Chicago Parent June 2017

138

JUNE 2017

| FREE

ways to rock June CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

Summer sanity savers

CP_Cover_June_2017.indd 5

Chicago’s own

super dads 5/15/17 4:10 PM

SHARE THE

quality time family fun hands-on learning interactive play time travel

A trip to the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is really a trip through time and space. As if the thunderstorms and roars aren’t enough to captivate you in the Dinosphere, you’re also greeted by the world’s most complete mummified dinosaur. And in Beyond Spaceship Earth, you’ll find out what it’s like to live and work in the International Space Station. There’s no better setting for family bonding than this magical, four-story, smile-generating place.

Imagination and wonder. That’s Honest-to-Goodness Indiana.

Get trip ideas at VisitIndiana.com/Children

CHIPAR0617_CV2.indd 1

5/18/17 11:13 AM

A STORY AROUND EVERY BEND Start your summer travel tale at VisitIndiana.com

Wolf Park

Download our free app!

CHIPAR0617_001.indd 1

5/18/17 11:14 AM

A lifelong bond begins here.

The AMITA Health Women’s Health Institute is here to help you feel well prepared for the most important day of your life — the day you welcome your new baby into the world.

We thoughtfully designed our six AMITA Health Birth Centers to offer you a comfortable environment where our caregivers pamper you and help deliver an optimal birth experience. With specialized care for high-risk pregnancies, expert perinatal services and an innovative Women & Children’s Hospital, our goal is to provide for your every need. We also help you feel well informed when it’s time to take your new baby home.

AMITA Health is here for you and your growing family, always. In sickness and in health.™

To learn more or to find a doctor, please call:

© 2017 AMITA Health

844.366.0620 To take a virtual tour of our Birth Centers or to find a doctor, please visit:

AMITAhealth.org/women

WOMEN’S HEALTH INSTITUTE

2 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_002.indd 1

5/18/17 11:14 AM

WHERE CONVENIENCE AND GREAT CARE GO HAND IN HAND Leading women’s health doctors now in the South Loop

Patient Denisha Burns with Abbe Kordik, MD

Make an appointment today

» Well woman exams » General gynecology care » Adolescent gynecology » Birth control and family planning

SOUTH LOOP The University of Chicago Medicine Center for Advanced Care at South Loop 1101 S. Canal Street, Level P1, Suite 202, near DSW Free convenient garage parking

» Pregnancy care by obstetricians and midwives

1-877-336-5667

» Infertility diagnosis and treatment » Menopause care

HYDE PARK Duchossois Center for Advanced Medicine 5758 S. Maryland Avenue, 3rd Floor

Visit uchospitals.edu/general-obgyn

1-773-702-6118

AT

WH-SL-ChiParentAd_051717.indd 1

CHIPAR0617_003.indd 1

THE

F O R E F R O N T O F M E D I C I N E®

ChicagoParent.com 5/17/17 June 2017 3 10:24 AM

5/18/17 11:14 AM

4 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_004.indd 1

5/18/17 11:15 AM

contents IN THIS ISSUE

28

JUNE 2017 | VOLUME 33 | NO. 6

FEATURES OWN 25CHICAGO’S SUPER DADS

13

BEST IN CHI

16

INSIDE VOICE

23

CRAFT

A visit to a new nature playground and a peek inside the new American Writers Museum Make a loud, joyful noise A super easy way to use plastic water bottles for yard decor 41 138 WAYS TO ROCK JUNE

Check out our awardwinning calendar for ideas

ON THE COVER Cover kid: Blue Man Gareth Hinsley and daughters Evelyn and Violet

A Blue Man, a music man and cool dads nominated by their kids

SANITY 28SUMMER SAVERS

8 ways to enjoy summer with the kids

FOR THE 33STEM SUMMER Places for unique learning

Photography: Thomas Kubik of TK Photography Design: Claire Innes Blue Man Group celebrates 20 years at the Briar Street Theatre this year

Available now

GOING PLACES Your best guide to summer fun ChicagoParent.com June 2017 5

CHIPAR0617_005.indd 1

5/18/17 3:19 PM

EDITOR’S NOTE SPONSORED

Who lives here?

Too precious to waste

Your home is the place that feels just right for you. In nature, every animal also has a kind of place that’s just right: its habitat.

See the squirrel in the tree? A tree home is just right for a squirrel because his sharp claws help him climb the bark and his fluffy tail helps him keep his balance when he jumps from branch to branch.

An earthworm’s habitat is the soil. A soil home is just right for an earthworm because it’s cool and moist and full of tiny things to eat. The earthworm has a muscular mouth to make a tunnel as it munches.

A fish’s habitat is a lake, river, or ocean. A water home is just right for a fish because it has special equipment to get oxygen from the water. It has a sleek shape and smooth scales to swim easily.

A screech owl’s home is a hole in a tree. A hole home is just right for an owl because it’s a good place to sleep during the day. At night, when the owl is ready to hunt, a hole high in a tree is a good launching pad.

Each animal is just right for its habitat and every place in the world is habitat for some animal. Look around in your neighborhood. Can you see who lives where?

TAMARA L. O’SHAUGHNESSY

Since becoming a mom, time has been rushing, rushing, rushing. I was warned, of course, by friends and strangers alike, that the kids would grow up overnight.

I am the first to admit I’ve squandered too many precious moments with them over the years, and lately I’ve been a mom full of regrets about time lost.

I’ve also been thinking a lot about another mom who had to pack a lifetime of precious moments into just a few years and how she made the most of them despite a deadly breast cancer diagnosis hanging over her every moment. Lauren Hubert Smoke—the beloved Miss Lauren—who graced one of my favorite covers over the last 10 years, died just before Mother’s Day. It’s not fair that she didn’t have more time to be a mom—and she was a great mom. A self-confessed cupcake lover with a shy, sweet smile who loved bringing music to thousands of booty-shaking Chicago area kids, Lauren fiercely loved her husband, Ian, and little boy, Nico.

Through her music, she helped moms and dads and kids revel in sweet, simple moments, to put down the phones and to just enjoy being together. She taught

Photo by TK Photography

us all to collect and store precious moments, even if we didn’t realize her message at the time.

None of us want to think about not having a tomorrow with the kids. We’re all super busy running here and there, feeling stressed out over this or that. But like Lauren did with her sweet Nico, we need to pause, to capture and to treasure all of the little moments before they are gone.

My hope for you this month is summer afternoons with the kids spent not doing housework but playing in the sprinkler, creating works of art in chalk on the sidewalk and going on quiet walks and simply talking. I’m going to try to do the same.

4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, Ilinois 60532 mortonarb.org • 630-968-0074 6 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_006.indd 1

5/18/17 1:40 PM

at Barnes & Noble this Summer MUST-READS for YOUNG READERS

Favorite Paperbacks

BUY 2, GET THE 3RD FREE* Selection may vary. Ask a bookseller for details. Offer ends 9/4/17.

IN STORES Offer ends 9/4/17.

Keep Skills Sharp this Summer with

TRIM 10.486”

Award-Winning Summer Bridge Activities®

ONLY $10 EACH Originally priced $14.99. Offer ends 7/31/17.

Barnes & Noble Classics

YOUR CHOICE $5 EACH**

POPULAR PICKS for SUMMER READING

Barnes & Noble Classics paperback editions only.

Offer ends 9/4/17.

Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program KIDS EARN A

IN STORES

Offer ends 9/4/17.

FREE BOOK Ask a bookseller for details. Offer ends 9/5/17.

All offers subject to availability, while supplies last. *Lowest-priced qualifying paperback in the transaction shall be free. **Excludes titles priced $4.95 or less. Excludes digital editions.

CHIPAR0617_007.indd 1

Visit your local store or shop BN.com for these savings and much more.

5/19/17 2:07 PM

“ CHICAGO SHAKES P EA RE I S A BEST BET FOR FAMILIES”

-CHICAGO PARENT

MOVE IT, MOVE IT to Navy Pier this summer for a 70-minute live stage musical!

$

22 Children (12 & under)

$

based on the DREAMWORKS ANIMATION MOTION PICTURE book by KEVIN DEL AGUILA original music & lyrics by GEORGE NORIEGA and JOEL SOMEILLAN directed & choreographed by RACHEL ROCKWELL

34 Adults

JULY 13-AUGUST 27 WED

THU

FRI

SAT

SUN

11:00 am 11:00 am 11:00 am 11:00 am 11:00 am 2:00 pm* 2:00 pm* 2:00 pm* 2:00 pm* *

No 2:00 pm performance on July 13, 14, 15 and 16

GUARANTEED DISCOUNTED PARKING IN NAVY PIER GARAGES 2017/18 MAJOR SEASON SUPPORTERS

The Harold and Mimi Steinberg Charitable Trust

8 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_008.indd 1

5/18/17 3:57 PM

CONTRIBUTORS

Our favorite must-do with the kids this month EDITOR

Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy SENIOR EDITOR

Elizabeth Diffin DIGITAL EDITOR

Jackie McGoey ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Emily Adams ART DIRECTOR

Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNERS

Jacquinete Baldwin, Javier Govea IT AND DIGITAL DEVELOPER

Mike Risher CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Matt Boresi, Megan Murray Elsener, Cheryl Eugenio, Keely Flynn, Cheryl Leahy, Amanda Simkin, Josannah Terry, Marianne Walsh DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES

Annette Coffee, Christine Griffith, Lourdes Nicholls, Karen Skinner MEDIA COORDINATOR

Kristen Benford ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER

Philip Soell

ADVERTISING DESIGN MANAGER

Andrew Mead

The Original Rainbow Cone.

Every year. Last day of school. It’s our official start to summer!

Marianne Walsh

We love to pick strawberries and then come up with as many things as possible to make with them, from smoothies to muffins to Popsicles!

Megan Murray Elsener

One of our family favorites is the Scottish Festival and Highland Games in Itasca. My kids love the inflatables and train rides, but the real unique factor is a chance to participate in games and watch men throw hammers in a skirt. (Try explaining that one!)

Cheryl Eugenio

We head to our local ice cream parlor—the one where my husband went as a kid—and devour massive waffle cones.

Cheryl Leahy

ADVERTISING DESIGN

Debbie Becker, Mark Moroney CIRCULATION MANAGER

Jill Wagner DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT

Caleb Thusat BUSINESS MANAGER

Joyce Minich CREDIT MANAGER

Laurie Myers PUBLISHER Dan Haley COMPTROLLER Ed Panschar FOUNDERS

Natalie Goodman, Carolyn Jacobs

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

chiparent@chicagoparent.com TO FIND A COPY

circulation@chicagoparent.com ADVERTISING

dhaley@wjinc.com

Chicago Parent is published monthly by Wednesday Journal, Inc. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Chicago Parent, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL, 60302. © 2017 Wednesday Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

Drop in for the best fitting kid’s shoes for summer!

M-F 10 - 7 Sat 10 - 5 Sun 12 - 5 ChicagoParent.com June 2017 9

CHIPAR0617_009.indd 1

5/18/17 11:18 AM

social

Amazing Events for Your Family!

Big fun in April at our Chicago Parent Playdate at The Athletico Center in Northbrook. Mark your calendar! Playdate returns, October 22, at the Naperville Yard!

And again back at Athletico Center on Sunday, April 29, Spring 2018.

Don’t miss Kids Eat Chicago at the Taste of Chicago!

Chicago Parent hosted Israel Idonije, the Bears great and now children’s book author, at Kids & Company.

Thanks to Motorola, Nicole Marie Events and Monika Dixon PR for making this event great.

We’re bringing an epic culinary & play experience to the Taste of Chicago on July 8 and 9. It’s all free and all fun.

Find out more at KidsEatChicago.com

Contact us at advertising@chicagoparent.com to learn how you can host an event.

Stay in the know at ChicagoParent.com, sign up for newsletters, and learn more about our next event, Kids Eat Chicago.

Playdate photos courtesy of TK Photography | Dreamkidz Event photos courtesy of Miss Motley Photography | nicee@missmotleyphotography.com

10 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_010.indd 1

5/19/17 10:35 AM

ON THE WEB

Family fun and summer sun at ChicagoParent.com School is out!

Your kids have worked hard all year, and now it’s time to play hard. Head to bit.ly/SummerFunCP for our favorite ways to make the best summer memories. We’ve got the inside scoop on the coolest coasters, the juiciest burgers, the best parks and playgrounds, and more.

JACKIE MCGOEY

®®

RegisRegistered teredsign sign Unicode: Unicode:

Daddy dea dearest

Third time’s the charm

You’re a tickl tickle monster, a bear hug giver and a bal ball catcher. You’re a maker silly noises and a teller of of sill bad jokes. You’re a dad, and ba this month we’re celebratth ing you and all you do for in your family. Visit bit.ly/ yo CPCoolDads for Father’s CP gift ideas, local dads who Day gi inspire us and more.

Two of the hottest family movie franchises are back this summer with brand new flicks. Go to our Contests page to enter Cars 3 and Despicable to win tickets to C we’re also giving away Me 3. Plus, we Chicago Sky basketball Chica tickets, tickets to Skydeck tick Chicago at Willis Tower Ch and Z Yang, the latest an doll to join the American do Girl family.

Gi

Tiptoe into our enchanting world of Dance!

Our exclusive Fairytale Ballet class combines literature with costumes & props. Summer forming now!

Baby Ballerinas 1½-2 yrs Fairytale Ballet 2-5 yrs ®

Exclusive Fairytale Ballets each week

Academy Ballet 6-17 yrs

15

Advanced Ballet training & pointe

AFairytaleBallet.com Chicago/Lakeview (773) 477-4488

Celebrating!

Chicago/Bucktown (773) 606-0318

Evanston

Summer Camps

(773) 477-4488 ChicagoParent.com June 2017 11

CHIPAR0617_011.indd 1

5/19/17 9:02 AM

12 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_012.indd 1

5/18/17 11:19 AM

1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg

A summer must-do New nature playground doesn’t disappoint

E

ver since I heard about a new Schaumburg Park District nature playground in the works, I seriously could not wait. And now that I’ve been there, I’ll say it’s definitely worth the drive.

Kids will have tons of fun exploring the acre-sized playground designed to let them engage in active and passive play in a natural setting. They’ll climb through the multi-tiered treehouse, sift through rocks, follow the stream that flows around the park or play a tune on the gigantic chimes. If they are looking for a little quiet time, it’s easy to take a seat on a tree stump and challenge

each other to a game of checkers, or spend time in a little nook underneath the treehouse.

Parents, you’ll even notice signs encouraging a little learning while playing.

The park’s goal is to inspire today’s youth to remain active, develop agility, learn resilience, discover the benefits of cooperation and experimentation, solve problems and learn to navigate the world around

them confidently. And I have to say, the park has exceeded all expectations.

Located on Spring Valley’s 135 acres, you’re surrounded by nature, including more than three miles of trails, a nature center and a historical farm with animals. You can easily spend the whole day here. And what’s even better is that everything is free!

Cheryl Eugenio

Best in Chi

Bison’s Bluff

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 13

CHIPAR0617_013.indd 1

5/18/17 11:20 AM

BEST IN CHI

Summer fun good

for the brain

3 things the kids will enjoy

1

Mark your calendars now because the annual Taste of Chicago gets a new family-friendly culinary experience that will have kids eager to learn in the kitchen this summer. Chicago Parent is hosting Kids Eat Chicago July 8-9, a two-day event in Grant Park filled with kids’ entertainment, chef demos and lots of activities that will have kids moving and putting on their thinking caps.

By creating a place just families, from the new mom to parents with middle schoolers, Kids Eat Chicago will be the spot to learn how to create healthy treats and meals while not missing out on everything the Taste has to offer. Kids Eat Chicago will offer a diaper changing zone, bounce houses, a place to charge those smartphones and stroller parking.

KidsEatChicago.com

2

The Museum of Science and Industry is bringing back its popular Summer Brain Games, eight weeks of free, at-home science experiments that will keep their brains busy.

This summer’s theme is all about superheroes using science.

Brain Games begin June 15; each week this summer registered families receive instructions on eight different superhero-themed science activities.

Register at msichicago.org/ summerbrain

3

Chicago Children’s Museum has a great new way to get kids thinking, problem-solving and taking turns—its new exhibit, Forts.

