Chicago Parent - July 2019

CHICAGO PARENT CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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JULY 2019

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FREE

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PLAN A FAMILY ADVENTURE

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Make it her Best. Day. EVER. AT AMERICAN GIRL PLACE CHICAGO

©/TM 2019 American Girl

TM

Spend a day together that you’ll remember forever!

Share conversation over a meal in our café. Step into the salon for a new doll ’do.

And explore our cast of characters from throughout history—their stories will inspire who she wants to be. ®

PLAN YOUR VISIT: americangirl.com/chicago 835 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611

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PRIVATE PRESCHOOL & INFANT CARE - SIX WEEKS TO SIX YEARS

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Experience Our Play-Based Learning In Action, Schedule A Tour Today. sonnetsacademy.com

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VEGGIE FEST CHICAGO 2019 INTERNATIONAL FOOD COURT, LIVE MUSIC, VEGETARIAN FOOD DEMOS, AND MORE!

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AUGUST 10 & 11 11am-8pm

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ONE OF THE MOST ANTICIPATED FESTIVALS OF THE SUMMER! New Location Danada South Park, Navistar Circle, Lisle, IL 60532 www.VeggieFestChicago.com/festival Easy access to festival with unlimited parking!

Phone: 630-955-1200

Don’t Miss Out Talks by health experts Celebrity food demos Children’s activities Meditation & yoga classes Family fun Over 100 vendor booths Live music And much more...

Host Sponsor of Veggie Fest Science of Spirituality International Meditation Center

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WELCOME TO THE FOREFRONT OF KIDS’ GI CARE Comer Children’s Hospital at the University of Chicago Medicine is shaping national standards of care in pediatric gastroenterology throughout the Chicagoland area.

Our specialists offer comprehensive, quality care for everything from recurring tummy aches to complex digestive disorders. Our researchers are working every day to advance treatment options, and we offer innovative therapies that improve quality of life.

To learn why Comer is ranked among the nation’s best in pediatric care, visit ComerChildrens.org. To make an appointment, call 773-702-6169.

Chicago – Elmhurst – Evergreen Park – Flossmoor – Merrillville Naperville – Orland Park

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CHICAGO PA RE NT .COM

TABLE of CONTENTS

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EDITOR TAMARA L. O’SHAUGHNESSY MANAGING EDITOR HILLARY BIRD DIGITAL EDITOR KATINA BENIARIS ART DIRECTOR CLAIRE INNES EDITORIAL DESIGNER JACQUINETE BALDWIN IT AND DIGITAL DEVELOPER MIKE RISHER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS MATT BORESI, CHERYL EUGENIO, CORTNEY FRIES, LORI ORLINSKY, JENNIFER PALLAY, MARIANNE WALSH, SHANNAN YOUNGER PHOTOGRAPHER THOMAS KUBIK DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES ANNETTE COFFEE, CHRISTINE GRIFFITH, LOURDES NICHOLLS, KAREN SKINNER ADVERTISING AND PRODUCTION MANAGER ANDREW MEAD ADVERTISING DESIGN DEBBIE BECKER, MARK MORONEY CIRCULATION MANAGER JILL WAGNER DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR WAKEELAH COCROFT-ALDRIDGE EVENTS COORDINATOR CARMEN RIVERA CLIENT ENGAGEMENT NATALIE JOHNSON BUSINESS MANAGER 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 circulation@chicagoparent.com ADVERTISING dhaley@wjinc.com

Chicago Parent is published monthly by Wednesday Journal, Inc. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Chicago Parent, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL, 60302. © 2019 Wednesday Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

F E AT UR ES

LIFE IN CHI

20 Seven must-try yummy

Real Life .................... 11

food trails perfect for big and little foodies (and all the rest of us, too).

Failing with Gusto ..... 15 Viva Daddy ................ 16

22 Up, up and away. It’s

Around town ............. 17 Calendar .................... 34

time to elevate your summer adventures.

Dilemma .................... 56

26 July goals: Alfresco dining with a side of play.

31 Essay: Mom jokes and a parenting lesson.

On the Cover: Lauren Poon, 8, of Chicago

Online…

Want more summer fun? Find it at ChicagoParent.com.

We have tons of things to do, neighborhood guides, date night ideas and so much more.

CHICAGO PARENT CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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JULY 2019

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FREE

Photographer: Alexa Rogals

Art Director: Claire Innes

Credit: On the way up to the top of the Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier, which reaches nearly 200 feet high and offers a 360degree view of Chicago and Lake Michigan.

UP& away

PLAN A FAMILY ADVENTURE

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EditoR’s Note

Use Our Expert Knowledge and look at the Advantages of Booking an on site Disney or Universal vacation through Monica Clark, with Ears of Experience, at No Extra Cost to You! Contact me today for information on the latest promotions and discounts!

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TAMARA L. O’SHAUGHNESSY

Some of my favorite moments with my kids have been spent in the car on a road trip here, there and everywhere.

It’s a good thing we like being crammed together in a car since over the years, I have literally put hundreds of thousands of miles on my various cars.

We’ve progressed from Radio Disney and many potty breaks, to pop and rap and stopping only when I decide we need to get out of the car.

I’ve learned a lot about how their minds work and shared with them a cleansed version of my growing up years and my views on things like sex (NO!), drinking (NO!), drugs (NO!) and the responsibilities of being good human beings (YES!).

While there have been times they’ve made me cry when they harshly critique my parenting or when I can’t help them deal with something or someone causing them pain, there are so many more moments full of laughter and singing at the top of our lungs.

Now that school has finally ended, you’ll hear a lot about

the dreaded brain drain. While reading and workbooks or school summer packets are always great to keep little minds fresh, there’s a lot to be said for simply taking a cool adventure together with lessons and learning in real time along the way.

I hope this issue gives you some fun ideas about places to start your summer adventure.

I’m already planning to take one or two of the yummy food trails with my kids before the summer is over.

Happy July.

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KIDS CLUB PRESENTS:

princesses & superheroes party SAT. JULY 13TH • 11AM TO 1PM CENTER COURT FACE PAINTING • BALLOON ART CRAFT ACTIVITIES • GIVEAWAYS

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram and Twitter to discover great stores, delicious restaurants, and special events!

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Day School • Enrolling for Fall 2019 • Morning and afternoon classes for children 3 to 5 years • NEW! Morning class for children 21/2 to 31/2 years • Extended-day option for children 4 to 5 years Call 312.640.2579 for more information and to schedule a tour

www.fourthchurchdayschool.org — Located on North Michigan Avenue, across from the John Hancock Center —

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Our Village

Summertime vibes Take a break

KATINA BENIARIS

Over here at Chicago Parent HQ, we’re so excited that summer is here!

There’s so much on our summer bucket list, like checking out some street fests and heading to a baseball game. What are you doing this summer? Share your family photos with us on Instagram by using our community hashtag #sharechicagoparent.

Connect with us Be part of our new community, Chicago Parent Village, and introduce yourself in our pinned Welcome post. We would love to hear a little about you, your family, where you’re from and what you hope to get out of our group. Join our Facebook group at ChicagoParent.com/OurVillage.

Finnen from Chicago (Lincoln Park). Instagram: @mommahasyou

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90s kids, rejoice! From July 11-17, we’re giving away tickets to see “The Lion King” at the Classic Cinemas of your choice.

Love The Wiggles? Don’t miss their concert at the Rosemont Theatre in August and enter for a chance to win tickets starting on July 25. Find even more giveaways at ChicagoParent.com/ Contests.

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Our Village

Your next getaway What’s your dream family vacation? We asked our readers where they would prefer to go. It was a close call out of 269 votes, but most of you prefer vacation time spent on the beach. p See some travel ideas at t ChicagoParent.

C com/ c GoingPlaces.

G

Listen in 1 in 9 women experience symptoms of postpartum depression, according to the CDC. In our latest episode of our Masters in Parenting podcast, we talk to Emily Pagone, a licensed professional counselor at Naperville Counseling Center, about postpartum depression. Listen to all past episodes at ChicagoParent.com/Podcast.

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IICYMI Last month, we released our free downloadable guide of the best fairs and fests to check out in g Chicagoland. Keep track of all the family-friendly C fests happening this summer at ChicagoParent.com/ fe FestGuide.

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Great strides from the start Explore how our services can complement school-based therapy goals.

Add Easterseals to your child's team this school year and meet milestones faster.

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Š Julie Hermes

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Shriners Hospitals for Children — Chicago specializes in the treatment of scoliosis and other conditions of the spine.

Our surgical team has performed countless spine surgeries as well as corrective casting applications to improve the quality of life for children and adolescents with scoliosis. Over time, the process can move patients toward dramatic results, restoring the hopes of children and families alike.

We offer hope in our other areas of care as well.

For over 90 years, parents and children in need of orthopaedic care, specialized plastic surgery, 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 22 Shriners Hospital locations have provided care for over 1.3 million children.

Where Hope and Healing Meet

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For a consultation, or to refer a patient, call:

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Shriners Hospitals for Children — Chicago

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Real life | MOM

CULTURE GROOVER Mom teaching kids about the world

BY LORI ORLINSKY

A

PHOTOS BY THOMAS KUBIK

janta Chakraborty, the co-founder and CEO of Bollywood Grove, teaches more than 30 Indian dance and fitness classes in Chicago. She also teaches kids about Indian culture through her best-selling children’s book series and online videos through Culture Groove.

You are raising a child and running two successful businesses. What’s your secret?

I reach out for help wherever I can.

I wouldn’t survive a day without my son’s amazing nanny or the mom friends I have who help me maintain my sanity. And my second motto is “Good is good enough.” You can’t optimize on every aspect of your life.

Let go and watch things fall in place.

In today’s society, why is it so important to raise multicultural kids?

As parents, we are all disturbed by the amount of hate and ignorance surrounding us. It is so important for us to expand the mind of our kids by teaching them about the world and the many different ways of living.

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Real life | MOm

th th 2019 July 25 - July 28

CHICAGO PARENT CHICAGO PARENT Restaurant Row • Merchant Lane • Carnival

Opens 5:30 Thursday and Friday, 3:00 Saturday, & 2:00 Sunday Entertainment:

Super Sunday Family Fun Day on July 28th

• Balloon Dude Dale • Dave Dinaso’s World Reptiles C H I C A GofO PARENT.COM • Jesse White Tumblers • Michael’s Make Friday Creativity Happen • Petting Zoo and Pony BoDeans Rides with • Popeye & Sailor Dog Maggie Speaks Show • Mr. D’s Magic Saturday • Big Run Wolf Ranch • Foam Party • Human Spheres Races with Eric Chesser/ The Dancing Noodles/Dreams • Car Show Saturday, July 27th Sunday

Thursday Hairbanger’s Ball with Infinity

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Free Fallin’A Tribute to Tom Petty

Ajanta Chakraborty

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■ Parenting must haves: Activity kits of all kinds— they are a great way to teach about various topics along with teaching

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with The Four C Notes/ Covergirls Violin Show

Admission & Hours Thurs. - 5:30 to 10:30 pm • Fri. - 5:30 to 11:30 pm Sat. - 3:00 to 11:30 pm • Sun. - 2:00 to 10:30 pm

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Thursday and Sunday $5, Friday and SaturdayFEBRUARY $10 2019are|some FREE What ways parents Free Admission on Sunday for residents with ID! Ride Specials

can raise global children?

Make it fun! This is why a Mega Pass $40 pre-sale/$50 at Fest – Good for Admission & Rides All Four Days!

Four Hour Ride Special - $25 – Thursday from 6 – 10 or Sunday from 2 – 6. *$5 lot of our books are based on off coupons are available at the Village Hall* festivals because there is nothCH AGPark Olocated PAat RBirmingham ENT.C OM RidgeFest is held atIC Freedom & Oak (2 blocks east of ing more exciting to a child 104th & Ridgeland). For more info call the Village of Chicago Ridge at (708) 425-7700.

Check out our RidgeFest website –www.chicagoridge.org than a celebration of some FEBRUARY | FREE sort.2019 Same goes for exploring music and movement of other cultures. And when they truly enjoy it, they will inevitably learn more.

