives can be overrun with technology, commitments and schedules. Give yourself time to just be in a comfortable and beautiful outdoor space. There is nothing like a day spent soaking up the sun and a good book or an evening with friends and good food and drinks under the stars.

Caitie Smithe Designer, Design Coordinator + Stylist Walter E. Smithe Furniture + Design

Jerry Davich is a Chicago-area writer and dad.

28 April 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section //

Celebrations

The biggest birthday trends of the year Celebrate good times, come on!

BY LORI ORLINSKY

N

o matter how many times we vow that this year we will throw a low-key, more-affordable birthday party for our little one, it’s way too easy to get sucked in that black hole of Pinterest. Take it from the mom who spent countless hours bringing the “Bubble Guppies” theme to life with homemade clam shell cookies served in actual fishbowls, on a bed of coral reef rock candy.

Because we know you’ll probably give in, too, here’s a glimpse of what’s trending in birthday parties this year. Whether you’re throwing a first birthday party or one for an older kiddo, these are all fairly attainable ideas that’ll make their celebrations even more memorable.

ie k o k S Park t ic r t Dis

Your Birth

BALLOON BACKDROPS No matter what type of event you are planning, nothing says “party” like mounds of balloons in different colors and shapes. But now, rather than simply serving as background décor at parties, balloons are taking center stage by adding a more upscale aesthetic to parties. Primarily used as photo booth backdrops, we’re seeing a new trend blowing up with balloon arches, garlands, DIY balloon numbers and Mylar letter balloons.

DOUGHNUT THEME Cupcakes, move over. Doughnuts are the latest frosted pastry in the spotlight. Parents are putting a hole (pun intended) lot of thought into the “Donut grow up” theme, complete with doughnut walls, lavish spreads CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

day P arty H eadquarters...

Skating Parties

at The Skatium Ice Arena

Dance, Magic, Circus & Yoga Parties at Devonshire Cultural Center

Nature Games & Activities at Emily Oaks Nature Center

Exploritorium Parties at The Exploritorium

Adventure Golf

Kids Gym Parties

at Weber Leisure Center

Swimming Parties

at Skokie Water Playground For details on all of our birthday party offerings, visit SkokieParks.org or call (847) 674-1500

at Skokie Sports Park

ChicagoParent.com April 2019 29

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Celebrations // special advertising section

TRENDS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

of breakfast foods, doughnut games (Twister, Pin the sprinkles on the doughnut, doughnut decorating contests) and – you guessed it – giant doughnut cakes.

ENCHANTED FOREST PARTIES Blame it on Blue Ivy for starting the trend of enchanted forest parties when mom Beyonce and dad Jay-Z left no stone unturned in their reported $200K bash, where each child received a makeover and personal archery lessons.

Modern day parents are having fun with the idea without break-

ing the bank by hosting whimsical backyard parties with fun woodsy décor. Popular activities for this theme include paint your own fairy house, make-your-own felt flower wreath and brown rabbit sack races.

FIVER PARTIES Have you ever come home from your child’s birthday party, overwhelmed with the endless pile of gifts and wondered where to store them and if they’d ever get played with? You aren’t alone. The new Fiver party concept is solving those woes by asking guests to bring $5 for the birthday child instead of a gift.

The pooled money quickly adds up and is used toward one big gift on

the birthday child’s wishlist.

MESSAGES WITH NEON SIGNS Gone are the days of writing birthday sentiments in chalkboards and felt boards.

Now, simplicity is shining in popularity with neon signs that add a pop of color and personality to every party.

Whether it’s the birthday child’s name, age or favorite emoji, more and more parents are using these signs as photo backdrops.

NUMBER SHAPED CAKES Parents, rejoice! If you are tired of keeping up with the Joneses when it comes to birthday cakes, purchasing or making a custom number shaped cake for your little one is as easy as it gets!

SCAVENGER HUNT BIRTHDAY PARTIES Adults-only scavenger hunts have been a thing for some

time now, and more kids are requesting this theme for their big day. While it seems to be a lot of planning for the host parents, the theme is a pretty proven way to tire out the kids.

TOY-SHARING SUBSCRIPTIONS AS GIFTS When my kids get a new toy, it becomes the shining star for a few days, and then it goes in the back of the closet to die and never be played with again. The toy sharing subscription model lets families eliminate the clutter by borrowing toys and then returning them. While only a handful of companies cater to this need, Toy Library is the most popular.

Trying out any of these ideas? Share them to our Facebook and Instagram @ChicagoParent #sharechicagoparent!

DECORATION FOR ANY OCCASION Ellis Illusions works to craft unique and flawlessly executed events for all of Chicagoland.

With a focus on creativity, flexibility, and attention to detail, we help our clients plan events that consistently exceed expectations.

Pick a theme and leave the detail to us.

BALLOON DESIGN PROM TREAT TABLES ALL OCCASIONS 30 April 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section //

Best places to party

W

Celebrations

They do all the work, kids and parents get all the fun

hen it comes to fining a place to hold your next birthday party, the options in Chicago and the suburbs can be a bit overwhelming.

Here are a few great choices that make parties super easy and extra fun: FUNTOPIA Why kids love parties at Funtopia: Why wouldn’t they: to climb on dino bones, to crawl in a cave, to go through Ropes course challenges and much more. When you are the birthday kid and hear your friends saying: This is the best party we have been invited to, it doesn’t just make you smile, it makes you proud.

Why parents love parties at Funtopia: Parents always like when their kids are having

fun but even more when they are doing something good for themselves. Funtopia’s attractions are specifically designed to be healthy for the body and the mind. All of this plus the seamless experience make our parties a favorite.

CODE NINJAS Why kids love parties at Code Ninjas: They get to explore fun technology with friends, from coding & building video games to playing with Virtual Reality, Robots and Drones! It’s the ultimate STEM celebration!

Why parents love parties at Code Ninjas: Because we do all the work! Our Senseis lead a game-building session and guide the kids in fun tech stations. Code Ninjas parties are different from the usual destinations. Kids love to explore

our interactive technology Dojo and challenge their friends to robot battles, 3D Modeling activities, and drone wars, all while learning about coding and robotics!

LIL KICKERS Why kids love parties at Lil Kickers: Step onto the field during any Lil’ Kickers party and you will find it transformed into a world created just for your child. Party guests enjoy 45 minutes of creative, action-packed games and 15 minutes in our inflatable bounce house!

Why parents love parties at Lil Kickers: Party planning without the hassle. You set the date, let us take care of the rest.

From booking to clean up, our experienced birthday party coordinators, hosts and coaches help you create a party your child won’t forget! Every party pack-

age includes a personal party host and coach to ensure a fun and organized party.

THE A’S CLUB Why kids love parties at The A’s Club: Our interactive Fun Coordinators and our focus on group play. A single party/ event could include network play of the latest video games on state-of-the art equipment, followed by an obstacle course run, games, dancing, sing it out with a friend on the karaoke machine and a slime or Play-Doh session.

Why parents love parties at The A’s Club: It’s safe, clean, and most importantly focused on extraordinary customer service. When we host parties, the parents do not have to lift a single finger once they are in the facility.

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Celebrations // special advertising section

5 great reasons to throw a book-based birthday party

BY SHANNAN YOUNGER

S

earching for a theme for your child’s birthday bash that will make you both smile and create memories you’ll cherish far into the future?

Check out their bookshelf for ideas! Book-based birthday parties are a great way to celebrate.

THEY’RE FUN AND ADORABLE! Lauren Glaser, elementary school teacher and mom of two in Arlington Heights, is also a fan. She has used books as themes for her children’s first birthday parties - Where the Wild Things Are for her son and Alice in Wonderland for her daughter.

“I think book-based parties

are always the cutest. They are timeless, and so easy to theme with decorations, food, invitations, clothing,” says Glaser.

ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES OF THEMES “From magical to spooky to humorous, books provide an array of party tones,” says Amanda Blau, children’s services librarian at the Naperville Public Library and mom of two.

While the Harry Potter series is the book-themed birthday theme she’s seen used most often, Blau’s also heard of parties themed on wide variety of books, from A Wrinkle in Time to Goosebumps to Captain Underpants.

“We feel that books open the door to imagination,

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROYAL PRINCESS PARTIES

so it’s no surprise that our most popular characters are derived from storybooks,” says Melissa Duncan, co-founder of Royal Princess Parties that has performers who appear in parties all over the Chicago

area.

She suggests following your child’s lead in picking a favorite character and seeing what ideas they have for incorporating the book into their celebration. You may be surprised

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special advertising section // Duncan suggests giving guests the opportunity to become authors by having them create a new book. Give kids blank books (available at craft stores) and have them write and illustrate a new story with crayons and stickers.

Need help or ideas for other activities? Head to the local library and ask the children’s librarian for suggestions.

to learn what they love most about a title.

BUILT-IN PARTY ACTIVITIES A book-based party certainly lends itself to story time, an easy activity that kids enjoy.

One way to make it special is to have a character read the book.

“Storytelling is one of the first activities we host during birthday celebrations,” Duncan says. “Children of all ages connect to the characters in the story.

Some recite the tales word for word, others wait with anticipation to hear what happens next.”

In addition to story time, activities from the book may be easily adaptable for the party, whether that’s having the kids all draw on a long

EASY FAVORS, CAKE AND DECORATIONS Book-based parties make picking a favor PHOTO COURTESY OF ROYAL PRINCESS PARTIES easy. All the moms lauded giving books; Glaser piece of butcher paper like says books are useful Ramona Quimby did with her and don’t add to the clutter. dad in Ramona Quimby, Age Duncan notes that books are 8 or conducting simple scibig hits and that having the ence experiments as part of a birthday child label them for Franny K. Stein, Mad Scientist their guests can be a fun. You party. can also add items for the

Celebrations

children to wear when reading the book, such as a hat to go with a Curious George, The Cat in the Hat or Madeline or crowns to go with royal titles.

A cake featuring the main character of the book is always a good idea, and you don’t have to look far for decoration inspiration. Stick with the colors on the cover of the book and be sure to use books themselves.

READING IS FUNDAMENTAL While the focus should be on the fun, there’s the added benefit of promoting reading among little ones.

“Book-based birthday parties are an exciting way for children to be introduced to new characters or a new series they may not have heard of before, or they can revive a love of reading through the excitement of a friend’s party,” says Glaser.

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Celebrations // special advertising section

6 tips for the best goodie bags

Safari Land

How to make them something kids (and parents) will like

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oodie bags, the fun finale to a kids’ birthday party, are good by definition, but some are better than others. A great goodie bag can guarantee you end a birthday party on a high note and guests leave with full hearts.