“Fort-building is a timeless childhood pastime,” museum President and CEO Jennifer Farrington says in a news release. “As we reimagined this nostalgic diversion, we upped the ante to create a fantastical living room fully stocked with everything a fort-builder needs to create a world that’s all their own.”

Forts will be open through Sept. 17 and is included in museum admission ($14 for kids and adults). chicagochildrensmuseum.org.

Summer Fun

6/30/17.

CHICAGO PARENT’S SUMMER ACTIVITIES GUIDE JULY 2016

| FREE

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

I’m BORED

(847) 619-1900

One mom’s FIX

Skip the

slump

17

brain builders Why chores matter

Splash into summer

Your July bucket list CP_Cover_July_2016.indd 27

Continues in July For more information, call (708) 386-5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com

6/14/16 2:52 PM

14 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_014.indd 1

5/18/17 12:43 PM

Save time. Buy online. msichicago.org

DEAR HUMANS, THINK YOUR PHONE IS SMART? COME MEET US.

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 15

CHIPAR0617_015.indd 1

5/18/17 11:21 AM

INSIDE VOICE

Make a loud, joyful (outdoor!) noise

KEELY FLYNN

Has your family made the commitment to stay firmly rmly ou o out ut of doors until roughly Labor Day weekend? You’re not alone.

While you’re enjoying all of that fresh air, check out our three favorite picks for everything musical, for all things celebratory and for the best ways of getting down—while getting out.

Do Division right Spanning 10 city blocks, Wicker Park’s Do Division Street Fest and Sidewalk Sale takes “something for everyone” to the next level with multiple live music stages—including one just for families—shopping galore and musical programming guaranteed by those in the know; famed venues Subterranean and The Empty Bottle are booking all acts.

And as for family fun, they

don’t mess around here. While most festivals offer a corner for kiddo adventures, Do Division’s Family Fun Fest goes for a full two blocks. Archery or train rides? Face painting or pony rides? Why choose? 100 percent of proceeds benefit Pritzker and LaSalle II, both neighborhood public schools, and two (more) very good reasons to jam it out with your offspring.

June 3-4, 2000 W. Division St., Chicago; g do-divisionstreet fest.com

Make Music Chicago Since 2011, the longest day of the year has also been the most musical. Make Music Chicago, based on the French Fête de la Musique (and teamed up with 50 cities through the Make Music Alliance), has turned June 21 into a day of musical play. And, unlike other music festivals, everyone is invited to take part, regardless of age or musical ability. New to this year’s festival (and featuring members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Chicago Philharmonic) is “Lift Every Voice: Musicians Rising For Racial Justice” which features nationwide simultaneous performances of George Walker’s Lyric for Strings and Samuel Barber’s Adagio for Strings. Between that, the returning Pianos in the Parks, and the many opportunities to pick up an instrument and jam, this free day of music-making will hit all the right notes.

June 21, multiple locations across Chicagoland; makemusicchicago.org

Sing the bluess Chicago and d the h bl blues just seem to go together like peanut butter and jelly. Another thing Chicagoans love? Their outdoor festivals. The 34th incarnation of the Chicago Blues Festival—now in its new home in Millennium Park—perfects that trio with a blend of traditional blues, R&B, hip hop and soul on four stages. Among the headliners are John Primer and The Real Deal, as well as homegrown Che “Rhymefest” Smith (known for, among other things, his collaborations with Kanye West and John Legend). Whether you go for the Grammy Award-winning artists and crowd favorites or the harmonica lessons from the Blues Kids Foundation, this entirely free weekend is the perfect way to introduce your kids to the kind of music for which Chicago is famous the world over.

June 9-11, Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago; cityofchicago.org

16 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_016.indd 1

5/18/17 11:21 AM

BEST IN CHI

Word nerds unite at American Writers Museum

Y

ou read to your pea while he or she was still in the pod. You use your kiddo’s precious naptime to scribble down fleeting phrases in a Moleskine n notebook. You are the only person who aactually reads the book in your book club. If any of these statements are true, just face it: you you’re probably a word nerd.

Good news, lit-lovn ing Chicago in parents, the pare American Ame Writers Write Museum opened May 16!

Carey Care Cranston, the museum’s mu president, preside explained the evolution of this t new nest for llocal culture vultures.

“When our ou founder, Malcolm O’Hagan, re realized such a museum did not exist in the United States, he realized it needed to happen,” she says.

“It seemed imperative that if we celebrate sports heroes and celebrities, we also need to celebrate our writers.”

There are many reasons why your family should join this pen-to-page party, but let’s start with these five.

1

If you want your little ones to heart reading Cranston believes that the number one reason for families to visit is to foster a love and respect for reading from a young age. And, I mean, c’mon, it’s pretty hard to argue with that one.

2

If your kiddos are sweet on Seuss Your mini Cat in the Hat fan will love seeing the beloved character adorning a wall in the Children’s Literature Gallery. This wiggle room for budding bookworms features six exhibits that showcases children’s book authors. There lots of space to read or to listen to story time, too.

3

If your future novelists like to explore Beyond the designated Children’s Literature Gallery, there are stunning visuals and fun interactive exhibits to keep your crew engaged. WordPlay has touch-screen tabletops with word-based games. The Story of the Day is an interactive area where you can encourage your small scribes to write and share experiences at the museum.

They could even go old school and do it on a typewriter!

4

If you are a literary locavore Uncover hometown heroes on rotating panels throughout the Chicago Gallery. You can also go over the grid of The Community Interactions map to find literary landmarks or take in a video animation of Nelson

Algren’s words in “Chicago: City on the Make.”

5

If you like brandspanking new and family-friendly places This 11,000-square-foot museum is located just north of Millennium Park on Michigan Avenue. The space should be easy to navigate with strollers, which are permitted unless it is too crowded. (If that’s the case, there will be a designated parking area.) The bathrooms have changing tables and there is also a family bathroom.

Josannah Terry

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 17

CHIPAR0617_017.indd 1

5/18/17 1:39 PM

Shriners Hospitals for Children — Chicago, offers a premier pediatric orthopaedic service for a range of neuromusculoskeletal conditions, including those related to complications of the upper and lower limbs, hand, foot, joints and spine. Every day, our care provides healing to meet the hopes of children and their parents, and offer life-changing results.

Those hopes are met in our other areas of expertise as well. For over 90 years, families with children in need of plastic surgery, cleft lip and palate repair, spinal cord injury care, and physical rehabilitation 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 provided care to over 121,000 children last year alone.

Do You Know a Child For a consultation, or to refer a patient, call: Who Needs Expert Shriners Hospitals for Children — Chicago Specialty Care? 773-385-KIDS (5437)

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

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

CHIPAR0617_018.indd 1

5/18/17 11:21 AM

FAILING WITH GUSTO

Pregnant pause

I

I had planned for five boys. My imaginary fourth and fifth sons, Sean and Michael, were supposed to be the charmers. The hellions. The ones who refused to play chess and instead chose rugby. As the youngest, they would hear stories from their brothers about their Tiger Mom and her dictatorial leanings and shake their heads in disbelief.

“Mom is easy. Just make her laugh and she’s all yours. You guys did it wrong.”

But I never took the risk. I never got to meet Sean and Michael.

When I ran into a hockey mom from last season pushing a stroller, infants were the furthest thing from my mind.

“You have a baby! In an ice rink. I didn’t even know you were expecting!”

“Oh, Marianne. I had a tubal years ago. I was almost five months along before I knew.

This just proves God really does have a sense of humor.”

I peeked in on the beautiful grinning baby girl wrapped in pink and my mind started doing the math.

Oh sh*t.

A few hours later, I found myself watching the clock, awaiting the results of my impromptu Walgreens purchase.

I thought of my Nana. Her mother (my great-grandmother) had died three months after giving birth to her final child at age 47.

No, geriatric pregnancies simply didn’t end well in my family.

But again, I thought of Sean and Michael.

And a part of me was excited.

While I couldn’t fathom doing car seats and diapers at 43 years old, there was nobody in my life who brought me

as much joy as my children. How could another one be a mistake?

Even though the results read negative, several more weeks went by before I knew for sure.

My husband was relieved.

I cried.

The moment I decided to indulge in a full-blown depression, I discovered our dryer was broken. Then the ice hockey bill came due. The boys all came home with a list of materials needed to build their much-hated dioramas. The crack in our minivan windshield (which I put off having fixed) spread out so that driving morphed into peering through a pair of bifocals.

So much for my funk.

No, Sean and Michael were never meant to be. I will always mourn that fact.

But my husband and kids prove every day that God does in fact have a sense of humor.

Life in Chi

MARIANNE WALSH

was two weeks late before I even gave it a thought.

After all, tubal ligations are one of the most effective means out there. When I reluctantly accepted medical advice after three c-sections, a big part of me felt I was closing down shop prematurely.

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 19

CHIPAR0617_019.indd 1

5/18/17 11:22 AM

VIVA DADDY 15% OFF any Camp booking until June 30. Use the code: SAVE15

REGISTER NOW

(Not valid with any other offer, discounts or prior purchases)

Acrylics - Watercolor - Drawing - Games

Sign up for Weekly or Daily Classes Full Day: 9am-3pm

Half Day: 9am-12pm

Age: 5 - 14

Book Now at: WWW.PAINTINGTIMENOW.COM/CAMPS

847-315-0882

13 Waukegan Rd., Deerfield

EXCLUSIVE OFFER!

10% OFF

PROMO CODE: BRAVECHI

ure

ent v d a y l i m a astic f

a mudt

PRESENTED BY

DISTANCE

AGES

OBSTACLES

1.5-2 MILES

5-16

10-15

parents run for free KIDSOBSTACLECHALLENGE.COM

Notes on camps Summer camps are the best—a chance to make new friends, contract new rashes and bring home grotesque new crafts. They’re also a way to turn stowing the children somewhere for weeks at a time into a fun and educational experience for them.

Historically, camps were limited in their breadth of content. There were MATT BORESI religious camps where you made those yarn Popsicle stick things and sang with guitars, the showtune camps where fabulosity trumped athleticism, sports camps where exercise was disguised as fun, and the traditional “Hello Muddah”-style outdoor kind where you fell out of canoes.

But now? Blame it on more working parents, blame it on our increased parental desire to enrich every second of our kids’ lives with content, blame it on the children’s camp industrial complex, “Big Camp,” but there’s a camp for EVERYTHING. My daughter, Viva, is going to a different ILLUSTRATION BY STEPHEN SCHUDLICH camp every week for months: ballet, musical theater, swimming—I think she’s actually going to a Lego camp, leaving her closet full of Legos at home to go build plastic bricks in the proximity of other children. The variety of camps she’s attending doesn’t begin to touch the spectrum of camps that exist—there are camps for heavy metal, marine biology, espionage, demolition, even forensic science. I remember when autopsies were conducted in the backyard with the neighborhood kids, not at some high-falutin’ summer camp.

So, have we oversteered? Should we go back to zipping a house key in our kids’ KangaROOS and letting them roam the subdivision performing demolitions on their own time and at their own pace with contraband fireworks they’ve foraged independently? Should they be “unschooled” in marine biology instead of led there by the hand? It would certainly save us a lot of money in fees, although eliminating that many counselor positions would lead to roving packs of unemployed liberal arts majors sweltering in the summer sun.

There’s no putting the genie of Big Camp back in the bottle, so we might as well clear off the mantle to make room for more of those yarn things.

Viva Camps. Viva Viva. Viva Daddy.

Viva is 5 years old. Daddy is about 8x that age. They live happily with Mommy in Chicago.

20 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_020.indd 1

5/18/17 11:22 AM

YOU

Travel buddies not to leave behind

CHERYL LEAHY

Face the day Fa I have a million lotions and potions on t my bathroom counm tter. When I take a trip, I like to go minimal and leave m most liquids at home mo order to fly through in or security. I am a stickler securit for taking my m makeup off at the end of the day, though, so face wash has always been a must. I just discovered The Makeup Eraser, a super soft reusable cloth that removes ALL of my makeup with just water, including waterproof mascara. It comes in two sizes, regular and travel, and you can toss it into the washing machine when it is completely dirty. Brilliant.

Dress it up With the rising costs of checked baggage on airlines, many people are trying to cram everything into their carry-on. It can be pretty tough to force five looks into a bag the size of a watermelon, but there are particular pieces that can make miracles happen. The Poppet is a wrinkle-resistant dress that folds into an attached water-repellent, tear-proof pocket. When you unfold it and wear the dress,

you can even en stash your important travel ravel docs in the hidden en pocket.

I keep this in my car in case I have a wardrobe malfunction (usually ly due to one of my children spilling something mething down the front ront of my outfit). Since the dress is a basic asic black wrap, you can dress it up or down n and disguise it in order to wear on repeat. peat.

POCKETPOPPET.COM

I

don’t know about you, but when the temperature heats up, I get more than a touch of wanderlust. Whether you are hopping a plane halfway around the world or taking an L ride halfway down the line, I have a few beauty and fashion secrets up my sleeve to make your travels even more enjoyable.

Toss the tangles

I love products that multi-task, and I love them even more if they look adorable. Every time I put a hairbrush in my bag, it ends up snagging a sweater or tangling with tights. These Macaron brushes from milk + sass are a compact way to remove tangles better than conventional brushes, and each one comes with a mirror built into its lid. I toss this in my bag every day and whip it out when I need to put pigtails in my

daughter’s hair or smooth my mane before a dinner date. Bonus points that it doubles as play food for my kid.

Eyes on the prize My everyday eye shadow palette is a massive tin brick filled with dozens of colors to create a multitude of looks. Bringing this with me anywhere is a major pain, not to mention total overkill. This eightcolor Essential Eye Palette from Stowaway Cosmetics is the size of a credit card and contains four shimmer and four matte shades, plus a double-ended brush. You easily can

change your look from day to night by adding shimmer or contour. Use darker colors as eyeliner by pressing powder into the lash line. This is my drop-off-line morning musthave because doing eye makeup before I leave the house is often impossible.

Happy travels, no matter the distance or destination!

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 21

CHIPAR0617_021.indd 1

5/18/17 11:22 AM

JOIN US FOR...

Presented by

In Connection with

TASTE of Chicago

JULY 8 - 9, 9 10 - 7 2017

Entertainment & Attractions include...

AM

CHEF DEMONSTRATIONS BOUNCY HOUSE & DJ DIAPER CHANGING STATION

PM

STROLLER PARKING TRAIN ... AND MUCH MORE!

Chicago Parent Partners: ... and more to come!

Taste of Chicago Partners: Lifeway Foods, Pepsi & the Chicago Tribune Follow us on Facebook for updates: Visit

@kidseatchicago

www.kidseatchicago.com

MEET US AT THE INTERSECTION OF COLUMBUS & CONGRESS!

for Entertainment Schedules and Updates

22 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_022.indd 1

5/18/17 3:57 PM

CRAFT

Blowin’ in the wind Reuse water bottles for cute and easy yard decor

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER

I

nstead of tossing those water bottles from your next barbecue, turn them into colorful wind spirals that bounce and swing in that sweet summer breeze.

Your yard will come to life as the sun shines through the bright spirals hanging from your tree branches.

Directions: Materials: u Empty plastic water bottles u Scissors u Sharpies u String or twine (optional)

1 2

Remove label from water bottles and dry inside and out. Discard top cap.

Using colored Sharpies, decorate the outside of the water bottle. Color vertical stripes, horizontal stripes or any pattern you wish, but just make sure the entire exterior surface of the bottle is colored.

3

Cut off the flat bottom of the water bottle and discard the piece. Starting at an angle, begin to cut around and around the bottle to create a spiral. Try to keep the strip under an inch in width. Keep cutting until you get to the rounded top and stop.

4

Take your wind spiral outside to find a thin tree branch to slide the cap top onto. Or you can use twine or string to tie the cap to a branch.

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 23

CHIPAR0617_023.indd 1

5/18/17 1:39 PM

Helping your child reach their full potential!

At Autism Home Support Services, we can help your child overcome the behavioral challenges that may be holding them back.

Our therapists provide customized therapy for individuals with autism and related disorders. We can create a positive difference in your child’s overall development and long-term success by using the evidence-based practices of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy.