Some other ways would be to attend a local multicultural festival; make efforts in setting up C HI C AGO P AR E N T .C OM playdates with the kid in their MONTH TH 2019 | FREE class with a diverse background and fill up their bookshelves at home with diverse books so that it becomes a part of your daily conversation.

MEDIA

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Follow Chicago Parent on Social Media

MEDIA

■ Favorite places to spend a summer weekend in Chicago: North Avenue Beach and Navy Pier

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How have you overcome obstacles to get where you are today?

I built the brand and the company one person at a time.

A lot of people didn’t take us seriously due to preconceived notions of what Bollywood is.

We were shelved under a sort of “special interest only” category and not considered as relevant for everyone. Plus, people were unfamiliar with Indian dance and culture so it was a dual challenge of educating about and marketing the services at the same time.

It took countless hours of work and an amazing community in Chicago that eventually welcomed us and became our champions.

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R=254 G=101 B=8 R=254 G=101 B=8 R=191 G=168 B=52

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patience and persistence, encourage creativity and more.

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FAILING WITH GUSTO

The guest child While planning a recent family vacation, my oldest son Daniel asked if he could bring along a friend. In an effort to decrease sibling bickering and complaints of boredom, I agreed.

My husband hesitantly collected said guest child with our over-stuffed minivan, convinced that his “pack light” decree would be ignored.

MARIANNE Instead, the kid successfully shoved WALSH 10 days’ worth of clothing and personal items into the equivalent of a paper lunch bag.

Joe was impressed.

Early on, I noticed something odd. Guest teen pushed in his chair and cleared the dishes after he ate. His lanky 6-foot-3 frame was forced to sleep on a pull-out couch with that awesome bar that digs right into the middle of your back.

Not a word.

No eye rolls.

No demands for special outings, trinkets or desserts.

On our final day, when there were only scraps of cereal left to eat, he happily devoured his Froot Loops.

What the hell was going on?

A friend once told me that it doesn’t matter how much of a pain your kid is at home, so long as they are well-mannered out in the world.

But how does one really know?

I started a little investigation.

For Dan, parents tell me he’s funny and nice, but they have to vastly increase the pork chop count when he stays for dinner.

For Jack, I get the impression parents don’t realize he’s there because he doesn’t talk. But for Joey, parents won’t invite him over if they have a headache because my kid is rather eager

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)

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So my boys don’t exactly rate where guest vacation child does, but at least they aren’t total jerks, right?

I once pressed my nose against the two-way mirror for hours, obsessively monitoring my preschoolers. Were they sharing?

Were they attentive? Were they pooping in the corner?

But now, it’s a guess. I trust I’ve put in enough lectures, fights, talks and prayers that they should mostly fly right.

I’ve threatened the end of life as they know it if they vape. They are (mostly) banned from social media. From the time they could talk, we have discussed where drugs lead.

Still.

There are days where I could really use that two-way mirror.

Marianne Walsh, mom of three, lives on the South Side.

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VIVA DADDY Visit our school to learn about what we have to offer your child!

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Summer camps and classes at The Little Gym allow kids to exercise their muscles and imaginations! Our flexible camp scheduling allows you to sign up by the week or day!

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MATT BORESI

My daughter Viva wants a cat. She had a cat, briefly, as a baby—but the poor kitty was on its way out, existentially, as Viva was on her way in; the feline Father Time to her Baby New Year.

Now poor Viva has been deemed allergic to cats. A Greek tragedy in her book, a reprieve from the Governor in mine.

I’m perfectly satisfied to live pet free.

I’ve never been a pet person. I never had one growing up and so they seem to me to be aggravation machines. Dogs need walks, cats have inscrutable but constant demands, and both seem doomed to die under expensive circumstances after a too-brief life.

“But they give you love!” I’m told—and they do seem to give you responses reminiscent of human love ... but it’s just a ploy for more kibble.

My wife and I work long hours, so high-maintenance dogs are out, and we have an alarm system, so their practical uses are lost on us. Creatures in aquariums read more like furniture than companions. Birds are loud and filthy and instead of giving you emotional problems by dying early, they give you estate problems by outliving you.

I offered Viva the opportunity to own an adorable hedgehog, but a hedgehog once urinated on her favorite dress and she’s held a grudge ever since.

So, no pet for us. Should Viva’s allergies subside, I would acquiesce to her demands and get a cat, but I want her to understand the benefits of being pet free. Freedom from

Illustration by Stephen Schudlich

leaving parties early because the pets are lonely. Freedom from boarding fees when you’re on vacation or hiring a pet sitter that will definitely search through the drawers in your house when they’re bored.

Freedom from the source of the awful anecdotes pet owners share about what vases their cats break when they’re feeling slighted, or what household objects have been run through their dog’s digestive system.

Freedom from messes and freedom from fur. Sure, we can’t use the pet’s passing as a “starter death” to acclimate the family to mortality ahead of my eventual collapse over an Italian beef/sausage combo, but such is life.

My hedgehog offer still stands.

Viva Petlessness. Viva Viva.

Viva Daddy.

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

16 July 2019 CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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Around town

E X P L O R E

HOMEWOOD

EAT: redbird cafe. This farm-to-table coffee shop serves breakfast and lunch featuring globally inspired foods with seasonal, locally sourced and often organic ingredients.

South suburban village all about family fun

W

BY JENNIFER PALLAY

hen you step off the train at the Homewood Station, you are greeted by a charming downtown filled with tree-lined streets and blooming flowers, an eclectic mix of restaurants, boutique stores and cultural and educational experiences parents and kids are sure to love.

The village is pedestrian- and bike-friendly, with everything a kid could dream of within blocks of the train station, which services both Metra and Amtrak train lines. Should you drive, five public parking lots for visitors are located throughout the downtown area.

As you explore, check out

the beautiful homes and challenge yourself to find two that look the same.

This friendly community also hosts a variety of special events and festivals throughout the year that focus on children and families.

Spend a day here and you will soon see why so many families call Homewood “home.�

PLAY: Homewood Science Center. At the only science center in the south suburbs, your kids will explore, create and connect to science.

Tip: Make sure to look up its open play hours before your visit.

PHOTO BY PAULABOYLEPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

SHOP: LouLou Belle.

This adorable shop features boutique clothes, fun gifts and vintage items. Tip: Just about every kid in town knows the owners pass out Dum Dums.

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18 July 2019 CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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HELP YOUR CHILD SHINE AT SCHOOL OPENING in JULY!

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Do

7 MUST-STOP SPOTS

Foodie Trails EAT

an

n

a d e r on ’t

EMPTY STOMACH

T

BY CHERYL EUGENIO

here has never been a better time to be a foodie. Food trails are all the rage with many popping up in the Midwest. (An added bonus: you won’t have to hear the dreaded phrase, “I’m hungry.”) So pack your bags and the kids, get in the car and get ready to eat, eat and eat some more!

PHOTO BY CHERYL EUGENIO

1. Butler County Doughnut Trail Where: Butler County, Ohio What: Who isn’t a fan of doughnuts? As the first doughnutcentric trail around, visitors can collect stamps on an official passport by visiting each location and redeeming it for a shirt.

Stops: 12 mom-and-pop doughnut shops spanning 80 miles throughout the county.

Must-stop: Have the people at The Donut House fill your doughnut with your preferred filling.

Choose from vanilla, chocolate or Bavarian cream, strawberry, raspberry, lemon or apple.

2. Twin Cities m Trail Ice Cream Where: Through the he Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. t. Paul What: At only 19.5 miles, consider this the easiest (and d one of the yummiest) food trails to o conquer. These unique, innovative ice cream shops are worth a visit with h each stop offering their own creative ve and cool twist.

Stops: 5 Must-stop: Izzy’s Ice ce Cream has become a Twin Cities es institution thanks to more than n 100 flavors to choose from (Summit mit Oatmeal Stout and Wild Country maple syrup), friendly service and d a little extra “Izzy Scoop” at no extra charge. Izzy’s has been called “the he Best Ice Cream Shop in the Country.”

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3. Buckeye Candy Trail Where: Ohio from Cleveland to Cincinnati What: Celebrate Ohio’s sweet love of the buckeyes, a peanut butter and chocolate candy. On the trail you’ll find traditional buckeyes as well as variations (coconut or cookie dough buckeyes, anyone?).

Stops: 31 Must-stop: In Delaware County, stop by Sweet Tooth Cottage in Powell. This family-owned bakery makes everything from scratch and its buckeyes are some of the best. At Wittich’s Candy Shop, one of the oldest candy shops around, indulge in a Buckeye Blast Sundae—ice cream topped with chocolate and peanut butter sauce, and, of course, a Wittich buckeye.

4. A to Z Foodie Trail Where: The towns of Pella, Leighton, Oskaloosa, Knoxville and Pleasantville in Iowa What: Practice your ABCs with this unique food trail where each stop stands for each letter of the alphabet (for example, Pigs in a Blanket for P). The award-winning trail includes chocolate shop, two bakeries, two coffee shops, cheese factory, meat markets and even greenhouses.

Stops: 26 Must-stop: Try Jaarsma Bakery for its legendary Dutch Letters, flaky almond-filled pastries. The family-owned bakery has been offering Dutch treats since 1898.

5. Blackhawk Chocolate Trail Where: Northwest Illinois What: From candy stores to gift shops to cafes and bakeries, the trail offers a wide variety to keep both adults and kids smiling.

Stops: 21 Must-stop: Hazel’s Café in Oregon offers more than 70 kinds of chocolatey goodness from meltaways to its Gourmet Bridge Mix. Coffee lover as well?

Indulge in the Coffee House Sundae, a vanilla bean ice cream, shot of espresso, chocolate espresso beans, ns, caramel and chocolate.

PHOTO BY CHERYL EUGENIO

PHOTO BY CHERYL EUGENIO

6. Soda-licious Trail Where: Indiana What: As part of Indiana Foodways Alliance, you can slurp your favorite sodas at these spots where they make or distribute hand-crafted sodas.

Stops: 15 Must-stop: Triple XXX Family Restaurant in West Lafayette is home to the state’s oldest drive-in (don’t miss its Duane Purvis Burger, a ¼ burger slathered with peanut butter!) and its popular Triple XXX Root Beer. Crafted from pure cane XX ssugar, the root beer stays true to its rroots by using the original recipe.

While in the area, plan a stop at Igloo W Frozen Custard known not only for its custard, but also for its fruit drinks it and flavored sodas with all the simple an syrups made in-house. syru

7. The Hoosier Pie Trail Where: Indiana What: Another foodie favorite on the IFA culinary trail is pies! Whether you prefer traditional pies like apple or berry pies or unique pies like chess pie or the unofficial Hoosier-state sugar pie, you’ll find all sorts of pies to satisfy your appetite.

Stops: 26 Must-stops: As the unofficial Hoosier State Pie, the sugar cream pie is a must-try especially at Bluebird in Morristown. Prefer something else? Blue Gate Restaurant in Shipshewana serves pies all handmade by Amish bakers. Try its Amish pie and red raspberry cream.

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Lauren Poon at Navy Pier Photo by Alexa Rogals

Up, up… and play Places to elevate summer adventures

BY SHANNAN YOUNGER

F

rom natural wonders to manmade marvels, these high-inthe-sky summer activities will take your family fun to new heights, literally.

Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Height: 200 feet Think of Navy Pier as Chicago’s playground. Not only is the summer filled with free activities on the pier perfect for all ages through Labor Day, the view from the Centennial Wheel inspires a whole new appreciation for our city.

Something new is planned each week, including Water Flicks every Monday through Aug. 12, free Rush Hour workouts and Sunset Yoga on Tuesdays through Aug. 13, fireworks every Wednesday and Saturday night and free Wiggleworms music every Friday through Aug. 23.

Check out the summer calendar filled with fests and events at navypier.org/blog/summer-programming-2019-navy-pier/ The always popular Chicago Children’s Museum also has added a new exhibit for summer, Sound Playground, with musical sound makers and one-of-a-kind interactive sonic sculptures including the String Thing, Airophone and Merry Marimba.

