Chicago Parent, May 2019 by Chicago Parent

MAY

2019 | FREE

148

ways to love May CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

Double duty Moms of the Chicago PD

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CANAL WALK

A MONUMENTALLY GOOD TIME IN INDY Sometimes, a parent’s most important summer job is finding a getaway that makes everyone happy. Your job is easy when you bring your family to Indianapolis! Within just a few city blocks, you can float along the canal in a gondola, pedal a family surrey, bike the Cultural Trail, or play tag with the dolphins at the Indianapolis Zoo. And there are three floors of interactive fun plus an outdoor sports experience nearby at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis—the world’s largest! Monumental family fun. That’s a getaway worth sharing. Share your moments. #VisitIndiana

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TAG YOUR NEW FAVORITE PLACES #VISITINDIANA

Visit Lafayette-West Lafayette Enjoy a vibrant downtown, winery, breweries, art galleries and public art, architecture, stay & play golf packages including courses by Pete Dye and Hale Irwin, trails, Purdue University, Wolf Park, Prophetstown State Park and the Farm at Prophetstown.

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Create Memories that Last a Lifetime Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Hoosier National Forest, you’ll also find architectural wonders, local flavors, small town charm & world class opportunities in this resort community. Upclose animal encounters, themed train excursions & so much more! French Lick, West Baden, IN visitfrenchlickwestbaden.com

Northern Indiana Lakes Country With 1,260 acres to explore, Pokagon State Park offers year-round recreational opportunities. Twelve miles of hiking trails give outdoor enthusiasts a chance to see a wide variety of wildlife. Dig your toes into the sand at the park’s two beaches or explore Lake James by paddleboat, kayak or fishing boat. Bike rentals are available, as well as guided horseback rides through the park. In the winter, Pokagon is home to the state’s only refrigerated toboggan slide plus cross country skiing. The adjacent Trine State Recreation Area has wooded grounds, scattered wetlands and open meadows for excellent hiking and nature study. In addition to 101 lakes, you can also enjoy outlet shopping, wineries and craft brewery, and a 400-acre buffalo preserve. Special summer events include a hot air balloon festival, seaplane fly-in, and classic boat and car show.

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contents EDITOR

Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy MANAGING EDITOR

Hillary Bird DIGITAL EDITOR

Katina Beniaris ART DIRECTOR

Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNERS

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MAY 2019 | VOLUME 35 | NO. 5

Debbie Becker, Mark Moroney CIRCULATION MANAGER

FEATURES

MOMS IN BLUE

Chicago Police Department moms serve and protect their families and the city

AN 26 BUILD AMAZING SUMMER

It’s finally playtime in Chicagoland

BABY GEAR YOU NEED TO SURVIVE

Expert picks for new moms

NEW MOM 4-1-1

Getting a little help from mom experts

A 34 BECOMING CITIZEN OF A FOREIGN PLANET

Mom recounts those early days of new motherhood

Jill Wagner DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR

LIFE IN CHI

Wakeelah Cocroft-Aldridge EVENTS COORDINATOR

Carmen Rivera

INSIDE VOICE

VIVA DADDY

FAILING WITH GUSTO

CALENDAR

CRAFT

MAY

2019 | FREE

BUSINESS MANAGER

Joyce Minich

FOUNDERS

Natalie Goodman, Carolyn Jacobs

HOW TO REACH US 148

ways to love May CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

Double duty Moms of the Chicago PD

PUBLISHER

Dan Haley

141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 (708) 386-5555 ChicagoParent.com

ON THE COVER Cover kid: John Chiczewski, 7 months, of Chicago

EDITORS

chiparent@chicagoparent.com TO FIND A COPY

Photography: Thomas Kubik of TK Photography

circulation@chicagoparent.com ADVERTISING

dhaley@wjinc.com

Design: Claire Innes

Special thanks to The Guesthouse Hotel for hosting this month’s photo shoot. This boutique hotel, at 4872 N. Clark St., Chicago, is super family friendly and just a mile from Lake Michigan. The modern suites are perfect for a staycation or hosting your out-of-town visitors this summer. theguesthousehotel.com

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

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Hattie’s inspiration

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Like a lot of new moms, Angela James had a baby that wouldn’t sleep, that had trouble latching on during breastfeeding. Guilt set in. Sleep deprived herself, she says she felt like a failure. When the panic attacks started, she feared being alone with little Hattie, whom she named for TAMARA L. O’SHAUGHNESSY two great-grandmothers. After reaching out for help, Angela had a name for her sadness: postpartum depression. failure. People assured me Then the Chicago singerI’d just get over it. I didn’t. songwriter began to hum, It took my sharp, on-theto soothe both herself and Hattie. The result is a sweet ball OB/GYN to know I needed somecollection thing more. of lullabies, Angela hopes “Quiet Night,” that sharing her that she says lullabies and helped heal their origin will her and she help, in even hopes inspires a small way, other moms other new moms with PPD. who might be As Angela struggling, too. James found, “These songs too many have been a women still Angela James way to forgive suffer in simyself and let go lence, whether of some of that guilt and because of shame, guilt or feeling like a failure against shame,” she says. It’s a good message the Instagram-perfect for all moms, new and motherhoods filling our experienced. feeds. So this month, I ask “I thought I was OK but this of you: As you receive I was not OK,” she told me all the cute handmade recently. Mother’s Day gifts and I know that feeling. The cards, remember to be kind baby blues I felt when my son was born morphed into to yourself, let go of any guilt or shame you might something so much more be feeling. You are not a when my second daughter failure. And if you aren’t was born. At a time when feeling like yourself after I should be so happy with having your baby, don’t be my beautiful little girl afraid to ask for help. and sweet boy, I felt sad Happy May. and hopeless. I felt like a

W W W .L ONGWE L L -L AW .CO M 6 May 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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ON THE WEB

Enjoying family time at ChicagoParent.com May flowers

KATINA BENIARIS

Take advantage of the warmer weather by going out and about with the entire family. From nature centers to new kid-friendly attractions, you can find plenty of fun things to do at ChicagoParent.com/ SpringFun.

Stay connected

Listen in

Are you following us on Instagram? Know a cool dad in your life? Share your photos of Dad with the kids by tagging us on Instagram @ChicagoParent and using with our community hashtag #ShareChicagoParent. You might see your photo in our next print issue!

Our Masters in Parenting podcast is covering some great topics for par parents including an OB/GYN answer answering all your questions and then later this month, we’re speaking to another expert on teen relationship health. Find the latest episodes at ChicagoParent.com/Podcast.

Enter to win This month, we’re giving away some exciting prizes including tickets to June’s Nickelodeon Slimefest and movie tickets to “Pokemon: Detective Pikachu” and “A Dog’s Journey” from Classic Cinemas. Plus, since it’s our baby issue, enter for your chance to win the new INOMI baby carrier from BAEBI. Sign up for our contests this month at ChicagoParent.com/ Contests.

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REAL LIFE

Forecasting happiness

ow did you and Nick decide the time was right to have a baby? Nick and I knew we wanted children pretty much the day our relationship started. It was something that was really important to us. We had some struggles in the beginning but knew it would all happen in God’s timing. Now that we have been blessed with Nico, we hope to extend our family. I would LOVE to add another little boy or girl for Nico to play with, maybe a couple more.

Tell us about that moment you and Nick met Nico after your 23 ½-hour labor: I think that’s when I really started crying. When he was born, I looked over at my husband and he had tears. Once they brought him over to me and I held him, it was such a special moment. (Nico) was so calm. He was looking at you and you are looking at him. It was the most powerful moment I’ve ever felt of my life. You just look over at your husband, it was the most wonderful time. I still look at him and I feel we both look at each other, that magnetic spark you have between mother and child. What is the thing that surprised you most about becoming a mom? I think the compassion and the patience I’ve had. ... I’ve always been very impatient, maybe even a little uptight. Since becoming pregnant, I think I’ve just calmed down and I’m trying to just let it all sink in and just soak it all up. People have said so many times to me that the days are long, but the years go by pretty fast. I don’t want any of it to go by fast. Everyone probably is giving you advice. What’s the best so far? Just soaking in every single moment. You don’t need to be here, be there, go here, go there, just hang out, just be with your son. You don’t have to rush, you don’t have to rush their life.

PHOTOS BY THOMAS KUBIK

10 May 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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Alicia Roman u Meteorologist, NBC5 u Husband: Nick Scafiezzo u Son: Nicola Antonio, a name drawn from both sides of their family, Nico for short u Pregnancy must haves: U-shaped body pillow u Baby must haves: Rock ‘n Play, Halo Bassinest, DockATot and BabyBjörn Bouncer Have you thought about your parenting style? That’s kind of been a tough one for me. I don’t want to be the smotherer, but also I don’t want to be too relaxed as a parent. ... Right now, I think we go with the flow a little. We’re still trying to figure out what type of personality he has and will adapt that into our lives and we’ll also adapt our personality into his life. We’re still trying to figure everything out.

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INSIDE VOICE

Passions soar this May! (Maybe it’s all that Spring Fever?)

April showers bring more than May flowers; this month is bursting onto the scene with more energy and passion than a middle school dance. Here are three excellent KEELY FLYNN ways to channel all of those pent-up feelings. (Don’t worry, it’s just a phase.)

PHOTO BY LYNN LANE

West Side Story Talk about passion: A good love story brings it in spades, whether it’s Shakespeare’s (OK, sure, tragic) ‘Romeo & Juliet’ or the 1950s update ‘West Side Story.’ The Upper West Side wasn’t always home to the ritzy Lincoln Center; back in the day it was a working class ’hood with gangs who ran the streets. Tony and Maria, two starry-eyed teens from rival

Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Volta’ When adrenaline purveyor Cirque du Soleil informs you that its newest extravaganza is named for “the jolt of energy delivered through the show,” you’d be wise to g get really excited. The original production since 41st origin 1984—and the 18th under the 1984— signature Big Top—Volta signa takes us on a journey tak from self-discovery to fr fulfilling one’s true fu potential, with forays p iinto the culture of street ssports, the exploration of our differences and o the transformation that th occurs when we realize oc that, truly, anything is that possible. possib PHOTO BY MATT BEARD Original music is composed Origin by Anthony Gonzalez from the international group M83 and, if i l electronic l you’ve yet to take in one of Cirque’s Big Top shows at Soldier Field, you’re definitely going to want to brace yourself for some serious acrobatic voltage. May 18-July 6, at the Big Top at the Soldier Field South Lot, 1410 Museum Campus Drive, Chicago; cirquedusoleil.com/volta

gangs, fall for each other in Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim’s iconic musical, which features Jerome Robbins’ stunning choreography. A Lyric Opera premiere, this one’ll have you believing that love can conquer all. (At least for a little while.) May 3-June 2, Lyric Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago; lyricopera.org

Physical Theater Festival Chicago aesthetics including clown, puppetry, mime, mask, dance, theater, vaudeville and circus, stop motion film and poetry, to name just a few.” A good pick for the family comes from Copenhagen, Denmark’s Out of Balanz, an award-winning ensemble who brings the thought-provoking and genuinely funny ‘Next Door,’ which celebrates imagination and the important things that really connect us all. (Who wouldn’t feel passionately about that?) May 31June 8, Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago; physicalfestival. PHOTO BY ALEX BRENNER com

Back for its sixth year, the highly innovative, marvelously visual Physical Theater Festival will bring the best of storytelling’s best with hand-picked original performances from companies around the world. So what, exactly, is physical theater? According to Festival Co-Director Alice da Cunha, it “embraces such a wide variety of styles, approaches and

12 May 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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5.19.19 SOLDIER FIELD

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VIVA DADDY

NEED SOME SLEEP? The maternity test It’s hard to say mothers are unappreciated. After all, barring some folks with upbringings Crawfordian in manner, most people’s most beloved figure is their mother. “M is for the million things you gave me,” and all that. We love and worship our mother, as well as the mother of our children, and MATT BORESI get misty when it’s time to book a crowded prix fixe brunch at Mother’s Day. It’s in the day-today dealings that moms get short shrift.

Our overnight nurses are specially trained to: • Help with your bottle-fed or breastfed baby. • Sort out the sleep theories. Your nurse will work with you to support your philosophy, not ours. • We can help you learn to interpret your baby’s sleep patterns and develop solutions designed to make the most of your baby’s rhythms. • Support your postpartum recovery including cesarean birth recovery. • Our team can provide emotional support, answer questions about newborn care, and all of those concerns that come up at 2 am.

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Regardless of whether or not they work outside the home, most mothers are the primary caretakers of their children, at least in the affection, feeding and grooming departments, and typically in the paying attention to homework and costume day at the dance studio and camp sign-ups, too. But if that same mom, balancing work and home and still trying to look fetching and unflappable at school drop-off slips up even a little—packing the wrong pretzels or choosing the wrong mystery reader book or braiding the braids too tightly—forget about it, they’re going to get straight sass from the kid and deep eye rolls from onlookers. “No extra apple squeeze in the dance bag? Someone call the authorities on this monster.” Dads, meanwhile, just showing up gets you all manner of kudos. “Look at that guy playing with his daughter,” the onlookers swoon, “what a great dad.” Imagine that, playing with one’s own child! Whimsically frolicking with the fruit of your loins for a sustained period of time without threatening bodily

ILLUSTRATION BY STEPHEN SCHUDLICH

harm or leaving them behind in a park! Someone call the Vatican, this dude should be canonized. If a mom makes a YouTube video with their kid, it’s time to sound the alarm that a fame-grubbing goblin is monetizing their child, but if a dad posts a 30-second clip combing his kid’s hair, it gets 10 million shares in a minute with fawning lols and xs and os for their “epic” feats of parenting. Moms get the deep and lasting affection, but they also get the snipping and sniping and bitterness for perceived missteps. Sure, the crowded prix fixe brunch in May is important, but maybe this year try to extend moms a little slack the other 364 days. Viva Motherhood. Viva Viva. Viva Daddy.