Quality therapy is our number one priority, and it shows!

93

%

of our clients say they have seen improvements in their child through the AHSS therapy process*. * 2015 AHSS Client Satisfaction Survey

Call 844-AHSS-ABA (247-7222) or go to AutismHomeSupport.com to learn more!

Chicago | Evanston | Northbrook | Arlington Heights Elgin | Schaumburg | Oak Park | Naperville | Rockford Š2017 Autism Home Support Services, Inc

24 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_024.indd 1

5/18/17 11:23 AM

B

lue Man Gareth Hinsley, a Chicago dad of two (Evelyn and Violet), has been entertaining Chicago audiences at Briar Street Theatre for 10 years

Do you remember the moment you first became a dad?

Nothing felt like it changed, obviously everything did. ... I was expecting this huge transformative moment, sort of an epiphany, ‘aha now I’m a dad.’ It didn’t happen. ... Every day there is a tiny little moment where it makes me feel more like a dad, where I am more comfortable defining myself as that.

How are you as a dad?

Honestly, I don’t know. I still feel like I’m learning everything about that. Evelyn is 3 and Violet is 16 months and every day I feel like I’m presented with a different parenting challenge.

I think most parents probably feel this way early on, you just do what you think is best. One thing I’ve done is try to stop carrying my phone with me. ... I just feel the best thing I can do is just be there with them.

What is your parenting style?

I’m definitely a bit more into discipline than I thought I would be. ... I try to be as fun as possible. They are not great sleepers and sometimes the fun reservoir is a little dry, but I try to be as playful as possible.

Best advice you received: The first month that you have with the baby, really take time, take moments, to sit down and just be with the baby because that time disappears so, so quickly and it is so easily lost amongst all of the other pressures and panic and anxiety of becoming a parent.

The biggest thing you’ve learned since the girls were born: I thought I had a good idea what I was like as a person before I became a dad. I thought

Super dads Guys who bring the smiles

Gareth Hinsley with his wife, Amy, and daughters Evelyn and Violet at Briar Street Theatre.

Photo by Thomas Kubik

Chicago area kids on their cool super dads Mariah Fortier, 5, of Forest Park, says about her dad, Christopher: He is so cool because he plays with her and combs her hair. She loves when they watch movies and she loves him “too much.”

“My dad is the coolest because he skateboards to work, he camps outside with us in our backyard, he laughs so loud, and he’s like a superhero to us!”

Ava and Evan Joseph of Downers Grove about their dad, Sibu Joseph.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 25

CHIPAR0617_025.indd 1

5/18/17 3:41 PM

DADS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

I was endlessly patient and always giving and selfless to the nth degree. It turns out lack of sleep and small children trashing your house take that away from you a little bit.

You have to forgive yourself those moments when you are not at your best.

What does a perfect Chicago day look like to you?

Going to the lake or Lincoln Park Zoo, a picnic lunch, a walk around the Lincoln Park Conservatory, a paddle in the lake, ice cream somewhere along the way and a night out at Blue Man Group.

If you had a superpower what would it be?

Hypnosis that makes them sleep through the night. A full night’s sleep sounds like a faraway and wonderful thing. It’s such a waste of a superpower. Such a waste. Flying would be quite good. I could get around a bit easier.

Blue Man Group is celebrating 20 years in Chicago this year. This summer, you can now see the show seven days a week. Hinsely says the show is definitely a great thing to do with kids of all ages. (The theater recommends 3 and up.) Blue Man is all about openness, play and nonjudgment, important lessons for kids, he says.

Connor Malcolm of Joliet thinks his dad, Eric, is cool “because he can fix lots of things like helicopters and my choo choos.”

“My dad is honestly one of my favorite people. He’s kind, wise, loving, hilarious and extremely dedicated to his work, life and family. Some girls can’t say that they tell their dad everything but for me that’s not the case.”

Sarah Parisien, of Evanston, says about her dad, Patrick

“Dad is cool because he spends time with us to play and learn different things.”

Chloe, 7, Kylie, 5, and Evan, 4, of Long Grove about their dad Norman Kwong 26 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_026.indd 1

5/18/17 3:42 PM

Making beautiful music, family style Juan Lucero, a Chicago dad of seven (Diego, Miguel, Antonio, Carlos, Lilia, Maya, Mateo) ranging in age from 4-14, full-time musician and leader of Cielito Lindo Family Folk Music. Follow their summer schedule on Facebook: facebook.com/CielitoLindoFamilyFolkMusic Music has been a part of the Lucero home from the moment Juan Lucero became a dad.

By the time his oldest sons, Diego and Miguel, were 3 and 4, he started inviting them to sing at farmers markets. As the other kids got old enough, they also joined the band, which performs traditional Mexican music all around the state.

Do you remember the first moment you became a dad?

I definitely do. What’s a little different is I’ve been there for every single one of the births and I was actually the person who caught the baby every single time. It’s just an amazing experience, being the first person to touch a new life. Of course, you feel an immediate

bond. That’s a bond I still feel to this day. It only gets stronger.

How would you describe your parenting style?

I think sometimes I am very hands-on and give a lot of feedback to the kids. But then there are times I’m very laid-back and try to give them the space to explore on their own.

How do you balance everything: school, music, home?

It’s definitely a very tight schedule. When we’re traveling, we use that as dual time, family time. The road trips are a special time for us. That’s one of the main tricks of how we fit it all in, a lot of time together, enjoying each other and also learning at the same time.

What does a perfect Chicago day look like for you?

Spending time with my family in Chicago at one of the parks or the beach and having some music involved. I love performing with my family, even if it is just a family jam.

If you had a superpower what would it be?

I think flying would be fun.

You could basically go up and look at the world from a different perspective than anyone else and go wherever you

wanted.

Now that you are (really) in the trenches, your best piece of advice for other dads: I would recommend now, after seven children, that you need to help each child become the individual they are meant to be, which is not necessarily like any other kid. You need to help that child and encourage them … and show them how to use their particular personality and passion and make a life out of there.

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 27

CHIPAR0617_027.indd 1

5/18/17 3:42 PM

SANITY SAVERS ways to enjoy summer days with the kids

BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER lready dreading the end of school and the return of chaotic, easily bored kids to your house?

Prepare yourself with these easy ways to pass those long summer days and actually have fun in the process.

Photo by Courtney Laper/TK Photography

Sisters Sarina and Arya Patel embrace summer.

Make a summer bucket list Kick off summer with a family meeting and get brainstorming.

Aim for 50 things to add to your ultimate summer bucket list, like visits to the pool, catching fireflies, water balloon fights, watching the sunset or flying a kite. Let everyone

in the family contribute ideas and write them down on a big posterboard to keep on display throughout the summer.

Need more help getting your list started? Visit chicagoparent.com/ bucketlist for dozens of ideas.

Learn something new Part of the joy of summer is having the time to learn things. From practicing how to do origami (hello, Morton Arboretum) to folding paper airplanes, launch into exploring something you’ve never tried before.

Or pick a topic to investigate and examine as a family.

Whether it’s astronomy and the stars or different species of birds living in your backyard, head to the local library or Google to dig up facts and then put it to the test with a real-life viewing party.

Give geocaching a go Amp up that average scavenger hunt with the world’s largest treasure hunt, known as geocaching. Using GPS and geocache apps, participants navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates and then attempt to find the geocache hidden at that location.

Once you’re addicted to finding all the geocaches in your town (and you’ll be surprised at just how many there are!), create and hide your own geocache to keep the treasure hunt going.

28 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_028.indd 1

5/18/17 11:24 AM

Giant teepee Being outside and exploring nature go handin-hand with summer, so set out on an adventure to construct your own giant backyard garden teepee.

Go on a hunt to find at least six large, sturdy tree branches (ideally 6 to 8 feet long), or you can buy bamboo or wooden poles at a local hardware store.

Assemble the six poles in your yard, leaving an opening for the “door,” then attach at the top with twine or string to hold the teepee poles together.

Use your imagination to either cover the teepee with an outdoor waterproof fabric, or even to use string, fabrics or lights to weave around the teepee exterior. Then pass those summer days reading and lounging in your creation.

Create a magical garden Infuse a little bit of magic in your yard by creating a fairy and gnome garden. Find an old birdbath, a leftover pot or window box, and start constructing a little village with some soil as the base. Make a trip to your local dollar store or craft store for fairies, gnomes, small bridges, signs or homes. Then add pebbles, colorful stones, sand and living plants or succulents.

Paint the exterior container or add glitter to make the garden come to life!

Cake wars

Create an obstacle

When it’s too hot or rainy outside, a perfect place to spend the day can be in the kitchen making a mess. Decide on what the baking war will be based on, whether it’s cakes, cupcakes or cookies. Then create the specific challenge, like baking rainbow cakes or making cupcakes involving fruit. Get the kids cooking with the necessary adult help with the oven.

The best part is letting their

Sometimes all you need is something simple like rope for some fun to twist, tangle, pull and knot. Give the kids a 30yard length of strong rope and the challenge them to create rope bridges. Find two trees and construct a rope bridge with a top and bottom level and practice balance walking between the two.

Once that’s mastered, create a rope course that zigzags between multiple trees and test your ability to conquer the course.

minds go wild decorating with as much sprinkles, fondant and buttercream as possible.

Finally, all baking wars need judging categories, such as taste, creativity and appearance.

And really in the end, everyone wins with tasting the sweets and treats.

New twist on old games Instead of the tried-and-true summer activities like a water balloon fight, give it a twist this summer.

Try water balloon piñatas instead!

Fill up standard-sized balloons with water, tie the top with a string and hang them from tree branches or between a clothesline. Give each player a spin and a stick to take their swing at the water balloons.

And speaking of twists, let kids spray paint their own Twister board on your lawn. Make a large circle template and use that to spray circles in green, yellow, red and blue. To create the game board, you need four rows with six circles of each color. Then get spinning and twisting!

Megan Murray Elsener is a freelance writer and mother of three.

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 29

CHIPAR0617_029.indd 1

5/18/17 11:24 AM

Safari Land

Explore Chicagoland’s Largest Indoor Amusement Park And Experience The Largest Indoor Roller Coaster In Illinois Exhilarating Family Fun filled with adventure, food, games and rides!

Tilt-A-Whirl • 3DMaxFlight Simulator • Bumper Cars Kiddie Go Karts • Cosmic Bowling • Soft Play Video Games • Atlantis Restaurant

The Avery Coonley School

Birthday Parties & Group Packages

701 W. North Ave., Villa Park 630•530•4649 | safarilandfun.com $5.00 FREE Game Card Mon - Thurs ONLY

Not valid with other offers or promotions. Not Valid with reserved parties or events 1 Coupon per person / day

An exciting and educational summer program for children ages 4–14. Three sessions available: June 19–June 30, July 3–July 14, July 17–July 28 View the 2017 Summer Program Guide online at www.averycoonley.org/summerprogram 1400 Maple Avenue, Downers Grove, Illinois, 630-969-0800

ALWAYS LEGENDARY NO ONE BRINGS LINCOLN TO LIFE LIKE WE DO! FIND YOUR ABE-SPIRATION IN SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS. Visit this summer when History Comes Alive! Interact with nineteenth century characters, listen to live musical performances and meet Mr. Lincoln too. Plan on Springfield for history, great food, shopping, entertainment and so much more for everyone to enjoy. Exciting memories are waiting for you in the heart of America.

VISITSPRINGFIELDILLINOIS.COM 302017_Chicago June 2017 ChicagoParent.com Parent_June_Halfpg.indd 1

CHIPAR0617_030.indd 1

800-545-7300

Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau

5/2/17 4:05 PM

5/18/17 11:24 AM

Explore our new exhibit May 10 through Aug 27 THE PLACE WHERE AWESOME LIVES

BRING THE WORLD DOWN TO SIZE. May 10 - Aug 27, enter a child-sized laboratory to explore how scientists impact your health and wellness. Explore machines, processes, and technology that demonstrates the role science plays to keep your body healthy. See for yourself why we’re The Place Where Awesome Lives!

Kohl Children’s Museum of Greater Chicago • 2100 Patriot Blvd, Glenview • (847) 832-6600 • kcmgc.org

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 31

CHIPAR0617_031.indd 1

5/18/17 11:24 AM

It’s not school, it’s Quest

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

Quest Academy goes beyond others by providing: • • • • •

Accelerated learning opportunities Advanced concepts and skills A differentiated curriculum An environment of like-minded peers Teachers who “get” your child

Apply now for 2017-18 Does your child think differently, learn quickly, and remember everything you ever promised?

You may have a gifted student.

Does your child have an extensive vocabulary and love math?

You may have a gifted student.

Does your child have an insatiable appetite for learning?

You may have a gifted student.

Visit today!

Scan for more information

Tours available daily by appointment.

Contact our Admission Office at admission@questacademy.org or call 847.202.8035, ext. 438 today.

questacademy.org 500 North Benton, Palatine, IL 60067 32 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_032.indd 1

5/18/17 11:25 AM

Coding Classes We live in a technologically advanced society, and kids’ coding classes prove it. PowerUp Tech Academy and Digital Adventures are both examples of tech-based kids’ classes that help develop future inventors and innovators. Their hands-on classes help students to recognize sequencing, and that inspires them to then tinker and deliberately play with technology. Young learners will be sure to recognize that it isn’t the phone that is “smart”— they are!

PowerUp Tech Academy: 2867 N. Clybourn Ave., Chicago; powerupta.com Digital Adventures: 406 Linden Ave., Wilmette; 701 W. Armitage, Chicago; digitaladventures.com

Legoland Discovery Center

STEM

for the summer PHOTOS AND STORY BY AMANDA SIMKIN

J

Ever dream of being a Lego engineer? That dream can be realized at the Legoland Discovery Center in Schaumburg! Not only are there tons of beautifully constructed displays to inspire your inner architect, but there are also opportunities for Lego enthusiasts to build their own vehicles and test them out on real tracks. Math and engineering are clearly at the forefront at this one-of-a-kind think space … just be sure to not step on those pesky blocks!

The Streets of Woodfield (next to Woodfield Mall), 601 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg; lego landdiscoverycenter.com/ chicago

Mad Science Mad Science is a unique program

that provides kids with a ust because it’s summer, it doesn’t mean hands-on approach to learning that your child’s curiosity and creativity science. Not sure what to expect automatically turn off. Yes, Mother Nature’s other than a teacher who looks like Albert Einstein? Imagine messy humidity might make your kiddo a bit more experiments, lively debates and lazy, but I guarantee that his or her mind is surprising discoveries that will inspire still going a million miles an hour. So be sure to enrich curiosity and broaden your child’s understanding of what science is and your summer days with some fun and unique STEM how it affects his or her world. learning opportunities (you know: Science, Technology, 1053 N. California, Chicago; Engineering and Math). The best part? There are STEM2918 S. Wentworth, Chicago; 15 E. Palatine Road, Prospect Heights; inspired programs for learners of all ages and abilities, and madscience.org they are guaranteed to help your child overcome the summer CONTINUED ON PAGE 34 slump that parents and teachers fear.

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 33

CHIPAR0617_033.indd 1

5/18/17 1:38 PM

STEM

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33

DuPage Children’s Museum This vast kid-centric museum puts STEM learning at the forefront of many of its exhibits. From experimenting with gears and circuits to building unique wooden creations with actual tools, there are so many opportunities to become an engineer and learn about math and technology through open-ended play.

301 N. Washington St., Naperville; dupagechildrens.org

Local Nature Centers Looking for STEM learning on a budget? Then check out your local nature center. Just about all of them are free, and there are experts available to give guided tours of the natural habitats, provide animal encounters with w the nature center’s challenge adorable residents, and challen nge yyoung naturalstory ists through discussions, st tory times and other projects.

Our family’s favorite hands-on project ts. O Nature Center ccenters ce nters are Wildwood Wildw W in Park Ridge (prparks.org), k Ri The Grove in Glenview Th he G (glenviewparks.org) (gle (g aand nd Emily Oaks Nature Center C en in Skokie ((skokieparks.org). sko

34 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_034.indd 1

5/18/17 11:25 AM

Our family of family magazines

We HEART moms May day:

The dinos are coming!