Thrills at Six Flags Great America Height: 202 feet If you or your kids are looking for high highs and big thrills, head to Six Flags Great America in Gurnee to check out Maxx Force, a launch coaster that features the tallest double inversion of any roller coaster in the world at 175 feet. Have daredevils who want to go higher still? The Raging Bull coaster is 202 feet tall. Riders must be 48 inches tall to ride Maxx Force and 54 inches tall to ride Raging Bull.

Door County lighthouses Height: 89 feet Lighthouses capture the imagination of people of all ages, and that’s certainly true of the 11 lighthouses that dot the Door County, Wis., shoreline. The lighthouse at Cana Island is one of the tallest, and it’s also the most iconic. That you have to cross a causeway in a wagon or on foot to reach the lighthouse adds to the sense of adventure.

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Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Lake Michigan Overlook

Photo by Gateway Arch

Height: 450 feet The towering dunes along the western coast of Lake Michigan are particularly dramatic at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Arguably one of the best views can be found atop the Lake Michigan Overlook on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.

The amazing sunsets are a feast for the eyes.

The Gateway Arch Height: 630 feet The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is the tallest man-made monument in the United States—yes, it’s taller than the Statue of Liberty, the Washington Monument and the Space Needle.

Travel to the top of the Gateway to the West in a special tram and stay as long as you like taking in the views.

Also at Gateway Arch National Park is an interactive museum focusing on America’s pioneering spirit and westward expansion as well as the Old Courthouse, where Dred Scott filed suit for his freedom. You can also appreciate the height of the Arch looking up at it from a riverboat cruising the Mississippi River.

Float up, up and away in a hot air balloon Height: As little as 50 or as high as 3,000 feet The Lisle Eyes to the Skies Festival July 4-6 typically draws more than two dozen hot air balloons. While there,

take a tethered balloon ride.

Once you hop in the basket, the balloon rises to around 50 feet above the ground.

For those ready to launch higher, Galena on the Fly offers

one-hour balloon rides that reach an altitude of up to 3,000 feet. Kids must be at least 6 years old and at least 4 feet tall.

If you want to keep your feet planted on the ground but

love watching hot air balloons take flight, head to the Color Aloft Balloon Festival Aug. 24 in Grayslake. Families can see a dozen balloons launch, weather permitting.

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RIDE LIKE A CHAMPION New Traditions Riding Academy, LLC located at the Palos Hills Riding Stables, 10100 S. Kean Avenue, Palos Hills, IL 60465

www.ntridingacademy.com

Riding in the new traditions of world class instructors GROUP AND PRIVATE LESSONS….SUMMER CAMPS…..SCOUT GROUPS….PARTIES

boarding/training/professional care (708)598-7718 NTRidingAcademy@aol.com

24 July 2019 CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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summer fun listings Arlington Heights Frontier Days Festival 500 E. Miner St. Arlington Heights (847) 577-8572

A Fairytale Ballet & Academy Lakeview, Bucktown, Evanston (773) 477-4488 (LV & EV) (773) 606-0318 (BT)

FrontierDays.org July 3rd - 7th -FREE entertainment, family activities, carnival, food, beer and wine!

AFairytaleBallet.com Ballet with stories, costumes, props & fun! Ages 2-16

Billy Boy’s Blueberry Barn

Golf Mill Shopping Center

650 Freyer Rd. Michigan City (219) 872-7477

239 Golf Mill Center Niles (847) 699 1070

Billyboysblueberrybarn.com (check website or call for hours)

BRICK SAFARI Brookfield Zoo

Brookfieldzoo.org May 11 – September 29 -Over 40 life size animal sculptures, LEGOS!

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

discoverycentermuseum.org Hands-on children’s science museum with large outdoor park for ages 0-12.

DuPage Children’s Museum 301 N. Washington St. Naperville (630) 637-8000 DuPagechildrens.org Plan Your Perfect Play!

Ears of Experience Monica Clark, Independent Contractor with Ears of Experience, LLC (630) 408-1501

mclark@themouseexperts.com We are the Plan Behind the Magic

Emerald City Theatre Lakeview – Lincoln Park – Lincoln Square (773) 529-2690

EmeraldCityTheatre.com Summer Camps 2019 July 3 – August 16

GolfMill.com Kids Club, engaging and educational events to children and their families

HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN Ethel M. Barber Theater 30 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston (847) 491-7282 wirtz.northwestern.edu A new musical about the boy who would grow up to become the “Father of the Modern Fairy Tale.”

Kidwatch Plus 3330 N. Lockwood Ave., Chicago (773) 993-0536

Kidwatchplus.com Join us for a cultural adventure as Kidwatch Travels Around the World this summer!

Lillstreet Art Center 4401 N Ravenswood Ave. (773) 769-4226

Lillstreet.com Multimedia art camps for kids ages 3–16

The Little Gym of Chicago 3216 North Lincoln Ave. (773) 525-5750

TheLittleGym.com/ChicagoIL Offering programs that develop the happy, confident kid you love.

Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts 6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park (708) 383-3456 Master-SH-Yu.com

World Class Instruction in traditional martial arts.

New Traditions Riding Academy (708) 598-7718

ntridingacademy.com Join us for the summer and learn about the art of horseback riding.

PLAY at Yorktown Center Lombard (630) 629-7330

Yorktowncenter.com 2,000 sq. ft. area combines art, technology, and a playground

Pump It Up Party

The Second City Training Center 230 W North Ave. (312) 664-3959

secondcity.com/tc Summer Comedy Camps IMPROV • SKETCH • MUSICAL IMPROV

Shawnee Forest County Southernmost Illinois 1-800-C-IT-HERE

SouthernMostIllinois.com Breathtaking natural beauty and great opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Orland Park (708) 479-2220 Chicago (312) 664-PUMP

Skokie Park District

Rainforest Café

St. Cyril Summer Fest

Downtown Chicago (312) 787-1501 Woodfield Mall (847) 619-1900 Gurnee Mills (847) 855-7800

Rainforestcafe.com A Wild Place to Shop and Eat

Reed’s Canoe Trips Kankakee (815) 932-2663

ReedsCanoeTrips.com Offering exciting and memorable trips seven days a week

RidgeFest Chicago Ridge chicagoridge.org July 25-28, Super Sunday Family Fun Day on July 28th. Held at Freedom Park in Chicago Ridge located at Birmingham & Oak (2 blocks east of 104th & Ridgeland). Thursday and Sunday $5, Friday and Saturday $10.

Schaumburg Boomers Free Kids Zone Schaumburg Boomersbaseball.com Kids Run bases after game $1 Hot Dog Tuesdays, Family Sundays – Fireworks Fri & Sat Home Games

9300 Weber Park Pl., Skokie (847) 674-1500 Skokieparks.org

607 Sobieski St, Lemont Aug. 1-4 , Food. Drinks. Rides.

Games. Live music.

Veggie Fest Chicago 2019 August 10 & 11

Danada South Park, Lisle Veggiefestchicago.com Family fun celebrating joy, science, food compassion behind vegetarian lifestyle.

Vertical Endeavors 246 Windy Point Drive Glendale Heights (630) 784-9000

verticalendeavors.com Reach New Heights with VE summer camps!

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts 25 locations in U.S. and Canada

campjellystone.com First-rate accommodations, amenities and activities provide the setting for a fun family vacation.

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Alfresco

WITH A SIDE OF PLAY Spots to eat up summer

Photo by Misti Hempfling

W

BY CORTNEY FRIES

Sunset Pavilion at Breezewald Park

hen it’s gorgeous and sunny, there is nothing better than a relaxing meal outside. Except when the kids start to whine that they’re bored. So here are a few great restaurants around Chicagoland that also offer fun outdoor activities, which means the whole family can live it up even more. Happy summer!

Park & Field Logan Square’s Park & Field ld is perfect for a day of fun in the sun. This vintage sports club and eatery includes a 6,000-square-foot patio with h bocce courts. Not only does it have chalk and bubbles for the kids, there are s’mores kits to roast gooey marshmallows over the fire pits and board games very popular with families. Not only will you get a kick out of the old-school gymnasium theme, but you’ll have ve a ball savoring their delicious food and drinks in the fresh air.

parkandfieldchicago. com/#outdoors

Photo by Misti Hempfling

Lake Zurich is home to a beer garden pavilion, right on the beach and steps from the downtown area.

Tall trees and public swimming with lifeguards make the park a popular place. Reserve an umbrella table for flatbreads, appetizers and drinks. “The sunset hour is perfect for an informal meet up with friends or summer picnic while the kids swim and play Frisbee in the park,” says Misti Hempfling, a local mom of three. facebook.com/ sunsetpavilion

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Cabana Club The Robey Hotel in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood is home to Cabana Club, a sixth-floor rooftop pool and bar with 180-degree views of the city. It’s free and open to the public, with a small lounging pool that the kids can play in, ideally between the hours of 9 a.m. and noon. (Later gets crowded and kids aren’t recommended after 6 p.m.) The simple, fresh, chef-driven menu includes smoothies, snacks and sammies as well as frozen cocktails and Popsicles. therobey.com/#robey

Caffe Oliva Caffe Oliva, on Ohio Street Beach in Chicago, is like a mini vacation. Go early with the kiddos and bring buckets and shovels. Kids can play in the sand while adults soak in the sunshine and indulge in beachy cocktails. Lunch and dinner menus include sandwiches, burgers, salads and flatbread pizzas. Brunch is available on weekends and holidays. The standard kids’ fare is offered,

plus a special kids’ dessert. You can even plan to spend some time at the beach after your meal. caffeoliva.com

Lindy’s Landing In Wauconda, a small town about 40 miles west of Chicago, you’ll find many lakefront eateries that make it feel like a mini getaway. Lindy’s Landing takes the cake for families, because kids can play in the sand and splash in the shallow water while adults enjoy the laid back Beach Club with picnic tables in the sand. Order some burgers and drinks and enjoy the low-key vibe. lindyslanding.com

JULY 13 - 28

Ethel M. Barber Theater 30 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston

Tickets: $12 - $20 Box Office: (847) 491-7282 WIRTZ.NORTHWESTERN.EDU

Photo by Cortney Fries

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

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Summer Fun at Discovery Center We’ve got hands-on excitement 7 days a week.

Be amazed by live science shows, planetarium shows and special events every Friday in addition to 300 interactive exhibits!

Family Fridays Activities included with admission WHOOSH!

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Thursday, July 4, 11 am-3:30 pm Friday, August 2, 11 am-3:30 pm Friday, July 5, 11 am-3:30 pm

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TO THE MOON

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The Parsons Chicken patios in Logan Square and Lincoln Park are the places to be in the summer.

If you’re going with kids, consider an early weeknight dinner to savor the delicious fried goodness and backyard barbecue vibe. The kids can play Ping-Pong while the parents sip the famous Negroni slushies. parsonschickenandfish.com

7 01

2015 • 20 1

More information Friday, July 19, 11 am-3:30 pm on our website!

Parsons Chicken

Kaiser Tiger 711 N. Main St. Rockford, IL 61103 815.963.6769 DiscoveryCenterMuseum.org

This West Loop sausage, bacon and beer restaurant boasts a huge beer garden with Ping-Pong, bocce, giant Jenga and bags. Heaters and fans and a rooftop that protects you from the elements will keep you cozy rain or shine so you can fully enjoy your sausages, sandwiches and salads. Isn’t patio season in Chicago the best? kaisertiger.com

28 July 2019 CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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back to school health listings Autism Home Support Services

Easterseals DuPage & Fox Valley

Pediatric Dentistry

Chicago, Evanston, Northbrook, Arlington Heights, Elgin, Schaumburg, Oak Park, Naperville, Rockford (844) AHSS ABA

830 S. Addison Ave. Villa Park

811 W. Wellington, Chicago

AutismHomeSupport.com

Dentistry For Kids, Ltd.

Dentistry4Kids.net Long-term relationships built on confidence and trust.

(888) MyDMGDr dupagemedicalgroup.com Over 50 locations provide primary and specialty care for your entire family.

799 S. McLean Blvd. Ste. 103 Elgin (630) 620-4433 eastersealsdfvr.org Pediatric therapy services to help children realize their full potential.