14 May 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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FAILING WITH GUSTO

Perfect mistakes Fairytale Ballet Camps

MARIANNE WALSH

There was the time I spilled red wine all over Jack’s hockey jersey 15 minutes before we had to leave for a game. I told Jack to tell everyone it was blood. I once forgot to lock the brakes on my double stroller when my oldest boys were toddlers. I had stopped to look at a map of Brookfield Zoo … at the top of a steep hill.

They took out an 8-yearold and a peacock. I don’t volunteer because I’m not allowed to threaten children with the seven plagues of the apocalypse like I can my own kids. I hate parent-teacher conferences. My social anxiety often leads me to saying stupid things. I never believe my kids when they tell me they’re sick. I made my boys do their own fourth-grade dioramas, evidenced with the consistent “Ds” they all received because of the embarrassment their projects elicited at Catholic Schools Week. If my kids were named in the proper order I had planned, I would have christened Joey “Coke.” “Meet my sons: Jack, Daniel and Coke.” I swear. I’m a terrible cook. Jack’s uniform pants are 4 inches too short. Joey’s hockey

helmet has been reconfigured with pieces of retired helmets and screws from old toys. Danny’s $500 orthopedic inserts are three sizes too small. I am not a perfect mom. Yet living in a world where we often glimpse into each other’s lives through social media, you would think everyone else is perfect. Perfect vacations. Perfect children. Perfect dinners. Perfect is for the peacocks. The ones not mowed down by out-of-control double Bobs, that is. To all new mothers out there, I say embrace imperfection. Take one day at a time. There will be moments of grand successes and there will be days you phone it in and serve Cap’n Crunch for dinner. And at the end of it all, you will smile listening to your kids doubled over with laugher highlighting the time you forgot to gather up best friend Billy at a tournament and drive him home from Crystal Lake. And in those moments of fun and storytelling? That is where real perfection lives.

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May 18 & 19, 2019 | 11 a.m.–7 p.m. | Oakton Park Festival kick-off event: International Short Films—Friday, May 17, 7–8 p.m. Featuring: Opening Ceremonies Saturday at 1 p.m. • Cultural Performers • Ethnic Cuisine Children’s Activities • International Merchandise • Train Rides

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YOU

Get your skin set for summer

CHERYL LEAHY

Here is the bad news: Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is on the rise. The good news? There are numerous ways you can protect yourself against it, and they aren’t difficult or expensive. Here is a summer skin plan that you can adopt:

Step 1 Educate EVERYONE, regardless of the color of your skin, is at risk of developing skin cancer. Know the warning signs of melanoma; SkinCancer.org has a great visual of the signs.

Step 2 Exam Many doctors recommend regular skin exams, especially for those who are at high risk of developing skin cancer. You know your body better than anyone. Get in the habit of examining your own skin. The American Cancer Society urges you to “learn the pattern of moles, blemishes, freckles and other marks on your skin so that you’ll notice any changes next time.”

Step 3 Sunscreen Slathering on sunscreen is a science—too little and you risk a burn, too much and you are left sticky. There are two major types of sunscreens, chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreens create a chemical reaction and work by converting UV rays into heat, which is then released from the skin. They need to be applied directly to clean,

bare skin and need time to be absorbed into the skin before sun exposure. Physical sunscreens contain zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. They work by sitting on top of the skin, deflecting and scattering UV rays. These can be applied last, after serums or moisturizers. Make sure you are applying enough—the recommendation is 1 ounce (think shot glass) of sunscreen to cover your whole body, then reapplying after two hours or swimming/ major sweating. The EWG, or Environmental Working Group, publishes an annual guide to sunscreens with safety ratings that can help you chose the best one for your family.

Step 4 Throw some shade Sunscreen is your body’s last line of defense against damaging UV rays, so increase your odds of blocking them by seeking shade during peak hours (10 a.m.-4 p.m.) and covering your skin with clothing and UV-blocking sunnies.

HOMEWOOD RAIL FEST Saturday, May 18th

9am-3pm H-F auditorium 2010 chestnut road The Village of Homewood and the Homewood Rail Committee present the 15th annual Homewood Rail Fest. Join us for model train layouts, train vendors, crafts, food, and a trackless train ride! Fun for families, train enthusiasts, and rail historians!

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18 May 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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SHAPING NATIONAL STANDARDS OF CARE Comer Children’s Hospital at the University of Chicago Medicine is ranked among the nation’s best children’s hospitals by U.S. News and World Report. We are shaping national standards of care from infants to young adults. From studying the importance of a healthy microbiome in early development to caring for kids with asthma in our community. From research advancing cancer treatment for adolescents and young adults to focusing on a cure for celiac disease. Personalized care for your child.

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ChicagoParent.com May 2019 19

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Moms blue IN

By HILLARY BIRD PHOTOS BY THOMAS KUBIK

hen people see Carol McGhee, a detective with the Chicago Police Department and mom of two toddlers, in uniform, she often hears a familiar refrain: “Some people we seee with their kids see us in uniform and say ‘if you don’t be good the police officer is going to get you,’ and nd I can’t stand that.” The moms on the force who are sworn to serve ve and protect both their family and their districts are teaching their children the same lesson: son: one of helping, not ot just bad-guy catching. hing ng..

Chicago Police Department moms serve and protect their families and the city

Mom of seven, Aida Perez with twins Aneli, left, and Ameli.

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Sgt. Brandi Wright u Years of service: 13 u Children: Madison, 5, and Bryson, 4 When Brandi Wright was promoted to sergeant in 2017, it was a job she instantly recognized. “I’m responsible for a group of people, and they call and ask should I do this or that and I’m a mom at work,” she says. Wright became a mom while working on patrol. “It made me more empathetic to other people and their situations,” she says. “Not having kids before, you think you may understand, until you become a mother and you can feel some of that pull, some of the stories and things that are happening to other people who need help, it really touches you and you can put yourself in their shoes with your own children. It changed in both ways: one, it probably made me a little more guarded, but it also made me a lot more sympathetic.” Wright’s husband also is a detective with CPD. CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

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MOMS IN BLUE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

Sgt. Katie Chiczewski u Years of service: 17 u Children: Matthew, 7, Joseph 6, Theodore, 2, and John, 7 months Policing is in Katie Chiczewski’s family. Her parents worked for the Chicago Police Department. One sister works for the state police and another also works for CPD. She has adjusted her schedule so that her kids spend as little time with a babysitter as possible. “This past year there were three officers killed in the line of duty, and it could happen at anytime, anywhere to anyone. Now that I have my own children, I’m just so much more aware of how dangerous it can be.” Though the oldest have expressed a desire to become firemen, they are slowly learning about Mom’s job. “Because they are 7 and 6 and they play Roblox and Fortnite, they think of it like me catching bad guys,” Chiczewski says. “ ... But I tell them that it’s more about helping people. It’s not about catching bad guys or robbers, as my kids say. I try to teach them that a big component of my job is helping people.”

Officer Paloma Sandoval u Years of service: 6 u Children: Grace, 3 It might not be the most glamorous shift, but Paloma Sandoval works midnights to juggle being mom and officer. With 3-year-old Grace in the care of her grandparents, Sandoval polices the Morgan Park District while her daughter sleeps, then comes home to play. “Being a parent is a very humbling experience, so I think it’s made me a lot more compassionate than I ever was before,” Sandoval says. “I think it helps a lot on domestic (calls) and dealing with parents with their teenagers, because you sense the love and frustration all coming out at the same time.” As Grace grows up, she’s starting to recognize who the police are and what Mommy’s job means.

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Officer Aida Perez u Years of service: 6 u Children: Erik, 24, Erika, 23, Eddy, 16, Aidan, 14, Alani, 13, Ameli and Aneli, 7 After seven children, 19 years as a stay-at-home mom and a husband on the force, Aida Perez took the test to become an officer, too. She was 38. “When you grow in certain areas, the adults tell you the police are bad,” she says. “I can relate to some of these children on the streets because I heard the same thing. I didn’t like the police, and when I got on, I understood everything, I understood procedure.” She says she and her husband work hard to make sure their kids understand the police are there to help. “Right now every time they think about the police they think it’s about arresting the bad guys,” Perez says. “I want them to know that it’s not just about arresting the bad guys, sometimes we have to help pick up kids and drive them to school, they don’t know those kinds of things; sometimes we help the elderly, sometimes we are helping people who are sick, go and assist the ambulance. “It’s not just about arresting, we’re out there and we’re assisting the citizens of the community, whichever way they need us.” Erika is now also a CPD officer. CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

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MOMS IN BLUE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

Detective Carol McGhee u Years of service: 16 u Children: William, 3, and Morgan, 1 Becoming a mom changed how McGhee approached some of the crimes she was investigating. “Some of the things that you see or hear that maybe didn’t bother you or effect you before, they bother you a whole lot more,” she says. “You feel so protective of them knowing some of the things that people go through, some of the situations that people get into. Your heart is beating outside of your chest because you worry about them all the time.”

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TOTLEARNINGCENTER Nationally-accredited educational childcare in Skokie

Evidence Technician Ashley Hein u Years of service: 12 u Children: Owen and Liam, 8 When Ashley Hein earned a promotion as an evidence technician, she asked her twin sons when they’d like to see her. She could work nights and see them in the mornings before school, or set a schedule to be home at night to help with homework or work while they were sleeping. Ultimately they settled on her working days, using FaceTime in the mornings so she can see them before they go to school. Hein was a patrol officer when her twins were born and

now works crime scenes, collecting evidence. The change helped her rejuvenate her passion for why she wanted to serve and protect. “It allows me to give victims a voice,” she says. “They can’t speak for themselves, so we have to rely on physical evidence and clothes to help with this process. ... “Becoming a mom, I think it allowed me to empathize more with victims and I think it gave me a broader perspective on every aspect of police work. How I approached victims, what I thought about different crimes and how it impacted family life instead of just thinking about myself.”

Now accepting registrations for the 2019-20 school year. Tot Learning Center is the Skokie Park District’s state-of-the-art, year-round, full day childcare facility serving infants through five-year-old children.

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Build an amazing summer

Maxx Force This triple-record breaking roller coaster at Six Flags Great America is thrill on speed and, as the tallest double inversion of any roller coaster in the world, puts riders upside down more than 17 stories high. Plus, its state-of-theart launch system takes riders from 0 to 78 mph in under two seconds—the fastest acceleration in North America. Ride opens early this summer, Six Flags Great America, Gurnee. Must be at least 48 inches tall to ride; sixflags.com/greatamerica

It’s finally playtime in Chicagoland

his is the summer to be a Lego fanatic. Literally millions of colorful bricks are flooding Chicagoland this month in the form of zoo animals and nature when two of our favorite places to visit unveil amazing Lego statues sure to make Lego lovers out of all of us. That’s not all, though. From a huge new roller coaster to a new water play area, summer 2019 seems to have stepped up its game.

Nature Connects

The award-winning exhibit, Nature Connects: Art with Lego Bricks by Sean Kenney, returns to Morton Arboretum May 24. Expect 15 new

sculptures, including a bee mid-flight, an oak tree sprouting from an acorn and a crimson-crested woodpecker. Not to miss will be some of the fan favorites: a peacock, an 8-foot-long dragonfly, a monarch butterfly and a family of deer. Kids can create their own Lego masterpieces in the Children’s Garden. Through Sept. 15. Nature Connects is free with arboretum admission. mortonarb.org

Brick Safari For the first time in North America, more than 40 new animals take up temporary residence at Brookfield Zoo beginning May 11. And they are all made out of Lego bricks. Brick Safari marks the return of an elephant to the zoo, plus a giant panda, tiger, dolphin, giraffe and more. Don’t miss a chance to get your selfie in a safari Jeep made of Lego bricks. $3 kids 3-11 and $5 adults, plus general admission. czs.org

Santa Springs Nothing says summer like playing in the water and that’s why families will love the new major addition to Santa’s Village Azoosment Park. When done, Santa Springs will feature zero-depth entry to a 10,000-square-foot wading pool with a two-story

interactive water play structure with giant tipping buckets and six water slides. Complete the day out with thrill rides, kiddie rides, games and more than 200 animals. Santa Springs opens this summer; santasvillagedundee. com

26 May 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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Photo by JHFusionPhotography

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HEY BABY

Baby gear

you need to survive

hen you’re expecting, the first time you walk into Buy Buy Baby can cause a panic attack. You’re suddenly on your phone, Googling the differences between glass and plastic bottles, structured carriers and baby wraps, sleep sacks and swaddles.

Stokke

Expert picks for new moms

BY LAUREN CHVAL

MAMAFRESH

THE BABY GUY

Everyone from your mother to strangers on the CTA has an opinion about what you need to parent correctly. But according to Jamie Grayson, a baby gear expert known as The Baby Guy, the key to keeping your sanity when shopping for baby gear is to remember that you can get by without all the bells and whistles.

“A baby really only needs something to poop in, a place to sleep and a place to hang out,” he says with a laugh. So what’s really necessary? To get those essential picks, we talked to Grayson and Jenny LeFlore, aka Mama Fresh, who created a motherhood community dedicated to the idea of being a city mom on the go.