Here are some tips for assembling ones that will delight both parents and young party goers.

ent. Find one that matches the party theme. If you want to involve the birthday child, have them create bookmarks for each guest.

Muszynski got rave reviews for giving water bottles attached to carabineers at her daughter’s climbing party.

Kids are still using them and remembering the fun day months later.

RETHINK PACKAGING Although they are called FOCUS ON QUALITY “goodie bags,” nowhere is it OVER QUANTITY written that you have to use If you just finished Kondoan actual bag. In fact, Lindsey ing your whole house, or even Mensch, owner of Lili Marie if you didn’t, “poorly made Parties, says she avoids puttchotchkes that a parent will ting gifts and favors “in a throw away paper party bag that is in a week do going to get not spark joy,” thrown away.” says Kerry Instead, Hessenberger“when possiHanson, mom ble we like to of two from have the packOak Park. aging be part Mary of the gift,” Muszynski, she says. mom of four For in Naperville, example, at a emphatically circus-themed agrees and party, she says parents put items in shouldn’t a plastic popwaste money corn containon bouncy PHOTO COURTESY OF LILI MARIE PARTIES er. That would balls and tiny also work at toys that kids a movie-themed event. Other will play with for five minutes examples include using a sand and then ignore. pail for a beach bash or luau Instead, opt for a fewer and a small flower pot for a items that are of higher qualgarden party. ity and staying power. You can GIVE ITEMS THAT DO do that without spending a fortune. Hessenberger-Hanson DOUBLE DUTY says that paperback books can “We create a lot of goodie bags and the ones that are be inexpensive for the giver really popular are goodies and valuable to the recipi-

34 April 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section // that kids get to use during the party and take home with them,” says Mensch.

The inflatable guitars, bandanas, light up sunglasses and other rock star gear that kids got to wear and use during a rock star birthday party also went into the “swag bag” each child took home.

(Unconfirmed reports of parents playing with the inflatable guitars after bedtime indicate they were a hit with all ages.)

At a science-themed party she threw, kids were excited about water bottles shaped like beakers that they used as cups at the bash and then got to take home.

PEOPLE LOVE PERSONALIZATION Kids adore their name, so Chicago mom of three Rebecca E. Eden suggests personalizing goodie bag items if possible.

When she threw a superherothemed party for her triplets,

each attendee went home with their own personalized cape. Not crafty? Fear not.

Eden found the capes on Etsy.

Another option, depending on the item, is having the kids do the personalization themselves as a party activity.

CONSUMABLES MAKE CONSUMMATE GOODIE BAG ITEMS A few moms mentioned that soap was a goodie bag items that earns rave reviews. Julia Passamani, a Chicago mom of two, says that a favorite goodie bag item her children recently received were clear glycerin soaps with toy dinosaurs or butterflies inside from Ravens Goods. Fun hand hygiene really is the gift that keeps on giving.

Edible items like cookies decorated to match the party theme or popcorn can be a fun way to keep tummies and hearts full while not adding to the pile of items to be put

Celebrations

away. One consideration if going this route is to be aware of allergies.

SAY THANK YOU Muzynski says that a goodie bag one of her kids recently received included a card from the birthday boy that said thank you for coming and for being a good friend. It was a nice reminder that the sentiment behind goodie bags and favors is what matters most.

“I like goodie bags to say thank you,” explains Mensch, who says a simple tag saying thank you attached to a

PHOTO COURTESY OF LILI MARIE PARTIES

bag can convey the important sentiment. After all, she says, “The best part about any party is the people attending so it’s nice to let them know how much you appreciate them taking time to celebrate this special day.”

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Celebrations // special advertising section CircEsteem Uptown Chicago

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and STEM celebration! Explore technology with your friends including programming games, robots, VR, circuits, 3D printing drones and more!

Emerald City Theatre 2933 N. Southport Ave. Chicago Or call us at (773) 529-2690 ext. 822 www.emeraldcitytheatre.com

A party to remember! Guests use their imaginations to create fantastical characters, sing and dance to popular songs, and even write their own story together!

Fleetwood Roller Skating Rink 7231 W. Archer Ave., Summit (708) 458-0300 Fleetwoodrollerrink.com

Celebrating almost 60 Years of Family Fun! Visit our website for birthday and private party packages! Come party on the best skating floor around!

Funtopia 2050 Tower Dr, Glenview (224) 432-5435 funtopiaworld.com/glenview

Funtopia hosts the most Fun and Active parties with attractions for all ages including Fun Climbing Walls, Ropes Courses, Realistic Caves, Giant Slide and many more

Code Ninjas is the ultimate coding

36 April 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section // Funtopia Naperville 2639 Aurora Avenue, Unit 103 Naperville (630) 718-4327 Funtopiaworld.com/Naperville

Funtopia hosts the most Fun and Active parties with attractions for all ages including Fun Climbing Walls, Ninja Courses , Ropes Course, Giant Slide and many more

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Musical, educational fun filled interactive puppet shows for children.

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Reserve now and save an extra $25 off your order. Use coupon code: Chicago Parent. Serving greater Chicago and Suburbs.

Jump Guy Inflatables & Games (773) 774•3636 jumpguy.com

Huge selection of equipment and games to make your event successful! New table games and interactives! Check out the website to see videos!

The Little Gym of Chicago 3216 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago (773) 525-5750 thelittlegym.com/ChicagoIL

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Odyssey Fun World Tinley Park: I-80 & Harlem Ave. (708) 429-3800 OdysseyFunWorld.com

Featuring two full floors of games, laser tag and rides. Several different party packages at affordable rates, all include private party coordinator for stress-free fun!

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The nation’s #1 indoor inflatable party place. Giant inflatables in your own private arenas and private party room exclusively for your child and guests!

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River Forest Community Center 8020 W. Madison St., River Forest (708) 771-6259 ext. 208 Rfcc.info

Hassle-free private party in our Playland/mini gym, ages 3-6, or gym/sports party ages 7 and older.

Catered to child’s specific interests

Celebrations

All include room, host, pizza/drink, gamecard. Perfect for ages 4-14

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Pony parties, pony rides and pony rentals are great for any special occasion, including children’s birthday parties. We make it memerable!

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Check out our parties featuring the arts, ice skating, history, nature, minigolf, our gymnasium, as well as parties at the renowned Exploritorium!

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Follow Mikey on his quest to join the circus. First, he must prove himself to the Ringmaster. Along the way he meets a delightful cast of characters that he must help... A leopard with a sore tooth, a clown who isn’t funny and a dancer who needs help dancing.

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Magic & Juggling Shows

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Children’s Multi-Arts Camps and Family Camp 36 South Wabash Avenue,Chicago

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Celebrating 60 Years of Family Fun! Best skating floor around!

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camp 2019 // special advertising section CampLee Lee Mar Camp Mar Camp Lee Mar

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From coding and game dev to robotics and design, your child will develop in-demand skills and ignite lifelong passions—all in a fun, inclusive environment.

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Held at over 150 prestigious universities Northwestern University | Judson University Loyola University | Benedictine University Lake Forest College | GEMS World Academy

Get a brochure and find a camp near you!

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special advertising section //

camp 2019

Northside Sports Summer Camp

Burley Elementary: 1630 W. Barry Ave, Chicago, IL 60657

Kindergarten – 8th grade June 24 – August 16th • 10am 3pm Monday – Friday Extended Care 8am – 10am, 3 -5pm 2 weeks $700 – Now $630 4 Weeks $1250 – Now $1,125 8 Weeks $2,400 – Now $2,150 Each week campers will have Fun Field Trips!! Weekly, Cooking class, Pool Access, Yoga, Dance, Drama, Art projects, Camp celebrations and more!! *League* We offer a potent mix of skill building and strategy designed to introduce new players to sports while also deepening the skills of seasoned players preparing for team play. *Divisions* Rookie (K 1) • JV (2nd 4th) • Varsity (5th 8th)

Contact: Wggsportskids.com, 773 -685-1682

Family-centered. Multidisciplinary. DIRFloortime®.

Collabo rative therapy ser vices from birth to young adultho od o ffered by: OTs, SLPs, PTs, & mental health provide rs Our team is ready to support your family with our diverse expertise & experience

• • •

•

Outdoors Sports Musical theater Messy play

• • • •

Cooking Bike riding Cartooning Creative Writing

Check out www.bethosten.com 3100 Dundee Rd. Ste #704 Northbrook, IL 60062 / (847) 663-1020 / boa@bethosten.com ChicagoParent.com April 2019 41

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camp 2019 // special advertising section

SUMMER CAMP 2019

7th Grade Experience Res Day

Friday, April 12, 2019 ~ 8 am to 3 pm Register by April 5th to spend the day at Res!

“What at AMAZING two weeks my daughter had! She wished it would never end.”

– Summer Camp Parent

June 3 – August 16, 2019

Lakeview | Lincoln Park | Lincoln Square

Ages 3.5 – 15

Enroll at EmeraldCityTheatre.com or call 773.529.2690

Summer 2019 Athletic Camps for girls entering grades 4 to 12 Basketball, Dance, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Tennis & Running

www.reshs.org 7500 West Talcott Avenue, Chicago 60631 773.775.6616 Ext. 129

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calendar APRIL

1

Were you showing your kids “Return of the Jedi” during ing late-night feedings at 3 months old? Did they learn their A-B-Cs as A iss for Anakin, B is for BB-8, C is for or Chewbacca? Does your 5-yearold already have his own Jedi uniform? Even if that family is your neighbor and not you, ve you’ll still find something to love rat Star Wars Celebration. The fourday convention is an experiencee for fans of the movies and brings gs in families from even far, far away. y. Kids will love pin trading, the fan-produced oduced game shows and more. $35-$75, 5, April 11-15.

McCormick Place, 2301 S. King Drive, Chicago. starwarscelebration.com.

3

Earth Day isn’t just a celebration for the planet, at Brookfield Zoo, it’s a party. Kids can help plant trees and flowers, learn about recycling and parents can pick up free stuff to make their homes more eco-friendly at Party for the Planet. Zoo residents are prepped for special zoo chats and kids can try their hands at green-themed crafts. Free with zoo admission, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. April 14. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. czs.org.

Marc Millman

2

Having kids doesn’t mean that the college CD collection has to head to the attic. The music of Phish, the Rolling Stones and Grateful Dead get a renovation for a new generation through The Rock and Roll Playhouse. Thalia Hall hosts events through June, with Prince taking the spotlight in April. Recommended for kids 10 and under, there are games, stories and rock-it-out moments based on the artist of the day. $15, free under 1, 11 a.m. April 14. Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., Chicago. therockandrollplayhouse.com.