4801 W. Peterson Ave, Chicago (773) 790-4282

DuPage Medical Group

1316 Bond St. Ste. 116 Naperville

Hair Butterflies

Christopher J. Morin, DDS (773) 871-4964 BigSmilesChicago.com Practice dedicated to infants, children and adolescents.

Shriners Hospitals for Children – Chicago 2211 N. Oak Park Ave. Chicago (773) 622-5400

Hairbutterflies.com Lice & Nit Removal

shrinerschicago.org Pediatric specialty care in orthopedics, cleft lip & palate and rehabilitation. Call 773 385 KIDS (5437) for an appointment

Joyful Smiles Pediatric Dentistry

University of Minnesota

16345 S Harlem Ave, Tinley Park

Minneapolis, MN 55455

(708) 794-9526 kidsdds.net Specialized Dentistry for Children. “Child-friendly environment”.

Call or TEXT 612-345-0325

Chicago – 312 274 3240 Oak Park – 708 524 5423

-less than 20 wks pregnantmompro@umn.edu Pregnancy Study

We’re Invested in Our Local Community We participate in local events and support local charities.

We maintain strong community relationships and partnerships.

We invite guests and practitioners from the community to share and visit with our students and teachers.

We are easily accessible from residential neighborhoods and corporate office parks.

Schedule a tour today at thegardnerschool.com Schaumburg Lincolnshire West Loop 847.592.2513

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GlenviewNorthbrook 847.770.6260

Oak Brook Lincoln Park 630.576.4740

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ESSAY

Mom jokes What my son’s first stand-up comedy act taught me about parenting

BY CATHY CASSATA

W

hen my son said he wanted to perform standup comedy at his school talent show, I imagined him standing on stage telling not-so-funny knock-knock jokes. After all, Ben is 11 and I wasn’t sure what else a fifth-grader would have to say about life.

Since my husband and I are fans of a good laugh, even if forced, we gave Ben the go-ahead.

He impressed us when he designated a notebook to be his joke book. For weeks, he wrote and rewrote material, hiding away his notebook in his room. I wondered what he was coming up with that needed to be kept so secret.

As the talent show approached, he began to practice and practice his delivery aloud in front of me. To my surprise, not one knock-knock joke made it into Ben’s act. He created a legitimate two-minute stand-up bit packed with mom jokes.

That’s right, jokes about me.

On the night of the talent show, as Ben waited in line to take the stage, I thought about the time when I was six months pregnant with him and my husband and I were at our favorite date spot, CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

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ESSAY

MOM JOKES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31 Zanies Comedy Club in Chicago.

That night, every time I laughed, Ben kicked. The harder I laughed, the harder he kicked.

I remember thinking, “This baby wants to be in on the laughs.”

When Ben took the stage, he opened with a comment about how his face was probably as red as a tomato, followed by, “Thanks for those genes, Mom.” His next joke was, “Another thing about moms is you know how they always say, ‘You can do it!’ when you can’t? Like math.”

Both got good laughs, and I admit they were funny, but hearing Ben say them in front of more than 100 people made me realize that he believed his mom jokes were meaningful.

They revealed that he is always observing me, looking for ways

we’re alike and unalike. That he is constantly internalizing how I react to him, discipline him and even encourage him.

That perhaps, sometimes telling him, “Math is hard and it won’t be your best subject, but do what you have to get by” is exactly what he needs to hear rather than, “You can do it!”

His teasing also gave me a sense of joy and made me feel connected to him and trusted by him. His jokes seemed like a sign of love and trust. They lacked cruelty and were graced with a hint of affection. In ways, his entire bit brought me back to being a child and stirred up similar feelings I had for my parents when I made fun of them.

Ben ended his stand-up with a joke about me calling him

for help from our family room while he was watching YouTube in another room. He told the audience he found me “struggling with the TV remote.”

As I asked him how to turn on Netflix, he stresses that he responded by saying, “Mom, you push the button that says Netflix!”

As the crowd roared, it hit me

that Ben indeed has a lot to say about life. His perspective taught me a few insightful things about myself and my role as a parent that I never thought about before. And best of all, his bit taught me that I’ll always have someone to turn to when I can’t figure out how to use the remote.

Cathy Cassata is a freelance writer and mom living in Chicago.

Summer BLOWOUT

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Online only - Final sale, no exchanges or refunds available on final sale items

32 July 2019 CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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summer LEARNING listings THE GARDNER SCHOOL

Gateway Montessori

Marillac St. Vincent

ST. FRANCIS Borgia School

Naperville (630) 657-5029 Chicago-West Loop Campus (312) 229-4299 Northbrook

4041 N. Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60641 (773) 539-3025

St. Vincent de Paul Center, 2145 N. Halsted

3535 N. Panama, Chicago, IL 60634 (773) 589-1000

(847) 770-6260 Chicago-Bucktown Campus (773) 661-0151 Oak Brook (630) 576-4740 Chicago-Lincoln Park (630) 639-1008 Lincolnshire (847) 415-5420 Schaumburg (847) 592-2513 thegardnerschool.com The Gardner School is an awardwinning, academically-focused preschool that offers educational programs for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old

GatewayMontessoriSchool.org Programs from age 15 months through Elementary. Visit us online today!

Har Zion Early Childhood Center 1040 N. Harlem, River Forest 708 366 9000 lapplebey@wzthz.org Children thrive when families partner with professional educators

Legere Dance Centre 7377 W North Ave River Forest (773) 237-187?

Legeredancecentre.com Excellence in dance training – creative and positive atmosphere

Marillac Social Center, 212 S. Francisco MSVKids.org See ad for tuition credit! Birth to Prek programs

sfborgia.org Visit our school to learn about what we have to offer your child!

Sonnets Academy

Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts

Lincoln Park: 1932 N. Clark St.

6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park (708) 383-3456

River North: 430 W. Erie St.

(312) 951-1024 (312) 344-1926

Master-SH-Yu.com Karate, martial arts, and selfdefense classes for adults and kid.

The Second City Training Center 230 W. North Ave, Chicago (312) 664 3959

West Loop: 229 S. Peoria St. (312) 733-7580

Hyde Park: 5548 S. Hyde Park Blvd., (773) 891-0029 sonnetsacademy.com Boundless learning through play.

Six weeks to six years.

Secondcitysummers.com

Specıal Parent CHICAGO

A Chicago Parent EMPOWERMENT GUIDE

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

• 50,000 copies distributed in early intervention specialist offices, and local libraries • Expanded special needs resource directory online at ChicagoParent.com

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SUMMER 2018

AN EMPOWERMENT GUIDE FROM

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Going for gold A life-changing 50 years

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New Edition coming in August!

8/3/18 2:06 PM

For more information, call (708) 386-5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com CHICAGOPARENT.COM July 2019 33

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JULY

Calendar

25 family-friendly events you can’t miss

NORTH SHORE TACO FEST

Royal’s Big Splash Spla Sp lash Character Pool Party. Sing and swim with princesses and superheroes in Schaumburg. July 13.

Roscoe Village Burger Fest. Celebrate the savory patty with rockin’ music, arts/crafts and a “Kids’ Zone.” July 13-14.

PHOTO COURTESY EYES ON THE SKIES BALLOON FESTIVAL

Great Lakes Naval Station Fourth of July. Kids Zone, carnival rides and choreographed fireworks at the working military base. July 4.

Eyes to the Skies Balloon Festival. Hot air balloon shows and rides,

kids’ area, arts and crafts fair, fireworks and large carnival in Lisle. July 3-7.

Northwest Fourth Fest. Carnival rides, craft fair and concerts at Sears Centre Arena.

July 4-6.

Chinatown Summer Fair. Iconic annual celWow in the World Pop Up Party. Curious kids and their grownups learn about science, wonder, imagination, and music at Chicago Theatre.

July 6.

West Fest. Features live music, Kid Fest, Pup Fest and more. July 5-7.

Taste of Chicago.

Food tasting from restaurants across the city, with music and family fun in Grant Park. July 10-14.

Fresh Fest. Showcases Chicago’s young performing artists at Navy Pier. July 12-13.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GREAT LAKES NAVAL STATION FOURTH OF JULY

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Windy City Smokeout.

Enjoy southern-inspired fare from Chicago BBQ

restaurants, music and family fun at United Center.

July 12-14.

ebration of Far East culture includes the Dragon Lion Dance Procession, food and more. July 14.

Looney Tunes on 35 mm. Join Bugs, Daffy,

Navy Pier Quinceañera. Have a group

and the rest of the gang screening classic cartoons at Music Box Theatre. July 13-14.

quinceañera photo taken.

July 15.

{ } ROSCOE VILLAGE BURGER FEST

6/13/19 12:10 PM

Calendar

=PHOTO BY WTTW KEN CARL

Nature Cat

TASTE OF CHICAGO

North Shore Taco Fest & Highwood Days.

F

Carnival rides, live music and tons of food from local vendors. July 18-21.

St. Haralambos Big Greek Food Fest of Niles.

Greek food, cooking demos, music and dancing. July 19-21.

PIEROGI FEST

BenFest. North Side event includes a popular kids’ area with inflatables, games, live music and dance. July 19- 21.

PHOTO BY CLAIRE FABERBOCK

Tacos y Tamales Festival. Come

Baby Prom. Kids

to Pilsen for the best tacos and tamales, stay for the fun. July 19-21.

ages 3 and younger with their parents should attend in their cutest outfits in Evergreen Park. July 20.

Disability Pride Parade. Annual

Art Institute Block Party.

Chicago event to generate visibility for the disability community. July 20.

Includes gallery talks, performances and art-making. July 21.

Museum Maker Monday. Explore the Elmhurst History Museum on a traditionally-closed day. July 22.

Autism Inclusion Night at White Sox. Fans WEST FEST PHOTO BY AN PHAN

living with sensory regu-

lation needs can watch the White Sox against Miami. July 24.

Pierogi Fest.

Features food, polka parade and pierogieating contest in Whiting, Ind. July 26-28.

GhanaFest.

Inflatables, face painting, a youth dance competition, a Chiefs parade and live music. July 27.

Comicopolis.

Meet comic book authors, enjoy a scavenger hunt and enter a costume contest in Lockport. July 28.

IN THE WILD

ans of Nature Cat can explore the feisty feline’s stomping grounds in a first-of-its-kind exhibit at Kohl Children’s Museum.

Opening July 30, “Nature Cat: Backyard and Beyond” is geared for kids ages 2-10 to explore the natural world through play in Nature Cat’s backyard, marsh, cave and forest.

Guests can meet Cat’s friends Hal the dog, Squeeks the mouse, Daisy the bunny and nemesis Ronald the cat next door.

They’ll be asked to accomplish tasks, learn about nature, do math and use different tools as they explore the earth’s surface, plant vegetables and flowers, learn about dim light and crawl through logs.

Kohl has partnered with WTTW Pubic Media and the creators of the PBS animated series, Spiffy Pictures, to bring the exhibit first to Glenview before it launches its tour across the country.

Hillary Bird

Nature Cat: Backyard and Beyond When: July 30-Jan. 26, 2020; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Mondays & noon-5 p.m. Sundays Where: Kohl Children’s Museum, kcmgc.org Cost: $13 adults and children, free kids under 1.

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Art Institute Block Party

PHOTO BY MATT DULA, COURTESY OF THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO

2 | TUESDAY 42nd Street - The Musical.

Filmed in 2018 at London’s Theatre Royal, the production is directed by the original author of the show, Mark Bramble. Visit website for admission. 7 p.m.

Music Box Theatre, Chicago. musicboxtheatre.com.

3 | WEDNESDAY Evergreen Park’s Independence Day Parade. Evergreen Park’s 3rd of July Parade will mark its 50th

year this summer. 6:30 p.m. 95th and Harding, Evergreen Park. evergreenpark-ill.com.

Stroller Tours. Caregivers discover the MCA’s exhibitions with a docent, exploring galleries without concern that their baby or stroller will disrupt the tour.

Free with admission. 11:30 a.m.

Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago. mcachicago.org.

Plainfield Patriotic Picnic and Fireworks. Bike parade, touch-a-truck and fireworks. Inflatables and games are available for a fee. Fireworks follow the event. 6-9 p.m.