High chair

Stroller

Car seat

With city living, space is often a concern, so LeFlore and Grayson say to pick a high chair with a small footprint. Grayson likes the Nomi ($379.95) and the Lemo ($299.95) for easy assembly and adjustment. LeFlore says her go-to is either the Stokke ($259) for its sleek design that doesn’t stick out from your other furniture or the Inglesina ($69), which clips right to a table or island for simplicity’s sake.

When it comes to strollers in Chicago, Grayson and LeFlore are of the same mind: You need something that’s both portable for public transit and durable to handle tricky terrain (the ice and snow of Chicago winters). Grayson recommended options like the Babyzen YOYO ($499) or Ergobaby Metro ($299). LeFlore says everyone knows the Uppababy Vista ($719.99), but she recently fell in love with its smaller counterpart, the Minu ($399.99). “I love a lightweight stroller that you can really take around the city,” she says. “It’s under 15 pounds. What I truly love about it’s one-hand collapsible. With one hand you can break it down, and it has a shoulder strap so you can throw it over your shoulder. It’s awesome.”

For an infant car seat, the priority is safety and then ease of installation. Grayson suggested the Nuna Pipa ($395.99) or the Clek Liing ($399.99), both of which he loves for having the bonus of being lightweight. LeFlore likes the Doona ($499), a car seat with integrated wheels that can convert into a stroller within seconds. Things get a little trickier once baby outgrows the infant seat and needs a convertible car seat. LeFlore says she likes the Graco 4-in-1 ($299.99) because it grows with a toddler and will be the only seat you ever need once you get to the convertible stage. Grayson points out the difficulty of making a convertible car seat work in a city, when families sometimes have to take cabs or ride shares. To work around this issue, he suggests IMMI GO ($209), which can fold up for easy storage and then quick install in a cab so your child doesn’t go without support when traveling.

Babyzen YOYO 28 May 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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Breast pump

Baby carrier

For women who plan to breastfeed, pumping is often the biggest hurdle. LeFlore notes that many women use the Medela In Style ($299.99), which is covered by many insurance plans, but she also suggests looking into two up-and-coming pumps designed with moms’ needs in mind: the Willow ($499.99) and the Elvie ($499). Both fit in your bra for quiet, hands-free pumping and are controlled by an app that keeps track of when and how much you pump. Without having to plug into the wall, moms can pump on the go, which LeFlore called a “game-changer.”

Extras Above all, Grayson recommended focusing on true needs to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Skip things like wipe warmers and car seat accessories, he says. And don’t be wooed by designer diapers or skin care brands. “Costco is your friend,” he says. “Target is your friend.”

Grayson and LeFlore agree ree that finding the perfect baby carrierr is a different experience for everyone. ne. “They’re kind of like jeans in that you ou have to see what fits better,” Grayson son says. Both he and LeFlore spotlight tlight the ft carrier Baby K’Tan ($49.95), a soft that’s less confusing than the long strip of fabric of the traditional ional baby wrap. Grayson jokingly calls lls it the “baby wrap for dummies.” Once they get bigger, LeFlore likes kes to move to a structured carrier. er. “I go with the Ergobaby 360 ($160),” ,” she says. “It’s machine ne washable. able. It’s durable. It got ot me through ugh festival season. I could ld wear it on top op of my big coat. It’ss adjustable so dads and nd moms of all sizes can wear it.” Ergobaby

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At Shriners Hospitals for Children — Chicago, our mission is simple: deliver world-class care to children who need it most – regardless of their ability to pay. For over 90 years, thousands of families with children in need of orthopaedic care, specialized plastic surgery, cleft lip and palate repair, physical rehabilitation, and spinal cord injury care have come through our doors with hopes of finding the very best pediatric specialty care. Under our roof, those hopes are answered every day — by physicians, nurses, and specialists using the latest technology, innovative research, and a collaborative, family-centered approach. It’s how the Shriners Hospital system has provided care for over 1.3 million children.

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HEY BABY If you plan to breastfeed, find a good certified lactation consultant BEFORE you have the baby and don’t hesitate to call them if anything isn’t going well. The first 10 days of my daughter’s life could have been easier for everyone if someone had told me this. Sarah Concannon, Chicago mom of one

On timing If you don’t feel an outpouring of love and you also don’t feel despair or other PPD symptoms, nothing’s wrong with you, you’re not a monster. Just give it time. I didn’t feel bonded with my first until about 2 months when he could make eye contact. Madeline Stahl, Oak Park mom of two

New mom 4-1-1

Getting a little help from mom experts

BY CASEY McCORRY found myself a new mom in a big city, 3,000 miles from my own mom. Mastitis, hormonal roller coasters and crib building instruction manuals were mine to navigate alone. And while I had parenting books and Reddit feeds to peruse for answers, there’s no replacement for the sort of hearty wisdom that comes from speaking to a woman who has thrust five of her own through her vaginal canal.

Annoyingly posh Instagram photos and mom blogs would offer charming witticisms lauding messy bun hair, but they wouldn’t tell me what to do when a momentary rage coursed through my body in the deep hours of the night when I’d wonder, “Why the hell does my husband even have nipples?” A 24-year-old male resident may explain from his clipboard why I’d feel pain as my uterine contracts, but he couldn’t understand what it’s like to cry in IKEA while holding a half-naked screaming infant who just pooped through her onesie. No, those moments are reserved for the empathetic prowess of the women who have been there, done that. So I went to the real experts. I didn’t need dolled-up Carol Brady-esque mothering advice, I needed the gritty, raw truth from the sages who understand just how miraculous an uninterrupted visit to the restroom is. I needed someone to tell me, with authority, that everything was going to be OK.

On prepping for baby Less is more. You won’t need 80 percent of the stuff you think you need. And your baby won’t want to take or like half the stuff you have. Katie Muhtaris, Chicago mom of two If you’re not vibing with your OB, trust your instincts and find a new one. It’s never too late. You have choices. Marcy Moreno Sherwin, Chicago mom of one Whatever your birth plan is, be fully OK with it not going that way. Be OK with a c-section, unmedicated birth, medicated birth, not breastfeeding right away, skin to skin an hour later or any of the other million things that can happen. Jaime Michelini, Niles mom of three

On letting go It’s OK to put the baby down while you take a shower. Audra Regina, Chicago mom of two Give your body some rest after giving birth. Take this time to just hold your baby and let someone else help you. The dishes, the vacuuming, it all can wait, your body is still healing. Katia Coszach, Chicago mom of one There is no one best/right way to do anything. Trust your instincts; they are there for a reason. Colleen Kehoe, Chicago mom of one Don’t micromanage your partner. Let them find their path and give them em alone time with the baby aby to find the path. I learned ned to use the phrase “something hing that works for me is...”” instead of “you’re doing ng it wrong.” Katie Muhtaris ris

On taking care of mom Find good mom friends ASAP. Cynthia Frankos, Chicago mom of two I wish someone would’ve told me it is OK to mourn my old life. Everything is on CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

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ADVICE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31

how awesome parenting is. I felt like there was no room to say “yes it is OK to miss going out with friends or sleeping in until noon or doing whatever you want.” Anne Taylor, Chicago mom of two M&M’s in the bathroom is great for potty training. Also great when you just need a snack while hiding in there. Sarah Jacobsen Weipert, Chicago mom of two

On doing things “right” Don’t rush the milestones because before you know it they are all grown up. Donna Bohne, Chicago mom of one Fresh air and Dum Dums make everything better. Corey Schultz Wicklein, Elmhurst mom of two

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Spring

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ESSAY

Becoming a citizen of a foreign planet BY MARY BETH WRIGHT

ave you ever watched a movie where the couple is deeply in love and, through tears, decide to have a baby together? This decision is followed by an embrace, perhaps the woman is lifted off her feet and spun around where we see her flowy skirt accentuating the moment. Yeah, that’s not how it happened for me.

My realization happened while wearing stretched out sweatpants and a faded T-shirt that read “Bookmarks are for quitters.” It was a quiet Sunday morning reading the Chicago Tribune with my husband. I suddenly realized our home was so quiet that I could hear the clock ticking in the other room. I wanted to hear voices, tiny voices in our home. The road to getting pregnant was much lengthier and bumpier than I thought it would be. Like many other couples, we thought once we decided we wanted a baby, it would automatically happen. Calendars to track ovulation, shots and even an exploratory procedure to take a look at what was going on in my uterus were part of the fun. You

haven’t properly lived until you and your husband are looking at a binder filled with pictures of your insides. My husband wore that shell-shocked look of someone who has seen way too much. It took two years, but I got pregnant. I decided that I would be that mom that I had seen around town as if I could create an invented version of myself as easily as placing a Starbucks order. We all know THAT mom—she has long shiny hair up in a high ponytail, yoga pants on, her adorable toddler dressed perfectly and sitting in a jogging stroller, snacking on organic apples in a perfectly sized Tupperware container. Then reality hit. I would not be

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wearing yoga pants anywhere outside my house, I wouldn’t miraculously become a jogger, and my hair looked like that of a slightly deranged woman. It didn’t take me long to learn that motherhood is like being dropped on an interesting, but scary foreign planet with a tiny sidekick you have just met. You don’t speak the language and everything you thought you knew is wrong. Before I had my daughter, I remember watching “Murphy Brown” where Candace Bergen played the title role. Her character had a baby on the show and

competing feelings of boundless love for her daughter while feeling incredibly lonely at that “witching hour.” About four weeks into this new life, I decided to make an effort with my appearance. The bar was set pretty low: a real shower had become a fond memory and pajamas were rarely replaced with “real” clothes. Miraculously, my daughter dozed off so I shot into the shower and took a 3.5-minute shower, put on clean clothes including my too tight jeans and a new shirt my sister bought me. I gingerly picked up my daughter and transferred her to the stroller without waking her up. I threw on my sunglasses since I was not going to push my luck and take time to put on makeup. Down the block I went, grinning ear to ear. I was becoming a citizen of this foreign planet. I was learning the language. I was taking care of my sidekick. At the end of the block, a neighbor I had never met, came down her front walk. She looked to be in her 80s, walking slowly and with concentration. Her eyes locked on mine and then down into the stroller where she saw my sleeping daughter and her face changed. “I clearly remember being in your shoes. Isn’t it just the best?” she asked. I smiled, thought about how that morning I had leaked through two shirts before being able to nurse, tried on four pairs of pants before I found one that remotely fit, and couldn’t remember if I had eaten yet, and I replied, “It is. It really is.” C

CMY

“It didn’t take me long to learn that motherhood is like being dropped on an interesting, but scary foreign planet with a tiny sidekick you have just met. You don’t speak the language and everything you thought you knew is wrong.” when asked what having a baby was like she answered, “It’s as natural as having bacon come out of your elbow.” Yes, that’s it exactly. All the cliches are true, too: you cannot believe that you could love a little being as much as you do; you would lay down your life for this person; you cannot imagine what your life was like before they entered it. However, it’s still like bacon coming out of your elbow in the beginning. It eventually occurred to me that even “yoga mom” might not be perfect. That behind closed doors her baby must cry or throw tantrums, that there must be days when she has the

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Happy bellies! Where to find the best chocolate chip cookies in Chicago

Sweet Mandy B’s

BY LORI ORLINSKY

here’s something about chocolate chip cookies that gets everyone feeling a little nostalgic. While a simple cookie by nature, there are so many twists and variations that can take this dessert to the next level. Chicago has an amazing cookie culture, with bakery owners and pastry chefs who pull out all the stops. We’ve scoured the city for some of the best chocolate chip cookies. It was both fun and extremely filling. Nevertheless, we’re pretty confident that after tasting some of these, you’ll never go store-bought again.

Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookie from Warm Belly Bakery A simple sugar cookie is elevated to the next level after it’s stuffed to the brim with Nutella and chocolate chips. Topped with pretzel salt, the cookie packs the ultimate sweetsalty punch. 1148 W Monroe St., Chicago & 2472 N. Clark St., Chicago

Double Doozie Chocolate Chip Cookie from Sweet Mandy B’s The thing about Sweet Mandy B’s is that the signature buttercream frosting is so good, it’s hard to order something on the menu that isn’t frosted. But lucky for us, the shop got the hint and started putting buttercream in everything, and we’re

totally smitten with the Double Doozie Chocolate Chip Cookie. It’s not just one, but two chocolate chip cookies held together by buttercream frosting. If that isn’t to die for, we don’t know what is. 1208 W. Webster Ave., Chicago

Chocolate Dipped Butter Cookie from Dinkel’s Bakery

What makes chocolate chip cookies even better? The answer is simple: butter, butter and more butter! The extra butter in these cookies makes them moist and tender, and the flavor profile is enhanced when handdipped in melted milk or dark chocolate. 3329 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago

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Make your own

1 cup packed brown sugar

1 cup chopped walnuts

2 eggs

Directions:

and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. Dissolve baking soda in hot water. Add to batter along with salt. Stir in flour, chocolate chips and nuts. Drop by large spoonfuls onto ungreased pans.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cream together butter, white sugar,

Bake for 10 minutes or until edges are browned.