Chicago Zoological Society

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CALENDAR 5 | FRIDAY PLAY IN A DAY. In coordination

with CPS days off, through acting games and exercises, students will create unique characters that will be used to create a short play at the end of the day. Pack a lunch, a water bottle and two small snacks to bring to camp. $80 and up. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. (presentation for parents from 3:30-4 p.m.) Today’s camp: Folk Tales Camp. Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. (773) 3275252. stage773.com.

SECOND CITY ONE-DAY CAMP.

Spend the day off from school at The Second City in the improv and comedy writing one-day camps.

No previous experience required.

Recommended for ages 8-18, students are grouped by age. $100.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Second City, 1616 N. Wells St., Chicago. (312) 337-3992, secondcity.com.

6 | SATURDAY CHICAGO STORY TIME WITH THEATRE Y. Listen to your favorite

children’s books read aloud and performed by actors from the Theatre Y Ensemble. Recommended for ages 6 and under. 10 a.m. The Ready, 4546 N. Western Ave. theatre-y.com.

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provided. Today’s workshop: Birds & Pom Poms. $60. 10 a.m.-noon.

The Wishcraft Workshop, 3907 N. Damen Ave. (773) 348-9474, wishcraftworkshop.com.

$25. 5:30-8 p.m. Power Up Tech Academy, 2867 N. Clybourn Ave. (312) 659-3082, powerupTA.com.

SECRET OF THE MUMMIES. Prepare a simulated

APE AWARENESS WEEKEND.

FAMILY DAY WORKSHOPS.

Learn about the ape species that live in the zoo’s Tropic World: orangutans, western lowland gorillas, and white-cheeked gibbons. The event features special Zoo Chats as well as ape-related activities. Free with zoo admission. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. (708) 688-8000, czs.org.

Children of all ages and parents can try hands-on STEAM activities inspired by the interdisciplinary ideals of the Bauhaus. Free with museum admission. 1-4 p.m. Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S. Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 834-0202, elmhurstartmuseum.org.

mummy for the afterlife and go on a mummy scavenger hunt and tour.

1-3 p.m. Oriental Institute Museum, 1155 E. 58th St. (773) 702-9514, oi.uchicago.edu.

MINECRAFT PARTY. A social

STITCHED TOGETHER FAMILY WORKSHOP. Enjoy two hours

of cozy crafting for a child 7 and older and an adult. Registration is for one pair of participants. No experience required and all materials

night for kids 7-12 to play and meet other fans of the game. Each party is a supervised session of open play time, where kids may join private servers set up for the evening or play on public servers of their choice.

About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the May issue is March 25. 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 51.

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar

SUBURBS

BROOKFIELD ZOO GOES BLUE FOR AUTISM AWARENESS. To

commemorate the day, the zoo’s iconic lion statues will be clothed in blue scarves. Throughout the day, special activities take place for families with children on the autism spectrum. These include a “quiet hour” on the Carousel, a sensory-friendly Dolphins in Action presentation, and special animal Zoo Chats. Free with zoo admission. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield.

(708) 688-8000, czs.org.

CHUG CHUG CHUGGIN’ ALONG.

Create wooden trains to take home, courtesy of the Rock River Valley

Division of the National Model Train Association. $11. 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 963-6769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

7 | SUNDAY CHICAGO SECRET AGENT STORYTIME. Your mission is

to sing, dance, read books and make crafts with Agent Zach and your friends, parents and siblings.

Recommended for junior agents ages 0-4 and their families. 11 a.m.-noon.

The Wicker Park Secret Agent Supply Co., 1276 N. Milwaukee Ave. secretagentsupply.com.

SUBURBS BARRINGTON FAMILY EXPO. Features booths showcasing

business and community resources,

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CALENDAR 13 | SATURDAY

plus hands-on art activities and entertainment throughout the day.

11 a.m.-3 p.m. Barrington High School, 616 W. Main St., Barrington. barringtonchamber.com.

CHICAGO STAR WARS CELEBRATION. See

April 11.

10 | WEDNESDAY AUTISM HELPING HANDS SUPPORT GROUP. Parents,

guardians & caregivers of high school students with autism are invited to meet other families, talk about life transitions, get help & advice, and hear & share stories.

5:30-7 p.m. Higgins Education Center, 1030 W. Higgins Road, Hoffman Estates. adc.d211.org.

11 | THURSDAY STAR WARS CELEBRATION.

Spend a weekend immersed in a Star Wars experience featuring cast and crew appearances, Star Wars cosplay, exclusive merchandise, live entertainment, screenings, behind-the-scenes panels, exhibits,

ONCE UPON A SYMPHONY: THE BOY & THE VIOLIN. Vibrant music,

Ap A pe Aw waren arren e ess s We W eek eken e d Seee AAppri rl6

and never-before-seen glimpses into the future of Star Wars. $35$75. Check website for schedule.

McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 7917000, starwarscelebration.com.

OPEN PLAY FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS. Wonder

Works opens early the second Thursday of every month for kids up

to age 8 with special needs. They are welcome to stay when the museum opens to the public at 10 a.m. $5 per person. 9-10 a.m. Wonder Works Children’s Museum, 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park. wonder-works.org.

12 | FRIDAY STAR WARS CELEBRATION. See

April 11.

engaging storytelling and enchanting visuals blend together in a playful concert experience designed for the youngest audience members. In this tale, a young boy sells his family’s meager belongings to buy a violin. $17. 10 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. Chicago Symphony Orchestra, 220 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 294-3000, cso.org.

FAMILY DAY: MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART. Take part

in workshops, open studio sessions, gallery tours, and performances, all designed and led by Chicago artists. 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.

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CALENDAR JUNIOR ARCHAEOLOGISTS. Kids

5-12 and parents have a chance to dig into a simulated excavation while learning about the real science of archaeology. This program includes an interactive guided tour of the galleries. $10-$14; registration required.

1-3 p.m. Oriental Institute Museum, 1155 E. 58th St. (773) 702-9514, oi.uchicago.edu.

SUBURBS FUTURE NURSES ACADEMY.

See what it’s like to be a nurse.

Learn how to check X-rays, take blood pressure, make the rounds, talk to real nurses and get your hands on actual equipment as you explore a career in nursing. Free with museum admission. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 9636769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

BUNNY TRACKS. Read a story

and explore Spring Valley to find spring surprises. Recommended for ages 4-7. $12, $8 residents. 1-3 p.m. Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm, 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. (847) 985-2100, parkfun.com.

14 | SUNDAY CHICAGO STAR WARS CELEBRATION. See

April 11.

ROCK & ROLL FOR KIDS. Using the songs created by the most iconic musicians in rock history, The Rock and Roll Playhouse offers games, movement, stories and an opportunity to rock out.

Today’s artist: Prince. $15. 11 a.m.

Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St. therockandrollplayhouse.com.

SUBURBS PARTY FOR THE PLANET. Learn

about the ways you can make Earthfriendly choices such as conserving energy, riding a bike or recycling.

Participate in green-themed craft activities, help staff plant flowers and a tree, visit with representatives at the Eco Expo, and find out about

Starr War St Star ars Cele Cele Ce ebr bra attio ion Seee Appri Se rill 11 11

the animals at special Zoo Chats.

Free with zoo admission. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. (708) 688-8000, czs.org.

15 | MONDAY STAR WARS CELEBRATION. See

April 11.

PLAY IN A DAY. See April 5. Today’s

theme: Detective/Spy Camp.

LEGO DESIGN & BUILD. Design and build a cutting-edge robot and teach it to spin, slither, walk or drive in a Brickworld of your own creation. Participants will use Lego WeDo and WeDo2.0 motor and sensor system. Recommended for ages 7-12. $90, $81 members.

9 a.m.-3 p.m. The Laboratory Chicago, 2349 W. North Ave., Chicago. (630) 880-6458, thelaboratorychi.org.

1893 WORLD’S FAIR WALKING TOUR FOR FAMILIES. This

two-hour, mostly indoor downtown walking tour for kids 6 and up and their parents shares how and why the 1893 World’s Fair captures imaginations more than any other event in Chicago’s history. Guests will play interactive educational games, such as a visual scavenger

hunt in a historic building. Kids enjoy the use of shared iPads, which show historic images that illuminate life in the late 19th century. $28, $18 17 and under. 11 a.m. Congress Plaza Hotel, 520 S. Michigan, Chicago. chicagodetours.com.

Rolek Community Center, 814 Hart Road, Round Lake. rlapd.org.

18 | THURSDAY NEW MUSIC CHICAGO PRESENTS. New Music Chicago,

April 15.

the membership organization for Chicago-area ensembles, artists, composers, students, and advocates of contemporary music, will play a contemporary concert. Noon-12:45 p.m. Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., Chicago. (312) 7446630, newmusicchicago.org.

1893 WORLD’S FAIR WALKING TOUR FOR FAMILIES. See April 15.

PLAY IN A DAY. See April 5. Today’s theme: Heroes & Villains.

16 | TUESDAY PLAY IN A DAY. See April 5. Today’s theme: Wizard Camp.

LEGO DESIGN & BUILD. See

17 | WEDNESDAY PLAY IN A DAY. See April 5. Today’s theme: Dragons & Fairies.

LEGO DESIGN & BUILD. See

April 15.

1893 WORLD’S FAIR WALKING TOUR FOR FAMILIES. See April 15.

LEGO DESIGN & BUILD. See

April 15.

SLEEPING BEAUTY SLUMBER PARTY. Dance, sparkle and shine like

1893 WORLD’S FAIR WALKING TOUR FOR FAMILIES. See April

a true princess while playing games, crafts, songs and playtime on the mats. Wear favorite princess pajamas to class. Recommended for ages 3 1/2-7. $18, $12 residents. 6:157:15 p.m. Community Recreation Center, 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg. (847) 490-7020, parkfun.com.

15.

PAPER MAKING AND DESIGN.

Create and design bookmarks, journals and note cards by reusing paper. Recommended for ages 6-12. $7, $5 resident. 4-5 p.m. Robert W.

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CALENDAR 19 | FRIDAY PLAY IN A DAY. See April 5. Today’s theme: Pirates Camp.

TASTE OF FRANCE CAMP (PRESCHOOL/EARLY ELEMENTARY). Chefs ages 4-8 will

learn how to make delicious pastry dough from scratch and create tasty sweet and savory treats. $60. 9 a.m.-noon. Taste Buds Kitchen, 2521 Waukegan Road, Bannockburn.

(847) 230-0330. tastebudskitchen. com/bannockburn.

LEGO DESIGN & BUILD. See

April 15.