MAY 2017

| FREE

SPRING 2017 CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

Balance after baby

Going Places

Specıal Parent SUMMER 2016

CHICAGO

FREE | SUMMER 2017

AN EMPOWERMENT GUIDE FROM

Finding balance

Lake escapes

IEP: What you don’t know

MOM

Love X2

style

352

food, fests & free falls

LOCAL RESOURCES YOU NEED

40

Windy City wins

Have a simple summer

BE KIND

Stop parent shaming

BROUGHT TO YOU BY…

CP_Cover_May_2017.indd 7

Every month

4/14/17 1:26 PM

Twice a Year

*Cover HEY BABY Spring 2017.indd 1

3/23/17 12:11 PM

SP_Cover_Summer2016.indd 3

Annually

7/6/16 11:37 AM

Twice a Year

GP Cover Spring 2017.indd 3

5/4/17 10:37 AM

Online at ChicagoParent.com ChicagoParent.com June 2017 35

CHIPAR0617_035.indd 1

5/18/17 11:43 AM

camps // sponsored

9 great camps that will make your kid’s summer

Y

ou meant to sign up for a summer camp earlier, but your crazy busy life kept moving it to the bottom of the to-do list. We get it. Now with school winding down, a bit of panic is probably setting in. The good news is that it’s not too late to give your kid an amazing summer. We found 9 great camps your child will love (and they still have a few spots available if you hurry).

1

Get your kids out of their comfort zone with plenty of climbing, exploring and fun. In addition to all the climbing and rope work, Funtopia’s week-long and day-long summer camps in Glenview will challenge kids and leave them with confidence and a sense of accomplishment, not to mention providing a summer of fun and new friends.

Kids do not need to know how to climb to attend camp; in fact, kids who are a little wary often get the most out of camp, the director says.

The camp is created with flexibility for family schedules, so campers can do week-long or day-long day camps. The days are filled with high-energy games, climbing, cave exploration and team building for ages 6-14. funtopiaworld.com

2

Curious kids who like to build will find inspiration and kindred spirits at the new KSI STEM youth coding summer camp in Skokie. Projects include building robots, programming drones and actually writing code to make things work. Flexibility is the name of the game; boys and girls 12-16 can pick a week that best fits their summer plans and a project to complete from a list of 15 cool options.

“We want to make it fun summertime camp,” says Gabriel Smith, camp programs coordinator.

What makes the camp particularly special is that its faculty at Knowledge Systems Institute normally teach graduate students, so they know how to best inspire passion in kids, he says. The camp holds open houses every Wednesday 6-7 p.m. and every Saturday and Sunday 1-2 p.m. ksistemcamps.org

3

The first goal at Music House School of Performing Arts Fine Arts summer camp is fun, says assistant director Ashley Trumbo, and the staff really love showing kids why art, theater, music and dance should be and can be just that. Trumbo, whose favorite class is the rock band class, says she hears kids always telling parents they never want camp to end.

Different than structured music classes or lessons, the full-day camps are perfect for exposing kids ages 3 ½-12 to the arts for the first time or building on what they already know. No day of camp is ever the same, Trumbo says. Completely family focused, they understand difficult schedules so the week-long summer day camps are all about flexibility and offer before/after care, she says. musichouseinc.com/camps.html

36 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CampsSponsored_June2017.indd 36

5/18/17 11:12 AM

sponsored //

camps

5

4

If you have a kid who has a real spirit of adventure and likes to try new things, then they will love the week-long day camps offered by Chicago Sailing this summer. Plus, who wouldn’t want to spend every day on our beautiful Lake Michigan?

Its Sails & Serves camp, ideal for ages 9-16, is the only full-day sailing and tennis camp in Chicago, giving kids two sports they can do the rest of their lives, while its Adventure Sail is a new STEM-focused camp that combines a lot of sailing and a lot of hands-on science and math. With four campers per instructor on a 22-foot sailboat, campers are sure to be competent sailors by camp’s end, says Graham Sauser, director of operations at Chicago Sailing. chicagosailing.com

7

If your child loves soccer, they will love the Chicago Fire day camps where professional coaches will fuel their fire for the game hopefully for life, says Chicago Fire’s Lee Hannant.

And the day camps couldn’t be more accessible, with 220 camps offered throughout Chicagoland. Hannant says they intentionally keep the cost low to make sure the camps remain available to everyone, from beginners at age 2 to high-level travel players.

Kids get a player evaluation to help with their development, a jersey and ball and ticket to a Chicago Fire game that serves as camp graduation. “We create an unbelievable memory during camp and give them something lasting to take away,” he says. chicago-fire.com/youth/sitc/summercamps

CampsSponsored_June2017.indd 37

Who tells your story? Kids who have experienced the death of a parent this year can attend Hands Together, Heart to Art, a performing arts day camp at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University in Chicago. Taken from the Broadway smash Hamilton, the camp teaches them how to tell their own stories, Camp Director Colt Neidhardt says.

In addition to 10 healing artists, professionals from Chicago’s arts community, such as the Joffrey and Steppenwolf, help kids learn how to express their feeling through acting, singing and dance in ensemble and individual work. At the same time, they find other kids going through the same thing so they don’t feel so alone.

Two sessions are offered — July 10-21 for kids 7-10 and July 24-Aug. 4 — for ages 11-14. Cost is kept low so that it’s not an obstacle — $50, with scholarship assistance available for families who need it. hthta.org

6

Get mindful, get gritty, get thrifty. In addition to an endless amount of climbing built into their day, kids at the Brooklyn Boulders Summer Adventures will leave with lessons about loyalty, kindness and determination, says Claire Bao of Brooklyn Boulders in Chicago.

Some camps also will feature partners, such as West Loop Soccer Club and MSA Circus Arts, for even more new experiences. This summer Brooklyn Boulders also is teaming up with Mathnasium for an after-camp program.

The ideal camper will be kids who aren’t afraid to fail and like to try new things, she says. In addition to team-building, the camps have enough flexibility to cater to each child. brooklynboulders.com/chicago/youth/summer-adventures

8

Remember that amazing feeling of freedom you felt the moment you set off on your bike without training wheels for the first time?

This year, you can give that feeling to your kids at the Pedalheads bike camp. Whether you don’t have a sidewalk or the patience, it can be really hard to teach a kid to ride a bike these days. Pedalheads’ trained instructors can get kids as young as 3 on two wheels by the end of camp.

Better yet, the kids, ages 3-10, will make friends who are also learning about bike safety and other skills needed to ride on our busy Chicago streets, in the parks and around the neighborhood. pedalheads.com

9

There is something special about a child and a horse, and this summer, the skilled, competitive horse show instructors at New Traditions Riding Academy in Palos Hills want to not only teach kids to ride, but also to give them skills they will use the rest of their lives: confidence, friendship and compassion.

Day campers will ride every day, and kids can also have fun with the donkeys, sheep and chickens living on the farm, plus play lots of games. At camp’s end, they put on a horse show for parents. Pony camps start at age 4, with kids learning to ride and care for the ponies. Horse camps cater to everyone from beginners with no riding experience to the most advance riders. ntridingacademy.com ChicagoParent.com June 2017 37

5/18/17 11:12 AM

Natures Creatures Animal Show

A fun Exotic Educational Animal Show for kids & adults of all ages!

Serving the Chicago land area for over 10 years!

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

For more info or to book:

call Erin at

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

Perfect 5-star rating on Yelp Chicago’s best-reviewed magician

(773) 881-9379 or visit:

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

www.naturescreatures.net Low rates!

Book Now!

Summer Special $10 Off Indoor & Outdoor Party Rentals for...

• Birthday Parties • School Festivals • Church Events • Reunions • Picnics

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

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

SUE’S PARTY ANIMALS

Book us for your next party or event!

Local delivery, Setup & Pick-up included

www.hippity-hop.com

HOUSE BOUNCE

•We Entertain •We Educate •We're Cute & Fun •We're Clean & Safe

You'll LOVE US!

Call Sue Johnson, Educator

847-215-8508

OF

Shaved Ice & Cotton Candy machines also available

Serving the greater Chicagoland area

Call Ron at 708-927-5455 www.houseofbounce.org

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

Magic & Juggling Shows Balloon Animals and Puppets

Providing Quality, Professional Entertainment since 1991 Several Themed Characters available.

Video clips and party ideas are provided on the website.

www.IYQENT.com IYQ Entertainment

847-228-0882 38 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CP_Entertainment_Class_June2017.indd 38

5/18/17 1:41 PM

Mary Macaroni

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

Children’s Parties!

Corporate Events!

visit chicagoparent.com Call Today: to explore our 312-498-9845 amazing www.marymacaroni.com & astounding Chicago Parent directory needs a few good of entertainers!

moms and dads.

We are looking for friendly, outgoing readers to staff Chicago Parent booths at events throughout the city and suburbs.

Must have a car and flexible schedule.

Events are mainly on weekends.

Email Lori Smerz at lori@chicagoparent.com with your resume and a cover letter about yourself.

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 39

CP_Entertainment_Class_June2017.indd 39

5/18/17 1:42 PM

Chicago Parent is having a new baby, too!

Hey Baby, (in conjunction with Bump Club and Beyond) is an essential guide for expectant and new parents.

SPRING 2017 EDITION NOW AVAILABLE!

SP RIN G 20 17

Finding balance

MOM

style

40

W indy C it y w in s BR OU GH T *Cover HEY

BABY Sprin

g 2017.indd

TO YO U BY …

1 3/23/17 12:1 1 PM

CONNECT WITH CHICAGO PARENT • 708.386.5555 • ADVERTISING@CHICAGOPARENT.COM 40 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_040.indd 1

5/19/17 2:14 PM

calen2dar JUNE

1

We’re always up for a party! That’s why we’re donning our goofy paper hats and heading to DuPage Children’s Museum for its AWEsome 30th Birthday Splash, a celebration of three decades of fun and learning in Chicago’s western suburbs.

Enjoy a mess messy sensory room, icce chalk, bubble paintiing, rubber ducky excaavation and mo ore. The shindig aalso includes the long-awaited lo grand opening of g AWEsome Water, A the h new exhibit th hat lets kids get a littlle wet and wild, whilee learning about how theeir actions can affect energ gy sources. This is one birthday bash that’s sure to make a splash! Free with museum admission.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. June 24-25. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 637-8000, dupagechildrensmuseum.org.

As Kermit the Frog once sang, “It’s not easyy being green!” But somee of his fellow musicians disagree, as evidenced by the Wicker Park Green Music Fest, the ultimate experience that combines rockin’ music with responsible earth care. The weekend features live music being performed on a stage that’s powered by bicycles (yes, you read that right) and eco-friendly vendors, as well as a family fun area with arts and crafts, mini-golf and projects brought by some of the city’s greenest educators. Sorry, Kermit, turns out it might not be so hard after all. $10 donation.

Noon-10 p.m. June 10-11. Wicker Park Green Music Fest, Damen Avenue, between North and Schiller, Chicago. (312) 850-9390, wickerparkbucktown.com.

3

Let’s get real: You probably couldn’t explain exactly why the U.S. got involved in World War I, right?

(Something about an archduke…?)

This year marks a full century since our country entered The Great War, and June is when the U.S. Arm my’ y s famous 1st Infantry Division was first for orm med, me med d, a group that was responsible for so om mee inc ncredible victories in WWI. At the First Divisi so on n Cen en nttenn n ia al Celebration, f milies can enj fa njoy militar a y--th hem e ed activities and gaain in a greaterr ap pp preciat atio at ion fo for these men who gave ga vee so mu much ch.. Fr ch Freee, $5 5 parki arki ar king ng. 1ng. ng 1 4:30 p.m m.

June Ju ne 8. Ca Cant ntig ig gny Par ark, k, 1S1 151 1 Win infi fiel fi iel eld d Ro Road d, W ea Wh eato t n. (63 to 630) 30) 0) 668-5 68 8-5 516 61, 1, cantiign gny. ny orrg.

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 41

CHIPAR0617_041.indd 1

5/18/17 11:34 AM

CALENDAR MAGICAL STRINGS OF YOUTH OF THE BETTY HAAG ACADEMY OF MUSIC. These young violinists range

in age from 4 to 17 and have traveled to countries where few Americans have had the privilege to go. $10, $5 lawn. 1 p.m.; gates open at noon.

Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Road, Highland Park. (847) 266-5100, ravinia.org.

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY.

D ag Dr gon on Bo oa at Ra R ace ce for or Liitte L era racy cy See Ju Se See June ne 24

1 | THURSDAY STORIES IN THE WOODS! Kids

3-6 enjoy story time with a naturalist, play a game, take a short hike and make a craft. $8 adult/child pair, $3 additional child. 10-10:45 a.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

2 | FRIDAY TWILIGHT VOYAGE. Paddle the

lagoon, listen to crickets and birds, and smell the crisp spring air. Enjoy an evening of canoeing and s’mores with your family. Kids must be accompanied by a registered adult. $12.50, $10 resident. 7-8:30 p.m.

Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Harrison and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. (630) 871-2810, lincolnmarsh.org.

ASTRO-OVERNIGHT EXPEDITION E.T. Families with kids

6-12 explore the planetarium and use science sleuthing skills to learn more about extraterrestrials. Features hands-on science activities and shows. Snacks, continental breakfast, two sky shows and telescope observing (weather permitting) are included. $60, $30 evening only. 5

p.m.-8 a.m.; 6-10 p.m. evening only.

Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 9227827, adlerplanetarium.org.

Midway Plaisance North (East 59th Street at Woodlawn). flwright.org/ wrightintheparks.

SUBURBS MOVIE IN THE PARK. Seating

is on the grass by the red bandshell.

Blankets, chairs and snacks welcome.

Today’s movie is Zootopia. $5 parking. 8:30 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

3 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

CATSKILL PUPPET THEATER: SISTER RAIN AND BROTHER SUN. This musical nature-tale

features audience participation and Brother Sun, a huge, talking sun face with movable mouth and eyes.

The story is acted out by large, rod puppets with lively original music. $10. 11 a.m.; 2 and 5 p.m. Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Road, Highland Park. (847) 266-5100, ravinia.org.

A day to explore conservation and sustainability. Learn about topics from the global reach of plant conservation scientists to sustainable gardening. $30 parking. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

PIXIE FAIRIES & PIRATES ON THE FARM. Guests can board the

“Neverland Voyager,” take a journey on the Enchanted Express, test their flying skills, explore the pirate ships and enchanted castle, make a wish to the Queen of the Fairies or soar away on Captain Zach’s flying adventure, and join Tinkerbell and her fairy friends as they flutter in an inflatable active play area. After the adventure, enjoy a hot dog or PB&J, goldfish, Pixie candy jar and juice box. $22.95; free parents and babies.

11 a.m.-2 p.m. Siegel’s Cottonwood Pumpkin Farm, 17250 S. Weber Road, Crest Hill. (800) 304-FARM (3276), cottonwoodfarms.net.

SQUEEZ’D GIRLS ON THE RUN 5K NORTH. Family friendly and

open to the public, the 3.1-mile,

PARENT UNIVERSITY & EXPO.

Workshops address challenges and situations parents may encounter from infancy through kindergarten. $30, $15 NPN member. 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Erikson Institute, 451 N. LaSalle St. npnparents.org WRIGHT 150 IN THE PARKS: SUMMER DESIGN CAMP.

Participants explore natural and recycled materials and consider how an architect’s choices affect a building’s overall design. Each child will take home a completed project. Reservations recommended.

1-4 p.m. Midway Plaisance, 1130

About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the July issue is May 29. All events are subject to change. Please call the event sponsor at the number listed to confirm before you go. Events taking place on four or more dates during the month are listed in Ongoing Events, beginning on page 57.

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar

42 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_042.indd 1

5/18/17 11:34 AM

CALENDAR non-competitive run celebrates health, confidence and strength. After the run, enjoy food, music and activities.

Today’s event is at College of Lake County, Grayslake. Check website for cost. 8 a.m. (773) 342-1250, gotrchicago.org.

ALMA DANCE SCHOOL PRESENTS SIMPLY CLASSIC SERIES. The

audience can watch two dancers currently with The Kansas City Ballet, former Cuban principal dancers, a current dancer with The Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theater, and a former Cuban ballet soloist. $28, $20 kids. 7-8:45 p.m. McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. (630) 9424000, atthemac.org.