This recipe makes crispy on the outside, chewy in the middle downright good cookies. Ingredients:

Find more yummy ideas to treat your family at ChicagoParent.com/Eat. ●

1 cup butter, softened 1 cup white sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

3 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 2 teaspoons hot water ½ teaspoon salt 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

May 15 is National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day

Rice Crispy Chocolate Chip Cookie from Summer House Santa Monica

Simply too good not to mention

Each bite is full of more flavor and texture than the next. But what makes this bakery bestseller extra special is the sticky, crunchy and perfectly baked brown butter rice crispy squares sitting on top of this enormous cookie. Eat them first, save them for last or put together the perfect bite—there’s no wrong way to devour this one. 1954 N. Halsted St., Chicago

Soft Batch Chocolate Chip Cookie from Orland Park Bakery

Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich from Scofflaw A gin-fused cocktail bar isn’t where you’d expect to find a delicious variation of a chocolate chip cookie, but this Logan Square spot is an exception. The idea came after Scofflaw developed a cult following for handing out warm chocolate chip cookies to patrons

at midnight. Now on the menu and even better with house-made ice cream in ever-changing seasonal flavors, you’ll get the cold sensation of the ice cream when it’s placed between the warm cookies. 3201 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago

These cookies are straightforward without any bells and whistles—that’s what makes them so special. Baked to perfection, and big and rich with flavor and texture, these soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are loaded with chocolate chips, ensuring you’ve got the perfect blend in every bite. Simply put, they are unexpectedly delicious. 14850 S. LaGrange Road, Orland Park

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camp 2019 // special advertising section DAY CAMP A Fairytale Ballet & Academy Lakeview, Bucktown, Evanston (773) 477-4488 (LV & EV) (773) 606-0318 (BT)

AFairytaleBallet.com Exclusive Fairytale Ballet mini-camps bring stories to life with weekly costumes, props & crafts. (2&3,3-6yrs). Academy workshops include ballet story study w/ performance (7-17yrs).

Baker Summer of Discovery Camp 201 Sheridan Road, Wilmette (on border of Evanston) (847) 425-5814

www.bakerdemschool.org/ summer-program/ Whether your camper wants to be on stage, in the lab, in the arts studio, on the field or water front, this is a place where your child becomes known and valued.

CervantesKids: Spanish camp Instituto Cervantes 31 W. Ohio Street, Chicago (312) 335-1996

http://chicago.cervantes.es Immerse your child in the wonders of foreign language learning at Instituto Cervantes with our Spanish Camps. Camps run on a weekly basis.

Chicago Waldorf School 5200 N. Ashland Ave (773) 465-2662

www.chicagowaldorf.org Where your child will get out and explore throughout the summer! Camps are available for children ages 3-11.

Code Ninjas Algonquin Bartlett Elmhurst Glenview Gurnee Homer Glen Libertyville Buffalo Grove Naperville South Naperville Oak Park Orland Hills Oswego Park Ridge

(224) 333-1236 (630) 995-9577 (331) 209-0109 (847) 715-9056 (847) 986-9386 (708) 320-3985 (847) 549-3908 (847) 250-6838 (331) 229-8922 (630) 300-3636 (708) 320-3985 (708) 320-3985 (630) 485-7327 (224) 424-0133

4-10.

The Gardner School Lincolnshire (847) 415-5420 West Loop (312) 229-4299 Bucktown (773) 661-0151 Naperville (630) 657-5029 Glenview-Northbrook (847) 770-6260 Oak Brook (630) 576-4740 Lincoln Park (773) 661-0232

www.thegardnerschool.com With creative weekly themes, fun visitors from the community, and exciting outdoor activities, Camp Gardner gives our students the opportunity for funfilled learning all year round.

iD Tech Camps Held at Northwestern, Loyola, GEMS World Academy, Benedictine, and Lake Forest College (888) 709-8324

iDTech.com At iD Tech Camps, students ages 7-17 can learn to code, design video games, mod Minecraft, engineer robots, model 3D characters, build websites, print 3D models, and more.

The Little Gym of Chicago 3216 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago (773) 525-5750

TheLittleGym.com/ChicagoIL Combining physical activity, gymnastics, games, and arts & crafts, we’ll help your child beat the heat of summer by staying cool at

McGaw YMCA Summer Day Camp Evanston (847) 475-7400

www.mcgawymca.org/camp Starting with the youngest campers entering Kindergarten, through 6th grade, our day camps offer recreational and educational activities that inspire creativity, build confidence and embrace fun.

River Forest Community Center

Summer Camp Programs

www.CodeNinjas.com Code Ninjas is the ultimate coding and STEM camp! Explore technology with your friends including programming games, robots, VR, circuits, 3D printing drones and more.

Double J Riding Club 10545 W 74th St Countryside (708) 203-0717

www.doublejridingclub.com We provide the animals, you live the adventure!

Eyas Landing 1409 W Carroll Ave, Chicago (312) 733-0883

eyaslanding.com Therapeutic summer camp for ages

8020 Madison Street , River Forest (708) 771-6159

www.rfcc.info Full and part-time programs for children ages 3-12 Activities include arts &crafts, games, sports, swimming/ water play, field trips, special events, and more!

Sacred Heart Schools 6250 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago (773) 262-4446

www.shschicago.org/summercamp Make this the BEST summer yet with Sacred Heart on Sheridan Road! We offer the perfect blend of academics, summer sports, fitness, and fun!

Skokie Park District 9300 Weber Park Place, Skokie (847) 674-1500

www.skokieparks.org For decades, the Skokie Park District has provided summer camps that focus on adventure, friendship, fun, exploration, discovery and safety.

Windy City Elite Aquatics (847) 275-4162

www.windycityeliteaquatics.net Private instruction provides the swimmer with the undivided attention of a coach. This allows for mastering the proper technique basics to build a strong swimming foundation.

OVERNIGHT Black River Farm and Ranch Croswell, MI 48422

www.BlackRiverFarmandRanch.com An overnight Summer Horse Camp for Girls since 1962 where campers experience caring for the horses, mounted lessons, trail rides & ground lessons and much more creativity and fun.

Camp Woodbrooke 1704 Roberts Ct. Madison WI 53711 (608) 647-8703

www.campwoodbrooke.org Small overnight camp on 162 acres in rural Wisconsin modeling Quaker principles: cooperation, respect, care for environment. Boys & girls 7-12; Guided

teen trips 13-15.

Cub Creek Science Camp 16795 State Route E, Rolla, MO 65401 (573) 458-2125

CubCreekScienceCamp.com A summer camp with its own hands on, interactive, zoo! For animal, science, and adventure lovers aged 7 to 17!

McGaw YMCA Camp Echo 3782 S. Triangle Trail Fremont, MI 49412 (847) 475-7400

www.mcgawymca.org/campecho We offer programming for all ages! At Camp Echo, youth discover independence in a safe, inclusive environment that emphasizes personal growth alongside strength of community.

SPECIALTY CAMPS Avery Coonley Summer Camp 1400 Maple Avenue Downers Grove

averycoonley.org A diverse offering of summer enrichmentcourses for curious kids from Kindergarten through Eighth Grade, designed and taught by outstanding educators.

Emerald City Theatre 2936 N Southport Ave, Chicago (773) 529-2690

EmeraldCityTheatre.com Join us for a summer of creative play, singing, and dancing tailored to the budding actor! Each camp ends with a final performance for family and friends.

The Green Room Studio 3701 North Ravenswood Avenue Chicago (312) 685-2774

www.thegreenroomstudio.tv/ Led by professional actors, campers learn about commercial, television & film, theatre, voice over, and improv acting all while having fun and making new friends!

Hearts to Art Performing Arts Camp! Auditorium Theatre www.auditoriumtheatre.org

• Session 1 (Ages 7-10): July 8-19, 2019 • Session 2 (Ages 11-14): July 22-August 2, 2019 This unique performing arts camp brings together young people between the ages of 7 and 14 who have experienced the death of a parent to encourage the healing power of creative play.

Music Theater Works Summer Workshop 516 4th Street, Wilmette (847) 920-5360

MusicTheaterWorks.com/summer Young people aged 8 to 13 learn singing, dancing and acting from professional theater artists in a nurturing and fun atmosphere. After only five days, they perform a mini-musical for family and friends. No audition or experience required; everyone is guaranteed

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special advertising section // a part.

New Traditions Riding Academy 10100 So. Kean Avenue, Palos Hills

www.ntridingacademy.com/2019summer-camps.html In all levels of summer camp, all riders will be responsible for their horse for the entire day! Spring Open House Saturday, May 4 from 10am-2pm.

Salt Creek Ballet 98 E Chicago Ave, Westmont (630) 769-1199

www.saltcreekballet.org Now REGISTERING: Week-long camps: 7/22 - 8/2, ages 3-7, Weekly ballet classes: Tuesdays, ages 3-8 (6/10 - 7/19), Summer Intensive for ages 9+ (6/10 -7/19). Full schedule online!

TinkRworks 21 W. 2nd Street, Hinsdale (630) 819 8926

Vertical Endeavors Climbing Camps offer children the opportunity to learn proper climbing techniques in a safe and fun atmosphere. Single day or week long camps.

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

fleetwoodrollerrink.com Celebrating 60 years of family fun! New light show and sound system. Public skating, private parties, fundraisers. Artistic speed and roller derby skating.

Homewood Railfest

May 18th 9a-3p H-F Auditorium, 2010 Chestnut Road, Homewood Homesweethomewood.com

Model train layouts, train vendors, crafts, food and a trackless train ride! Fun for families, train enthusiasts and rail historians.

Honest-to- Goodness Indiana Family Fun

visitindiana.com From the northern shores to the southern rolling hills, Indiana welcomes you for a great family getaway.

Kohl Children’s Museum of Greater Chicago

Main Event 2575 Pratum, Hoffman Estates (847) 645-1111 28248 Diehl, Warrenville (630) 393-9400 Eat. Bowl. Play. Bowling, Gravity Ropes, Laser Tag, 100+ arcade games and more

Pump it Up Party Chicago Orland Park

2100 Patriot Blvd, Glenview (847) 832-6600

kcmgc.org Discover the Place Where Awesome Lives! Field trip rates available that include 45-minute class workshops, self-guided Museum exploration, and lunch rooms. Call (847) 832-6923 for

(312) 664-7867 (708) 479-2220

pumpitupparty.com The only 100% private party place with gigantically fun inflatables. Safe and clean environment. Brightly decorated private party room. Trained/dedicated staff for your group

Rolling Video Games

Call (708)733-5300 or (855)885-8600

rollingvideogamesofchicagoland.com Book any 2 hour party on a Wednesday (after 3pm) through August 31, 2019 and get the 1-hour price!

www.tinkrworks.com/ Hands-on STEAM Summer experience using problem-solving and critical reasoning skills for students k-12th grades. Camps available in 9 different locations in Western and Northern Chicago suburbs. Starting June 3rd.

Schaumburg Boomers Day Camp Day (847) 461-3695 x2206

holson@boomersbaseball.com Wednesday, July 31st , 11:00 AM Day Camp Day with the Schaumburg Boomers are exciting and memorable. This is an affordable, classic way to entertain children—sure to be the highlight of the summer. Group discounts are available for groups of 20+.

Vertical Endeavors Climbing Camps Locations in Bloomington, Minneapolis, and St. Paul (651)776-1430

www.verticalendeavors.com/

r C e m m ps u S A ci i g Ex e iae m e n Ex t n

camp 2019

details!

p r nc

Registration Begins March 4th

Summer

ww Re w gis

ALT CREEK BALLET

2019

.s t sa ltc (6 altc er re 30 re N ek ek O ) @ sa 769 ba W ltc l ! re 119 let. ek or ba 9 g lle t.o rg

WEEKLY BALLET CLASSES Ages 3 - 8

Part-Time (2-4 hrs.) Breakfast Club (15 mos. – 2 yrs) Parent and Tot Camp M,W : 9:00–10:00 am Three For All (3 yrs. by 9-1-19) M,W: 10:15 am–12:15 pm T,Th : 9:30–11:30 am Little Explorers (4 & 5 yrs) M-Th: 9:00-11:30 am Summer Scene (K – 7th grade) M-F: 12:00 – 4:00 pm Extended Care: 7:00 am-10:00 am & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm

Full-Time (6-11 hrs.) st

Young Voyagers (3 yrs. - 1 gr.) M-F: 10:00 am– 4:00 pm Extended Care: 7:00 am-10:00 am & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm Adventure Camp (2nd – 4th gr.) M-F: 10:00 am-4:00 pm Extended Care: 7:00 am-10:00 am & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm Urban Safari (5th – 8th gr.) M-F: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm Extended Care: 7:00 am-10:00 am & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm

Unforgettable Adventures from June 10th – August 23rd Arts & Crafts, Games, Sports, Swimming Field Trips, Special Events, and More!

River Forest Community Center 8020 Madison Street • River Forest, IL 60305 708-771-6159 • www.rfcc.info

Learn and develop the fundamentals of ballet movement & vocabulary!

JUNE 10 - JULY 19 (6 WEEKS)

BALLET CAMPS Experience your favorite fairy tales through a dance camp full of ballet, creativity and lots of fun!

Stretch, turn and leap in a dance camp including ballet, crafts and featuring a last day camper performance!

Fairy Tale Ballet Camp

Creative Ballet Camp Ages 5 - 7 Monday - Friday 12:00 - 2:00 pm

Ages 3 - 4 Monday - Friday 9:00 - 11:00 am

WEEK 1

July 22 - July 26

WEEK 2

July 29 - Aug 2

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camp 2019 // special advertising section

PS O H S K R WOR

2019

E SUMM

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

Ages 8 to 13 Annie • July 8-13

Fiddler on the Roof • July 15-20 Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat • July 22-27 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang • July 29-Aug. 3 42nd Street • August 5-10

For teens

How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying youth production June 13-29 (audition required)

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

40 May 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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camp 2019

Double J Riding Club's Toddler Classes Offered Year Round!