Buds Kitchen, 2521 Waukegan Road, Bannockburn. (847) 230-0330, tastebudskitchen.com/bannockburn.

GIRLS NIGHT OUT: ILIZA SHLESINGER. Comedian Iliza

Shlesinger has a book, an album and specials on Netflix. The first female and youngest comedian to hold the title of “Last Comic Standing” brings her show to Chicago.

Recommended for adults only. $59+. 8-10 p.m. Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., Chicago. (312) 902-1500, thechicagotheatre.com.

20 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

1893 WORLD’S FAIR WALKING TOUR FOR FAMILIES. See April

15.

TASTE OF FRANCE CAMP (LATE ELEMENTARY/MIDDLE SCHOOL).

Chefs ages 9-13 will learn how to make delicious pastry dough from scratch and create tasty sweet and savory treats. $60. 1-4 p.m. Taste

The Ultimate Guide to Family Fun!

Going Places FREE | FALL 2017

Fall from

Perfect pizza & pie

A to Z

Down on the farm GP_cover_Fall.indd 5

Summer edition coming soon!

8/31/17 2:07 PM

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

CHILDREN’S POETRY DAY. This event features a reading

by Joyce Sidman, refreshments, a poetry scavenger hunt, crafts and poetry writing. The Poetry Foundation is open only to youth and their caregivers during this event. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The Poetry Foundation, 61 W. Superior St. (312)

787-7070, poetryfoundation.org.

EARTH DAY CELEBRATION. Celebrate Earth

1893 WORLD’S FAIR WALKING TOUR FOR FAMILIES. See April

Day with kids’ crafts and games, puppet shows at 11:15 a.m. and 1:45 p.m., guided nature hikes at 12:15 p.m. and 3 p.m., and help restore a habitat. Fee for large recycling items. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake.

(815) 479-5779, mccdistrict.org.

15.

SUBURBS EASTER BUNNY CUPCAKES (PRESCHOOL/EARLY ELEMENTARY). Bakers ages 2-8

will learn to make Bunny Cupcakes complete with pink ears and a bright shiny nose. This class is designed for kids and parents to cook together. $30 per child with one caregiver included; preregistration required.

9-10 a.m. Taste Buds Kitchen, 2521 Waukegan Road, Bannockburn.

(847) 230-0330, tastebudskitchen. com/bannockburn.

EARTH DAY. Celebrate Earth Day with hikes, puppet shows, artmaking and Earth Day Jeopardy.

10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sand Ridge Nature Center, 15891 Paxton Ave., South Holland. (708) 868-0606, fpdcc. com.

EXERCISE PREGNANCY STUDY

EARTH DAY, NATURE PLAY. Celebrate Earth Day at

Crabtree Nature Center with mud and mural painting, crafts, giant basket weaving, animal encounters and outdoor play. Noon-3 p.m.

Crabtree Nature Center, 3 Stover Road, Barrington. (847) 381-6592, fpdcc.com.

22 | MONDAY HOORAY FOR EARTH DAY. Go

for a walk and help clean the beach along the way. Afterwards play games and create a recycled art project. Recommended for ages

ESTUDIO SOBRE EL EJERCICIO DURANTE EL EMBARAZO

The University of Minnesota is seeking women who are currently less than 20 weeks pregnant to participate in a research study examining the effect of exercise and wellness on mood following childbirth.

La Universidad de Minnesota está buscando mujeres con menos de 20 semanas de embarazo para participar en el estudio de investigación que examina los efectos del ejercicio y la salud del estado de ánimo posterior al parto

• 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 • You will receive $100 & a FitBit for your time (you will be allowed to keep the FitBit after the study is over) • Program can be delivered in English or Spanish • Must be considered low-income, defined as: -Enrollment in any government assisted program (e.g., WIC, SNAP) AND/OR -Annual income that is considered low (less than $45,510 for a family of four, less than $30,044 for a family of two, and less than

• Programa ejecutado vía correo o teléfono • Debe ser mayor o igual a 18 años de edad • No debe hacer ejercicio regularmente • No debe tomar antidepresivos • Debe considerarse de bajos ingresos, lo cual se define como: -Inscripta en cualquier programa asistencial del gobierno (por ejemplo, WIC, SNAP) y / o - Ingresos anuales considerados como bajos (menos de $ 45,510 para una familia de cuatro, menos de $ 30,044 para una familia de dos y menos de $ 22,311 si es soltera).

• Usted recibirá $100 y un FitBit por su tiempo (será permitido quedarse con el FitBit después de la culminación del estudio)

To see if you qualify for this research study: English Speaking: Call or TEXT to 612-345-0325 or mompro@umn.edu.

Llama al 612-237-1004, envía la palabra “TEXTO” al 612-237-1004, o un email mompro@umn.edu para ver si califica para éste estudio

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CALENDAR 6-10. $20. 10 a.m.-noon. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

27 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

24 | WEDNESDAY

EARTH DAY CELEBRATION AND PRESERVES CLEAN UP.

Clean up the preserves in partnership with Friends of the Parks in the morning, and then afterward celebrate with fun nature activities and snacks. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Beaubien Woods Forest Preserve.

13400 S. Doty Ave. (708) 3864042, fpdcc.com.

EARTH WEEK DROP-IN PROGRAM. Dig around in the Kids’

Garden looking for life right below the surface of the soil. Meet in the garden located behind the Nature Center. 4-5 p.m. Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm, 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg.

(847) 985-2100, parkfun.com.

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ONE OF A KIND SPRING SHOW AND SALE. See April 26. Today’s

26 | FRIDAY ONE OF A KIND SPRING SHOW AND SALE. Bringing more than

300 artists and makers together under one roof, the show features a variety of exceptional work from independent artists from across North America and beyond. The One of a Kind Spring Show will also host fashion runway shows,

schedule: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. live music, a gourmet market, and more. $12 adults, free 12 and under; once purchased, tickets are good Friday-Sunday. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. The Merchandise Mart, 222.

W. Merchandise Mart Plaza #470, Chicago. oneofakindshowchicago. com.

FRIDAY FUN. Enjoy play time with the Children’s Neighborhood Museum learning about planes, trains and autos. Recommended for ages 1-6. $13, $12 residents. 9:30-11 a.m. Robert W. Roles Community Center, 814 Hart Road, Round Lake. rlapd.org.

ANCIENT EARTH DAY. Learn all

about ancient trash and recycling and how ancient people lived with the environment. Practice creative engineering and innovative thinking to solve problems with limited resources, and use recycled and natural materials for crafts. Registration

Eyas Landing We care. They create.™

THERAPEUTIC SUMMER CAMP Zones Camp June 24 - June 28 Sensory Camp July 8 - July 19 Sports Camp July 29 - August 2

Social Skills Camp July 1 - July 5* Bike Riding Camp July 22 - July 26 Let’s Write Camp August 5 - August 16

Learn more at eyaslanding.com/summer-camps

CALL US TODAY AT 312.733.0883 1409 W Carroll Ave, Chicago, IL 60607 eyaslanding.com | 312.733.0883

*closed July 4th

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CALENDAR recommended. 1-3 p.m. Oriental Institute Museum, 1155 E. 58th St. (773) 702-9514, oi.uchicago.edu.

SUBURBS MODEL TRAIN DAY. Kids can don their conductor’s hat and operate the model trains courtesy of Valley Model Railroad Club. Some activities cost up to $4. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Lambs Farm, I-94 and Route 176, Libertyville. (847) 362-4636, lambsfarm.org.

MALOTT JAPANESE GARDEN SUMMER FESTIVAL. Kids of all

ages can make projects—construct a kimono-clad paper doll, create a miniature carp kite, design a hanging scroll, and more, at familyfriendly, hands-on stations. Free with museum admission. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

EARTH DAY/ARBOR DAY.

Celebrate Earth Day and Arbor Day with tree climbing, crafts, a scavenger hunt, raffles, giveaways and Jim Nesci’s cold-blooded creatures. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oak View Community Center, 4625 W. 110th St., Oak Lawn. (708) 857-2200, olparks.com.

EARTH FEST. The event

focuses on green neighborhoods, sustainable lifestyles and best practices. Highlights include eco-friendly vendors, local chefs and restaurants, games and activities for children, items for sale, and entertainment.

10 a.m.-2 p.m. Public Works Center, 201 South Blvd., Oak Park. (708) 358-5700, oak-park.us.

PARTY FOR THE PLANET. Visit

with Cosley Zoo animals and be part of the largest combined Earth Day celebration in North America along with visitors to more than 100 other AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums. Free with admission. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Cosley Zoo, 1356 Gary Ave., Wheaton. (630) 665-5534, cosleyzoo.org.

WORLD PENGUIN DAY. Zoogoers

can attend special Zoo Chats to learn

about the zoo’s Humboldt penguin colonies, partake in penguinthemed activities and crafts, and meet a few of the fine-feathered birds up close. Free with zoo admission. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield.

(708) 688-8000, czs.org.

SING ALONG WITH THOMAS.

Chime in on your favorite fun train tunes, learn classic folk songs, and even practice the locomotion. Free or discounted admission if your share a name with Thomas or one of his friends. $11. 10:45 a.m., 11:45 a.m. & 12:45 p.m. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 963-6769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

EARTH DAY. Stations will be set up for kids to repurpose small items for a gift. Dress to get messy.

Those who bring two recycled items to reuse will be offered a giveaway.

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Prairie Grass Nature Museum, 860 Hart Road, Round Lake. rlapd.org.

EARTH DAY FAIR. Parents can learn green living tips and energy-saving info while kids participate in children’s activities.

Eco-friendly vendors will also discuss the benefit of trees and residents can order a rain barrel or composter. 1-4 p.m. Fort Hill Activity Center, 20 Fort Hill Drive, Naperville. napervilleparks.org.

Free nit comb ($15 value) with this ad or “check in” on line.

Limit 1 for family (with treatment)

1440 N Kingsbury, Chicago 312.374.3240

425 N Marion St., Oak Park 708.524.5423

Holy Family School

Kindergarten through 8th Grade

Register Today for Fall 2019!

For more information or to schedule a tour, please contact Rev. Ronald Martin Phone: 773-265-0550 Email: rmartin@hfm.org Located at: 3415 W. Arthington Street At Homan Square in Chicago www.holyfamilyministries.org Join us on Facebook at

www.facebook.com/HolyFamilyChi/

 GREAT BUILDING, SAFE CAMPUS  RIGOROUS ACADEMICS  HIGH EXPECTATIONS  FAITH-BASED VALUES  SMALL CLASS SIZE  6:30am– 5:30pm year-round

(optional before-school, after-school & summer programs)

 FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE  HIGH SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE TO GRADS

Ask about our Little Learners Academy

(preschool for ages 3 to 5 years)– Daycare subsidies accepted!