LAGRANGE PET PARADE.

Features marching bands, kids showcasing their pets, floats and clowns.

9:30-11:30 a.m. Cossitt Avenue and LaGrange Road, LaGrange. (708) 3527079, lgpetparade.org.

SUBURBS

STONE HUNT. Families with kids 5

and up search for gemstones and mineral specimens among more common rocks and minerals. Reservations recommended. $5, free members. 2-2:45 p.m. Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, 220 Cottage Hill Ave. (in Wilder Park), Elmhurst. (630) 833-1616, lizzadromuseum.org.

4 | SUNDAY CHICAGO FAMILY FUN DAY BY TUESDAY’S CHILD. A family-focused event

featuring live entertainment, bounce houses, carnival games, prizes, runner’s breakfast and lunch. $25 (carnival and lunch only); $40 (5K, carnival and lunch) families. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

DeVry University, 3300 N. Campbell Ave. tuesdayschildchicago.org.

WRIGHT 150 IN THE PARKS: SUMMER DESIGN CAMP. See June

3.

LAMBS FARM CHAMPION CAR SHOW. Enjoy music, raffles,

trophies, a beer and food tent, and the chance to see vintage cars. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Lambs Farm, 14245 W. Rockland Road, I-94 and Route 176, Libertyville.

(847) 362-4636, lambsfarm.org.

MALOTT JAPANESE GARDEN FAMILY SUNDAY. Drop by the

Elizabeth Hubert Malott Japanese Garden for hands-on activities related to Japanese arts and culture. $30 parking. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

PIXIE FAIRIES & PIRATES ON THE FARM. Crest Hill. See June 3.

MID-AMERICAN CANOE AND KAYAK RACE. Experience the

excitement of paddling the scenic Fox River while enjoying this classic

tradition that dates back to the 1960s.

Rental boats are available. St. Charles to Aurora (10 miles) starts at 9 a.m.; Batavia to Aurora (6 miles) starts at 10 a.m. Check website for cost. Mount St. Mary Park, St. Charles. (630) 8598606, foxvalleyparkdistrict.org.

NAPERVILLE PARK DISTRICT FRONTIER PARK KITE FESTIVAL.

Enjoy gigantic kites, exciting demonstrations, stunts and hands-on activities. Plus, music, games, giveaways and performances. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Frontier Park, 3380 Cedar Glade Drive, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

6 | TUESDAY MUDPIES AND DANDELION SOUP. Kids 3-5 enjoy stories, crafts,

muddy games and play in a squishy, squashy, sensory-based program. $25.

9:30-11 a.m. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

REEDSCANOETRIPS.COM

PLAN THE BEST BIRTHDAY EVER!

Our indoor, private inflatable arenas and party rooms are perfect for any size party and our dedicated Party Pros are there every step of the way so you can relax and enjoy the party!

• 100% Private Bouncing • Easy To Do • 100% Private Party Rooms • Dedicated Party Pros • Giant Indoor Inflatables • We Clean Up Pump It Up of Chicago • 312.664.7867 Pump It Up of Orland Park • 708.479.2220

2 FREE PIZZAS (Adult Size) When you book any Monday-Thursday Party Package for 25 Valid at these locations only. May not be combined with other offers or promotional discounts. One coupon per customer.

Expires 12/31/17.

$

Offering exciting and memorable trips

2 OFF

Open Jump Admission Check the Events Calendar at pumpitupparty.com for available jump times.

Valid for one Open Jump session at these locations only. May not be combined with other offers or promotional discounts.

One coupon per customer. Expires 12/31/17.

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!

Trips available seven days a week.

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 43

CHIPAR0617_043.indd 1

5/18/17 11:34 AM

CALENDAR 7 | WEDNESDAY MUDPIES AND DANDELION SOUP. Lisle. See June 6.

INCHWORMS PARENT-CHILD PROGRAM. Introduce little ones

18-36 months to nature through songs, crafts and outdoor exploration. Today’s theme is “Hummingbird is the Word.” $6; free parking. 9:3010:15 a.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

8 | THURSDAY MUDPIES AND DANDELION SOUP. Kids 18-35 months enjoy

stories, crafts, muddy games and play in a squishy sensory-based program. $22, $18 members. 9:30-10:45 a.m.

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

9 | FRIDAY SUMMER KICK-OFF CELEBRATION. Features a DJ,

games, prizes, sand castle and hula hoop contests, lifeguard safety demonstrations and relay races. At dusk, watch Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens. 5-10 p.m.

Bensenville Water Park, 1100 W. Wood St., Bensenville. (630) 7667015, bensenvilleparkdistrict.org.

MOVIE IN THE PARK.

Wheaton. See June 2. Today’s movie is Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.

10 | SATURDAY SUBURBS AROUND THE WORLD. Take a journey of learning with crafts and activities at each stop. Explore animals from every corner of the earth, build replicas of world-famous structures and make a plane, train, car or boat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Lakeshore Learning Store, various locations. lakeshorelearning.com.

DAIRY BREAKFAST AND STOCK SHOW. Celebrate National Dairy

Month and enjoy a farm-style breakfast. Includes farm tours, demonstrations, hay rides and hands-on activities. $10, $5 kids 2-10, free kids under 2. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Wagner Farm, 1510 Wagner Road, Glenview. (847) 657-1506, glenviewparks.org.

ST. NORBERT ANNUAL BLOCK PARTY. Features a 5K fun run and

Kids’ Dash at 8 a.m. Block party starts at 3 p.m. and includes live music, beer garden, food and kids’ corner with games, inflatables, face painting and entertainment. $5, $10 after 7 p.m. Meadow and Walters Avenue, Northbrook. (847) 2727090, stnorbertblockparty.org.

ISLAND RENDEZVOUS.

Visitors journey back to the 18th century and participate in activities including archery, French crafts, storytelling, lacrosse, a petting zoo and more. Reenactors relive the French fur trade era. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E. Romeo Road, Romeoville. (815) 886-1467, reconnect withnature.org.

ELDRIDGE ADVENTURE DAY. Enter a fishing contest, go on

a bug hunt, meet exotic animals or visit a petting zoo. Plus, enjoy carnival games and face painting.

10 a.m.-1 p.m. Eldridge Park, 363 Commonwealth Lane, Elmhurst.

(630) 993-8937, epd.org.

PARENT/CHILD CAMPOUT. Kids

3 and up, with adult, play nature games, enjoy a buffet-style supper, a twilight hike and s’mores around the campfire. Sunday includes a light breakfast. Bring a tent and sleeping bags. $33, $22 resident. 4 p.m.-10 a.m. Seager Park Pavilion, 1163 Plank Road, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

SECOND SATURDAY: FROM FARM TO PARK. Environment is the

theme, a nod to Robert McCormick’s interest in farming when he lived at Cantigny. Activities will include making butter and carding wool. $10 parking. Noon-3 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.

(630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

44 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_044.indd 1

5/18/17 11:35 AM

CALENDAR 11 | SUNDAY

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

SUBURBS PICNIC WITH THE ANIMALS. FAMILY CONCERT: ANIMAL FARM. Original songs, comedy

sketches and storytelling stress community, self-expression and growing up. Lawn seating; chairs and blankets welcome. $10 parking.

Noon. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

13 | TUESDAY MUDPIES AND DANDELION SOUP. Lisle. See June 8.

14 | WEDNESDAY

An evening full of games, activities, animal visits and zoo access. The Coyote Café and Wild Side Gift Shop will be open for food and gift purchases; guests may also bring their own picnic supper. $20 family. 5:30-8 p.m. Cosley Zoo, 1356 Gary Ave., Wheaton. (630) 665-5534, cosleyzoo. org.

STORYTIME AT THE FIRE MUSEUM. Read stories, sing songs

and dance. Plus, stay for some fun at the museum after. Donations welcome. 2:30-3 p.m. Aurora Regional Fire Museum, 53 N. Broadway, Aurora. (630) 256-4140, aurora regionalfiremuseum.org.

MUDPIES AND DANDELION Bring your lunch every day except Wednesday SOUP. Lisle. See June 8.

17 | SATURDAY

Wednesday is water day & BBQ Student Horse Show on Thursday at 2pm INCHWORMS PARENT-CHILDBring your cameras and sunscreen - All are invited.

Advanced Camp will go onCHICAGO a trail ride on Thurs.

PROGRAM. Wheaton. See June* 7. instead of student horse show

Today’s theme is “Who are you, Mr. Owl?”

15 | THURSDAY MUDPIES AND DANDELION SOUP. Lisle. See June 6.

16 | FRIDAY FAMILY CAMPOUT ON THE FARM.

Enjoy campfire stories, a scavenger hunt and games. Campfire-roasted hotdogs, chips and a beverage for dinner, s’mores, and a continental breakfast will be provided. Bring a tent, sleeping gear, lawn chairs and personal items. All kids must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. $6, free kids 3 and under. 6 p.m.-9 a.m. Fischer Farm, 16W680 Old Grand Ave., Bensenville. (630) 7667015, bensenvilleparkdistrict.org/ pdcms/fischer-farm.

FAMILY NIGHT OUT: MUSIC AND CARS. Features a Cruise Night

theme (classic wheels get in free) and live music by Joe Kalish (5 p.m.) and Final Say (7 p.m.). Food trucks will be on site. Stay for Movie in the Park (Rogue One: A Star Wars Story) at 8:30 p.m. $5 parking. 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road,

A party your kiddo will never forget.

PUERTO RICAN PARADE.

Humboldt Park’s Puerto Rican community celebrates the 39th anniversary of the People’s Parade. 2 p.m.

Division from Western to Sacramento. cityofchicago.org/specialevents.

SPRING FLIGHT. The Aerial Dance

Chicago community comes together in an energizing showcase of movement. Performances by students of all ages and levels, ADC company dancers, teachers, and the Youth Dance Ensemble will leave you amazed and inspired. $20. 4, 6 and 8 p.m.

Aerial Dance Chicago, 4028 W. Irving Park Road, Loft A. (773) 463-4402, aerialdancechicago.org.

SUBURBS KO-THI DANCE COMPANY. The

dancers are trained in African history, mythology and art techniques and are taught to use rhythm and dance to captivate and inspire the audience. $10. 11 a.m.; gates open at 10 a.m.

Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Road, Highland Park. (847) 266-5100, ravinia.org.

FISH-O-RAMA. Kids 15 and under, with an adult, participate in

icago Two Ch s! n Locatio

Rosemont • (773) 598-8027 rosemont.parties@sugarfactory.com River North • (773) 598-8026 chicagoparties@sugarfactory.com

* Mention this ad when booking your event for a complimentary party favor!

Nova Quarter Horses, Inc. 2017 Summer Horse Camp 10129 W 187th Street, Mokena, IL 708-479-3696 Novaquarterhorses1@yahoo.com Participants will get hands on experience learning: • Horsemanship skills • Feeding, grooming, bridling and saddling • Daily riding lesson • Barn Etiquette • and so much more...

Camp Dates: Week 1: June 12th - June 15th Week 2: June 19th -June 22nd Week 3: June 26th - June 29th Week 4: July 10th - July 13th Week 5: July 24th -July 28th (Advanced Camp) Week 6: July 31st - August 3rd Cost: $325.00 per camper $350 per camper for Advanced Camp** Camp Hours: Monday - Thursday 9am -3pm Ages 7 to 18 *Camp t-shirt provided

Celebrate Father’s Day “horsing around” at Nova Quarter Horses!

Friday, June 16th, 2017: 6:30-8:00pm Saturday, June 17th, 2017: 3:30-5:00pm Ages 6 & up. $70 per couple, $20 each additional rider Beverage will be included along with a memorable Father’s Day Keepsake

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 45

CHIPAR0617_045.indd 1

5/18/17 11:45 AM

CALENDAR people who lived through an extraordinary time. There will be a firing of the cannon at 11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m. Concessions are available for purchase. $5, $3 kids under 13. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Fischer Farm, 16W680 Old Grand Ave., Bensenville. (630) 766-7015, bensenvilleparkdistrict. org/pdcms/fischer-farm.

an open fishing contest. Registration is required. 8-11 a.m. Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Harrison and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. (630) 871-2810, lincolnmarsh.org.

SCANDINAVIAN MIDSOMMAR CELEBRATION. Festival opens

with Children’s Parade and dancing around the Maypole, followed by crafts, games and horse-drawn wagon rides. Bonfire lighting and traditional toast begin at sunset.

Bring a family dish to pass at picnic. $5, free kids 12 and under. 3:30-10 p.m. Vasa Park, Route 31, South Elgin. vasaparkil.com.

25 | SUNDAY

Wo W orlld E vironment En Day

SUBURBS FISHIN’ KIDS. Kids 5-11, with

See June 3

CREATING CONNECTIONS.

This sensory storytime is focused on creating a positive library experience especially for those families of children with exceptional abilities and sensory processing issues. 2-3 p.m. West Chicago Public Library District, 118 W. Washington St., West Chicago. (630) 231-1552, west chicago.lib.il.us.

INCHWORMS PARENT-CHILD PROGRAM. Wheaton. See June 7.

Today’s theme is “Rockin’ Robin.”

23 | FRIDAY MOVIE IN THE PARK.

Wheaton. See June 2. Today’s movie is Sing.

18 | SUNDAY

24 | SATURDAY

SUBURBS

CHICAGO

MALOTT JAPANESE GARDEN FAMILY SUNDAY. Glencoe. See

DRAGON BOAT RACE FOR LITERACY. Teams compete in a

June 4.

fast-paced race on the south branch of the Chicago River in decorated dragon boats. Musical and dance performances, booth vendors and special guest appearances on land. Proceeds promote literacy. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Ping Tom Memorial Park, 300 W. 19th St. (312) 326-5320, chicagochinatown. org.

SWEDISH DAY. Features

Scandinavian song and dance, Swedish food, Viking encampment, children’s activities, Maypole raising, food and carnival games. $5, free kids 12 and under. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Good Templar Park, 528 East Side Drive, Geneva. (847) 845-2640, swedishday.net.

21 | WEDNESDAY MAKE MUSIC CHICAGO.

Music-makers of all ages, abilities and musical tastes gather for performances and participatory events throughout Chicago’s public spaces, including Maggie Daley Park, Riverwalk, Daley Plaza, Lincoln Park Zoo, and more than 15 Chicago Park District sites. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Various locations, Chicago. makemusic chicago.com.

HUNT FOR GOOD. Teams compete to solve riddles, complete tasks and discover works of art spread across the Loop and surrounding neighborhoods. The race ends with a fun after-party. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Highline, 169 W. Kinzie St. huntforgood2017. eventbrite.com.

SUBURBS FUN AND FIT FAMILY DAY. Enjoy a

brisk run or walk around Old School Forest Preserve, then browse sponsor booths and join in the fun and fit

activities for the whole family including Kids Dash, Live DJ, giveaways, refreshments, discounted admission to the Farmyard, and more. $25, $100 for a family of five. 9 a.m.noon. Lambs Farm, I-94 and Route 176, Libertyville. (847) 362-4636, lambsfarm.org.

adult, learn all the basics of fishing including how to rig a pole, bait the hook, cast and handle fish. Parents must remain with kids. Registration is required. $29, $19 resident. 10 a.m.noon. Knoch Knolls Nature Center Picnic Grove, 320 Knoch Knolls Road, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, naperville parks.org.

CIVIL WAR REENACTMENT WEEKEND. Bensenville. See June

24.

ROCKIN’ JEWELRY FOR KIDS.

Kids 8-16 make their own gemstone jewelry to keep. Choose two different types of jewelry to make with stones from the Museum Shop and learn how to work with a jeweler’s tool. $10. 1:30 p.m. Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, 220 Cottage Hill Ave. (in Wilder Park), Elmhurst. (630) 833-1616, lizzadromuseum.org.

GLENVIEW SUMMERFEST.

Showcases regional businesses and civic organizations. Favorites include Hackney’s, Scandinavian Ski Shop and Katy Boldt Jewelry, as well as the Glenview Fire Department’s fire pole and special entertainment and kid-friendly activities. 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Lehigh between Glenview Road and Washington Street, Glenview.

(847) 724-0900, business.glenview chamber.com.