Mom & Tots

Junior Farmers

A uniquely structured August 11 - First Day of program School that offers a August 14 - STAR place for caregivers and Reading Test toddlersAugust to play, learn 16 - Volunteer and Training developLibrary while meeting the August 22 - Open animals at Double J! House at 6pm

A pre-school age enrichment program for kids who love animals and nature that will foster their independence and curiosity as they get down and dirty on the farm!

Looking for swimming lessons for your beginner or young swimmer? Call us for the best one on one experience! Private instruction provides the swimmer with the undivided attention of a coach. This allows for mastering the proper technique basics to build a strong swimming foundation, which makes it easier to move on to more advanced concepts. www.windycityeliteaquatics.net 847-275-4162

For prices and times: www.doublejridingclub.com (708) 203-0717

Dates June 17-July 26

Ages 3-12 years old

Summer at Sacred Heart provides the perfect blend of academics, fitness, and fun! Camp focus classes include STEAM Explorations, Kids Who Code and Summer Sports. Early-morning care and extended day options available.

www.shschicago.org/summercamps ChicagoParent.com May 2019 41

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camp 2019 // special advertising section Camp Woodbrooke

a small camp, with a lot to offer

Non Competitive • Quaker Values • Scholarships

Celebrate at

Boys and Girls Youth Camps ages 7-12 • Teen Trips ages 13-16 open-air cabins, nature, campﬁres, organic garden, goats, swimming

www.campwoodbrooke.org (608) 647-8703

Custom parties featuring hands-on circus instruction!

is part of your favorite social networks Find us on Facebook Join the Twitter party! Follow us @ChicagoParent On Pinterest pinterest.com/chiparent

To book a party, or for more information: contact scott@circesteem.org (773) 732-4564 www.circesteem.org/parents/party

Early Childhood

at chicago

waldorf school

Now Enrolling! Parent-Child − Pre-K − Kindergarten in Andersonville & Lincoln Square

− Where Learning is Alive through Play-Based Curriculum, Outdoor Exploration, Imagination & Creative Thinking − Classes offered for Ages 2+ − Early Childhood Summer Camps from June-August

Learn more at chicagowaldorf.org OPEN HOUSE May 4

−

SCHOOL TOUR May 16

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special advertising section //

camp 2019

Turn your kids loose with us for a summer of discovery! CAMP HIGHLIGHTS • For Campers age 3-12 • Hands-on, inquiry based classes led by our caring, experienced staff

The Avery Coonley School

• Located close to Lake Michigan for weekly trips to the beach • Swimming in our pool • Walking adventures to local parks

Summer Program An exciting and educational summer program for children ages 4-14. Three (3) sessions available: June 17-28 / July 1-12 / July 15-26 View 2019 Summer Program information online: www.averycoonley.org/summerprogram

Whether your camper wants to be on stage, in the lab, in the arts studio, on the field or water, at Baker’s Summer Discovery Camp, we’re serious about creating summer fun that help kids build confidence, make new friends, and learn some of life’s most important lessons along the way.

Questions? Contact Hannah Bielawski at summer@bakerdemschool.org or call 847-425-5814.

1400 Maple Avenue, Downers Grove, IL, 630-969-0800

As experts in Youth Development, let McGaw provide your child with a summer filled with personal growth and fun! We offer day and overnight camp for youth with all interests!

GROW UP WITH CAMP! OVERNIGHT CAMP 3RD–12TH GRADE

DAY CAMP K–6TH GRADE

METAMEDIA

EMPLOYMENT

6TH–8TH GRADE

17+ YEARS

FAMILY CAMP ALL AGES

Explore camp options at www.mcgawymca.org ChicagoParent.com May 2019 43

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camp 2019 // special advertising section Chicago’s not-for-profit center for Spanish language and cultural exchange

JOINOUR SPANISHCAMPS Ages: 4-7, 8-11, 12-15. 9am to 1pm, Mon-Fri In April and from June to August

312-335-1996

cervantes.chicago.es

31 W. Ohio Street, Chicago, IL 60654 Subway: Grand/State (Red Line)

THE #1 STEM CAMP

FOR AGES 7–19

From coding and game dev to robotics and design, your child will develop in-demand skills and ignite lifelong passions—all in a fun, inclusive environment. Choose from 50+ innovative courses and join our community of over 400,000 alumni. Get ready for the best summer ever!

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

Get a brochure and ﬁnd a camp near you! 44 May 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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camp 2019

Kids and Teens Summer Camp June 24th-28th and/or July 22nd-26th

Students learn about acting for TV & film, commercial, theatre, voice over, and improv from working professionals in the Chicago acting industry!

3701 North Ravenswood Avenue • Suite #201 Chicago, IL 60613 312-685-2774

www.thegreenroomstudio.tv

CHICAGO PARENT’S SUMMER ACTIVITIES GUIDE JUNE 2018

| FREE

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

ways to your

awesome summer! CHIPAR_June2_2018.indd 3

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June and July

Summer Fun

For more information, call (708) 386-5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com ChicagoParent.com May 2019 45

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Magic & Juggling Shows

Mary Macaroni

Balloon Animals and Puppets

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

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

Children’s Parties! Corporate Events!

www.IYQENT.com IYQ Entertainment

Call Today:

847-228-0882

312-498-9845

www.marymacaroni.com

SUE’S PARTY ANIMALS

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

You'll LOVE US!

Call Sue Johnson, Educator

847-215-8508

“Laughter and wonderment...fun and inclusive.” -The Wilmette Beacon

(847) 361-0924

scott@thegreatscott.com thegreatscott.com

Spring

Thank you to all our readers and sponsors for a great event. We look forward to seeing you at the next Chicago Parent Playdate! 46 May 2019 ChicagoParent.com

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Our Sponsors!

4/11/19 12:35 PM

calendar MAY

Parents can stock up on organic plants while the kiddos have their own garden fun at Kids Day at Kilbourn Park. The organic plant sale runs May 18 and 19 with herbs, veggie and flower seedlings available $5 or less. For youngsters, kids can participate in arts and crafts on May 19 only, with a yoga demonstration, scavenger hunts and planting stations as they start their path toward master gardener. Free. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. May 19. 3401 N. Kilbourn Ave., Chicago. (312) 742-5039, chicagoparkdistrict.com

Festival season is upon us and why not start with something full of fun and flavor: Chocolate. The Long Grove Chocolate Festival is more than just a taste or two, it’s mouthfuls of scrumptious, ooey, gooey chocolate. On bananas, on cherries, as candy. For kids, there are chocolate crafts, a chocolate eating contest, a Kids Zone and carnival rides. $5, free ages 12 and under. May 17-19. Old McHenry Road & Robert Parker Coffin Road, Long Grove. longgrove.org

There’s story time, then there’s story time with a mission. The Wicker Park Secret Agent Supply Company’s monthly story time appears and disappears for one day only: the first Sunday of the month. This month, Secret Agent Storytime is May 5, when Agent Zach spends an hour leading songs, dancing, books and crafts for ages 4 and under. The Supply Company is the storefront of 826CHI, a non-profit that supports students and teachers as youngsters learn to write. Free. 11 a.m.-noon, May 5. 1276 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago. secretagentsupply.com ChicagoParent.com May 2019 47

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CALENDAR

C ic Ch icag ago o Kids & Kit Ki ites es F st Fe s iv val See Ma Se Mayy 4

1 | WEDNESDAY designed to allow adults with babies and young children to tour the galleries. Free with admission. 11:30 a.m. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago. (312) 280-2660, mcachicago.org.

field competition. More than 3,000 Special Olympics Chicago athletes participate in a Parade of Athletes at Soldier Field, the birthplace of the Special Olympics movement. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Soldier Field Stadium and Field, 1410 S. Museum Campus Drive, Chicago. (312) 235-7000, soldierfield.net.

campfire. Participate in fun nighttime activities and enjoy breakfast outdoors. Tents, cooking supplies and food provided. Fee is per person and adults must register. $33, $26 residents. 6 p.m. Friday-10 a.m. Saturday. Emily Oaks Nature Center, 4650 Brummel St., Skokie. (847) 677-7001, skokieparks.org.

2 | THURSDAY

3 | FRIDAY

4 | SATURDAY

TOOTH FAIRY DAY. Kids meet the Tooth Fairy and become familiar with being in the dental office. No examination or teeth cleaning is done on Tooth Fairy Day. Tooth Fairy visitors do not need to be patients of the practice. 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Oral Health Care Professionals, 2033 Ogden Ave., Downers Grove. ericjacksondds.com.

CHICAGO

story time with a naturalist, take a short sensory hike and create a natural craft to take home. Recommended for ages 6 months-6 years. $8 adult and child pair, $3 additional child. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Rosewood Beach Interpretive Center, 883 Sheridan Road, Highland Park. (847) 4336901, hellernaturecenter.org. SPECIAL OLYMPICS OPENING CEREMONY. The formal

FAMILY CAMPOUT AT EMILY OAKS. Pitch a tent, roast marsh-

CHICAGO KIDS & KITES FESTIVAL. The Department

FAIRY FESTIVAL/BREAKFAST WITH THE FAIRIES. Enjoy fairy

start to three days of track and

mallows and sing songs around a

of Cultural Affairs and Special

flower walks, discover fairy food,

STROLLER TOURS. Tours are

STORIES IN THE SAND. Enjoy

STORY TIME WITH THEATRE Y. Listen to your favorite

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

Events provides kits for kids to design and create their own kite. There will also be crafts and face painting. Weather permitting, the festival will also include the Big Kite Candy Drop, a piñata-like kite filled with candies that drop from the sky. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Cricket Hill in Lincoln Park, West Montrose Drive. chicagokidsandkites.us. TIME TRAVELERS. Travel back in time to the world of the Ancient Egyptians and Mesopotamians—try on their clothes, hear the oldest story ever written, and explore the galleries to find artifacts. $10$14; registration required. 1-2:30 p.m. Oriental Institute Museum, 1155 E. 58th St. (773) 702-9514, oi.uchicago.edu.

SUBURBS

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CALENDAR

About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the June issue is April 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 62.

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar make enchanted crafts and be entertained by winged hostesses. Come dressed in wings, make a wand, learn a few magic words and indulge your inner child. For an additional fee, enjoy pancakes, sausage and a beverage with special fairies visiting the tables (9-11:30 a.m.). $10 festival; $15 festival and breakfast. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Pilcher Park Nature Center, 2501 Highland Park Drive, Joliet. (815) 741-7277, jolietpark.org.

NATURE PUPPET SHOW SERIES. Enjoy a puppet show

exploring a different subject about nature. 10 a.m. Sand Ridge Nature Center, 15891 Paxton Ave., South Holland. (708) 868-0606, fpdcc. com. POTTING PARTY AT LAMBS FARM. Bring empty containers

and choose from a wide selection of sun or shade annuals, perennials and Proven Winners to plant in

them, perfect for Mother’s Day. Soil starts at $1 (based on container size) plus cost of plants. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Lambs Farm, I-94 and Route 176, Libertyville. (847) 362-4636, lambsfarm.org.

other animals. Plus, take part in the kite fly. Lunch, snacks and beverages available for purchase. Kites provided to children ages 2-10. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Citizens Park, 511 Lake Zurich Road, Barrington. (847) 3810687, barringtonparkdistrict.org.

NATURE PLAYDATES.

Each date offers a different themed activity (one per family) and a self-guided ‘I Spy’ hike. Afterwards, bring a picnic lunch or play in Wander Woods outdoor nature play space. 10-11:30 a.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 4336901, hellernaturecenter.org. BARRINGTON AREA KIDFEST. A day-long event that

combines the Community Kite Fly and Family Nature Fest. More than 25 nature-related activities planned, including tree climbing, pond dipping for macro-invertebrates, nature crafts and more. Parents and children can explore the lives of insects, mammals, raptors and

SPRING CANOE. Welcome spring with a paddle on the beautiful Skokie Lagoons. Naturalists will provide canoes and everything else needed for an afternoon on the water. Recommended for ages 6 and older. $23. 2-4 p.m. Skokie Lagoon, 1757 Tower Road, Winnetka. hellernaturecenter.org.

5 | SUNDAY CHICAGO SECRET AGENT STORYTIME. Your mission, if you

choose to accept, is to sing, dance, read books, and make crafts with Agent Zach. Recommended

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CALENDAR for junior agents ages 0-4 and their families. 11 a.m.-noon. The Wicker Park Secret Agent Supply Co., 1276 N. Milwaukee Ave. secretagentsupply.com. SWITCH ON SUMMER. A

day filled with fun games with more than a dozen of Chicago’s favorite organizations and live entertainment from local band Sixteen Candles for Chicago’s official season-changing signal: Turning on Buckingham Fountain. The fountain will be “turned on” at 2 p.m. 12-3 p.m. Buckingham Fountain, Columbus Drive and Ida B. Wells Drive in Grant Park. (312) 742-PLAY (7529). chicagopark district.com.

SUBURBS

long or as little as you would like for this engaging, self-directed outdoor play day. Recommended for 0-16; children must be accompanied by an adult. $4 per family. 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Emily Oaks Nature Center, 4650 Brummel St., Skokie. (847) 677-7001, skokieparks.org.

banjo and washboard during this concert for tots. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Morton Grove Public Library, 6140 Lincoln Ave., Morton Grove. (847) 929-5102, mgpl.org.