Specıal Parent CHICAGO

WINTER 2019

Time out time: The discipline debate

+

Camps and resources you need

A Chicago Parent EMPOWERMENT GUIDE

Chicago’s only local magazine and resource guide to life for families who have children with special needs.

Digital edition online now!

Elena’s way CSPdigital_0319_CV1.indd 1

Specıal Parent CHICAGO

AN EMPOWERMENT GUIDE FROM

SUPERHERO SMASH. Bring out

your superhero for a super afternoon of games, crafts, snacks and fighting off evil-doers. Recommended for ages 2-9. $12, $9 in advance 2-3:30 p.m. Eola Community Center, 555 S. Eola Road, Aurora. (630) 851-8990, foxvalleyparkdistrict.org.

★★★★★

www.hairbutterflies.com

JEDI TRAINING ACADEMY.

Kids ages 6-12 will prepare for Star Wars Day through a series of physical and mental challenges to earn their official Jedi Training Academy completion certificate.

Snacks and drinks will be served. $12. 2-3:30 p.m. Vaughan Athletic Center, 2121 W. Indian Trail, Aurora. foxvalleyparkdistrict.org.

• In salon, your home, or do-it yourself kits • We only use safe, nontoxic, effective products • 100% Service Guarantee • May be reimbursed by your medical insurance

2/28/19 12:40 PM

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CALENDAR FAMILY NIGHT OUT. An evening of play and learning for children with special needs and their families, focusing on autism spectrum and other sensory processing disorders as well as physical disabilities. Registration required.

5:30-8 p.m. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 637-8000, dupagechildrensmuseum.org.

SUBURBS CHICAGO PARENT PLAYDATE.

Enjoy character visits, sports, bounce houses, music, train rides, obstacle courses, activities at every table and more. $8 kids 4-14; $4 kids 2-3, $2.50 kids under 2; free adults. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Athletico Center, 1900 Old Willow Road, Northbrook. (224) 326-2061. chicagoparent.com/ playdate.

28 | SUNDAY CHICAGO

MALOTT JAPANESE GARDEN SUMMER FESTIVAL. See April 27.

One of One On o a Kin nd Sp prriin ing ng Sh S how and Sal ale SSeee Ap See Apri rilil 26 26

SOUTH SIDE STORY TIME. Kids ages 6 and younger

can listen, learn, sing, dance, and interact. 10-11 a.m. Green Line Performing Arts Center, 329 E. Garfield Blvd. facebook.com/ events/2223625301002365.

ONE OF A KIND SPRING SHOW AND SALE. See April 26. Today’s

schedule: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

EARTH DAY CELEBRATION.

This year’s Earth Day celebration features games, activities, food and a native plant sale. Noon-4 p.m.

Emily Oaks Nature Center, 4650 Brummel St., Skokie. (847) 6777001, skokieparks.org.

EARTH DAY PARTY.

Celebrate your connection to the Earth with games, crafts, free

wildflower seedlings, birdhouse building, worm composting construction, a live hawk and owl display, and more. Noon-4 p.m. Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm, 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg.

(847) 985-2100, parkfun.com.

EARTH DAY CELEBRATION.

Join the BackYard Nature Center for an afternoon of service, learning and fun. Activities include restoration, a fishing clinic, nature hikes and pop-up nature play. 12:30-3 p.m.

Erickson Woods, 1651 Willow Road, Winnetka. fpdcc.com.

Discover new worlds at Lifeline Theatre’s Drama Camps! Children explore their imaginations and hone their natural performing abilities while gaining sound theatre training in a fun-filled atmosphere. Our camps not only teach kids how to embody characters and act out stories,

a High-energy, hands-on stem camp

but also help them to gain confidence, express themsel more fully, and work patiently and themselves respectfully with each other.

DRAMA KIDS

15+ locations throughout the greater Chicago area!

Save $25 using promo code: INNOVATE25RPRINT at invent.org/camp

SUMMER CAMP (Ages 5–7) July 8–12 (Session 1), July 15–19 (Session 2), & July 22–26 (Session 3) 9:00–12:00 Noon

$200 (1 session), $350 (2 sessions), $500 (3 sessions) per child

DRAMA STARS

SUMMER CAMP (Ages 8–12) July 15–26, Monday through Friday 9am–3pm (Full Day) or 9am–noon (Half Day)

$650 (Full Day) or $395 (Half Day) per child

*NEW* LIFELINE THEATRE INTENSIVE Ages 7–12 July 29–August 2 9:00–3:00 (Full Day only) $325 per child

CALL 773-761-4477 or visit www.lifelinetheatre.com to register your child today!

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ONGOING EVENTS EXHIBITS AMPLIFIED CHICAGO BLUES.

Immerse yourself in the history of Chicago blues of the 1960s through pictures and experience the blues by playing guitar, designing an album cover, writing lyrics, and singing karaoke. Free with admission, free 18 and under Illinois residents. Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., Chicago. (312) 642-4600, chicagohistory.org.

BRONZEVILLE ECHOES: FACES AND PLACES OF CHICAGO’S AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSIC. Explore Chicago’s music

legacy through ragtime, jazz and blues in an exhibition that highlights the contributions of important places and people that shaped the music scene. Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., Chicago. (312) 7446630, chicagoculturalcenter.org.

BUILD IT! Exhibit puts an in-

novative spin on classic building blocks by letting children explore and interact with varieties of blocks in a single space. Free with museum admission. 9:30 a.m.noon Mondays; 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

Tuesdays-Saturdays; noon-5 p.m.

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

DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD: A GRR-IFIC EXHIBIT. Children enter the

world of Daniel Tiger and friends to explore the Neighborhood.

Free with museum admission.

DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville.

(630) 637-8000, dupagechildrens museum.org.

HOLD A BABY LAMB. The farm is open weekends in April and May for holding baby lambs, goats, chicks, piglets and feeding the calf. $6 each; $30 total for families of six or more. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. weekends.

Pioneer Farm, 17N400 Big Timber Road, Hampshire. (847) 683-2863, enjoypioneerfarm.com.

Im magin i e the Mo Moon Sky Show o See this page

IMAGINE THE MOON SKY SHOW. The planetarium’s new sky

show, Imagine the Moon, takes a closer look at humanity’s relationship with Earth’s nearest neighbor.

Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 922STAR (7827), adlerplanetarium.org.

LOOP AT NAVY PIER. This

interactive art installation for all ages is located in Polk Bros Park, allowing the public to sit inside and activate the illuminated musical mechanism, causing beautiful images inspired by 13 fairy tales to come to life. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. (312) 595-PIER (7437), navypier.com.

MUMMIES. The exhibit uses

modern technologies to take an unparalleled look at the remains of the ancient people within the wrappings. Included with a Discovery or All-Access pass. The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago.

(312) 922-9410, fieldmuseum.org.

PURCHASED LIVES: THE AMERICAN SLAVE TRADE FROM 1808 TO 1865. The

exhibition conveys the inhumanity of slavery through original artifacts, personal stories and interactive displays. Free with museum admission. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Illinois

Holocaust Museum, 9603 Woods Drive, Skokie. (847) 967-4800, ilholocaustmuseum.org.

REMEMBERING DR. KING: 1929-1968. The exhibition

invites visitors to walk through a winding gallery that features more than 25 photographs depicting key moments in Dr. King’s work and the Civil Rights movement. Free with museum admission. Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., Chicago.

(312) 642-4600, chicagohistory.org.

Island of Sodor, load luggage onto train cars and load Percy’s coal box and fill his tank with water from a tower. $11, $3 museum members.

Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 963-6769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

UNDERWATER BEAUTY. Get a glimpse of the grandeur beneath the waves as 100 species from around the world come together. Free with admission. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 939-2438, sheddaquarium.org.

TREEHOUSES. Climb through

large treehouses, encounter wildlife of all sizes, dance to a forest-sound symphony and more. Included with admission, $9 for adults, $7 for students and seniors, $6 for children 3-12. Thursdays are free for Illinois residents. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday-Sunday. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (773) 7555100, naturemuseum.org.

OTHER EVENTS CRITTER CONNECTION. Get

up-close and hands-on with one of those critters and learn about animal friends that live at the nature museum. Free with admission. Noon daily. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (773) 755-5100, naturemuseum.org.

THOMAS & FRIENDS: EXPLORE THE RAILS! The interactive exhibit

FAMILY BUILD: TRANSPORTATION. Join experts

inspired by the popular children’s series on Nickelodeon rides into Illinois for the first time. The STEMfocused exhibit allows kids ages 2-7 years to climb into Thomas’ cab, fix Percy’s wobbly wheels, explore the

in the studio for themed stations to introduce you to architecture basics, a design challenge and a take-home project. Family Build is great for families with children ages 3 and up. $12, free members. 10 a.m. Sundays.

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ONGOING EVENTS years to meet others with young children. Share experiences, ideas, and concerns with others and staff whose skills are in family and child development. $25 per family. 1:30-3 p.m. Mondays. Virginia Frank Child Development Center, 6639 N. Kedzie Ave., Chicago. jcfs.org.

STROLLER GROOVES.

Juic Ju ice eb bo ox x SSeee paage g 53 Photo by Alexa Rogals

Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Upper Wacker Drive, Chicago. architecture.org.

MORNING GLORIES.

Children learn through play and experience in this program, and educators provide story time, imaginative play and sensory activities. Recommended for ages 5 and

younger. Free, donation requested.

10 a.m.-noon Mondays. Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago. (773) 638-1766, garfieldconservatory.org.

THE GET TOGETHER. The Get Together is a weekly group for parents, grandparents, caregivers and children ages newborn-5

The series showcases premier local talent who specialize in music arrangements for younger audiences, ideal for toddlers and young children. Noon-1 p.m.

Tuesdays. Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. (312) 595-PIER (7437), navypier.com.

ARBOR READING ADVENTURES.

Interactive story time and fun crafts indoors before heading out on the grounds for an adventure walk.

Themes change each week. $5. 1111:45 a.m. Wednesdays & Fridays.

The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

READ AND BUILD: TRANSPORTATION. Join a read-

ing of “Twenty-One Elephants” by April Jones Prince, build a bridge from a variety of wacky supplies, and then test how much weight it can hold. Recommended for ages 3-6. $12, free for members.

10-11:30 a.m. & 1-2:30 p.m.

Wednesdays. Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Upper Wacker Drive, Chicago. architecture.org.

WILD WEDNESDAYS.

Whether inside or out, kids can explore nature, get their hands dirty, and discover new things about plants, animals and nature. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

4-7 p.m. Wednesdays. Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago. (773) 638-1766, garfieldconservatory.org.