CIVIL WAR REENACTMENT WEEKEND. Includes a rally for

infantry drills in the morning and a skirmish in the afternoon as well as first-person presentations throughout the day. Meet Abraham Lincoln and Sojourner Truth, hear music, and learn what life was like for ordinary

EVERYONE AT PLAY. The museum

works with community organizations to invite families with children with special needs to explore the exhibits while closed to the general public.

This provides opportunities for calm, creative and collaborative play.

Free with museum admission. Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org.

29 | THURSDAY THE STARS OF THE PEKING ACROBATS. A troupe of China’s

most gifted tumblers, contortionists, jugglers, cyclists and gymnasts complemented by live musicians playing traditional Chinese instruments. $15, $5 lawn. 7 p.m.; gates open at 4 p.m. Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Road, Highland Park. (847) 266-5100, ravinia.org.

30 | FRIDAY MOVIE IN THE PARK.

Wheaton. See June 2. Today’s movie is Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan.

46 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_046.indd 1

5/18/17 1:38 PM

Day Camp

June 26 - August 4 Late Summer Camps

August 7-18

(Offered at many parks. Varies by park.)

Online Summer Registration opens April 24-25 In-person Summer Registration opens April 29 Financial assistance is available for eligible city of Chicago residents.

Learn more at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/day-camp/

Warrior Games

STAY CONNECTED.

June 30 – July 8 City of Chicago, Rahm Emanuel, Mayor Chicago Park District Board of Commissioners Michael P. Kelly, General Superintendent & CEO For more information about your Chicago Park District visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com, or call 312.742.7529 or 312.747.2001 (TTY)

in Chicago

Going Places FREE | SUMMER 2017

Lake escapes

The Ultimate Guide to Family Fun!

352

food, fests & free falls

Have a simple summer GP Cover Spring 2017.indd 3

Summer edition now available!

5/4/17 10:37 AM

For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com ChicagoParent.com June 2017 47

CHIPAR0617_047.indd 1

5/19/17 11:13 AM

Summer Fun // Directory to advertisers A Fairytale Ballet & Academy Lakeview, Bucktown, Evanston (773) 477-4488 (LV & EV) (773) 606-0318 (BT) AFairytaleBallet.com Ballet with stories, costumes, props & fun! Ages 2-16

The Avery Coonley School Summer Program 1400 Maple Ave., Downers Grove (630) 969-0800 averycoonley.org

Blackhawk Waterways of NW Illinois 201 N Franklin Ave., Polo, IL (800) 678-2108 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com Wide open spaces, family friendly attractions and great accommodations!

Carmel, Indiana (317) 571-2400 carmel.in.gov Discover why Carmel, Indiana is a City to Experience.

Chicago Grammar School 900 N. Franklin Ste. 104, Chicago (312) 944-5600 chicagogrammar.org Art/Design Camp for JK-8: June 13 - July 22. Part-time and Full-time option.

NWEA-Map, HSPT, and ISEE test Prep for rising 7th and 8th graders July 5-July 22 from 8:30 to 3:00.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier Dreamworks MADAGASGAR July 13 – August 27 (312) 595-5600 Chicagoshakes.com

DeKalb

Step into a world of creative play and fantastical journeys.

Eye Level Learning Center Summer Programs (224) 424-0144 www.myeyelevel.com Enroll your children to enhance their thinking!

Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo 3411 Sherman Blvd.

Fort Wayne, Indiana (260) 427-6800 kidszoo.org Family fun with 1,000 animals, five rides on 40 acres.

Funtopia 2050 Tower Dr., Glenview (847) 217-6212 www.funtopiaworld.com/glenview New unique FEC incl. Fun climbing, caving and much more

GreenApple Campus STEM, Innovation, Entrepreneurship Elmhurst & Chicago (872) 240-4230 GreenAppleCampus.org

Kane County Cougars 34W002 Cherry Lane, Geneva (630) 232-8811 KCCougars.com Affordable family fun at the ballpark! Get your tickets today!

Located just south of the intersection of Roosevelt Rd. (Rt. 38) and Kirk Rd. on the East side of Geneva.

Kids Obstacle Challenge (888) 655-1127 www.kidsobstaclechallenge.com A Mudtastic Family Adventure!

Kidwatch Plus

www.lakegenevacanopytours.com Outdoor fun for everyone!

Birthday parties, scout groups and more.

Little Green Tree House Preschool and Childcare West Loop, Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Evanston (312) 492-9876 littlegreentreehouse.com Facilitate the optimal growth and development of the whole child.

The Little Gym of Chicago 3216 North Lincoln Avenue (773) 525-5750 www.TheLittleGym.com/ChicagoIL Offering programs that develop the happy, confident kid you love.

Marshall County Tourism 201 North Michigan Street, Plymouth, Indiana (800) 626-5353 www.visitmarshallcounty.org

30 years of mission in motion 301 Washington, Naperville (630) 637-8000 Dupagechildrens.org

Emerald City Theatre Summer Camp 2017 Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Lincoln Square (773) 529-2690 emeraldcitytheatre.com

Lafayette - West Lafayette, Indiana (800) 872-6648 HomeOfPurdue.com Winery, breweries, Pete Dye & Hale Irwin golf course designs.

Lake Geneva Canopy Tours N3219 County Road H Lake Geneva, WI 53147 (262) 248-9271

Reed’s Canoe Trips Kankakee, IL (815) 932-2663 ReedsCanoeTrips.com Offering exciting and memorable trips seven days a week

Safari Land

601 Dundee AV, East Dundee (847) 426-5374

The Morton Arboretum 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle (630) 968-0074 mortonarb.org “​ Origami in Garden”. The Exhibit runs through ​October 22.

Music Theater Works (formerly Light Opera Works) Summer Workshop 516 4th Street, Wilmette (847) 920-5360 MusicTheaterWorks.com/summer

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

DuPage Children’s Museum

A Wild Place to Shop and Eat Downtown Chicago (312) 787-1501 Woodfield Mall (847) 619-1900 Gurnee Mills (847) 855-7800 Rainforestcafe.com

Santa’s Village

Riding lessons, birthday parties, horse camps, field trips, scout events

17 exhibits including 2-acre outdoor Habitat Park and “Science + You” through Aug 27!

Rainforest Café

www.minocqua.org Nature’s original water park!

Come visit Minocqua!

Join us for a SEUSS-TASTIC Summer at Kidwatch Plus!

Extraordinary adventure awaits at the biggest and best children’s museum in the world

(708) 479-2220 (312) 664-PUMP

Minocqua, Wisconsin

Nova Quarter Horses, Inc.

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

Orland Park Chicago

Unwind in Marshall County.

Quality accommodations, entertainment and tasty dining

3330 N. Lockwood Ave., Chicago (773) 539-5431 Kidwatchplus.com

Kohl Children’s Museum

Pump It Up Party

Chicagoland’s Largest Indoor Amusement Park 701 W. North Ave., Villa Park (630) 530-4649 safarilandfun.com

dekalbcountycvb.com Explore DeKalb County for affordable family fun all year long.

3000 N Meridian St, Indianapolis (317) 334-4000 www.childrensmuseum.org

Outdoor FUN!

10129 W. 187th Street, Mokena (708) 479-3696

Odyssey Fun World Tinely Park: I-80 & Harlem Ave. Naperville: I-88 & Rt. 59 (708) 429-3800 odysseyfunworld.com

Painting Time Now 13 Waukegan Rd., Deerfield (847) 315-0882 www.paintingtiemnow.com Art Summer Camp, Weekly or Daily. Ages 5 - 14.

The PlayGround Games (847) 373-6925 thepggames.com Inflatables, Bubble Soccer, DJ/ Emcee, Interactive Games, Indoor/

Amusement Park 23 Rides, Games, Animals, Attractions, & Live Entertainment

Skokie Park District 9300 Weber Park Pl., Skokie (847) 674-1500 SkokieParks.com

Sugar Factory 55 E Grand Ave, Chicago 5445 Park Pl, Rosemont Events Line - (773) 598-8026 www.sugarfactory.com Perfect for birthdays, showers, date nights, moms night out and more!

Visit Springfield Illinois (800) 545-7300 www.visitspringfieldillinois.com Discover the makings of your legendary vacation in Springfield, IL.

Wells Street Art Fair Sat. and Sun. June 1​0-1​1 10am-10pm Wells St. and North Ave., Chicago (773) 868-3010 www.WellsStreetArtFest.us Old Town art happening features 225 artists plus kids’ activities.

The Yard 233 W. 63rd St. Westmont (630) 737-1000 westmontyard.com 1607 Legacy Circle Naperville (630) 245-1100 napervilleyard.com

48 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

SummerFun_June2017.indd 48

5/19/17 11:10 AM

PS O H S K R WOR

Formerly LIGHT OPERA WORKS

2017

E SUMM

• No auditions • Every child gets a part • In Wilmette

Ages 8 to 13 Annie • July 10-15 The Music Man • July 17-22 Spamalot • July 24-29 Singin’ in the Rain • July 31-Aug. 5 Bye Bye Birdie • Aug. 7-12 For teens Candide youth production June 12-29 (audition required)

MusicTheaterWorks.com/summer • (847) 920-5360

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 49

CHIPAR0617_049.indd 1

5/18/17 4:03 PM

FAIRS & FESTS ANDERSONVILLE MIDSOMMARFEST. Features

food, entertainment on five stages and family activities including face painting, games and a pet parade. The Swedish American Museum sponsors Swedish entertainment, music and dancing around the Midsommar Maypole. $10; free kids under 12.

Check website for schedule. June 9-11. 5200 N. Clark, between Foster and Catalpa, Chicago. (773) 7282995, andersonville.org.

CHICAGO BLUES FESTIVAL.

Do D o-D -Div ivis sio on Strre St eet et F e es st SSeee th thiss paagge this

TASTE OF WHEATON.

Includes Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals 5K/10K, arts and crafts, food vendors, carnival rides, children’s games, live entertainment, beer garden and marketplace business expo. Fees for some activities. Check website for schedule. June 1-4.

Memorial Park, Wheaton. wheaton parkdistrict.com/taste.

CHICAGO GOSPEL MUSIC FESTIVAL. Showcases the best in

local, national and international gospel music performers. Check website for schedule. June 2-3.

Millennium Park, Chicago. (312) 7443316, chicagogospelmusicfestival.us.

music, dance performances, kids’ activities and Greek culture and Hellenic pride. $5 donation. 5-11 p.m. June 2; noon-11 p.m. June 3; 4-10 p.m. June 4. 2701 N. Sheffield, Chicago. (773) 868-3010, lincolnparkgreekfest.com.

FLAVOR OF MEXICO. Foodies from around the region revel in authentic Mexican foods when 26th Street, the bustling hub of Little Village and Chicago’s Mexican community, hosts a cultural extravaganza.

Highlights include a Restaurant Row, cooking demonstrations, music and cultural stages and more. Noon-10 p.m. June 2-4. 3000 W. 26th St. (at Sacramento), Chicago. (773) 8683010, chicagoevents.com.

DO-DIVISION STREET FEST.

Features food, crafts, live music and a huge sidewalk sale. Family Fun Fest activities include pony and train rides, face painting, climbing wall, bounce house, jousting, kids’ music and talent show, sports-infused activity area, and family stage. $5 donation.

5-10 p.m. June 2; noon-10 p.m. June 3-4. Division Street from Ashland to Leavitt, Chicago. (312) 850-9390, do-divisionstreetfest.com.

PIVOT ARTS FESTIVAL. Features

live music, theater, dance, puppetry, discussions, wine tastings, workshops, children’s performances and more.

Also includes a Community Parade on June 4, kicking off at George B. Swift Elementary School. Free-$25. Check website for schedule. June 2-12. Pivot Arts, 1443 W. Norwood St., Chicago.

(773) 609-0782, pivotarts.org.

LINCOLN PARK GREEK FEST.

DEERFIELD FESTIVAL OF FINE ARTS. Features more than 75

Features authentic Greek cuisine,

artists from across the U.S. as well as

live music and kids’ art activities. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 3-4. Park Avenue and Deerfield Road, Deerfield. (847) 726-8669, dwevents.org.

57TH STREET ART FAIR.

Chicago’s oldest juried art fair features art in many media, with hands-on activities and playgrounds for kids. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. June 3; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 4. 57th Street, Hyde Park neighborhood, Chicago.

57thstreetartfair.org.

The world’s largest free blues festival showcases performers on five stages playing to more than 500,000 blues fans, proving that Chicago is the “Blues Capital of the World.” Check website for schedule. June 9-11.

Millennium Park, Chicago. (312) 7443315, chicagobluesfestival.us.

RIBFEST CHICAGO. Enjoy ribs and other food and listen to bands while the kids hang out at Kids Square, featuring entertainment, inflatables and games. Plus, celebrityjudged “Best Ribs” award and amateur and professional rib-eating competitions. Donations are requested.

Ribfest: 5-10 p.m. June 9; noon-10 p.m. June 10-11. Kids Square: Noon-8 p.m. Saturday, noon-7 p.m. Sunday.

Northcenter, Lincoln Avenue at Irving Park Road, Chicago. (773) 525-3609, ribfest-chicago.com.

OLD TOWN ART FAIR. Features

BUFFALO GROVE ART FESTIVAL. Features works from more

than 100 artist and kids’ art activities, including an art scavenger hunt, spin art at the festival and the youth art tent. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 3-4. Buffalo Grove Town Center, corner of Lake Cook Road and Route 83 (McHenry Road), Buffalo Grove. (847) 9264300, buffalogroveartfestival.com.

DOWNTOWN HOMEWOOD ART AND GARDEN STREET FAIR.

Features more than 45 unique artisans and vendors, live music, science activities by Homewood Science Center, 2-D chalk drawings and more. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. June 9-10. Martin Avenue and Ridge Road, Homewood. (708) 7983000, homesweethomewood.com.

works of 250 artists in various mediums, plus a music stage, kids’ art, activities at the Children’s Corner, garden walk, food court and vendors. $7 donation, free kids 12 and under.

10 a.m.-7 p.m. June 10; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. June 11. Lincoln Avenue and Wisconsin Street, Chicago. (312) 3371938, oldtownartfair.org.

PROMENADE OF ART ARLINGTON HEIGHTS. Features

more than 110 juried artists, live music, food and kids’ activities. Art enthusiasts of all ages can get into the “art-filled action” by making their mark on a graffiti wall at the festival. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 10-11. 121 W. Campbell, Arlington Heights. (847) 926-4300, promenadeofartarlingtonheights.com.

50 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_050.indd 1

5/19/17 2:21 PM

FAIRS & FESTS CHICAGO TRIBUNE PRINTERS ROW LIT FEST. Fest

brings together lovers of literature, national best-selling authors, performers, and booksellers. Children’s programming includes storytelling, performances, sing-alongs and special activities. Check website for schedule.

June 10-11. Historic Printers Row, Dearborn Street between Polk Street and Congress Parkway and the Harold Washington Library, Chicago. (312) 222-3986, printersrowlitfest.org.

WELLS STREET ART FESTIVAL.

Features a wide variety of fine art, musicians, a children’s art area and food vendors. $7 donation. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. June 10; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. June 11.

Wells Street between North Avenue and Division Street, Chicago. (773) 868-3010, wellsstreetartfest.us.

this festival is presented by Alex’s Washington Gardens and Ginger’s of Highwood along with Redhead Piano Bar. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. June 10; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. June 11. Everts Park, 130 Highwood Ave., Highwood.

(847) 432-6000, facebook.com/ RHDchicago.

LIBERTYVILLE DAYS FESTIVAL.

Features carnival rides, entertainment, food and more. Check website for schedule. June 15-18. Libertyville Days Festival, 135 W. Church St., Libertyville. (847) 918-8880, libcivic center.org.

OLD SETTLERS DAYS. Features

parade, music, carnival rides, Trading Post, food and fireworks. Check website for cost and schedule. June 15-18.

Settlers Park, E. Hawick St., Rockton.

(815) 206-8525, oldsettlersdays.com.

HIGHWOOD REDHEAD DAYS.