SPRING FESTIVAL. Celebrate spring with a day of activities for all ages, including animal encounters, kids’ tree climb, guided wildflower walks, bird banding, dip netting, seed planting, building a bird house and more. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

AUTISM HELPING HANDS SUPPORT GROUP. Parents, guard-

6 | MONDAY

opens to the public at 10 a.m. $5 per person. 9-10 a.m. Wonder Works Children’s Museum, 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park. wonder-works.org. STORIES IN THE WOODS. Kids 6

8 | WEDNESDAY

ians & caregivers of high school students with autism are invited to meet other families, talk about life transitions, get help & advice, and hear & share stories. 5:30-7 p.m. Higgins Education Center, 1030 W. Higgins Road, Hoffman Estates. adc. d211.org/Domain/13.

9 | THURSDAY

OUTDOOR FAMILY PLAY DAY.

FOX & BRANCH PRESENTS: MUSIC FOR KIDS. This duo will

OPEN PLAY FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS. Wonder

Take a walk in the woods while exploring and participating in fun activities along the way. Stay as

have children dancing and singing along with a number of wonderful unique instruments including a

Works opens early for kids up to 8 years with special needs. They are welcome to stay when the museum

and under, with adult, engage in a hands-on nature inspired activity, enjoy a story and take a short hike with a naturalist. $8 pair; $3 additional child. 10-11 a.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

10 | FRIDAY FRIDAY FUN. One Friday a

month combine the Children’s Neighborhood Museum playtime with theme-related activities about Dirt Diggers. Recommended for ages 1-6. $13, $12 residents. 9:30-11 a.m. Round Lake Area Park District - Robert W. Rolek Community Center, 814 Hart Road, Round Lake. rlapd.org.

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CALENDAR EXPLORE S’MORE. Take an

interactive hike with a naturalist that ends around a cozy campfire with s’mores. Recommended for all ages. $10, free under 2. 6-7:30 p.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org. CAMPOUT FOR KIDS. Kids will

pitch tents, explore Emily Oaks at night, roast marshmallows over a campfire and play games. Friday evening snacks and breakfast on Saturday are provided. The Visitor Center is available in case of inclement weather. Appropriate for ages 8-11. $44, $35 resident. 6:30 p.m. Friday-10 a.m. Saturday. Emily Oaks Nature Center, 4650 Brummel St., Skokie. (847) 6777001, skokieparks.org. JAZZ CITY AT LA FOLLETTE PARK. The South Side Jazz Band

under the direction of Tom Tom Washington mines established and new talent on the south side of the city and has developed a repertoire that reflects the many streams of music that have shaped jazz, including swing, rhythm and blues, soul and funk. 7-9 p.m. LaFollette Park, 1333 N. Laramie Ave., Chicago. (773) 287-0541, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

Com Ed Co Ed Sw wiittc ch on o n Sum umm me er Seee Ma May 5

a location. McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum, 99 Chicago Riverwalk. (312) 977-0227, chicagoriver.org. MAY FAIR FESTIVAL.

Maypole dancing, games, activities, music, food and fun for the whole community. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Chicago Waldorf School, 1300 W. Loyola Ave. (773) 465-2662, chicagowaldorf.org. ONCE UPON A SYMPHONY: THE BOY & THE VIOLIN. Vibrant music,

11 | SATURDAY

engaging storytelling and enchanting visuals blend together in a playful concert experience designed especially for the youngest audience members. In this tale, a young boy sells his family’s meager belongings to buy a violin. The boy and the violin set out on a journey bringing joy and laughter to creatures big and small who hear the beautiful strains of the instrument. $17. 10 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. Chicago Symphony Orchestra, 220 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 294-3000, cso.org.

CHICAGO

KIDS RUN THIS CITY. Youth Race

FOR THE LOVE OF STARS.

The Chicago Park District’s resident astronomer, Joe Guzman, will set up telescopes to view stars and constellations, planets and the moon. Attendees are welcome to bring their own telescopes or use the telescopes provided. 7:30-10 p.m. The 606, Chicago. the606.org.

CHICAGO RIVER DAY CLEANUP. Join thousands of people

at one of more than 75 locations for the Friends of the Chicago River’s annual Chicago River Day clean up. Free T-shirts to all volunteers, a good event for middle and high schoolaged students. Pre-register to select

Distances include 1K, 2K and 3K for runners ages 0-12 years old. All runners will receive a finisher medal, race day T-shirt, Kids Run This City cinch bag and more. There will also be family-friendly entertainment after the races. $36. 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Lincoln Park, 1701 N. Stockton Drive. kidsrunthiscity.com.

FAMILY DAY: MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART.

Take part in workshops, open studio sessions, gallery tours and performances, all designed and led by Chicago artists. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave. (312) 280-2660, mcachicago.org. PARENTS NIGHT OUT: WIZARDING SCHOOL 101. While

parents get their own night out, kids ages 5-12 can enjoy a pizza dinner and unique hands-on projects. $40, free for members. 6:30-8:15 p.m. The Laboratory, 2349 W. North Ave. thelaboratorychi.org.

SUBURBS BIRDFEST. Travel to Sand Bluff

Bird Observatory for the annual Birdfest. Enjoy presentations, nature hikes, a kid station, food tent and exhibitors. Dress for the weather and for walking. Meals are not included. Recommended for ages 6 and older. $23. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org. POTTING PARTY AT LAMBS FARM. See May 4. TEA TIME SOCIAL. Kids 6-12 enjoy

a tea party celebrating Mother’s Day.

Tickets include one adult and one child, petite tea-inspired bites, various tea selections and lemonade. An outdoor-inspired mommy and me craft will follow the tea time. $49 adult/child pair. 10-11:30 a.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org. ASTRONOMY DAY. Investigate planets, moon and sun and get inspired to learn more during a free planetarium show. Monkey around with gravity, put the solar system in your pocket, navigate the constellations and more. Free with museum admission. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 963-6769, discoverycentermuseum.org. SECOND SATURDAY: MOTHER’S DAY. Make cards for Mom and other

activities at this drop-in program at McCormick Museum. $10 parking. Noon-3 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 6685161, cantigny.org. MOTHER & DAUGHTER TEA.

Mothers, grandmothers, godmothers and mothers of the heart are called to dress in finest for an elegant Mother’s Day tea. Activities will include a tea cup raffle, tea bingo and a best-dressed hat contest for both adults and children. Recommended for ages 2 and older. $13, $10

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CALENDAR resident; preregistration required. 2-3:30 p.m. Irons Oaks, 20000 S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields. (708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com. SPRING STORYTELLING CAMPFIRE. Experience the oldest

form of entertainment by campfire and starlight. Professional storyteller Mark Kater will excite the imagination of kids ages 4 and older with springtime stories from around the world. $4; preregistration required. 7:30-8:30 p.m. Emily Oaks Nature Center, 4650 Brummel St., Skokie. (847) 6777001, skokieparks.org.

12 | SUNDAY CHICAGO ROCK & ROLL FOR KIDS. Using the songs created by the most iconic musicians in rock history, The Rock and Roll Playhouse offers babies and kids games,

movement and stories and an opportunity to rock out. Today’s artist: The Music of Rolling Stones For Kids. $15. 11 a.m. Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St. therockandrollplayhouse.com. PARENT & CHILD TOGETHER IN THE WILD: WORMS! Learn how worms make

new soil, plow the ground for seeds, eat garbage and even treecycle. 1-2:30 p.m. North Park Village Nature Center, 5801 N. Pulaski Road. (312) 744-5472, chicagoparkdistrict.com. CIVIC ORCHESTRA CONCERT AT INDIAN BOUNDARY. Ensemble members

of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, the training orchestra of the Chicago Symphony, present a concert that will feature a string quartet. 3-4 p.m. Indian Boundary Park & Cultural Center, 2500 W. Lunt Ave. (773) 764-0338. chicagoparkdistrict.com.

SUBURBS MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH AT MORTON ARBORETUM. A

Mother’s Day brunch for kids and dads to celebrate mom sitting in the blooming backdrop of Meadow Lake. $61, $34 ages 4-12, $54 member adults, $27 member children (4-12); free under 4. Seatings at 9 a.m., noon and 3 p.m. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org. HERE COMES THE CABOOSE!

Make a special Thomas train to take home and even practice the locomotion. Free or discounted admission if you share a name with Thomas or one of his friends. $11. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 9636769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

bee suit to get a safe, up-close look inside the hives. After the visit to the hive, make a beeswax candle. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult. All participants must wear closed shoes and tall socks to visit the hives. Recommended for ages 6 and older. $20. 10 a.m.-noon and 1-3 p.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org. MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH. Lambs

Farm’s Magnolia Cafe and Bakery is hosting a Mother’s Day brunch. Reservations in three seatings. $26.95, $10.95 ages 2-12, free 23 months and younger. Seatings at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. Lambs Farm, I-94 and Route 176, Libertyville. (847) 362-4636, lambsfarm.org.

15 | WEDNESDAY

BEE-TASTIC MOTHER’S DAY.

Learn about the Queen bee and all of her daughters, then dress in a

LET’S GO CAMPING. Campers

ages 5-10 learn how to prepare for a

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camping trip, care for a tent and make a simple campfire treat. $12, $10 residents; preregistration required. 4-5:30 p.m. Emily Oaks Nature Center, 4650 Brummel St., Skokie. (847) 677-7001, skokieparks.org.

16 | THURSDAY REMAKE LEARNING DAYS CHI. Hands-on festival for the

future of work and learning. The Chicago Learning Exchange and founding partners turn Chicago and Evanston into an open house learning laboratory, featuring more than 100 events for youth of all ages at which families will experience making, new technology, art workshops, science experiments, student films, outdoor learning and more. Varies by location. Chicago Learning Exchange, 332 S.

Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 8009404, remakelearningdays.org.

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NEW MUSIC CHICAGO PRESENTS. New Music Chicago,

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

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CALENDAR 17 | FRIDAY REMAKE LEARNING DAYS CHI. See May 16.

dance to music. $5; free kids 12 and under. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Old McHenry Road & Robert Parker Coffin Road. longgrove.org.

NATURE PLAY IN WALKING STICK WOODS. Walking Stick

18 | SATURDAY

Woods’ staff will point families to exciting play nodes and be available as a resource to educators curious about facilitating nature play. Staff will have a table of resources about nature play for parents and educators including the benefits of nature play, how to deal with risks and hazards within nature play, and information about the process for establishing a nature playground in your own community. 2-5 p.m. North Park Village Nature Center, 5801 N. Pulaski Road Chicago. (312) 744-5472, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

CHICAGO CSO FAMILY CONCERT: PICTURES FROM AN EXHIBITION. This piece, famously

LONG GROVE CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL. Experience his-

arranged for orchestra by Maurice Ravel, leads the audience on a sonic gallery walk and invites them to investigate how visual imagery can be transformed into sound. Recommended for ages 5 and up. An exhibition of visual artworks by students from Chicago Public Schools will be displayed in the Rotunda. $6-$57. 11 a.m. & 12:45 p.m. Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. cso.org.

toric downtown Long Grove and delight in a weekend of irresistible chocolate treats. Sample food and

REMAKE LEARNING DAYS CHI. See May 16.

EXERCISE PREGNANCY STUDY

Memorial Day ay Parade e SSeee Ma Mayy 25

ANCIENT ANIMALS. Kids 5-12 meet the creatures that populated the lives and imaginations of ancient people. Get up close with real ancient animal bones and discover how zooarchaeologists use them to study the ancient world.

ESTUDIO SOBRE EL EJERCICIO DURANTE EL EMBARAZO

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

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

• Program delivered to you via the mail and phone • Must be 18 years of age or older • Must not currently exercise regularly • Must not take antidepressants • You will receive $100 & a FitBit for your time (you will be allowed to keep the FitBit after the study is over) • Program can be delivered in English or Spanish • Must be considered low-income, defined as: -Enrollment in any government assisted program (e.g., WIC, SNAP) AND/OR -Annual income that is considered low (less than $45,510 for a family of four, less than $30,044 for a family of two, and less than

• Programa ejecutado vía correo o teléfono • Debe ser mayor o igual a 18 años de edad • No debe hacer ejercicio regularmente • No debe tomar antidepresivos • Debe considerarse de bajos ingresos, lo cual se define como: -Inscripta en cualquier programa asistencial del gobierno (por ejemplo, WIC, SNAP) y / o - Ingresos anuales considerados como bajos (menos de $ 45,510 para una familia de cuatro, menos de $ 30,044 para una familia de dos y menos de $ 22,311 si es soltera). • Usted recibirá $100 y un FitBit por su tiempo (será permitido quedarse con el FitBit después de la culminación del estudio)

Hear the Egyptian epic of a sailor shipwrecked, search the galleries for animal images and sculptures, and craft a Neo-Babylonion lion to take home. $10-$14. 1-3 p.m. Oriental Institute Museum, 1155 E. 58th St. (773) 702-9514, oi.uchicago.edu.

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

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CALENDAR SUBURBS HOMEWOOD RAIL FEST.

Features rides on a trackless train, train displays and collectibles, live music, kids train crafts and science activities. In the STEAM Studio, families can create simple machines using household and recycled items. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. H-F Park District Auditorium, 2010 Chestnut, Homewood. (708) 957-0300, hfparks.com. LAKE COUNTY FIRE SAFETY EXPO. Provides families

with the opportunity to learn about the latest fire prevention tips, plus a variety of interactive activities and games and refreshments. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Gurnee Mills Mall, 6170 Grand Ave., Gurnee. (847) 263-7500, gurneemills.com. ANIMAL DAY FOR FAMILIES.