LEGO LAB. These casual weekly builds are inspired by a new theme each month and are a great place to learn about design principles while

EVERY EVERYMORNING MORNINGMY MY HUMAN HUMANSHAVES SHAVESOFF OFF HIS HISFACE FACEFUR, FUR,HE’S HE’S FUNNY FUNNYLIKE LIKETHAT. THAT. —TUCK —TUCK adopted adopted05-04-11 05-04-11

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ARTIST RENDERING

‘History Has Its Eyes On You’

W

hether you’ve seen “Hamilton” five times at the CIBC Theatre or are still waiting for your name to be drawn in the lottery, there’s still more to know about the story of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton.

In a traveling exhibition that will make its debut April 27 on Northerly Island, the production team behind the Broadway and touring musical, “Hamilton,” has created a continuing story that lets fans and history buffs into the life and times of America’s first Secretary of Treasury.

With multimedia, music and artifacts, the exhibit will help visitors feel the American Revolution and immerse themselves into how the government was built.

A gigantic tent, complete with heating and air conditioning to keep visitors and the exhibit cool or warm and dry, will house the exhibit that takes fans through Hamilton’s life, from St. Croix to Washington D.C. Each ticket is timed, and “Hamilton” creator and star Lin-Manuel Miranda will narrate the exhibit as visitors use headphones to take the tour. Students in Chicago Public Schools third grade and higher will receive a free ticket to enjoy the tour. The display is recommended for students 10 and older with their families.

“It’s made by the people who know, built and respect the franchise of the

Hamilton: The Exhibition u Northerly Island u April 27-Sept. 8 u $39.50, $25 ages 4-14. u hamiltonexhibition.com

show,” says David Korins, the creative designer and set director of “Hamilton,” in a video released by the exhibit. “But we’re going to give you something different.”

Tours begin at noon Mondays and Tuesdays and at 10 a.m. WednesdaysSundays. The exhibit tour takes about 90 minutes.

Hillary Bird

ONGOING EVENTS exploring the playful side of architecture. $12, free members. Noon Thursdays. Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Upper Wacker Drive, Chicago, architecture.org.

performances and more. $14.95 for up to four people, $5 each additional person. 4-8 p.m. Thursdays. Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 5271000, chicagochildrensmuseum.org.

Parents and young children can enjoy Chicago’s best music, dance and theater in a kid-friendly setting.

Parents are welcome to bring snacks and juiceboxes. 11-11:45 a.m. cityofchicago.org/specialevents.

PLAY LATE THURSDAYS. On the

first Thursday of each month, kids take center stage with programs including open mic nights with guest MCs to run the show, themed dance parties for the whole family, kid-friendly and kid-starring

JUICEBOX. A music and per-

FIDDLEHEADS. Join the con-

formance series for the stroller set.

Performances are on the first and third Friday at the Chicago Cultural Center and first and third Saturday at Garfield Park Conservatory.

servatory each weekend for activities and projects that get kids and families wondering about the plants and the natural world. Each week will be a different science-based activity.

Noon-4 p.m. Saturdays & Sundays.

Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago. (773) 638-1766, garfieldconservatory.org.

LITTLE SQUIRRELS STORYTIME.

Stories and songs celebrating classic literature for preschool-age kids.

Free with admission. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Saturdays. American Writers Museum, 180 N. Michigan, 2nd Floor, Chicago. (312) 374-8790, americanwritersmuseum.org.

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EGG HUNTS

CHICAGO FLASHLIGHT EGG HUNT.

Egg hunters ages 3-12 must bring their own flashlight. 8-9:30 p.m.

April 5. Garibaldi Park, 1520 W. Polk St. chicagoparkdistrict.com.

BUNNY BONANZA. Kids 6 and

under can enjoy face painting, a craft project, inflatables and egg hunt. Advance tickets required. $6. 10-11 a.m. and 11 a.m.-noon April 11. Welles Park, 2333 W. Sunnyside Ave. (312) 742-7511, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

EGG HUNT AT ROSEDALE. Hunt down eggs. Event recommended for ages 3-12. $5, preregistration required. 10-11 a.m. April 12.

Rosedale Park, 6312 W. Rosedale Ave. (773) 631-7156, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

POOL EGG HUNT AT SHERIDAN. Kids 3-12 enjoy an

egg hunt in the pool. Must wear swim gear. $2. 5-6:30 p.m. April 12. Sheridan Park, 910 S. Aberdeen St. (773) 478-2889, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

FLASHLIGHT EGG HUNT AT SHERIDAN. Egg hunters ages 3-12

EGG HUNT. Recommended for ages 3-12. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. April 13. Pasteur Park, 5825 S. Kostner Ave. chicagoparkdistrict.com.

EGGSTRAVAGANZA AT PALMER. Activities include an

must bring their own flashlight. $2.

8-10 p.m. April 12. Sheridan Park, 910 S. Aberdeen St. (773) 478-2889, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

egg hunt, arts & crafts projects, face painting and egg races.

Recommended for ages 3-12. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. April 13. Palmer Park, 201 E. 111th St. (312) 747-6576, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

EGG HUNT. Event includes egg hunt, face painting, petting zoo, inflatables and games. Refreshments sold separately. Recommended for ages 3-12. $10. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. April 13. Armour Square Park, 3309 S. Shields Ave. (312) 747-6012, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

EGG HUNT. Enjoy a “Hide Nor Hare” egg hunt. Recommended for ages 3-12. 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

April 13. Bessemer Park, 8930 S. Muskegon Ave. (312) 747-6023, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

3-12. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. April 13.

West Lawn Park, 4233 W. 65th St. chicagoparkdistrict.com.

6:30-7:30 p.m. April 13. Kilbourn Park. 3501 N. Kilbourn Ave. (312) 742-5039, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

EASTER EGG-STRAVAGANZA AT LINCOLN PARK ZOO. An Easter

weekend celebration including photos with the Easter Bunny, multiple egg hunt waves for different age groups, music, crafts and complimentary rides on the AT&T Endangered Species Carousel and more. $20 ages 1 and older ($18 members). 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. April 20. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (312) 7422000, lpzoo.org.

BUNNY ROCK 5K & EGG HUNT.

EGG HUNT. Bring the entire EGG HUNT AT WEST LAWN. Recommended for ages

FLASHLIGHT EGG HUNT AT KILBOURN. Bring a flashlight. $5.

family for an egg hunt, arts and crafts, games and more. $2. 1-3:30 p.m. Brainerd Park, 1246 W. 92nd St. (312) 747-6027, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

Run while jamming out to 80s rock music and receive a pair of bunny ears, sunglasses and a dri-fit T-shirt.

Fun family activities like a petting zoo and an egg hunt take place after the race for kids 2-10. $35-$50;

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EGG HUNTS $10-$20 egg hunt. 9 a.m. race; 10:15 a.m. egg hunt April 20.

Montrose Harbor, Montrose and Montrose Harbor drives. (312) 7427527, bunnyrock5k.com.

basket. Recommended for ages 3-8. $5, registration required. 9:30 a.m.-noon (hunt times vary by age) April 13. RecPlex Mount Prospect, 420 Dempster St., Mount Prospect. mppd.org.

NORTHERN SUBURBS BUNNY ROCK 5K & EGG HUNT (VERNON HILLS). Run while jam-

ming out to 80s music and receive a pair of bunny ears, sunglasses and a dri-fit T-shirt. Fun family activities like a petting zoo and an egg hunt take place after the race for kids ages 2-10. $35-$50 race; $10-$20 egg hunt. 8:30 a.m. race; 9:45 a.m. egg hunt April 13.

Hawthorn Mall, 122 Hawthorn Center, Vernon Hills. (847) 3622600, shophawthornmall.com.

EGG HUNT (MT. PROSPECT). Jump

into piles of “grass” and hunt for eggs. Bring a

preregistration; Free adults & children under 2. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

April 13. Community Recreation Center, 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg. (847) 490-7020, parkfun.com.

COMMUNITY EGG HUNT (ARLINGTON HEIGHTS). Kids

10 and under hunt throughout the museum grounds. $6; registration required. 10-12:45 a.m. April 13. Arlington Heights Historical Museum, 110-112 W. Fremont St., Arlington Heights. (847) 255-1225, ahmuseum.org.

LONG GROVE EGG HUNT.

EGGSPALOOZA (SCHAUMBURG).

Dye eggs using natural, plant-based dyes, decorate a spring basket and hunt for eggs in a wooded setting.

Recommended for ages 3 and older. $20, $15 residents. 10-11:30 a.m. April 13. Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm, 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg.

(847) 985-2100, parkfun.com.

BUNNY BASH (SCHAUMBURG).

Celebrate spring with indoor and outdoor activities for the whole family, including egg hunts, games, crafts, moon jumps, concessions, pony rides and a petting zoo. $15 day of event registration, $12

The challenge courses at Buffalo Creek Park are dotted with hundreds of colored eggs, plus dancing, a petting zoo, craft tables and tractor rides. All kids taking part in the hunt get a goodie bag and photo. 10:30 a.m.-noon; first hunt begins at 11 a.m. April 13. Long Grove Historic Village, intersection of Route 83 and Long Grove Road, Long Grove. (847) 566-0888, longgrove.org.

SWIM WITH THE BUNNY (ELK GROVE VILLAGE). Play games,

swim, meet and take pictures with the Easter Bunny. Bring a basket to collect eggs and turn them in for prizes. $10, $7 resident, free 2 and under; preregistration required. 1-3

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY Pediatric dentistry

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

pediatric dentistry

Every Tooth Counts Pediatric Dental Center Carmella Barrett Perry, DDS Specialist in Dentistry for Infants, Children & Adolescents

• Flexible Hours • Insurance Accepted

Christopher J. Morin, DDS 811 W. Wellington, Chicago, IL 60657

Located 2 blocks from downtown Flossmoor 2711 Flossmoor Rd, Flossmoor, IL 60422

(708) 799-9755

(773) 871-4964

MiniSmilesChicago.com chrismorin5@yahoo.com 4801 W. Peterson Ave • Chicago, IL 60646

773-790-4282

Evenings and Saturdays available.

Practice limited to infants, children and adolescents.

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EGG HUNTS for ages 4 and up. One adult required for every two children. $2, does not include museum admission; $1 members; free adults. 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. April 19. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 963-6769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

p.m. April 13. The Pavilion, 1000 Wellington Ave., Elk Grove Village. elkgroveparks.org.

FAMILY EGG DECORATING NIGHT (SCHAUMBURG). Bring

a dozen hard-boiled eggs; all egg decorating supplies will be provided.