Plainfield Central High School, Plainfield. plfdparks.org.

4 | THURSDAY Fourth of July Celebration at Chicago History Museum. FamilyDragon Boat Festival

friendly activities, music and more.

Commemorate our nation’s independence with family-friendly activities, musical performances, a reading of the Declaration of Independence and more. 10 a.m.noon. Chicago History Museum, Chicago. chicagohistory.org.

Evanston’s Fourth of July Celebration. Fun run, parade and concert before fireworks. 9 a.m.-10 p.m.

Clark Street Beach, Evanston. evanston4th.org.

Glen Ellyn 4th of July Parade & Festival. The day filled with activities includes a parade, a 4-mile run, music and fireworks, a festival at Lake Ellyn includes an inflatable obstacle course, carnival games, face painting and concessions. $3 for festival. 8 a.m.-10 p.m., parade steps off at noon. Glen Ellyn. (630) 469-5845, glenellyn4thofjuly.com.

Glenview Fourth of July. Children’s bike parade leads

activities for kids and fireworks. $15 residents, $20 non-residents; free kids 5 and under, VIP packages start at $25. 5-10:30 p.m.

Deerpath Community Park, Lake Forest. friendslfpr.org.

off Independence Day activities.

A concert begins at 7 p.m. at Glenview Park with the North Shore Concert Band playing patriotic music. The fireworks will set off at dusk. 11:15 a.m. children’s parade. Glenview. glenview.il.us.

Downers Grove Fourth of July Celebration. Fireworks

Elgin Fourth of July Parade and Festival. Elgin hosts its

Lake Forest Festival & Fireworks. Features food, music,

and parade. 12:45 p.m. parade, about 9:30 p.m. fireworks.

Downers Grove. events.downers. us/independence-day.

annual 4th of July Parade with the theme “Get in the Game.”

Free parade, for festival fees see website. 9 a.m. parade, 5 p.m.

PHOTO BY GWN DRAGON BOAT

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Calendar gates open for festival, 7 p.m. concert, fireworks follow concert. Grand Victoria Casino Festival Park, Elgin. cityofelgin.org.

Itasca 4th of July Celebration. Live music and 25-minute fireworks show. Free, $25 on-site parking. Food vendors begin selling at 4 p.m., music starts at 7 p.m., fireworks begin about 9:45 p.m. Hamilton Lakes, Itasca. itasca.com.

The 4th on 53rd.

Old Fashioned Fourth of July Parade, then picnicstyle family fun. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Hyde Park, Chicago.

(773) 955-3622, 4thon53rd. com.

Tinley Park Fourth of July Celebration. Inflatables, face painting, crafts and clowns. A fun run with categories for young runners begins at 8 a.m. Fireworks

follow the celebration at dusk. Fees for food. 4-10 p.m. McCarthy Park, Tinley Park. tinleyparkdistrict.org.

Oak Lawn’s Party in the Park. Kids activities include inflatables, tricycle car wash, mud table and mural decorating. Fireworks will launch at Richards High School. $5 wristband includes pool admission, free 3 and under. Noon-4 p.m. at Memorial Park, 3:30-10 p.m. at Stony Creek Golf Course. Memorial Park, Oak Lawn. olparks.com.

Independence Day at Navy Pier. Guests are encouraged to take advantage of the different activities and experiences on the Pier throughout the day. Navy Pier’s boating partners will also offer cruises during the day and during the fireworks display for an unparalleled viewing experience. Fees for

some activities. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Navy Pier, Chicago. navypier.org.

Skokie’s Independence Day Parade & 3D Fireworks Festival. Parade, party and 3D fireworks. Fees for food. Noon, parade; 5 p.m., celebration at Niles West High School; about 9:30 p.m., fireworks.

Skokie. (847) 674-1500, skokie4th.org.

Aurora Fourth of July Celebration.

Inflatables, parade and fireworks in Aurora. 10 a.m. parade, events at parks vary. Paramount Arts Centre and Theatre, Aurora. aurora-il.org.

Great Lakes Naval Station Fourth of July. Kids Zone, carnival rides and choreographed fireworks.

The Kids Zone has won awards and features hands-

About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the August issue is July 1. All events are subject to change. Please confirm before you go.

Events taking place on four or more dates during the month are listed in Ongoing Events, beginning on page 47.

■

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar

on activities, a rock wall and costumed characters.

For adults, there will be bingo, a paintball area and live music from local and national bands. For the family, there are carnival rides and games. The general public is welcome to the active naval base.

3-10 p.m. Ross Field, Great Lakes. navymwrgreatlakes. com.

Winnetka’s Fourth of July

Celebration. Parade, inflatables and facepainting highlight nation’s birthday celebration. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Winnetka Village Green, Winnetka. winpark.org.

5 | FRIDAY Fireworks Night at Arlington Park. Live music and entertainment during horse racing and fireworks display at dusk.

Blueberries Promote Good Health!!

23 Seasons!

• Beautiful, picturesque, wooded countryside • One hour & 15 minutes from Chicago Loop!

• Best-tasting blueberries in the Midwest!

• Reasonable prices - Pick your own! (pre-pick available) • Normal season availability, mid July - Labor Day • Closed Tuesdays • Open 8:30-6 CT

BILLY BOY’S BLUEBERRY BARN 650 Freyer Rd., Michigan City, IN

219.872.7477

billyboysblueberrybarn.com (check website or call)

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Calendar $22 adults, $6 and up kids 4-17. 2-10 p.m. Arlington Park Racecourse, Arlington Heights. arlingtonpark. com.

Drop-In Small Wonders Art for Kids.

Artists ages 4-12 will take part in a variety of creative visual and performing arts activities. Drop off can begin at 4:10 p.m., and artists should wear appropriate painting clothes. $5 donation. 4:15-6:15 p.m.

Side Street Studio Arts, Elgin. sidestreetstudioarts. org.

6 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

Wow in the World Pop Up Party. Join Guy Raz, Mindy Thomas and The Pop Ups (three-time Grammy nominees and creators of the “Wow in the World” theme song) for a

highly interactive show that engages curious kids and their grown-ups in science, wonder, imagination, and music and leaves them all saying “WOW!” $25$40. 2-3:30 p.m. Chicago Theatre. wbez.org/events.

Chosen Few DJs Music Fest & Picnic. Non-stop DJ performances and special musical guests. $40, free 12 and younger.

8 a.m.-8 p.m. Jackson Park. chosenfewdjs.com.

SUBURBS

Fox River Grove Fireworks. Festival, food and fireworks. 3-10 p.m.

Picnic Grove Park, Fox River Grove. foxrivergrove. org.

Rock and Roll Playhouse offers its core audience of babies bies and kids games, s, movement, and d stories and an opportunity to rock out.

Gallagher Way. gallagherway. com.

Secret Agent Storytime. Sing, ng, dance, read books, oks, and make crafts with h Agent Zach and your friends, parents, and siblings. blings Recommended for junior agents ages 0-4 and their families. 11 a.m.-noon. The Wicker Park Secret Agent Supply Co. (646) 239-9625, secretagentsupply.com.

7 | SUNDAY CHICAGO

Rock & Roll Playhouse at Gallagher Way. The

10 | WEDNESDAY Evening Nature Walk. Kids of all ages

ad get help & advice, and hear & share sha stories.

5:30-7 p.m.

Higgins p Education Center, Educa Hoffman Estates.

Hoff adc.d211.org/ adc Domain/13.

Do

12 | FRIDAY Family Fun Fair.

Fun Rock and Roll Playhouse PHOTO BY JAY BLAKESBERG

will explore Village Green including the flora and fauna around the natural wetlands. 6-8 p.m.

Hideaway Brew Garden & Bar, Hoffman Estates. (847) 649-2221, hideawaybrewgarden.com.

Autism Helping Hands Support Group.

Parent support group to talk about life transitions,

Kids ccan ride a trackless train, play trackles Kiddieland Kats and Kiddielan carnival games, other carniva mini-Ferris wheel, ride a mini-Fe the dunk tank, take aim at th make k a roller ll coasterthemed craft and test out the marble roller coaster tracks. Bring a picnic dinner and lawn blanket and enjoy complimentary popcorn and cotton candy while supplies last. 5-8 p.m. Elmhurst History Museum, Elmhurst. (630) 833-1457, elmhursthistory. org.

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Calendar 13 | SATURDAY

14 | SUNDAY

CHICAGO

CHICAGO

Looney Tunes on 35 mm. Join Bugs, Daffy, and the rest of the gang screening some classic cartoons guaranteed to bring out the kid in you. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Music Box Theatre. musicboxtheatre.com SUBURBS

Kids Obstacle Challenge. Kids take on challenging obstacles and mud. $36-$60, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. The Sensory Garden Playground, Lisle. (888) 655-1127. kidsobstaclechallenge.com.

Royal’s Big Splash Character Pool Party.

Sing and swim with princesses and superheroes. $15, 6-8:30 p.m. The Water Works, Schaumburg. (773) 800-9046, eventbrite.com.

Looney Tunes on 35 mm. See July 13.

SUBURBS

Special Needs Night at Centennial Beach.

Individuals with special needs can enjoy a relaxing evening. $3. 6:30-8 p.m. Centennial Beach, Naperville. centennialbeach.org.

Summer Concert Series. Variety of musical acts for every taste play at Circle Park. Today’s artist: Rick Lindy & The Wild Ones. 6-8 p.m. Klein Park, Evergreen Park. evergreenpark-ill.com.

Concerts in Your Park. Locations vary for summer concert

series. Today’s artist: The Hat Guys. 7-8:30 p.m.

Century Farms Park, Naperville. napervilleparks.org.

Kids Obstacle Challenge. See July 13.

15 | MONDAY Navy Pier Quinceañera. Have a group quinceañera photo taken. Preregistration required. 6 p.m. Navy Pier, Chicago. navypier. org.

17 | WEDNESDAY Glow Golf at The Hub. Play mini-golf with glowin-the-dark balls and glow sticks. $7, $6 residents 9-10:30 p.m. The Hub, Elmhurst. (630) 782-4955, epd.org.

4th on 53rd

18 | THURSDAY Concerts in Your Park. See July 14.

Today’s artist: Five Guys Named Moe. Pradel Park, Naperville.

20 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

Disability Pride Parade. Annual event to

generate visibility for the disability community.

Parade marches west on Van Buren to Dearborn and north on Dearborn to Washington (Daley Plaza).

11 a.m. disabilitypride parade.org.

SUBURBS

Baby Prom. Kids ages 3 and younger with their chaperone parents

Want to learn all about penguins?

Customize your Shedd experience with a Private Personalized Tour or participate in a Penguin Encounter.

sheddaquarium.org/extraordinary

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Calendar should attend in their cutest outfits and bring smiles to Baby Prom. 9:3010:30 a.m. Evergreen Park Public Library, Evergreen Park. evergreenparklibrary. com.

Mammals and More Animal Show.

Learn about some unique creatures from around the world during this interactive live animal show. 2-3 p.m. Morton Grove Public Library, Morton Grove. (847) 9295102, mgpl.org.

21 | SUNDAY CHICAGO

Art Institute Block Party. Includes gallery talks, performances and art-making. $10 through July 20, regular admission rate on July 21. 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Art Institute

of Chicago. artic.edu/ blockparty.

SUBURBS

Concert On The Green. Grab a blanket or chair for a free concert at Village Green. Today’s artist: Five Guys Named Moe. 7-9:30 p.m. Village Green, Oak Lawn. olparks.com.

22 | MONDAY Museum Maker Monday. Kids and caregivers can explore the museum on a traditionally-closed day, play games, complete a craft and picnic on the grounds weather permitting. Drop-in program appropriate for elementary age children accompanied by an adult, no registration required.

1-4 p.m. Elmhurst History Museum, Elmhurst. (630)

Evergreen Park Parade

833-1457, elmhursthistory.org.

24 | WEDNESDAY Autism Inclusion Night at White Sox. Fans living with sensory regulation needs are invited to join the White Sox for a special

baseball experience for a game against Miami. A portion of the proceeds from the game will be donated to Autism Speaks. Visit website for group tickets. 7:10 p.m.