The first and only United States affiliate of the Redhead Days festival, which originated in Breda, Holland,

ORY

horse-drawn wagon tours, tour of the 1907 Hydraulic Power Plant, food and entertainment. Check website for schedule. June 15-18. Downtown Lockport. (815) 838-3357, oldcanal days.com.

TASTE OF DES PLAINES.

Features music, food and kids’ activities. 3-11 p.m. June 16; noon-11 p.m.

June 17. Downtown Des Plaines Train Station, 1501 Miner St., Des Plaines.

(773) 868-3010, desplaines.org.

HIGHLAND GAMES & SCOTTISH FESTIVAL. Events includes a

highland dance competition, athletics competition, cultural exhibits, car show, kids’ crafts and activities. 1-10 p.m. June 16; 8 a.m.-10 p.m. June 17.

Hamilton Lakes, Highway 290 and Thorndale, Itasca. chicagoscots.org.

bands and a kids’ entertainment stage. Wristbands give all-day access to attractions such as kiddie games, a bounce house, a 4-person Euro-Bungy and more. $10 wristbands. 6-11 p.m.

June 16; 10 a.m.-10:30 p.m. June 17.

Ardmore Avenue at the Prairie Path, Villa Park. villaparksummerfest.com.

BRICKWORLD. See spectacular

creations, all built from Lego bricks by local Lego enthusiasts. Enjoy interactive activities, such as the Lego and Duplo play brick areas, fighting robots, seek and finds, etc. Buy Lego sets, minifigures and accessories from various vendors. $12, free kids 3 and under. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. June 17; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. June 18. Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg. brickworld.com/ brickworld-chicago

VILLA PARK SUMMERFEST. LOCKPORT OLD CANAL DAYS. Features parade, carnival,

music, craft fair, family activities,

Friday night includes a car show, bands, food and drink. Saturday features kids’ attractions, craft show,

GOLD COAST ART FAIR AT GRANT PARK. Showcases

the work of more than 250 juried

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY Pediatric dentistry

pediatric dentistry

We take the fear out of dentistry for your child.

Outstanding Pediatric Dental Care –

• Shots and drilling are no longer necessary • Computer x-rays reduce your child’s exposure to radiation • We use smaller chairs and instruments • We welcome patients with special needs

It’s at the heart of what we do.

As an award-winning practice, we pride ourselves on providing the finest comprehensive dental care for the children in our practice so they leave with a healthy smile and positive attitude toward dental care as they approach adulthood.

• Pleasant, comfortable surroundings

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Nominated as one of CHICAGO’S FAVORITE

Kids

Doc

John P. Kenney, DDS, MS

Diplomate American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

Children's Dentistry in Park Ridge

101 S. Washington St., Suite 114 Park Ridge, IL 60068

847-698-2088

24-Hour Answering Service We are an Authorized Under Armour Performance Mouthwear Provider - with Armourbite® Technology

Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

16345 S. Harlem • Tinley Park

708-633-8700 • www.kidsdds.net

1125 S. Harlem Ave., Forest Park (708) 386-5437 • (708) FUN-KIDS www.kidsdentistforestpark.com

Infants, Children, Teens & Special Needs Children

www.care4kidsteeth.com ChicagoParent.com June 2017 51

CHIPAR0617_051.indd 1

5/18/17 1:44 PM

FAIRS & FESTS artists from around the world, plus live music, food and fun activities for kids, including an art scavenger hunt and interactive mural. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. June 17-18. Grant Park’s Butler Field, corner of Monroe and Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (847) 926-4300, amdurproductions.com/ gold-coast-art-fair-at-grant-park.

and the Grand Parade. Cost for some activities and carnival. Check website for schedule. June 20-25. S. Third Street and W. State Street (Rte. 38), Geneva. (630) 232-6060, geneva chamber.com/swedish_days.php.

CUSTER FAIR. Eclectic art festival with diverse works from more than 300 artists. Plus, unique folk and Native American music on two stages, an “EcoVillage” green vendor area, a children’s park with kids’ activities, and cuisine from more than 30 restaurants. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. June 17-18. 600 Main St., Evanston. (847) 328-2204, custerfair.com.

ART IN BLOOM. Features a juried art show, nearly 100 exhibiting artists, activities and crafts for kids, demonstrations, live music (Guitarra Azul and Classical Blast), delicious food and more. $10 parking. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. June 17-18. Cantigny

SJC FEST. Features carnival rides, midway games, food from area restaurants, a bake sale, face painting, live music and entertainment and more. Food and rides cost extra.

Check website for schedule. June 22-25. St. John of the Cross, 51st Street & Wolf Road, Western Springs.

(708) 246-4404, sjcfest.com.

And A An nde ders rson on nvi villlllle e Miids M dsom omme m rffes st

GOLD COAST GREEK FEST.

See pa See Se page ge 50

Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.

(630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

SWEDISH DAYS FESTIVAL.

Geneva celebrates its Swedish

heritage with a festival featuring American and Swedish food including a 5K race, a craft beer tent, a carnival, Kids’ day, “Geneva’s Got Talent” and Sweden Väst, musical entertainment

Features live music and dancing, tours of the Cathedral, authentic Greek food and pastries, beer, wine and more. 5-11 p.m. June 23; noon-11 p.m. June 24-25. Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Chicago, 1017 N. La Salle Drive, Chicago. (312) 6645485, annunciationcathedralchicago. org.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY pediatric dentistry

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

PEDIATRIC DENTAL ASSOCIATES, P.C.

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

• Flexible Hours • Insurance Accepted

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

(708) 799-9755

George Lin, D.D.S. Anjali Talati, D.M.D. Carol Nixon, D.D.S.

Buffalo Grove Business Park 195 Arlington Hts Rd., Suite 150 Buffalo Grove, IL 60089

847-537-7695

College Hill Professional Building 690 N. Route 31 Crystal Lake, Il 60012

815-459-2727

Ask us about our NO SHOT & NO DRILL Laser fillings!

www.everytoothcounts.com

www.kidsmyl.com

52 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_052.indd 1

5/18/17 1:44 PM

FAIRS & FESTS LONG GROVE STRAWBERRY FEST. In addition to three stages

of live entertainment, includes the Kid Zone with a water balloon toss, flower crown arts, ballroom dancing and junior knight training. $5 (free 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday); free kids 12 and under. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. June 23; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. June 24-25.

Long Grove Historic Village, 308 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove. (847) 634-0888, longgrove.org.

Jefferson St., Joliet. (815) 741-7275, tasteofjoliet.com.

EVANSTON CHAMBER ARTISAN SUMMERFEST. Features the

eclectic works of juried artists as well as eco-friendly art. Plus, kids’ art activities, food and jazz-centric music lineup. $5 donation. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. June 24; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. June 25. Sherman and Church streets, Evanston. (773) 868-3010, chicago events.com.

LOGAN SQUARE ARTS FESTIVAL.

Features art installations across the neighborhood, local music, craft beer, food from neighborhood restaurants and family fun. Check website for cost and schedule. June 23-25. I AM Logan Square Gallery, 2644 ½ N. Milwaukee, Chicago. (847) 6752580, logansquareartsfestival.org.

RANDOLPH STREET MARKET.

Features art, antiques, vintage, handmade, food, drinks, live music and a kids’ area in Plumbers Hall. Every kid gets a treasure map to navigate the market. $8, free kids under 12.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 24-25. 1350 W. Randolph St., Chicago. randolph streetmarket.com.

TASTE OF JOLIET. Features live

music, carnival, food vendors and kid zone. Check website for cost and schedule. June 23-25. ATI Field at Joliet Memorial Stadium, 3000 W.

ORY

THE ART CENTER’S FESTIVAL OF FINE CRAFT.

Showcases original works from 125 juried artists and offers activities

for children and families, as well as live entertainment and tasty festival treats. Suggested donation. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 25-26. Central Avenue and Sheridan Avenue, Downtown Highland Park. (847) 926-4300, festivaloffineartshp.com.

WINDY CITY RIBFEST. Features live music, lots of ribs, arts & crafts and kids’ area (on Saturday and Sunday afternoons). $5. June 30-July 2. Lawrence Avenue and Broadway Street, Chicago. windycityribfest. com.

EYES TO THE SKIES BALLOON FESTIVAL. Features hot air balloon

NAPERVILLE RIBFEST. Features a

shows and rides, as well as musical entertainment, 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. Check website for schedule.

Carnival starts June 28; festival runs June 30-July 2. Community Park, 1825 Short St., Lisle. (630) 7691000, eyestotheskies.org.

OAK FEST. Features bingo, a bean bag tournament, bands, a car show, food, and family fun, including a carnival. Culminates with fireworks on July 4. June 29-July 4. Northeast corner of 159th Street and Central Avenue, Oak Forest. oakfest.com.

BBQ contest with several rib vendors, food, 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. Check website for cost. Noon-10 p.m. June 30-July 3. Knoch Park, 700 S. West St., Naperville. ribfest.net.

FRONTIER DAYS. Features family-friendly activities, live music, a carnival, a Fourth of July parade and a craft market. Carnival tickets and other activities cost extra. June 30-July 4. Recreation Park, three blocks east of Arlington Heights Road at 500 Miner St., Arlington Heights.

(847) 577-8572, frontierdays.org.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY Pediatric eye care

Pediatric dentistry

Pediatric dentistry

Pediatric Ophthalmologists

Medical and Surgical Eye Care for Infants, Children and Teens

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

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

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

www.eyesbypremier.com

Do you have

professional

services to offer?

Call Chicago Parent @708-386-5555 to advertise them today!

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

(773) 871-4964

BigSmilesChicago.com chrismorin5@yahoo.com

Evenings and Saturdays available.

Practice limited to infants, children and adolescents.

4801 W. Peterson Ave • Chicago, IL 60646

773-790-4282

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 53

CHIPAR0617_053.indd 1

5/18/17 1:45 PM

SKOKIE SPORTS PARK Adventure Golf Batting Cages & Party Room

Golf Range PGA Pro Group & Private Lessons

Our unique camps provide three hours of fun and activities in a non-competitive, nurturing environment. Each day, Our unique camps provide three hours of fun and activities in a take non-competitive, nurturing environment. they part in exciting imaginative journeys. Each day, they take part in exciting imaginative journeys.

NOW ENROLLING SUMMER CAMPS AND CLASSES NOW ENROLLING SUMMER CAMPS AND CLASSES The Little Gym of Chicago www.TheLittleGym.com/ChicagoIL The Little Gym of Chicago (773) 525-5750 www.TheLittleGym.com/ChicagoIL (773) 525-5750

18 holes of around-the-world golfing adventure 3459 Oakton Street • Skokie (847) 674-1500 ext. 3100 • SkokieParks.org

Fun Comes

Naturally CHECK OUT OUR

NEW WEBSITE! Minocqua.org • 800.44.North • 54 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_054.indd 1

5/18/17 11:39 AM

5 1

things to do at Morton Arboretum this month

Oversized origami is taking over! The sculptures inspired by the Japanese art of folding range in size from 2 inches to 24 feet and include a tower of 500 cranes, a bison and a Pegasus.

Your family can check out the dozens of sculpture included in Origami in the Garden, then stop by the Children’s Garden to do a little paper-folding of your own.

I

5

t’s time to get outside and live a little! And there’s no better place to breathe deeply of that fresh air than The Morton Arboretum. They’ve got summer fun popping up all over, but here are our picks for some leafy family time.

2

Tram rides through the dark woods sound like something out of your kids’ nightmares, but the Full Moon Tram Tour (7:30-9:30 p.m. June 9 and 10) is anything but scary. Families can discover what happens at the arboretum once the moon comes out, plus learn about night ecology and hear some stories of moon lore.

3

Hiking and roasting marshmallows are just two of the activities families can do at Family Twilight Adventures (7-9 p.m.

June 2 and 24), after-dark experiences designed for those

Advanced & Beginner level projects available Ideal scheduling through project-based enrollment Open House Every Wed 6-7pm & Sat - Sun 1-2pm!

with kiddos under 10. The evenings also include a silent tram ride, which is about a million times harder than the “quiet game.”

4

Want to make an [over] night of it? Pitch your tent for the Children’s Garden Campout (June 16-17), an adventure that takes place—you guessed it—in the arboretum’s beloved space just for kids. Go on hikes, try handson activities and hear some bedtime stories before you catch your zzz’s among the trees.

All that fresh air will have your littles ready to move and groove.

So check out Thursday Family Nights (5-8 p.m.

June 15-Aug. 24), afterhours bashes that include kid-friendly food and activities, not to mention entertainment from kiddie faves like Miss Jamie’s Farm, ScribbleMonster and Little Miss Ann. Just try to get them to sit still!

Elizabeth Diffin

Dentistry For: Children • Adolescents • Special Needs tients New Pa e!

Welcom

Complimentary Well Baby Checks!

Kids Are Special People Dr. Russell S. Pollina

Diplomate American Board of Pediatric Dentistry Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics*

847-253-KIDS

601 W. Central Road, Suite 4 • Mt. Prospect, IL 60056 18 E. Dundee Road, Bldg. 5, Ste 100 Barrington, IL 60010 *provided by pediatric dentists

www.grins4kids.com ChicagoParent.com June 2017 55

CHIPAR0617_055.indd 1

5/18/17 11:39 AM

GreenApple Campus STEM + Innovation + Entrepreneurship

Back to School Education Guide Coming in August

Robotics, Coding, AR/VR Mobile Game & App Design Minecraft, Maker in the FabLab, GirlsTech Kids 6 - 14 years Elmhurst & Chicago 872.240.4230 GreenAppleCampus.org

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

60 MILES WEST OF CHICAGO

Summertime in DeKalb County offers plenty of fun in the sun for your family! Come join us for your stay and play weekend!

Biking • Boating Summer Festivals • Camping Fishing • Outdoor Dining Vintage & Antique Shopping • Hiking

for Summertime Sun and Fun! Call or visit our website for your free guide to plan your summertime family fun!

d e k a l b c o u n tycv b . c o m

877/335-2521

56 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_056.indd 1

5/18/17 11:40 AM

ONGOING EVENTS EXHIBITS CHASING ECLIPSES. Exhibit immerses visitors in the spine-tingling, goosebump-inducing experience of a solar eclipse. Free with museum admission. Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 922-7827, adlerplanetarium.org.

Ju urass ras ra ss s sic ic c Wor o ld: ld d: T e Ex Th E hi hibi biti bi tion on n Se this See Se is pag a e

DINOS & DRAGONS. Features 17

animatronic creatures. Inside a tented area, get up-close views of live reptiles, including a 6-foot-long Komodo dragon. The exhibit also has hands-on activities. $5, $3 kids 3-11. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. (708) 688-8000, czs.org.

BUTTERFLIES & BLOOMS.

Outdoor butterfly garden where visitors can immerse themselves with hundreds of live tropical butterfly species from around the world. $6, $5 seniors, $4 kids 3-12. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., weather permitting. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicago botanic.org.

SCIENCE + YOU. Features a child-sized laboratory where kids can explore how scientists impact health and wellness through hands-on, interactive machinery, processes and technology. Free with museum admission. Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org.

BRICK BY BRICK. Features more

than a dozen giant Lego-built structures of engineering marvels, including a 60-foot-long Golden Gate Bridge. Requires a separate, timedentry ticket. Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 684-1414, msichicago. org.

ROBOT REVOLUTION. The exhibit

comes to life with a collection of cutting-edge robots from some of the most innovative global robotics companies and universities. $12, $9 kids.

Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago.

(773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

MODEL RAILROAD GARDEN: LANDMARKS OF AMERICA. The

sights and sounds of garden-scale trains traversing bridges and trestles, past miniature scenes of America’s best-loved landmarks and beautiful gardens planted to scale. $6, $5 seniors, $4 kids 3-12, free kids under 3. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Starting June 7, the exhibition stays open until 8 p.m. on Wednesdays. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicago botanic.org.

admission. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (773) 755-5100, nature museum.org.

JURASSIC WORLD: THE EXHIBITION. Guests walk through

the famous Jurassic World gates to get up close to the towering dinosaurs, some more than 24 feet tall, and explore the park through a specially guided tour. Once on-site, visitors experience the family-friendly Gentle Giants Petting Zoo; step behind the glass into The Hammond Creation Lab; get a special preview of Jurassic World’s top-secret project, the Indominus rex; and go inside the Raptor Training Paddock. $15, $10 kids (daytime); $25, $20 kids (evening). 9 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 922-9410, fieldmuseum.org.