While the eggs dry, participants enjoy a flashlight egg hunt in Safety Park (weather permitting).

Recommended for ages 1-14. $9, $7 residents, pre-registration is recommended. 6:45-7:45 p.m. April 17. Schaumburg Park District, 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg.

(847) 490-7020, parkfun.com.

EGG HUNT (HIGHLAND PARK). Gather colorful eggs filled

with toys and surprises. 10 a.m.noon April 20. Sunset Woods Park, 1801 Sunset Road, Highland Park.

(847) 579-3120, pdhp.org.

Family egg decorating See this page

EASTER EGG HUNT & BRUNCH (GLENCOE). Enjoy brunch in

UNDERWATER EGGSTRAVAGANZA (SCHAUMBURG). Includes pool

Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg.

(847) 490-7020, parkfun.com.

egg hunts, entertainment, games and prizes. Scheduled egg hunts by age group will be in the play pool.

Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. $18, $12 resident; free adults. 6-8 p.m. April 18.

Schaumburg Park District, 505 N.

BUNNY BRUNCH AT LAMBS FARM (LIBERTYVILLE). Enjoy a

buffet and then take a walk over to the Bunny Patch, where kids can do crafts, activities and take a photo with the bunny. $16.95, $7.95 kids 23 months and under for activities.

Seatings at 9 and 10:30 a.m. and noon April 19-20. Lambs Farm, I-94 and Route 176, Libertyville. (847) 362-4636, lambsfarm.org.

EGG-CESSORIZING (ROCKFORD). Learn to make egg-

ceptional Easter eggs. Bring your own eggs, and the colors and dyes will be provided. Recommended

Nichols Hall. Bring a basket and hop to the Rose Garden after brunch and join in the Easter egg hunt. $40, $35 member; $30 kids 3-12, $25 member kids; free kids 2 and under.

Seatings at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m. April 21. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

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PEDIATRIC EYE CARE

We take the fear out of dentistry for your child.

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Medical and Surgical Eye Care for Infants, Children and Teens

Deena F. Leonard, M.D. Dana L. Kolton, M.D. Kathy Anderson, M.D.

DR. YAA N. McDONALD Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry 16345 S. Harlem • Tinley Park

708-633-8700 • www.kidsdds.net

Muscle Imbalance (Lazy Eye) • Blocked Tear Ducts • Premature Infants • Routine Eye Exams

Buffalo Grove 847-459-6060 • Barrington 847-382-4116

www.eyesbypremier.com

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EGG HUNTS WESTERN SUBURBS BREAKFAST WITH THE BUNNY (BROOKFIELD). An all-you-can-

eat buffet, held at Brookfield Zoo’s Discovery Center, will feature a special appearance from costumed characters Mr. and Mrs. Bunny. There will be live musical entertainment.

Advance reservations recommended. $29.95 adults; $21.95 children (3-11); free kids 2 and under. 9 or 11 a.m. April 13-14 & 20. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. (708) 688-8000, czs.org.

EASTER EGG OPEN HOUSE AT CANTIGNY PARK (WHEATON).

The Egg Hunt will run continuously and eggs will be hidden throughout the park. All guests will be given a map when they enter to help them locate the eggs. This event is open house-style and for all ages. Mr. Bunny and Mrs. Bunny will be available for photos. $5 parking. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. April 13-14.

Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield

Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

EASTER EGG HUNT (BATAVIA). Kids are divided into age

groups and at separate hunt areas.

Bring a basket. Plus, an appearance by the Easter Bunny. Bring non-perishable food item. 9:45 a.m. assemble, 10 a.m. hunt. April 13. Rotolo Middle School, 1501 S. Raddant Road, Batavia. bataviaparks.org.

EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA EGG HUNT (RIVER FOREST). Children ages

Cantigny Park See this page

2-10 will be divided into groups according to age and will hunt for hundreds of candy- and sticker-filled eggs. 10-10:10 a.m.; arrive early April 13. The Depot, 400 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. rfparks.com.

access to the zoo. Kids will be divided into age groups for the egg dash portion. $13.50 kids 2-10, $5 ages 11 and up, free kids under 2.

5-6:30 p.m. April 13. Cosley Zoo, 1356 Gary Ave., Wheaton. (630) 665-5534, cosleyzoo.org.

Parents must be present with their children, but may not assist.

Preregistration is required. $16, $11 resident 7:30-8:15 p.m. April 18.

Knoch Knolls Park, 336 Knoch Knolls Road, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

BUSY BUNNY EGG HUNT (WHEATON). Includes a visit with

FLASHLIGHT EGG HUNT (NAPERVILLE). Kids 9-14 hunt for

FLASHLIGHT EGG HUNT IN WILDER PARK (ELMHURST).

the Easter Bunny, an egg dash for ages 2-10, crafts and activities, animal visits, and private after-hours

prize-filled eggs under the stars.

Refreshments will be served. Bring a flashlight and a bag or basket.

Kids 11-16 search for prize eggs.

Bring a flashlight and a basket.

8-8:30 p.m. April 18. Wilder Park.

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EGG HUNTS The Chicago Herpetological Society Presents

Flossmoor Lucky Egg Hunt See this page

tion’s Large st Ed The Na uca tiona l Reptile and Amphibian Show!

175 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst.

(630) 739-1071, epd.org.

EGGS-TRORDINARY EGG HUNT (GLEN ELLYN). Children up to age

The 25th Annual

ReptileFest Saturday

Sunday

10am - 5pm

10am - 4pm

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adults $11, child $8 free parking • children under 3 enter free No Animals for Sale facebook.com/CHSReptilefest Presale Tickets & Group Discounts at Eventbrite.com

Northeastern Illinois University Physical Education Complex 3600 W. Foster Ave., Chicago

www.ReptileFest.com

6 can enjoy a crazy egg hunt with a chance to meet the Easter Bunny. $9, $6 resident; preregistration required.

9:30 a.m.-noon April 19. Glen Ellyn Park District, 185 Spring Ave., Glen Ellyn. (630) 858-2462, gepark.org.

EGG HUNT (BERWYN).

Recommended for ages 10 and under.

Non-perishable food item or $1 to be donated to the C.B.S. Anti-Hunger Foundation 10 a.m. April 19. Morton West High School, 2400 Home Ave., Berwyn. berwynparks.org.

WILDER PARK EASTER EGG HUNT & DOGGIE EGGSTRAVAGANZA (ELMHURST). Kids 1-10 can hunt

for eggs and visit with the Easter Bunny. Bring your camera and a basket. Easter egg hunt for dogs begins at 10:30 a.m. Dogs must be leashed, wearing current rabies tags, and accompanied by an adult 16 years or older. Prizes will be awarded for best pup in costume.

10 a.m. April 20. Wilder Park, 175 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 739-1071, epd.org.

SOUTH SUBURBS FLASHLIGHT EGG HUNT (OLYMPIA FIELDS). Goody-filled

eggs have been hidden in the forest. $15, $10 residents; preregistration required. 7:30-8:30 p.m. April 12.

Irons Oaks, 20000 S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields. (708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

EASTER EGG HUNT (OAK LAWN). The Easter Bunny drops off

some fun-filled eggs so kids ages 0-8 can participate. The egg hunts will be age-segmented. Plus, visit with the Easter Bunny and participate in a craft project. Registration required. $12, $6 residents 10-11 a.m. or 1:30-2:30 p.m. April 13. Stony Creek Golf Course, 5850 W. 103rd St., Oak Lawn. olparks.com.

FLOSSMOOR LUCKY EGG HUNT (HOMEWOOD). The bunny

starts the egg hunt for kids 6 and under. Bring a basket. After the hunt, a 10:30 a.m. Lucky Dog Egg Hunt will take place. This is a free, on-leash event. 10 a.m. Irwin Community Center, 18120 S. Highland Ave., Flossmoor. hfparks.com.

EASTER EGG HUNT (WORTH). Kids 12 and under will

be divided into age groups. Bring an Easter basket and a camera. 11 a.m.

April 13. Worth Park District, 11500 S. Beloit, Worth. (708) 448-7080, worthparkdistrict.org.

EASTER EGG ROUNDUP (PALOS PARK). Collect and decorate an egg

from the chicken coop, ride a horse, visit the newborn animals and meet the Easter Bunny. Advance tickets required. $24, free adults. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. April 20. The Children’s Farm at The Center, 12700 Southwest Highway, Palos Park. (708) 3613650, thecenterpalos.org.

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Alabastro Photography

PERFORMANCES

Love, Chaos, L and Dinn n er See page 60

AMERICAN GIRL LIVE. Join your favorite American Girl characters and the campers as they follow their hearts, share their dreams and learn the power of friendship at a sleepover camp. $39+. Begins April 30. Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago. (800) 775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com.

AUGUST RUSH. The musical tells the story of Evan Taylor, an 11-yearold orphan who believes in music like some believe in fairytales.

Evan has not given up hope as he relentlessly searches for the parents he knows need him. $36-$69.

Begins April 24. Paramount Arts Centre and Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. (630) 896-6666, paramountaurora.com.

ANASTASIA. The story takes the

audience from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing conman and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love and family. $27+. 7:30 p.m. TuesdayFriday & Sunday, 2 p.m. SaturdaySunday, 8 p.m. Saturdays through April 7. James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St., Chicago. (800) 775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com.

BILINGUAL ROMEO & JULIET.

In addition to Teatro Vista’s already popular student version of Shakespeare’s tale of star-crossed lovers, for the first time, Teatro Vista presents select performances in a new bilingual, Spanish/ English staging. In this new version, Verona’s powers-that-be are English-speaking, as are Juliet’s family, the Capulets. The hired help is bilingual. Juliet has learned Spanish from her nurse. Romeo, his family, the Montagues, his friends and Friar Laurence are native

Spanish speakers who can speak English. $9. 10 a.m. April 2, April 9, April 25 & April 29. Bilingual performances April 3 & April 10.

The Miracle Center, 2311 N. Pulaski Road, Chicago. teatrovista.org.

Grandma. This show is recommended for children ages 2 to 10. $14. 10:30 a.m. WednesdaysFridays. Stahl Family Theater, 5900 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. (773) 286-8470, stpatrick.org.

CHICAGO KIDS COMPANY PRESENTS ‘JACK & THE BEANSTALK.’ Join Jack and his

CORDUROY. Based on Corduroy

dancing Spanish Cow, Carmelita, as they try to save their village from a crazy giant. All CKC productions feature professional actors, colorful scenery and costumes, sing-along songs, and plenty of audience participation. Recommended for ages 2-10. $14. 10:30 a.m. WednesdaysFridays. Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St., Chicago. (773) 445-3838, beverlyartcenter.org.