Guaranteed Rate Field, Chicago. whitesox.com/ autismspeaks.

Tap Fest. Tap performance as part of Chicago Human Rhythm Project’s Rhythm World Festival. 6:30-8 p.m. Navy Pier, Chicago. navypier.org.

Best Day Ever Puppet Show. Follow the adventures of two puppeteers with one goal:

• Lite Brite Wall • Climbing Wall • Transportation Station • Engineering Mega Station • Tubes and Tunnels • Water Play • Dress up Stage • Toddler Area • Private Birthday Parties

SkokieParks.org

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Calendar to put on a show. $8. 10-10:45 a.m.

Northbrook Theater, Northbrook.

(847) 291-2995, nbparks.org.

Arlington Heights. gwndragonboat.com.

28 | SUNDAY

27 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

Family Jam - Stomp and Shout in Concert! The gang will play all of the Stomp and Shout hits + rock n’ roll tunes to make sure the joint is jumpin’. $12; Free under age 1.

10:30-11:15 a.m. Mercury Theater. stompandshoutchicago.com.

CHICAGO

South Side Story Time. A monthly gathering that curates readings for its young attendees along with the chance for their parents to socialize.

Recommended for kids ages 6 and younger. 10-11 a.m. Green Line Performing Arts Center. facebook. com/artspubliclife/events.

SUBURBS

Family Day/Open House. Meet the animals of Big Run Wolf Ranch. $7. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Big Run Wolf Ranch, Lockport. (815) 588-0044, bigrunwolfranch.org.

Chicago International Dragon Boat Festival. Blends a 2,500-year-old tradition with the excitement of an outdoor fest. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Busse Woods Trail,

SUBURBS

Special Needs Night at Centennial Beach. See July 14.

Comicopolis. Meet comic book authors, enjoy a scavenger hunt and enter a costume contest.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. White Oak Library District, Lockport. (815) 552-4225, comicopolis.org.

Great Lakes Naval Station Fourth of July

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FAIRS & FESTS Naperville Ribfest. Fest features a BBQ contest with rib vendors, two live music stages, special events and fireworks. Family area features carnival rides, inflatables, circus tricks, magic show, face painting, petting zoo and live performances. Admission varies by day. July 3-6. Knoch Park, Naperville. ribfest.net.

Oak Fest. The festival features bingo, a bean bag tournament, bands, a car show, food, and family fun, including a carnival.

Event includes fireworks on July 4. July 3-7. Oak Fest, Oak Forest. oakfest.com.

Frontier Days. Features family activities, music and a parade. Carnival tickets and other activities cost extra; free shuttle service. July 3-7. Recreation Park, Arlington Heights. (847) 577-8572, frontierdays.org.

Eyes to the Skies Balloon Festival. Features hot air balloon shows and rides, a special kids’ area, an arts and crafts fair, fireworks, a large carnival and an assortment of daily events. $8, free kids 6 and under. Carnival starts July 3; festival runs July 4-7.

Community Park, Lisle. (630) 7691000, eyestotheskies.org.

Northwest Fourth

Fest. Carnival rides, craft fair and concerts. Plus, a state-of-the-art fireworks display and live entertainment with performances by local favorites. Fireworks on July 4. Fees for carnival rides. 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

July 4 & 6, 5 p.m.-11 p.m. July 5. Check website for event schedule. Sears Centre Arena, Hoffman Estates. northwestfourthfest. com.

Lake County Fair

International Festival of Life. Family festival features international and local acts on two stages, arts and crafts, food, games and entertainment for kids.

Plus, 3x3 soccer tournament. See website for schedule and pricing.

Noon-10 p.m. July 4-10. Union Park, Chicago. (312) 427-0266, internationalfestivaloflife.com.

West Fest. Features live music on three stages, plus Kid Fest, Pup Fest, and an array of vendor booths from neighborhood retailers, restaurants and artists. $5 donation. 5-10 p.m. July 5, noon-10 p.m. July 6-7. West Fest, Chicago. (312) 850-9390, 0, westfest chicago.com.

p.m. July 4-5; noon-9 p.m. July 6.

Lawrence & Broadway, Chicago.

(773) 868-3010, windycityribfest. com.

Chicago Botanic Garden Art Festival. Artist talks and family activities will be featured.

More than 90 juried artists will display their work including photography, paintings, ceramics, cement, metal, fiber, wood, jewelry and much more. Parking fees apply. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 6-7.

Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe.

(847) 926-4300, amdurproductions. com.

Bristol Renaissance Faire. Take a trip

through Elizabethan England. Kids Taste of Kingdom is an Chicago enclosed play area filled with oversized sand boxes, a climbaboard pirate ship, interactive games, crafts and other child95, friendly diversions. $25.95, $11.50 kids, free kids 4 and under. Visit the website for .m.-7 p.m. discounted tickets. 10 a.m.-7 ly 6. Bristol weekends beginning July Renaissance Faire, Kenosha, Wis. Taste of Chicago. Food (847) 395-7773, renfair.com/ tasting from restaurants across Bristol Bristol. the city, with music and family fun.

Renaissance Additional cost for food and seatFaire Windy City Ribfest. ing at Petrillo. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. July Features music, ribs 10-12; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. July 13-14. and a kids’ area.

Grant Park, Chicago. (312) 744$5. Noon-10 3315, cityofchicago.org.

Railroad Days. Music, food, fireworks, carnival rides, parade, 5K Run/Walk, community art show and beer garden. July 11-14. Pioneer Park, West Chicago. (630) 231-3003, wcrailroaddays.com.

Windmill City Festival.

Featuring carnival, entertainment, music and demonstrations. 4-10 p.m. July 12, 8 a.m.-11 p.m. July 13, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. July 14. Batavia Riverwalk, Batavia. (630) 879-5235, windmillcityfest.org.

The Irish American Heritage Festival. Cultural fest includes mashed potato eating contest and cchildren’s activities. $12-$15 adult; $ $5 kids under 12; free kids 3 and u under. 6 p.m.-midnight July 12, noon-midnight July 13, noonn m midnight July 14. Irish American H Heritage Center, Chicago. (773) 282-7035 ext. 10, irishfestchicago.

2 co com.

Fresh Fest. The two-day fest showcases Chicago’s young fe p performing artists, presenting a ra range of musical and dance talent, including children’s musicians, in b blues, classical, rock, jazz and m more. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. July 12-13, see website for schedule. Navy se P Pier, Chicago. navypier.org.

Square Roots Festival. Dance S parties, concerts and an Instrument Petting Zoo. $10 donation, $5 seniors and kids, $20 families 5-10 p.m. July 12, noon-10 p.m. July 13, noon-9 p.m. July 14. Lincoln Avenue between Montrose & Wilson, Chicago. (773) 804-8589, squareroots.org.

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FAIRS & FESTS Windy City Smokeout. Enjoy southern-inspired fare from Chicago BBQ restaurants. Plus country music and a Family Day on Sunday. See website for ticket prices & schedule; kids under 10 free with paying adult. July 12-14.

United Center, Chicago. windy citysmokeout.com.

Bucktown Garden Walk.

Features a garden walk, trolley rides, live music and petting zoo.

Churchill Park hosts a Children’s Area (10 a.m.-noon) with natureinspired activities sponsored by local businesses and schools. $10 donation. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. July 13-14. Chicago. (773) 486-4353, bucktown.org/gardenwalk.

Civil War Days. See large scale battle reenactments, explore camps and shops and meet characters. $10, $5 kids 4-17 and seniors. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 13-14. Lakewood Forest Preserve, Wauconda. (847) 968-3400, lcfpd. org/civilwar.

Outside Experience Show. A two-day event for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts of all skill levels, ages and families. Event includes interactive gear demos, craft beverage tastings, live music performances and more. $10-$32, free 6 and under. 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

July 13, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 14.

McCormick Place, Chicago. (646) 535-5196, outsideexperienceshow. com.

{ } West Fest

Roscoe Village Burger Fest.

Celebrate the savory patty with rockin’ music, arts/crafts and a Kids’ Zone. $10 donation. 11 a.m.10 p.m. July 13-14. Belmont & Damen, Chicago. roscoevillage burgerfest.com.

Southport Art Festival.

This festival showcases the work of 100 juried artists, food from neighboring restaurants and live musical performances. $5 donation. 10 a.m.- 7 p.m. July 13; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 14. Southport at Waveland, Chicago. (773) 665-4682, starevents.com/event/ southport-art-fest.

Vernon Hills Summer Celebration. Includes music, rides, car show and kids’ activities.

July 18-21. Century Park, Vernon Hills. (847) 361-8979, summercel. com.

North Shore Taco Fest &

Highwood Days. Carnival rides, live music and tons of food from local vendors. 4-10 p.m. July 18; 4-11 p.m. July 19, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

July 20, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. July 21.

Highwood Metra Station Parking Lot, Highwood. (847) 432-6000, celebratehighwood.org.

Summer Nature Festival. Enjoy outdoor activities and access to the museum. $5 suggested donation, $10 per family. 5-8 p.m. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, Chicago. (773) 755-5100, summernaturefest.com.

St. Haralambos Big Greek Food Fest of Niles.

Greek food, cooking demos, music and dancing. Donations accepted.

5 p.m.-midnight July 19, 3 p.m.midnight July 20-21. Holy Taxiarhai And Saint Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church, Niles. (847) 6478880, biggreekfoodfestofniles.org.

Chicago’s Colombian Fest. Live music, food vendors, circus, dance workshops, arts & crafts, games, bounce houses and an art mural. $16 per day, $25 presale three-day pass. 4-10 p.m. July 19, noon10 p.m. July 20-21. Kelvyn Park, Chicago. colombianfestchicago. com.

Sheffield Garden Walk & Music Festival. The neighborhood’s gardens will be open to explore. The fest also includes food and the Kids’ Corner with entertainment and activities for families. $10 suggested donation. July 19-21.

Sheffield Avenue, Chicago. sheffieldneighborhood.org.

BenFest. North Side family event

The Irish American Heritage Festival

includes a popular kids’ area which features live music and dance for various ages, games, waterslide, inflatables, face-painting, arts and

crafts area, Sport Zone and more. $5 donation. 4-10 p.m. July 19, 1-10 p.m. July 20, 1-7 p.m. July 21. St. Benedict Church, Chicago. benfest.com.

Tacos y Tamales Festival.

Come for the best tacos and tamales, stay for the fun. $5 suggested donation benefiting the Frida Kahlo Community Organization. 5-10 p.m. July 19; noon-10 p.m. July 20-21.

Pilsen neighborhood, Chicago. chicagotacofest.com.

Taste of River North.

Enjoy cuisine from River North restaurants, music and the Kid Zone. $5 donation 5-10 p.m. July 19; Noon-10 p.m. July 20; 11 a.m-8 p.m. July 21. Ward Park, Chicago. tasteofrivernorth.com.

Arts at the Lake.

Handmade art by 70 artists, live music and hands-on art activities for the kids. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. July 20, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 21. Paulus Park, Lake Zurich. (847) 726-8669, dwevents.org.

Chinatown Summer Fair.

Iconic annual celebration of Far East culture includes the Dragon Lion Dance Procession, artisans, food vendors and more. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. July 21. Chinatown, Chicago.

(312) 326-5320, chicagochinatown. org.

Woodstock Folk Festival.

Folk music festival. $20 suggested donation, $15 seniors and students, $30 family. Noon-6 p.m.

July 21. The Square, Woodstock. woodstockfolkmusic.com.

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.

Aircraft, showplanes, daily air shows and KidVenture. Gates open at 7 a.m. July 22-28. Oshkosh, Wis. airventure.org.

Lake County Fair. Features demolition derbies, rodeo, carnival midway, petting zoo and more. $5-$10; free kids under 5. July 24-28. Lake County Fairgrounds, Grayslake. (847) 680-7200, lcfair. com.

Fiesta del Sol. Includes Aztec dancing, kids’ area, and games and educational activities. Check website for admission prices. 5-10 p.m. July 25, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. July 26-27, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. July 28.

Pilsen neighborhood, Chicago.