Enjoy an organic farm for a day of hands-on experiences with the animals. Milk the goats and gather

eggs from the chickens, see how you can produce soil from kitchen scraps with worm boxes and make goat’s milk ice cream. $22. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. (815) 389-8455, learngrowconnect.org. SKOKIE FESTIVAL OF CULTURES. Enjoy two days of

ethnic folk music and dance, a wide range of food, unique arts and crafts, international games, children’s events, a merchandise bazaar, and dozens of cultural booths and displays. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Check website for schedule. Oakton Park, 4701 Oakton St., Skokie. skokieculturefest.org. VIDEO GAME MANIA. This

event features a video game truck equipped with nine wide screen TVs for the ultimate multiplayer gaming experience. Recommended for ages 6-14 years. $15. 2-3:30 p.m. Vaughan Athletic Center,

2121 W. Indian Trail, Aurora. foxvalleyparkdistrict.org.

LONG GROVE CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL. See May 17.

BEACH CAMPOUT. Pitch a tent and spend the night under the stars. A campfire with s’mores and a light breakfast are provided. $15; $20 to rent a six-person tent. 5 p.m. Saturday-9 a.m. Sunday. Rosewood Beach Interpretive Center, 883 Sheridan Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, pdhp.org/ rosewood-beach-2.

RIVERSIDE ARTS WEEKEND. Features juried art,

WATER LANTERN FESTIVAL.

Design and decorate lanterns to launch in the water at RiverEdge Park. Friends, families, neighbors and lots of people that you haven’t met can come together to create a peaceful, memorable experience. Ticket includes festival entry, water lantern, drawstring bag, marker and wristband. $35 until May 17, $40 May 18; $12 ages 7-14, free ages 7 and under. 6-10:30 p.m. RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway St., Aurora. (630) 896-6666, riveredgeaurora.com.

musical performances, an urban art installation, fashion show, food and drinks and art activities for kids. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., visit event website for schedule. Riverside Arts Weekend, 27 Riverside Drive, Riverside. riversideartsweekend.org.

19 | SUNDAY CHICAGO MOVE FOR THE KIDS. Parents and kids can participate in the 5K Run/Walk event and ages 12 and under are invited to join the Grant Thornton 100-meter Kids’ Dash. Following the race, runners/walkers enjoy snacks, beverages, kids’ games and activities, and live entertainment at the post-race party on Stadium Green at Soldier Field. Race benefits

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CALENDAR Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. Free registration, incentives for runners raising money. 10:15 a.m. kids race, 11 a.m. 5K Soldier Field, 1410 Museum Campus Drive. luriechildrens.org/ moveforthekids. REMAKE LEARNING DAYS CHI. See May 16. KIDS DAY AT KILBOURN.

While parents enjoy the Organic Plant Sale, kids can participate in arts & crafts, yoga, scavenger hunts and planting stations. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Kilbourn Park, 3501 N. Kilbourn Ave. (312) 742-5039, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

SUBURBS LAKE ZURICH FIRE STATION PANCAKE BREAKFAST. Enjoy an

all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast, music, raffles and a silent auction. Kids can take antique fire truck

Lo L ong ng Gro rov ve e Ch C hoc ocol olate atte F a Fe es sttiv val al See Se ee M Maay 177

rides, a mini firefighter challenge, and K-9 and UAV/drone demonstrations. There will be fire trucks, ambulances, ATVs and police cars to explore. $7, free under 5. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Lake Zurich Fire Station #1, 321 Buesching Road, Lake Zurich. slcrcert.org. EVERYONE AT PLAY. The Kohl

Children’s Museum’s 17 exhibits and

two acres of outdoor explorations are designed for play with a purpose and encourage linguistic, cognitive, motor and social skills for children ages birth through 8. Due to space limitations, families must register in advance online. $12, free children under 12 months. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 8326600, kcmgc.org.

RIVERSIDE ARTS WEEKEND. See May 18. BEAR AWARENESS WEEKEND.

Attend Zoo Chats about the zoo’s three species of bears—grizzly, polar and sloth—and find out what challenges they face in the wild. The zoo’s volunteers will have exploration carts featuring a variety of bear artifacts for guests

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Yorktown Center Fit4Mom Stroller Stride & Stroller Barre Classes 203 Yorktown Center, Lombard (630) 629-7330 Yorktowncenter.com

Double J Riding Club 10545 W 74th St, Countryside (708) 203-0717

JCFS Chicago offers expert, individualized help to support people of all ages and abilities as they strive to live successfully in their community. • K-12+ education at the Therapeutic Day School • Religious studies for Jewish children through therapeutic Yeshiva • Speech-language, occupational and developmental therapy through Integrated Pediatric Therapies • Therapeutic preschool and counseling for children and families at Virginia Frank Child Development Center • Psychological testing and evaluation • Therapy for disruptive behaviors in children • Specialized foster care and case management • Counseling and support groups for children, adults, couples and families  JCFS Chicago  @JCFSChicago  JCFSChicago  JCFS Chicago JCFS Chicago is a partner with the Jewish United Fund in serving our community. We embrace diversity. Our commitment to inclusivity is woven throughout our services, programs and welcoming workplace.

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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 Move Move Mo ve fo or th the Kiid K ds s SSeeeee Ma May 1199

to touch. At Hamill Family Play Zoo, kids can do bear-themed crafts. Free with admission. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. (708) 688-8000, czs.org. SKOKIE FESTIVAL OF CULTURES. See May 18. LONG GROVE CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL. See May 17. Today’s

schedule: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. ELMHURST MUSEUM DAY.

Jump on board the Explore Elmhurst trolley to visit three Elmhurst museums for free admission, familyfriendly activities, exhibit tours, refreshments and more. 1-5 p.m. Elmhurst. elmhursthistory.org. OPEN SWIM. Open Swim is a great opportunity for additional practice outside of swim lessons or to simply have fun in the pool. Open swim is for current swimmers, past swimmers, family and friends. $10, RSVP recommended. 3-5 p.m. British

Swim School, 3919 Oakton St., Skokie. britishswimschool.com. FAMILY NIGHT OUT. Family Night Out provides an evening of play and learning for children with special needs and their families, focusing on autism spectrum and other sensory processing disorders as well as physical disabilities. Registration required. 5:30-8 p.m. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 637-8000, dupagechildrensmuseum.org.

23| THURSDAY CHICAGO CHILDREN’S CHOIR PAINT THE TOWN RED.

More than 5,000 Chicago Children’s Choir singers fill Millennium Park with song as part of the annual Paint the Town Red concert. 11 a.m. Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago. (312) 742-1168, ccchoir.org.

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CALENDAR 24 | FRIDAY

WREATH LAYING CEREMONY AND PARADE. The wreath laying

MOLE DE MAYO FESTIVAL. Along

ceremony begins at 11 a.m. at the Eternal Flame on Daley Plaza. The parade kicks off at noon and proceeds south on State Street from Lake Street to Van Buren Street. Participants include many area high schools’ Drum and Bugle Corps as well as many veterans groups. Wreath Laying: 11 a.m. Parade: noon. Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St. cityofchicago.org/ specialevents.

with the traditional mole puestos (mole booths) and mouthwatering festival food concession stands, this year’s celebration features more than 30 live bands, dozens of artisans, merchants and craft vendors, matches by professional masked wrestlers (Mexican lucha libre), flamethrowing performances, and a chance to ride the mechanical bull. At the Plaza de los Niños (kids zone), enjoy facepainting and carnival games and a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) outreach component presented by Northeastern Illinois University. $10 family, $5 individuals. Noon-10 p.m. 18th Street and Ashland Avenue, Chicago. starevents.com.

25 | SATURDAY CHICAGO CHICAGO MEMORIAL DAY

BELMONT-SHEFFIELD MUSIC FEST. This festival, held at the

busy Lake View intersection over Memorial Day weekend, unofficially kicks off Chicago’s summer street fest season with top local tribute bands on the main stage, a community entertainment stage, food, drinks and arts/craft vendors. $5 donation. Noon-10 p.m. Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival, North Sheffield between Belmont & School Street. (773) 868-3010, chicagoevents.com.

MOLE DE MAYO FESTIVAL. See

May 24. NAVY PIER FIREWORKS.

Fireworks on Navy Pier can be seen from the dock and the lake. They are synchronized with music for a multi-sensory display. 10:15 p.m. Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. (312) 595-PIER (7437), navypier. com.

a variety of outdoor cooking techniques. All food and equipment is provided for a three-course meal. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. $13, $10 residents; preregistration required. 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Emily Oaks Nature Center, 4650 Brummel St., Skokie. (847) 677-7001, skokieparks.org.

26 | SUNDAY

SUBURBS SAILING THE SEAS. Learn the

basics for a comfortable canoe experience. Canoes, paddles, PFDs, and extra cushioning for young ones will be provided. Children 17 and under must be registered and accompanied by an adult. $20, $15 resident. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Huebner Shores Park, 1331 Round Lake Drive, Round Lake. rlapd.org. CAMPFIRE COOKOUT. Campers ages 3 and older will learn to make lunch over a campfire using

CHICAGO SOUTH SIDE STORY TIME. Kids ages 6 and younger

can listen, learn, sing, dance, and interact. South Side Story Time is a monthly gathering that curates readings for its young attendees along with the chance for their parents to socialize. 10-11 a.m. Green Line Performing Arts Center, 329 E. Garfield Blvd. facebook.com/ events/2192738957722557.

Imagine the day when survivors like Becky Gabriele won’t have to fear for the lives of their daughters. Susan G. Komen for the Cure ® is the only breast cancer organization that has invested more than $1.3 billion in life-saving research, education, awareness, screening, treatment and support programs. We will keep working until we end this disease once and for all. Join us. Visit komen.org. This space provided as a public service. ©2009 Susan G. Komen for the Cure ® The Running Ribbon is a registered trademark of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

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Special Needs // directory to advertisers Dentistry for Kids 4801 West Peterson, Suite 410 Chicago (773) 545-0007 www.dentistry4kids.net/ We are specially trained and qualified to treat patients with special needs.

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Eyas Landing 1409 W Carroll Ave, Chicago (312) 733-0883 eyaslanding.com Therapeutic summer camp for ages 4-10.

JCFS Chicago Abe and Ida Cooper Center Esther Knapp Campus 6639 N. Kedzie Ave., Chicago (855) 275-5237 JCFS.org JCFS Chicago provides expert,

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Joyful Smiles Pediatric Dentistry Dr. Yaa N. McDonald We take the fear out of dentistry for your child. 16345 South Harlem, Tinley Park (708) 633-8700 KidsDDS.net

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CALENDAR BELMONT-SHEFFIELD MUSIC FEST. See May 25. MOLE DE MAYO FESTIVAL. SEE MAY 24. Today’s schedule: noon-9

Recommended for ages 7 and older. $10-$125. 7:30 p.m. Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph Drive. (312) 3347777, harristheaterchicago.org.

p.m. ALL ABOUT TURTLES.

Bring turtles, questions or just curiosity to the Turtle Club of the Chicago Herpetological Society’s monthly get-together. 1-3 p.m. North Park Village Nature Center, 5801 N. Pulaski Road. (312) 7445472, chicagoparkdistrict.com. CHICAGO PHILHARMONIC & CIRQUE DE LA SYMPHONIE.

Clowns, acrobats, contortionists and jugglers join the musicians of the Chicago Philharmonic in a spectacle for the eyes and ears. Strongmen and aerialists perform superhuman feats onstage alongside the orchestra, perfectly choreographed to classic cinematic scores, in this spectacular family-friendly season finale.

27 | MONDAY For a complete list of neighborhood Memorial Day parades, visit ChicagoParent.com/MemorialDay.

29 | WEDNESDAY

Visit website for schedule. 4700 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. mayfestchicago.com. GILBERTS COMMUNITY DAYS. Music festival including live

entertainment, Kid’s Zone with crafts and projects, petting zoo, car show, food and vendor booths with beer/wine tent, business expo, rides and games. 6-10 p.m. Town Square Park, 195 Jackson St., Gilberts. gilbertscommunitydays.com.

31 | FRIDAY

NAVY PIER FIREWORKS.

See May 25. Today’s schedule: 9:30 p.m.

30 | THURSDAY MAYFEST. Mayfest is the traditional German celebration of the arrival of spring. Music, festival favorites, local vendors, and interactive games and entertainment.

LINCOLN PARK GREEK FEST.

Authentic Greek cuisine, music, dance performances, kids’ activities and, of course, Greek culture and Hellenic pride are celebrated at this festival outside of St. George Greek Orthodox Church. $5. 5-11 p.m. 2701 N. Sheffield, Chicago. (773) 868-3010, lincolnparkgreekfest.com. TASTE OF MEXICO. Foodies

from around the region will 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, carnival rides and arts & crafts. 3-10 p.m. 3000 W. 26th St., Chicago. (773) 868-3010, chicagoevents.com. MAYFEST. See May 30. GILBERTS COMMUNITY DAYS. See May 30. SPRING SING & S’MORES CAMPFIRE. Enjoy an evening

around the campfire. Follow along on song sheets as families with children ages 3 and older sing lively nature tunes and then make s’mores. $4. 7:30-8:30 p.m. Emily Oaks Nature Center, 4650 Brummel St., Skokie. (847) 677-7001, skokieparks.org.

Nurturing the Potential Within Each Child

JUFYoungFamilies JUFYoungFamilies JUFYoungFamilies Connecting families to Jewish life in Chicago Connecting families to Jewish life in Chicago Connecting families to Jewish life in Chicago

Books • Baby Swag • Classes • Playgroups • Meet-Ups Jewish Early Childhood Tuition Vouchers Books • Baby Swag • Classes • Playgroups • Meet-Ups Books •Jewish Baby Swag Classes •Tuition Playgroups • Meet-Ups Early •Childhood Vouchers Jewish Early Childhood Tuition Vouchers Gather with people in your neighborhood, build a community of new friends, explore Jewish traditions and celebrate holidays, Gather with people in your neighborhood, build a community create a kind and just world—all through play and fun! with people in Jewish your neighborhood, a community ofGather new friends, explore traditions andbuild celebrate holidays, of new friends, explore Jewish traditions and celebrate holidays, juf.org/youngfamilies create a kind and just world—all through play and fun! create a kind and just world—all through play and fun!