CHICAGO KIDS COMPANY PRESENTS ‘LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD.’ Sing along with

Red and her friends as she travels through the forest to visit her

and A Pocket for Corduroy by Don Freeman, the play is recommended for 3 and older. The department store comes to life with circus elements and physical comedy as small bear Corduroy must stay a step ahead of the Night Watchman to be ready for Lisa when she returns to the store. Learn the importance of empathy and unconditional love in this adaptation. $19. Through April 20. Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport Ave., Chicago. (773) 9356875, athenaeumtheatre.com.

DJEMBE! THE SHOW. Every audience member gets to be part of this U.S. premiere experience; they receive a djembe to play along

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PERFORMANCES

Anas An Anas as sta tasi tasi ta sia Seee pa Se page ge 59 Photo by Evan Zimmerman

with the world-class African and international musicians during the show that mixes music, rhythm and African and Western traditions. $39-$69. 7:30 p.m. TuesdaysFridays, 8 p.m. Saturdays & 2 p.m.

Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays.

Apollo Theater Chicago, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 9356100, apollochicago.com.

FAST FOOD CHAIN. Rudy dreams

SUNDAY, MAY 5 • 4PM ALLSTATE ARENA MERYL DAVIS & CHARLIE WHITE • MAIA & ALEX SHIBUTANI ASHLEY WAGNER • JASON BROWN MADISON HUBBELL & ZACH DONOHUE • MIRAI NAGASU JEREMY ABBOTT • BRADIE TENNELL • VINCENT ZHOU

BUY TICKETS NOW STARSONICE.COM • 1-800-745-3000

of becoming a famous chef. The problem is, his schemes usually involve getting him and his younger sister, Akari, into big trouble. Their family struggles with the pressure of food insecurity in Chicago until one day Rudy and Akari discover a garden in the unlikeliest of places.

“Fast Food Chain” is written with help from Chicago students, diving into the magical realism of African folktale while showcasing the power of community and storytelling in combatting social issues. $17, $12 14 and under. 4 p.m. Saturdays beginning April 27. Adventure Stage Chicago, 1012 N. Noble St., Chicago.

(773) 342-4141, adventurestage.org.

THE GREATEST STORY NEVER TOLD. Professional improvisers

DATES AND CAST SUBJECT TO CHANGE. STARS ON ICE AND LOGO ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF INTERNATIONAL MERCHANDISING COMPANY, LLC. ©2019 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

take suggestions and invite audience members of all ages to come on stage and co-create a 45-minute

story. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. with coloring, crafts, board games and dress-up fun for kids on the stage. $17.50-$26.50. 3 p.m. Sundays through April 7. Under The Gun Theater, 956 W. Newport Ave., Chicago. (773) 270-2440, greateststorynevertold.org.

LOVE, CHAOS, AND DINNER.

Teatro ZinZanni is a whirlwind of international cirque, comedy and cabaret served with a multi-course feast.

Described as the “Kit Kat Klub on acid,” the fast-paced action unfolds around, above and alongside guests as world-class acrobats, musicians, divas, illusionists, madmen and aerialists fill the intimate Spiegeltent ZaZou, a unique jewel box mirror tent. $123 and up, includes fourcourse meal. 7 p.m. WednesdaysSundays, noon Saturdays & Sundays beginning April 5. The Cambria Hotel Loop-Theatre District, 32 W. Randolph St., Chicago. broadwayinchicago.com.

JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH.

The Roald Dahl story comes to life when James is sent to chop down an old fruit tree and discovers a magic potion that launches a journey of enormous proportions. Suddenly James finds himself in the center of a gigantic peach among human-sized

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PERFORMANCES insects with equally oversized personalities. Recommended for ages 4-10. $8.50. 10:30 a.m. April 3-5.

Prairie Lakes Community Center, 515 E. Thacker St., Des Plaines. (847) 391-5711, absproductions.com.

for grades K-3. $12 students, $14 adults. 10 a.m. Monday-Friday, April 2-12. Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. (847) 577-2121, metropolisarts.com.

p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 3 p.m.

Saturdays, 2 p.m. & 6 p.m. Sundays beginning April 26. Drury Lane Theater Oakbrook Terrace, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 530-0111, drurylaneoakbrook.com.

JERSEY BOYS. Go behind the music and inside the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons in the Tony Award-winning true-life musical phenomenon. From the streets of New Jersey to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, this is the musical that’s just too good to be true. $30+ 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 8 p.m.

Saturday, 2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, April 2-7. Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago. (312) 9222110, auditoriumtheatre.org.

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS. The sci-fi musical follows the story of a floral assistant who stumbles across a new breed of carnivorous plant that promises to grant him fame, fortune and all his desires—as long as the blood keeps flowing. $35$65. 8 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays, 5 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. Saturdays and 3 p.m. Sundays through April 28. Mercury Theater, 3745 N. Southport, Chicago. (773) 3251700, mercurytheaterchicago.com.

PINOCCHIO. Carved from an enchanted stump in a charred forest, toyshop owner Geppeto’s small puppet child flourishes. But his protective father forbids Pinocchio from venturing outside. Pinocchio will be portrayed by a Bunraku-style puppet, created and crafted by Tom Lee of Chicago Puppet Studios.

Recommended for ages 11 and older. $30+. 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays & 3 p.m. Sundays. Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division St., Chicago. (773) 278-1500, chopintheatre.com.

MATILDA THE MUSICAL. The THE JUNGLE BOOK. Join Mowgli

as he learns the importance of friendship and survival with the help of his new friends: Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther. Filled with songs, dance and plenty of audience participation. Recommended

story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to change her own destiny. Based on the beloved novel by Roald Dahl.

Visit website for ticket prices. 1:30 p.m. Wednesdays & Thursdays, 8

ROCK OF AGES. It’s 1987 on

Hollywood’s Sunset Strip when a small-town girl meets a big city rocker. As they fall in love in L.A.’s most famous rock club, “Rock of Ages” allows fans to rock out once again to their favorite ’80s hits.

Featuring the music of iconic bands such as Styx, Poison, Twisted Sister and Whitesnake among many others, this 10th anniversary production features a dynamic new cast revisiting the larger than life characters and exhilarating story that turned “Rock of Ages” into a global phenomenon. Visit website for ticket prices. 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Friday & Sunday, 2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, 8 p.m. Saturday, April 23-28. James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St., Chicago. (800) 7752000, broadwayinchicago.com.

TAP DOGS. Part theater, part dance, part rock concert and part construction site, the cast turns tap dancing upside down. $15+. 2 p.m.

April 17, 20-21; 7:30 p.m. April 16-19 & 8 p.m. April 20. James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St., Chicago. (800) 7752000, broadwayinchicago.com.

TIMELESS MAGIC. Sean

Masterson’s magic show is interwoven with the story of the souvenir

presents

Based on the Corduroy and A Pocket for Corduroy books by Don Freeman Licensed by CBS Consumer Products | Adapted for the Stage by Barry Kornhauser Produced by special arrangement with Plays for Young Audiences | Directed by Jamal Howard

suMmER

C

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CM

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A bear.

A button.

A place to belong.

MARCH 1 – APRIL 20, 2019

at Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N Southport Ave, Chicago Tickets start at $20 at EmeraldCityTheatre.com or through the Athenaeum Theatre box office at 773.935.6875.

ChicagoParent.com April 2019 61

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PERFORMANCES coin that Sean’s great uncle received from a magician at Chicago’s Columbian Exposition of 1893. $16 ages 7 and older, $20 adults. 2 p.m.

Saturdays through April 27. Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont, Chicago.

(773) 975-8150, theaterwit.org.

much more than they bargained for.

Good for ages 9 and up. $20-$45 10:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays and 3 p.m. Saturdays through April 28. The Station, 100 S. Racine Ave., Chicago. chicagochildrenstheatre.org.

THE TIME WARP TRIO. Based on

WHIPPED CREAM. America’s

the children’s series by Jon Scieszka, when Joe receives a magical book for his birthday, he and his pals are unexpectedly hurled across time and space. They first arrive in Camelot, a land menaced by an evil knight, a terrible giant, and a fire-breathing dragon. With quick thinking and a dash of courage the newly formed “Time Warp Trio” manages to survive, but the mysterious Book soon thrusts them into further adventures—each more challenging than the last! Recommended for ages 5 and up and runs about one hour with no intermission. $15. 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays through April 20; sensory-friendly performance 3 p.m. April 14.

Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood

National Ballet Company gives the Midwest premiere of Alexei Ratmansky’s Whipped Cream. This whimsical ballet follows a young boy after he overindulges in sweets and falls into a sugar-induced delirium. Set to a 1924 score by Richard Strauss and featuring Photo by Ralf-Brinkhoff colorful costumes and jubilant sets by pop-surrealist artist Mark Ryden, the ballet is appropriate for the whole family. Visit website for ticket prices. 7:30 p.m. April 11; 11 a.m. (one-hour student performance) & 7:30 p.m. April 12; 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. April 13; 2 p.m. April 14. Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago. (312) 9222110, auditoriumtheatre.org.

Ta T ap Do D gs gs SSeee paage g 61

Ave., Chicago. (773) 761-4477, lifelinetheatre.com.

THE WATSONS GO TO BIRMINGHAM—1963. When

Kenny’s older brother starts getting into too much trouble in Michigan, it’s decided that he needs to

pay a visit to Grandma Sands in Birmingham, Ala., to straighten him out. The whole family—Momma, Dad, Byron, Kenny and Joetta—sets out on a wild cross-country journey in the family car, the “Brown Bomber.” When they make it to Birmingham, however, they find

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CRAFT

Spring fun

Turn an egg carton into bright little chicks PHOTOS AND STORY

BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER hether you are looking for a craft for Easter, spring, Earth Day or just a rainy afternoon, these little egg carton chicks are the perfect go-to. With materials you likely have sitting around the house, bring these spring chicks to life while reusing something old to make something new.

W

Directions:

1 2 3 4

Find an empty egg carton—either cardboard or plastic cartons will work. Cut apart two egg holders from the carton.

Trim off any extra edges so they will fit with one on top of the other. Glue the two pieces together.

Once the glue is dried, use acrylic paint to paint the entire body of the chick.

Let dry.

With construction paper, cut a diamond shape and bend in half. Attach with glue to create a beak. Use a black Sharpie, paint or even googly eyes to make two eyes on the chick.

If desired, add a feather on top.

Materials:

Empty egg carton

Acrylic paint Paintbrush Construction paper Glue Scissors Feathers (optional) 64 April 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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