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FAIRS & FESTS fiestadelsol.org.

Pierogi Fest. Features food, polka parade and pierogieating contest. Fees for food.

July 26-28. Whiting, Ind. (888) 659-0292, pierogifest.net.

Wicker Park Fest.

Continuous live music, a kids’ fun area and an arts section. $10 donation. 5-10 p.m. July 26, noon-10 p.m. July 27-28.

Wicker Park, Chicago. wicker parkfest.com.

Geneva Fine Arts Fair.

Features a kids’ art area with special activities. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 27-28. 100 S. Third St., Geneva. (630) 232-6060, genevachamber.com.

Glencoe Festival of Art. Features artists from around the world and an art scavenger hunt. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

July 27-28. Green Bay Road and Park Avenue, Glencoe.

(847) 926-4300, glencoe festivalofart.com.

Taste of Lincoln Avenue.

Features vendors, food, music and kids’ carnival. Afternoons include a stand-alone (free) kids’ carnival with art activities, pony rides and more. $10 donation. Noon-10 p.m.

July 27-28. Lincoln Avenue, Chicago. tasteoflincolnchicago. com.

GhanaFest. Inflatables, face painting, a youth dance competition, a Chiefs parade and live music. $10-$15. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. July 27. Washington Park, Chicago. ghananationalcouncil. org.

Northbrook Days Festival. Food vendors, carnival rides and entertainment. All proceeds from the festival go to scholarship and grants via the Northbrook Civic Foundation.

Fees for some activities. July 31-Aug. 4, see website for schedule. Village Green Park, Northbrook. northbrookdays. com

Square Roots Festival

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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Shawnee Shawnee Forest Forest Country Country

Southernmost Illinois Southernmost Illinois The Shawnee National Forest offers hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing,

The Shawnee National Forest offers hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing,

and some of the best fishing around. You won’t want to miss the Garden

and some of the best fishing around. You won’t want to miss the Garden

to arrange a guided horse back trek, or a pony ride for the kids. to arrange a guided horse back trek, or a pony ride for the kids.

of Godsof— rock formations more than 300 million years old — sculpted Gods — rock formations more than 300 million years old — sculpted

An old railway converted bike path, The Tunnel Hill State Trail is a 48-mile An old railway converted bike path, The Tunnel Hill State Trail is a 48-mile

patiently over time wind and rain.

Follow the the popular Observation Trail patiently overby time by wind and rain.

Follow popular Observation Trailatat

trail throughfarmland, farmland,thick thick woods, wetlands a tunnel trail winding winding through woods, lushlush wetlands and and a tunnel

GardenGarden of the Gods wherewhere breathtaking views cancan be found. of the Gods breathtaking views be found.

for it was wasnamed. named. for which which it

Shawnee Canopy offers a 3 hour adventure through thetrees trees Shawnee Bluffs Bluffs Canopy Tour Tour offers a 3 hour adventure through the

Enjoy the rolling countryside where youyou can can sip your Enjoy rollingSouthern SouthernIllinois Illinois countryside where sip your

8 zipand lines2and 2 suspension bridges. with 8 with zip lines suspension bridges.

way along along and andand authentic winewine culture on the way and discover discovertruly trulysurprising surprising authentic culture on the Shawnee Hills Shawnee Hills Wine WineTrail.

Trail.

Breathtaking natural beauty and great opportunities outdoor recreaBreathtaking natural beauty and great opportunities forfor outdoor recreation, a trip to Giant City State Park near Makanda is sure to delight. Check

Bed and Breakfasts dot the region and are great launching pads for

tion, a trip to Giant City State Park near Makanda is sure to delight. Check

Bed and Breakfasts dot the region and are great launching pads for

out the 82-foot, 100,000-gallon water tower with a 50-foot observation

wine tasting, hiking, or biking enthusiasts. Cabins in the area offer a

deck that provides memorable panoramic views. Visit Giant City Stables

secluded getaway, some that are pet friendly and some with hot tubs.

out the 82-foot, 100,000-gallon water tower with a 50-foot observation

deck that provides memorable panoramic views. Visit Giant City Stables

wine tasting, hiking, or biking enthusiasts. Cabins in the area offer a

secluded getaway, some that are pet friendly and some with hot tubs.

SHAWNEE FOREST COUNTRY — BREATHTAKING NATURAL BEAUTY AND ADVENTURE | SOUTHERNMOSTILLINOIS.COM | 1-800-C-IT-HERE

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800-C-IT-HERE www.southernmostillinois.com

800-C-IT-HERE www.southernmostillinois.com 46 July 2019 CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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ongoing

Fantastic Bug Encounters Photo by Te Papa

Exhibits

Amplified Chicago Blues.

Immerse yourself in the history of Chicago blues of the 1960s 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, chicago history.org.

Bixbee Imagination Station.

Rooms inspired by Bixbee product design themes, each providing Instagrammable backdrops with engaging activities that boost creativity while creating moments of awareness and self-expression. $30, $23 ages 3-11, Free 2 and under. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. North Avenue Collection, Chicago. bixbeeimaginationstation.com.

Animal House. Meet the newest

Bronzeville Echoes: Faces and Places of Chicago’s African American Music.

tree-dwelling additions to Peggy Notebaert’s Animal House. Free with admission. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago.

(773) 755-5100, naturemuseum. org.

Brick Safari. Created from mil-

Art on theMart. Curated digital art installation across 2.5 acres of theMART’s river façade. About 7-9 p.m. daily. The Merchandise Mart, Chicago. artonthemart.com.

Explore Chicago’s music legacy through ragtime, jazz and blues.

Through July 28. Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., Chicago. (312) 744-6630, chicagoculturalcenter.org. lions of individual Lego bricks, the never-before-seen-in-North-America sculptures will amaze kids and adult fans. $5, $3 children 3-11, free 2 and under. Zoo admission separate.

Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. (708) 688-8000, czs.org.

Chicago SummerDance.

Free one-hour dance lessons by professional instructors and two hours of live music and dancing are presented as a part of the largest annual outdoor dancing series in the U.S. Swing, waltz, cha-cha or simply enjoy the music.

Wednesdays-Sundays. Visit website for complete schedule. Grant Park, Chicago. (312) 742-4007, chicagosummerdance.org.

Drop-in Acorn Express Adventures. Take a family-friendly tram-ride adventure through the arboretum. Seek out fun destinations to hike, make a craft and explore new topics each week. $5.

11-11:45 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays. The Morton Arboretum, Lisle. (630) 719-2468, mortonarb. org.

Fantastic Bug Encounters.

Step into a larger-than-life version of their hidden world. Told from a bug’s point of view, “Fantastic Bug Encounters!” invites you to take a closer look at the beauty, diversity,

and amazing abilities of these resourceful creatures. Explore hands-on stations to learn about the unique superpowers of spiders and insects—their adaptations. $6+, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The Field Museum, Chicago. fieldmuseum. org.

Hamilton: The Exhibition.

Featuring an audio tour narrated

by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Hamilton: The Exhibition is designed to take visitors deeper into the life and times of Alexander Hamilton, while at the same time chronicling the American Revolution and the creation of the United States of America. $25-$39.50 timed ticket.

Northerly Island, 1400 S. Linn White Drive, Chicago. (312) 7452910, hamiltonexhibition.com.

Imagine the Moon Sky Show.

The planetarium’s 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) 922-STAR

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Ongoing (7827), adlerplanetarium.org.

Lego City: Report For Duty.

Enjoy a new event at Legoland as kids can build a police badge or super rescue vehicle, film an epic adventure, meet costumed characters and watch the bricktastic 4D Lego movie. Free with paid admission. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through July 31. Legoland Discovery Center, Schaumburg. (847) 592-9700, chicago.legolanddiscoverycenter. com.

Live on the Lake. Live, family-friendly music and performances at the Miller Lite Beer Garden at Navy Pier. Weekend performances vary, select Saturdays & Sundays. Navy Pier, Chicago. navypier.org.

Nature Connects: Art with Lego bricks by Sean Kenney.

Marvel at 13 larger-than-life displays created from nearly half a million Lego bricks, including a monarch butterfly boasting an eight-foot wingspan and an enormous hummingbird sipping nectar from a colorful trumpet flower.

Free with admission. 7 a.m.sunset. Morton Arboretum, etum, 4100 Illinois Route 53,, Lisle. mortonarb.org.

Museum, Glenview. kohlchildrens m museum.org.

Roxie! In conjunction with Chicago’s Year of Chicago Theater, C “Roxie!” explores the portrayal of o Jazz Age Chicago written by former Chicago Tribune reporter f Maurine Watkins. Through July 28.

2 Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., Chicago. (312) 744-6630, chicagoculturalcenter.

7 org. o

Navy Pier Fireworks.

Fireworks on Navy Pier can be seen from the dock and the lake. 9:30 p.m.

Wednesdays, 10:15 p.m. Saturdays. Navy Pier, Chicago. navypier. er. org.

Nature Connects: Art with Lego Bricks

by Sean Kenney

Purchased Lives: The he ade from American Slave Trade 1808 to 1865. Curated by The Historic New Orleans Collection, the exhibition reveals slavery’s machinations and widespread persistence in America, long after the importation of slaves was made illegal in 1808. 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.

Nature Cat: Backyard and Beyond. In collaboration with WTTW, Kohl Children’s Museum will debut an exhibit featuring Nature Cat and his friends designed to encourage children to explore the natural world. Free with museum admission. Begins July 30, visit museum website for regular hours. Kohl Children’s

EXERCISE PREGNANCY STUDY

REEDSCANOETRIPS.COM

Trips available seven days a week.

Troll Hunt. The 15- to 20-foottall trolls invite visitors to interact with them, while elements of the exhibition encourage visitors to

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

Offering exciting and memorable trips from a few hours to an entire day in length, on the clean and beautiful Kankakee Riversome of the best fishing and canoeing waters in Illinois!

Sound Playground. Children S and a adults explore the interactive nature of sound and all the surprisn ing i ways that it can be created.

Visitors will be able to play with musical sound makers and one-ofa-kind interactive sonic sculptures including the String Thing, Airophone, and Merry Marimba.

Free with museum admission.

Chicago Children’s Museum, Chicago. chicago childrensmuseum.org.

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Ongoing consider their personal responsibility as stewards of our environment.

Free with arboretum admission.

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

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

Wired to Wear. Wired to Wear

Morning Glories. Children and their caregivers can explore different areas of the Children’s Garden. Educators provide story time, imaginative play and sensory activities. Recommended for 5 and younger. Free, donation requested.

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

is the first-ever exhibit dedicated to wearable technology—smart clothing and devices designed to extend the human body’s capabilities and make us healthier, stronger and safer. Recommended for ages 6 and older. $12, $9 ages 3-11, $6 members. Timed ticket required. Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago. (773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

Worlds of Wonder: Remembering Chicagoland’s Amusement Parks. This new exhibit celebrates Chicago’s favorite destinations for fun and thrills, from Kiddieland, Santa’s Village and Dispensa’s Kiddie Kingdom.

1-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays & Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays.

Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 8331457, elmhursthistory.org.

OTHER EVENTS

DAILY Story Time. Listen to a story selected for the littlest visitors, and then keep the fun going with games and activities. Free with admission. 11 a.m. daily. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (773) 755-5100, naturemuseum.org.

SUNDAY Family Build: Tinker Lab. Join experts 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. Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Upper Wacker Drive, Chicago. architecture.org.

Fiddleheads. Join the conservatory 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. Garfield Park

MONDAY

Bixbee Imagination Station

Shadow Puppet Story Time.

An exciting adventure with Bill, the museum’s story time expert, and his trusty sidekick. Free with museum admission. 11:30 a.m.

Wonder Works, 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park. (708) 383-4815, wonder-works.org.

Baby & Me. A chance for parents of infants to meet others adjusting to parenthood, ask questions and make friends. A nurse representative from Advocate Lutheran General Hospital will answer questions and facilitate discussions about early childhood development. Free with admission. 9:30-11 a.m. Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 8326600, kcmgc.org.