EXTREME ICE. Guests can touch a

OUR HOUSE: RETHINKING HOME IN A CHANGING CLIMATE.

ORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN.

7-foot-tall ice wall, interact with maps showcasing the potential impact of coastal flooding around the world and see how rising temps will affect Chicago due to global warming. Free with museum admission. Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 6841414, msichicago.org.

Families can build, play and discover how scientists are rethinking home to face the challenges of climate change.

The exhibit takes visitors through four climate change challenges and showcases creative solutions that reduce our environmental impact and support natural habitats for plants and animals. Free with museum

Visitors can see 25 displays of metal sculptures based on the traditional Japanese art of paper folding as they walk paths through the arboretum’s landscape. Created by artists Kevin and Jennifer Box, the exhibit features installations, gallery works, and the Boxes’ own compositions, as well as collaborative works with some

of the world’s top origami artists. Free with arboretum admission. 7 a.m.sunset daily. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

OTHER EVENTS TREE POSE YOGA. Kids 4-6, with adult, learn about the environment while stretching, moving and breathing like the creatures around them with a certified YogaKids instructor. $17, $10 members. 9:30-10:30 a.m.

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

WILD WEDNESDAYS. Kids 3-10 enjoy hands-on nature exploration through games and crafts. Each week will have a theme. $5 parking.

1-3 p.m. Wednesdays. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.

(630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

DROP-IN PROGRAM. Stop by

for some fun featuring the exhibit, McDonald’s Hamburger University.

This month’s theme is “Molding the Menu.” $1. Noon-5 p.m. Wednesdays.

Elk Grove Historical Museum, 399 Biesterfield Road, Elk Grove Village.

(847) 439-3994, elkgroveparks.org/ museum.

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 57

CHIPAR0617_057.indd 1

5/18/17 1:40 PM

ONGOING EVENTS

SURE, AT FIRST I WAS A LITTLE TAKEN ABACK

BY THE WHOLE PEEING STANDING UP THING. SURE, BUT I TAUGHT HIM TO THROW A STICK AT FIRST WAS HANGING A LITTLEOUT TAKEN ABACK ANDI NOW WITH HIM

BY THE WHOLE PEEING STANDING UP THING. IS THE BEST PART OF MY DAY. BUT I TAUGHT HIM TO THROW A STICK AND NOW HANGING OUT —WITH HIM EINSTEIN IS THE BEST PART OFadopted MY DAY.12-09-10 — EINSTEIN adopted 12-09-10

DANCIN’ SPROUTS. Enjoy musical entertainment for the garden’s youngest visitors on the Esplanade. Food and beverages are available for purchase through the Garden View Café. The Café and Grille in the Visitor Center are also open. Picnicking is allowed at the concert site. $30 parking. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicago botanic.org.

CHICAGO SUMMERDANCE.

Starts June 24. 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. 6-7 p.m. dance lessons, 7:30-9:30 p.m. live music and dancing Fridays-Saturdays; 4-5 p.m. dance lessons, 5-7 p.m. live music and dancing Sundays. Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park, 601 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 7424007, chicagosummerdance.org.

ACORN EXPRESS ADVENTURES.

Families with kids 2 and up take an open-air tram ride adventure through the arboretum. Plus, make a craft and explore new topics each week. $5, $4 member, plus admission. 1111:45 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays.

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

FAMILY DROP-IN ACTIVITIES IN THE COVE.

TOT TIME AT SMALLEY POOL. A

chance for little ones 5 and under to splash around without the bigger kids.

The whole pool will be open to enjoy.

Free with pool admission. 9 a.m.noon Saturdays. Norman P. Smalley Swimming Pool, 665 S. York Road, Elmhurst. (630) 993-8985, epd.org SATURDAY FAMILY FUN. Enjoy a

covered pony ring, the Children’s Farm Animal Barn with Explore the farm animals, plants and and horseback animals in trail rides for aquatic habiriders 8 and tats and learn up. Families can what animals relax on a scenic depend on ponds hay ride through and lakes. Splash in Butterflies & the meadows and the water table, use sciBlooms woods. $3 pony and entific tools to examine wagon rides; $30, macroinvertebrates or See page 57 $25 resident trail find out how a tadpole rides. Noon-4 p.m. turns into a frog.

Saturdays. Lockwood Park Trailside Activities vary from week to week.

Equestrian Centre & Children’s Farm, Parking fee applies. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

5201 Safford Road, Rockford. (815) Wednesdays and weekends. Chicago 987-8809, rockfordparkdistrict.org/ Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook lockwood.

Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

PARENT AND TODDLER YOGA.

FAMILY DROP-IN ACTIVITIES IN THE NATURE PLAY GARDEN.

Kids 2-5, with adult, practice fun animal yoga poses and engage in activities like guided nature exploration, reading storybooks and more.

After class, visit animals that inspire this unique, animal-themed yoga class. $20. 10-11 a.m. Thursdays.

Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

Learn about how plants grow and the animals you might find at the garden.

Pollinate flowers, compost with worms, build a life-sized bird nest, explore underwater life and more.

Activities vary from week to week.

Parking fee applies. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 8355440, chicagobotanic.org.

58 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_058.indd 1

5/18/17 4:06 PM

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

Specıal Parent CHICAGO

SUMMER 2016

AN EMPOWERMENT GUIDE FROM

IEP: What you don’t know

Love X2 LOCAL RESOURCES YOU NEED

Now available!

BE KIND

Stop parent shaming

SP_Cover_Summer2016.indd 3

7/6/16 11:37 AM

For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com ChicagoParent.com June 2017 59

CHIPAR0617_059.indd 1

5/18/17 11:42 AM

PERFORMANCES kids 2-10. $6-$12. Check website for schedule. Stahl Family Theater, 5900 W. Belmont, Chicago. (773) 2059600, chicagokidscompany.com.

THE UGLY DUCKLING. This bilin-

gual musical is an updated version of the classic tale. Meet Sophia, the new duckling at Lucky Duck School, who isn’t quite the same as everyone else. Recommended for families with kids 2-8. $12. 10:30 a.m. selected weekdays; 1 p.m. June 24. Stahl Family Theater, 5900 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. (773) 205-9600, chicagokidscompany.com.

MOTHER GOOSE’S GARDEN.

The Th he Wi Wiz Seee th Se this iiss pagge

WATER CIRCUS I: SILVER UNIT.

Through June 4. This “neverseen-before” production combines acrobatics, dance, contortion, and high-performance BMX and rollerskating. Performers from all over the world merge their extraordinary skills and embrace the element of water. $10-$70; one free kid with purchase of adult ticket. 2:30 and 5:30 p.m. Mondays; 7:30 p.m.

Tuesdays-Fridays; 2:30, 5:30 and 8:30 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays. Cirque Italia, 6170 W. Grand Ave., Gurnee. cirqueitalia.com.

THE WIZ. Through June 8. Based on

the classic fantasy, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, The Wiz follows Dorothy’s exploration of love, home and family through a magical musical mixture of rock, gospel and soul.

Recommended for families with kids 5-12. $19 and up. Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 935-6100, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

GRANT PARK MUSIC FESTIVAL. Opens June 14. A series

of summer concerts showcasing classical music performed by a world-class orchestra and chorus in a spectacular setting. Check website for schedule. Millennium Park, Chicago. gpmf.org.

ROALD DAHL’S JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH. Through June 16.

When James is sent by his conniving aunts to chop down their old fruit tree, he discovers a magic potion that results in a tremendous peach and launches a journey of enormous proportions. Guests can enjoy a Breakfast Buffet and meet-and-greet with characters on Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. ($33, $29 kids 12 and under). $17. 10 a.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays.

Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 530-0111, drurylaneoakbrook.com.

THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: ATTACK OF THE PHANTOM OF THE BBQ. Opens June 19. The line-

up changes each week by audience vote, so no two shows are ever the same. Throughout the summer, Barrel of Monkeys will premiere new stories from the 2016-17 school year written

by Chicago Public School students and adapted for the stage and performed by company members. $12, $6 kids under 12. 8 p.m. Mondays.

Barrel of Monkeys, Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago. (312) 409-1954, barrelof monkeys.org.

breathtaking spectacle. $35 and up.

Check website for schedule. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago. (312) 977-1700, broadway inchicago.com.

Join Jack and Jill as they search for Mother Goose and help out a gaggle of favorite characters along the way.

Sing along to live music with Little Boy Blue, Miss Muffett, and others as you experience the fun in teamwork through hand-puppetry and interactive play. Recommended for families with kids 5 and under. $16.

Emerald City’s Little Theatre, 2933 N. Southport Ave., Chicago. (773) 9356100, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. In this

original adaptation, Bella ventures from her little village to the Beast’s castle to save her Papa. There, she befriends enchanted characters and meets the Beast himself. Will Beauty see through the Beast’s gruff exterior and discover his true nature?

Recommended for families with

HOGWASH: AN IMPROVISED TALL TALE. An improvised show full

of music, art, laughs and audience participation. Recommended for families with kids 2-12. $10 kids, free adults. 10:30 a.m. Saturdays.

Bughouse Theater, 1910 W. Irving Park, Chicago. bughousetheater.com.

Beau B Be eau auty ty and nd th he Be Beas a t as See Se ee th thiss pag agee

DISNEY’S ALADDIN. A thrilling

new production filled with unforgettable beauty, magic, comedy and

60 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_060.indd 1

5/18/17 11:42 AM

This Year’s Big Item for Father’s Day Adopt -AManatee

®

Call 1-800-432-5646 (JOIN) savethemanatee.org Photo © Cora Berchem

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 61

CHIPAR0617_061.indd 1

5/18/17 11:37 AM

PERFORMANCE

‘Aladdin’ shines and

shimmers in Chicago

D

isney’s Aladdin, showing at the Cadillac Palace Theatre through the summer, is a breathtaking spectacle. The excited audience whoops and cheers throughout the gloriously staged musical, which is sure to entertain kids and parents alike. The music includes the beloved tunes from the movie, as well as some written just for the musical, but it all hangs together well. And everything from the costumes to the sets explodes with color, warmth and glitz.

We have to start with Aladdin, perfectly embodied by Adam Jacobs, who originated the role on Broadway. The “street rat”-turnedroyal suitor gets a bit of backstory, but without losing any of the rapscallion charm that makes you fall in love. He’s helped by a gorgeous singing voice and a trio of friends—replacing

Disney’s Aladdin Through Sept. 10 $45 and up broadwayinchicago.com

monkey pal Apu—who perform some songs that help flesh out his character.

But the real star of this show is Genie, played by Anthony Murphy, who gives a tour de force performance as the blue guy everyone knows and loves. Murphy never tries to imitate Robin Williams’ manic energy from the movie, but hams—and camps—it up in his own unique style. The actor’s over-the-top

performance is a self-referential delight.

The Genie’s set piece, “Friend Like Me,” is the highlight of the show, a song-and-dance extravaganza that honestly had me wondering “How did they do that?” Other musical stunners include the beautifully exotic “Arabian Nights,” bromance anthem “Babkak, Omar, Aladdin, Kassim,” triumphant “Prince Ali” and, of course, “A Whole New World,” a magical piece of stagecraft that literally has the audience sighing in bliss.

Other standout characters— and performances—include

Isabelle McCalla as Jasmine, who goes against the “Disney princess” trope to reveal a headstrong woman who made my feminist heart sing, Jonathan Weir as the villainous Jafar, a less-scary version of the movie’s baddie who displays some arch wit, and Reggie de Leon as his sycophantic, yet hilarious, assistant, Iago, who trades in the feathers but retains some of the character’s more avian traits.

Before the show even opened, Broadway in Chicago announced an extension of its run through the summer, so even without a magic genie, your wish to see Disney’s Aladdin really can come true.

Elizabeth Diffin

62 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_062.indd 1

5/18/17 11:37 AM

Work From Home!

“I am a Mom who left the corporate world to work from home. I now earn a 6 figure residual income with a car bonus. Looking for 2-3 motivated individuals who want the same!”

3330 N. Lockwood Ave., Chicago, IL 60641

CEOmoms.biz Call to learn more: (847) 530-5999

HOURS 6:30 AM - 6:30 PM

Register today! 773.993.0536 • kidwatchplus.com

You’re always set for a sitter.

™

Exceptional sitters. Exceptional care.

Whether you have a meeting at school or just need to run errands, College Sitters is the simple solution to your day to day needs.

College Sitters are: Engaging, creative & fun | Professional & trustworthy | Matched to meet your families’ unique needs Scheduling has never been easier or more convenient. So get excited and get started.

Barrington + Schaumburg | 847.305.2952 Glenview + Park Ridge | 847.998.5657 Lincoln Park + Evanston | 773.697.9326 Naperville South | 630.219.1175

collegesitters.com

Chicago Parent needs a few good moms and dads.

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

Email Lori Smerz at lori@chicagoparent.com with your resume and a cover letter about yourself.

ChicagoParent.com June 2017 63

CP_Mrkplc_Class_June2017.indd 63

5/18/17 1:40 PM

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS

Not-so-clean

family fun

T

he family that gets muddy together stays together, right?

Discover this unusual form of family bonding at the Kids Obstacle Challenge, a nationwide event that has boys and girls, ages 5-16, completing a course that includes swinging on a rope into a giant mud pit, army crawling across rough terrain, climbing cargo nets and taking part in

Kids Obstacle Challenge – Chicago 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. June 24 Lippold Park, 851 IL-176, Crystal Lake $46, $56 day of kidsobstaclechallenge.com/chicago

lots of other muddy fun.

Participants are sent off in waves every half hour to avoid a real mucky situation.

Kids receive snacks and a medal upon crossing the finish line, as well as a goodie bag and race photos to take home. Once they’re done— it usually takes 30 minutes or less—if they decide they want to do the whole thing over again, course reruns cost only $5. Otherwise, everyone can kick back and enjoy the post-race festival with games, pumping music and an activity zone where kids can test their fitness skills (and maybe even win a prize!).

And parents don’t have to stand on the sidelines twiddling their thumbs while

their kids experience all the messy excitement (what kind of fun would that be?). Moms and dads run the course for free— and your kids’ responses to seeing the adults covered in mud couldn’t be more priceless.

It should probably go without saying that you’ll want to wear clothes that can be permanently ruined. And while there are rinse stations post-race, be sure to bring a change of clothes for the ride home. Photos of the happy mud-covered family are the only kind of souvenirs you’ll want to take home with you, not stained car seats.

Elizabeth Diffin

64 June 2017 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0617_064.indd 1

5/18/17 11:43 AM

Best Preschools in Chicago

2016

Rated top 17 out of 583 schools

Ask about our wonderful infant program! *Call us today for immediate Enrollment opportunities!* Lakeview 3111 N. Ashland, Chicago IL 60657 West Loop 118 S. Ashland, Chicago IL 60607 Lincoln Park 1929 N. Halsted, Chicago IL 60614 Evanston Under Construction

CHIPAR0617_CV3.indd 1

5/18/17 11:12 AM

XFINITY Stream app

Always have the home advantage.

Only XFINITY X1 gives you more to stream on any screen. Enjoy the top networks and live sports on the go, on up to five devices — with the XFINITY Stream app. Plus, watch thousands of XFINITY On Demand TV shows and movies, including your personal DVR library anytime, anywhere — even when you’re offline. No matter what, you’re always in good shape with XFINITY.

Call 1-800-XFINITY or visit xfinity.com today.

Restrictions apply. XFINITY service not available in all areas. Limited Basic service subscription required to receive other levels of service.

Features and programming vary depending on area and level of service. Access to Netflix on XFINITY X1 requires an eligible X1 set-top box with XFINITY TV and XFINITY Internet service. Netflix on X1 uses your Internet service and will count against any XFINITY data plan. XFINITY On Demand available with Limited Basic TV and above with a digital converter. Netflix streaming membership required. Requires XFINITY TV with X1. Standard data charges may apply. Check with your carrier. Certain features may be restricted based upon service tier and subject to change. © 2017 Comcast. All rights reserved.

CHIPAR0617_CV4.indd 1

5/19/17 10:04 AM