Navy Pier ‘Water Flicks’ Summer Film Series. Every Monday, the Pier will show a different superhero-themed movie at the Lake Stage. Free popcorn will be available to guests on a firstcome-first-served basis, courtesy of Navy Pier IMAX at AMC. 6:30 p.m.

Thor: Ragnorak, July 1; Avengers: Infinity War, July 8; Wonder Woman, July 15; The Lego Batman Movie, July 22; The Incredibles 2, July 29. Navy Pier, Chicago. navypier.org.

TUESDAY Kido Books Storytime.

The story time specializes in books that feature multicultural characters and encourage empathy and inclusivity. 10:30-11 a.m. KIDO, 1137 S. Delano Court, Chicago. kidochicago.com.

Wiggleworms at Gallagher Way. Young children

and their families can participate in an interactive, social and imaginative musical world with live music, shakers, bubbles, singing and dancing. 10 a.m. Gallagher Way, Chicago. gallagherway.com.

Children’s Movies at Gallagher Way. Families can enjoy movies on the big screen. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Hotel Transylvania 3, July 2; The Pirates! Band of Misfits, July 9; Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, July 16; The Iron Giant, July 23; Penguins of Madagascar, July 30. Gallagher Way, Chicago. gallagherway.com.

Millennium Park Summer Film Series. Catch a movie on the big, big, big screen. Guests are encouraged to sit at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion or lounge on the Great Lawn as the movies are presented on the state-of- the-art, 40-foot LED screen. 6:30 p.m.

The Wiz, July 2; 10 Things I Hate About You, July 9; Moonlight and Pan’s Labyrinth, July 16; The Music Man, July 23; Fences, July 30.

Millennium Park, Chicago. choosechicago.com.

Children’s Lunch Hour Entertainment. Performances are geared to the young and young-at-heart and last about 45 minutes. 11 a.m. Super Stolie at Riverwalk Park, July 9; The Frog Lady at Frontier Park, July 16; Mr. Singer and the Sharp Cookies at Riverwalk Park, July 23. Naperville. napervilleparks.org.

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

Block to Block Party.

Enjoy live music at the City Centre Plaza Fountain and the North York Plaza. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesdays through July 31. Elmhurst City Centre, Elmhurst. (630) 993-1600, elmhurstcitycentre.com.

Music Box Theatre Movies at Gallagher Way. Lakeview’s Music Box Theatre will host sundown movies at Gallagher Way every other Wednesday. Carry-out food is welcome, candy, snacks and popcorn are available at the park. 7:30 p.m., gates open at 6 p.m. Field of Dreams, July 3; Spider-Man: Into the Spider-verse, July 24. Gallagher Way, Chicago. gallagherway.com.

Arbor Evenings. Enjoy lawn games, refreshing beverages, and delicious tapas in a green clearing surrounded by beautiful trees. $17. 5:30-8 p.m. The Morton Arboretum, Lisle. mortonarb.org/ events.

Paint Covered Wednesdays.

Children use a large variety of paints, styles and canvases as they learn to tell their stories. Free with museum admission. 10:30 a.m.4:30 p.m. Wonder Works, Oak Park.

(708) 383-4815, wonder-works.org.

Mindfulness and More. Oral storytelling, read alouds and mindful awareness games develop

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Ongoing focusing skills. Free with museum admission. 3:30 p.m. Wonder Works Children’s Museum, Oak Park. (708) 383-4815, wonder-works.org.

THURSDAY Slot Car Free Play. Enjoy racing slot cars, hot chocolate, a coloring station, a game room with foosball, ping pong, air hockey and more. 5-9 p.m. ThursdaysFridays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays.

Fieldhouse Jones, 312 W. Chestnut St., Chicago. fieldhousejones.com.

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 performances and more. The rest of the month on Thursdays, entrance late in the day is $14.95 for up to four people, $5 each additional person. 4-8 p.m.

Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E.

Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago.

(312) 527-1000. chicago childrensmuseum.org.

Songs and Stories. Join artists at Bubbles Academy every Thursday afternoon for songs and stories. Entry includes cost for open play. $12, free enrolled families. 3:30 p.m. Bubbles Academy, Chicago. bubbles academy.com.

Ravinia District Food Truck Thursdays. Held on Dean Avenue between Roger Williams and St. Johns Avenues, and in Jens Jensen Park, across from the Ravinia Metra Station. Familyfriendly crafts and activities in the park will add to the fun. While dining with family and friends, attendees can enjoy live music in Jens Jensen Park from 5:30-8:30 p.m. 4:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. See website for schedule of musical acts.

Jens Jensen Park, Highland Park. cityhpil.com.

Rockin’ In the Park.

Brick Safari

Outdoor concert series with cover

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ORY

Ongoing bands. 7-10 p.m. Lisa McClowry “Rock the 80s,” July 4; Kings & Associates, July 11; Silver Bullet Band STL, July 18; Atomic Punks, July 25. Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District, Rosemont. rosemont.com.

THURSDAY Family Nights. Enjoy music, kid-friendly fare and entertainment.

Enjoy live music, kid-friendly fare, and entertainment after-hours in the Children’s Garden. $5 after 4:30 p.m. 5-8 p.m. Farmer Jason, July 11; Super Stolie - Bilingual Sing-along, July 18; Miss Mim & Friends, July 25. The Morton Arboretum, Lisle.

(630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

FRIDAY Wiggleworms at Navy Pier. Young children and their families can participate in an interactive, social and imaginative musical world with live music, shakers, bubbles, singing and dancing.

10 a.m. Navy Pier, Chicago. navypier.com.

Garden Story Time. Gather for story time and fun in the Children’s Garden amphitheater. Free with arboretum admission. 11 a.m. The Morton Arboretum, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

Shadow Puppet Story Time.

See Monday.

Slot Car Free Play. See Thursday.

SATURDAY Kids Pokémon League.

The Cat & Mouse Games Kids’ Pokemon League brings together kids 6-12 who are serious about learning how to play the game.

Participants need to understand the official rules and be able to play independently. For those who need to learn, there is a drop-in group instructional session 10-10:30 a.m. Must have a deck of 60 cards. 10:30 a.m.-noon Saturdays. Cat & Mouse Games,

{ } Sound Playground

1112 W. Madison St., Chicago. cat-n-mouse.com.

Little Squirrels Storytime.

Stories and songs celebrating classic literature for preschoolage kids. Free with admission.

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

S.T.E.A.M. Saturdays. Kids get a chance to learn more through

play, mostly focusing on chemistry, geometry and physics. Parents will get some great ideas to try with little ones at home. Free with museum admission. 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Wonder Works, 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park. (708) 383-4815, wonder-works.org.

Slot Car Free Play. See Thursday.

Fiddleheads. See Sunday.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY Pediatric dentistry

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We take the fear out of dentistry for your child.

• Dental care for children from infancy to adolescence • Specializing in patients with special health care needs • Modern child friendly office • Sedation dentistry available • Digital X-rays to reduce your child’s exposure to radiation • Pleasant, comfortable surroundings

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

(773) 871-4964 DR. YAA N. McDONALD 4801 W. Peterson Ave • Chicago, IL 60646

773-790-4282

Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry 16345 S. Harlem • Tinley Park

708-633-8700 • www.kidsdds.net

MiniSmilesChicago.com chrismorin5@yahoo.com

Evenings and Saturdays available.

Practice limited to infants, children and adolescents.

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Performances Cats. Composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber and based on T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, the musical has been seen by more than 73 million people worldwide. $26.50+. 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays, 2 p.m.

Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays, 8 p.m. Saturdays beginning July 16. James M. Nederlander Theatre, Chicago. broadwayin chicago.com.

Chicago Kids Company presents Princess and the Pea. Meet Princess Penelope and her crazy friends. Recommended for ages 2-10. $14-$18. 10:30 a.m.

Wednesdays-Fridays. Beverly Arts Center, Chicago. (773) 445-3838, beverlyartcenter.org.

Cirque du Soleil: Volta.

Energetic, urban and contemporary, Volta is a captivating voyage of discovery that showcases never-before-seen under the Big Top acrobatics in a visually striking world. $70+. 8 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, 4:30

p.m. Saturdays, 1:30 p.m. & 5 p.m. Sundays, through July 6.

Soldier Field Stadium, Chicago. cirquedusoleil.com.

Emma. After a successful experiment in matchmaking, Emma Woodhouse is convinced she can do no wrong. So, the high-spirited socialite inserts herself in the love lives of everyone around her and leaves a tangle of heartbreak in her wake. Navigate the blunders of the heart in this world premiere adaptation of the 1815 romantic comedy by Jane Austen. $20-$40.

7:30 p.m. Thursdays-Fridays, 8 p.m. Saturdays, 4 p.m. SaturdaysSundays, through July 14. Lifeline Theatre, Chicago. lifelinetheatre. com.

Grant Park Music Festival.

A series of summer concerts showcasing classical music. Visit website for concert schedule and information. Grant Park, Chicago. grantparkmusicfestival.com.

Live on the Lake. Live, family-friendly music and

Cats Photo by Matthew Murphy performances at the Miller Lite Beer Garden at Navy Pier.

Weekend performances vary. Navy Pier, Chicago. navypier.org/live-onthe-lake.

Les Miserables. Set against the backdrop of 19th century France, the acclaimed musical tells the story of broken dreams

and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption.

Recommended for families with kids ages 10 and up. $35+, 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays & Sundays, 8 p.m. Saturdays & 2 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays, July 9-27.

Cadillac Palace Theatre, Chicago. broadwayinchicago.com.

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Performances

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

7 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays, noon Saturdays & Sundays begins July 18. The Cambria Hotel Loop-Theatre District, Chicago. broadwayinchicago.com

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The Music Man. The story of

charismatic con man Harold Hill, who stumbles upon River City, Iowa, with the grand promise of a marching band, but a lack of musicality. $25+. 7:30 p.m.

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Shakespeare in the Parks: The Comedy of Errors. Free

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L ast word

W

PARENTING

Dilemma

hat do you do when you really dislike the mom of your child’s BFF but the girls are too young for playdates at each other’s home without a parent being there?

Who has time for this nonsense? I just tell them we’re busy/I’m working/ other obligations and actively pursue other options for my kid to socialize: preschool/kids classes/cousins/other friends. Gizel B.

Trust your own instincts.

If you “really dislike” the mom you must have CONNECTING some pretty goodWITH reasons why. That’s it. You don’t want the mom around your child setting a bad example for your child.

There are plenty of other kids for your child to play with. Peggy R.

◆

◆

I guess I would say if they are that young find your daughter new friends or suck it up and deal with the other mother for an hour here and there. If they go to school together, then I don’t think they are too young for playdates without you. Kati S.

Maybe find a playgroup and invite the mom and your daughter’s best friend, or invite a few other moms/daughters to play somewhere in addition to the one you don’t like. That way, you have other people you can talk to and the other mom will have other people to talk to, as well. Less awkward! April L.

◆ You suck it up. Put on a smiley face and deal with it. Your child deserves it.

Avital L.

◆ Offer to “trade off” watching the besties play. That way she gets a few hours off, then the following day/week, you get a few hours off.

Otherwise, go with the flow, turn off your ears and hope time passes quickly. Kimberly G.

◆ Children aren’t friends because their parents are friends. Respect the girls’ friendship by arranging playdates in places where both parents are there and just stay cool.

Bring things to do that keep you less available to

◆

socialize or participate in playing. Dar L.

◆ Well, if she doesn’t like you either, then bring a book. If it’s because you really don’t know her, sit down and actually get to know each other. Maybe you have some walls

that need to be knocked down? Or let bygones be bygones? Lori S.

◆ Playdates never existed back in the day. How did we ever survive without them? They can be fun but it needs to be natural and stress free

on all fronts, not forced.

Deanna K.

◆ Don’t do playdates with that mother. Super easy.

We’re allowed to put ourselves first as mothers.

We should. The happier we are, the better we can be! Ally W.

As a mother, you should be putting your child first, that’s kind of the entire role of being a mother.

Why should your kid suffer just because the “adults” can’t play nice together? For a few hours out of life, a mother can just suck it up if it is that important to their child.

They’d just suck it up for a paycheck, they can do the same for their child’s happiness. Lisa M.

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