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

Gateway Montessori 4041 N. Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60641 www.GatewayMontessoriSchool.org 773.539.3025 • info@gatewaymontessorischool.org ChicagoParent.com May 2019 61

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ONGOING EVENTS EXHIBITS AMPLIFIED CHICAGO BLUES.

Immerse yourself in the history of Chicago blues of the 1960s through pictures and experience the blues by playing guitar, designing an album cover, writing lyrics, and singing karaoke. Free with admission, free 18 and under Illinois residents. Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., Chicago. (312) 642-4600, chicagohistory.org. ANIMAL HOUSE. Meet the newest tree-dwelling additions to Peggy Notebaert’s Animal House: Corazon, the Philippine sailfin dragon, and Opal, the Virginia opossum. Free with admission. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (773) 7555100, naturemuseum.org. BRONZEVILLE ECHOES: FACES AND PLACES OF CHICAGO’S AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSIC. Explore Chicago’s music

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

novative spin on classic building blocks by letting children explore and interact with varieties of blocks in a single space. Free with museum admission. 9:30 a.m.noon Mondays; 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays; noon-5 p.m. Sundays. Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kcmgc.org. BRICK SAFARI. More than 40

life-size animal sculptures will be swimming, stampeding and flying into Brookfield Zoo. Created from millions of individual Lego bricks, the never-before-seen-in-NorthAmerica sculptures will amaze kids and adult fans. $5, $3 children 3-11, free 2 and under. Zoo admission separate. Begins May 11. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. (708) 688-8000, czs.org.

Nattu Na ure re Co on nne nect cs SSeee pag page pa ge 63

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

of Daniel Tiger and friends to explore the Neighborhood. Through May 12. Free with museum admission. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 637-8000, dupagechildrensmuseum.org.

from speeches and writings, some recorded by students from Young Chicago Authors. Free with museum admission. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. TuesdaysWednesdays and Fridays-Sundays; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursdays. American Writers Museum, 180 N. Michigan, 2nd Floor, Chicago. (312) 374-8790, americanwritersmuseum.org.

The Exhibition is designed to take visitors deeper into the life and times of Alexander Hamilton, while at the same time chronicling the American Revolution and the creation of the United States of America. $39.50+ for timed ticket. Northerly Island, 1400 S. Linn White Drive, Chicago. (312) 7452910, hamiltonexhibition.com.

HAMILTON: THE EXHIBITION. FREDERICK DOUGLASS AGITATOR. Highlights excerpts

Featuring an audio tour narrated by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Hamilton:

HOLD A BABY LAMB. The farm

is open weekends in May for

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ONGOING EVENTS holding baby lambs, goats, chicks, piglets and feeding the calf. Watch sheep shearing outdoors and “rent” a chick or duck. Cameras encouraged. $6 each; $30 total for families of six or more. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. weekends through May 19. Pioneer Farm, 17N400 Big Timber Road, Hampshire. (847) 683-2863, enjoypioneerfarm.com. IMAGINE THE MOON SKY SHOW. The planetarium’s sky show,

Imagine the Moon, takes a closer look at humanity’s relationship with Earth’s nearest neighbor. Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 922-STAR (7827), adlerplanetarium.org. INFINITE POSSIBILITIES.

Featuring Moon by UK artist Luke Jerram, this installation shines a light on humanity’s fascination with the Moon throughout history and the mysteries it still holds. Free with museum admission. Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore

Drive, Chicago. (312) 922-STAR (7827), adlerplanetarium.org.

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

LOOP AT NAVY PIER. This interactive art installation for all ages is located in Polk Bros Park, allowing the public to bring 13 fairy tales to life. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. through May 12. Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. (312) 595-PIER (7437), navypier.com.

Historic New Orleans Collection, the exhibition reveals slavery’s machinations and widespread persistence in America, long after the importation of slaves was made illegal in 1808. The exhibition conveys the inhumanity of slavery through original artifacts, personal stories and interactive displays. Free with museum admission. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Illinois Holocaust Museum, 9603 Woods Drive, Skokie. (847) 967-4800, ilholocaustmuseum.org.

NATURE CONNECTS: ART WITH LEGO BRICKS BY SEAN KENNEY. Marvel at 13 larger-than-

life displays created from nearly half a million Lego bricks. Walk the Arboretum’s tree-lined grounds on the east side to find nature-themed sculptures crafted by Lego artist Sean Kenney, including a monarch butterfly boasting an eight-foot wingspan and an enormous hummingbird sipping nectar from a colorful trumpet flower. Free with admission. 7 a.m.sunset beginning May 24. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. mortonarb.org.

ROXIE! In conjunction with Chicago’s Year of Chicago Theater, “Roxie!” explores the portrayal of Jazz Age Chicago written by former Chicago Tribune reporter Maurine Watkins. Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., Chicago. (312) 744-6630, chicagoculturalcenter.org. TRASH TO TREASURE. Discover

the world of recycling through games and make a recycled craft to take home. Free with arboretum admission. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

REMEMBERING DR. KING: 1929-1968. The exhibit features

TREEHOUSES. In this hands-on

more than 25 photographs depicting key moments in Dr. King’s work and the Civil Rights movement, with a special focus on his time in Chicago. A reflection space prompts visitors to reflect on King’s impact. Free with museum admission. Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., Chicago. (312) 642-4600, chicagohistory.org.

exhibition, children roam from tree to tree to discover the many habitats trees provide for animals. Features special viewfinders, natural artifacts and sound to immerse young explorers into a forest environment. Included with admission, $9 for adults, $7 for students and seniors, $6 for children 3-12. Thursdays are

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ONGOING EVENTS free for Illinois residents. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (773) 755-5100, naturemuseum.org. THOMAS & FRIENDS: EXPLORE THE RAILS! The interactive

exhibit inspired by the popular children’s series on Nickelodeon rides into Illinois for the first time. The STEM-focused exhibit allows kids ages 2-7 years to climb into Thomas’ cab, fix Percy’s wobbly wheels, explore the Island of Sodor, load luggage onto train cars and load Percy’s coal box and fill his tank with water from a tower. Through May 12. $11, $3 museum members. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 963-6769, discoverycentermuseum.org. TROLL HUNT. The 15- to 20-foot-

tall trolls invite visitors to interact with them, while elements of the

exhibition encourage visitors to consider their personal responsibility as stewards of our environment. Free with arboretum admission. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

through rare photos and video, memorabilia, advertisements and intriguing artifacts. 1-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays & Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays beginning May 17. Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 833-1457, elmhursthistory.org.

UNDERWATER BEAUTY. Get a

glimpse of the grandeur beneath the waves as 100 species from around the world come together. Free with admission. Through May 25. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 939-2438, shedd aquarium.org. WORLDS OF WONDER: REMEMBERING CHICAGOLAND’S AMUSEMENT PARKS. This new exhibit

celebrates Chicago’s favorite destinations for fun and thrills, from early trolley parks and suburban attractions like Kiddieland, Santa’s Village and Dispensa’s Kiddie Kingdom. Learn about the signature rides and iconic venues

OTHER EVENTS CRITTER CONNECTION. More

than 50 animal species reside in the Look-in Lab. Get up-close and hands-on with one of those critters and learn about animal friends that live at the nature museum. Free with admission. Noon daily. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (773) 7555100, naturemuseum.org. STORY TIME. Listen to a story selected for the littlest visitors, and then keep the fun going with games and activities. Free with admission. 11 a.m. daily. Peggy Notebaert

Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (773) 755-5100, naturemuseum.org. FAMILY BUILD: TRANSPORTATION. Join experts

in the studio for themed stations to introduce architecture basics, a design challenge and a take-home project. Family Build is great for families with children ages 3 and up. $12, free members. 10 a.m. Sundays. Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Upper Wacker Drive, Chicago. architecture.org. MORNING GLORIES.

Children and their caregivers can explore different areas of the Children’s Garden. Educators provide story time, imaginative play and sensory activities. Recommended for 5 and younger. Free, donation requested. 10 a.m.-noon Mondays. Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago. (773) 638-1766, garfieldconservatory.org.

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ONGOING EVENTS SHADOW PUPPET STORY TIME.

An exciting adventure with Bill, the museum’s story time expert, and his trusty sidekick who puts on shadowy performance. Free with museum admission. 11:30 a.m. Mondays & Fridays. Wonder Works, 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park. (708) 3834815, wonder-works.org. STORY TIME AT *PLAY (LINCOLN PARK). Enjoy story time

with a new book each week. Story time will be held outside during cooperative weather. 10:30 a.m. Mondays. *Play, 2462 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 799-8038, playtoysandbooks.com.

K do Ki do Boo oks s Stor St orryt y im ime e TThhis pag agee

BABY & ME. A chance for parents

of infants to meet others adjusting to parenthood, ask questions and make friends. A nurse representative from Advocate Lutheran General Hospital will answer questions and facilitate discussions about early childhood development. Free with admission. 9:30-11 a.m. Mondays. Kohl

Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kcmgc.org. KIDO BOOKS STORYTIME.

The story time specializes in books that feature multicultural characters and encourage empathy and

inclusivity. 10:30-11 a.m. Tuesdays. KIDO, 1137 S. Delano Court, Chicago. kidochicago.com.

during cooperative weather. 11 a.m. Tuesdays through May 31. *Play, 3109 W. Logan Blvd., Chicago. (773) 227-6504, playlogansquare.com.

STORY TIME AT *PLAY (LOGAN SQUARE). Enjoy story

STROLLER GROOVES.

time with a new book each week. Story time will be held outside

Showcases premier local talent who specialize in music arrangements

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ONGOING EVENTS

Brick Safari See page 62

Jacob Sanchez Diagnosed with autism Jacob Sanchez Diagnosed with autism Jacob Sanchez Diagnosed with autism

Sensory sensitivity is a sign of autism. Sensory sensitivity is a sign of autism. Learn the others at autismspeaks.org/signs.

Learn the others autismspeaks.org/signs. Sensory sensitivity is a at sign of autism.

Learn the others at autismspeaks.org/signs.

for younger audiences, ideal for toddlers and young children. Series performers include Little Miss Ann and other noteworthy talented acts. Noon-1 p.m. Tuesdays. Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. (312) 595-PIER (7437), navypier. com.

WILD WEDNESDAYS.

ARBOR READING ADVENTURES.

Whether inside or out, kids can explore nature, get their hands dirty, and discover new things about plants, animals and nature. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 4-7 p.m. Wednesdays. Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago. (773) 638-1766, garfieldconservatory.org.

Interactive story time and fun crafts indoors before heading out on the grounds for an adventure walk. Themes change each week. $5. 1111:45 a.m. Wednesdays & Fridays. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

MUSIC JAM AT *PLAY. Enjoy music with a new theme each week. Music Jam will be held outside during cooperative weather. 11 a.m. Thursdays through May 31. *Play, 3109 W. Logan Blvd., Chicago. (773) 227-6504, playlogansquare.com.

READ AND BUILD: TRANSPORTATION. Join a read-

ing of Twenty-One Elephants by April Jones Prince, build a bridge from a variety of wacky supplies, and then test how much weight it can hold. Recommended for ages 3-6. $12, free for members. 10-11:30 a.m. & 1-2:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Upper Wacker Drive, Chicago. architecture.org.

LEGO LAB. These casual weekly builds are inspired by a new theme each month and are a great place to learn about design principles while exploring the playful side of architecture. $12, free members. Noon Thursdays. Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Upper Wacker Drive, Chicago, architecture.org. SONGS AND STORIES. Join artists at Bubbles Academy every Thursday

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ONGOING EVENTS afternoon for songs and stories. Entry includes cost for open play. $12. 3:30 p.m. Thursdays. Bubbles Academy, 2184 N. Elston, Chicago. (312) 9447677, bubblesacademy.com. SLOT CAR FREE PLAY. Enjoy racing slot cars, hot chocolate, a coloring station, a game room with foosball, ping pong, air hockey and more. 5-9 p.m. Thursdays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays. Fieldhouse Jones, 312 W. Chestnut St., Chicago. fieldhousejones.com. PLAY LATE THURSDAYS. On the

first Thursday of each month, kids take center stage with programs including open mic nights with guest MCs to run the show, themed dance parties for the whole family, kid-friendly and kid-starring performances and more. $14.95 for up to four people, $5 each additional person. 4-8 p.m. Thursdays. Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 527-1000.

chicagochildrensmuseum.org. TEEN OPEN STUDIO. Design professionals and CAC education staff provide project supplies and offer suggestions for teens working on design projects. 5-7 p.m. Thursdays. Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E. Upper Wacker Drive, Chicago. architecture.org. JUICEBOX. A music and per-

formance series for the stroller set. Performances are on the first and third Friday at the Chicago Cultural Center and first and third Saturday at Garfield Park Conservatory. Parents and young children can enjoy Chicago’s best music, dance and theater in a kid-friendly setting. Parents are welcome to bring snacks and juiceboxes. 11-11:45 a.m. cityofchicago.org/specialevents. FAMILY FISHING. This 2 ½-hour class for fishermen ages 8 and older includes in-class instruction and on-the-water fishing (weather

permitting). Professional instruction is provided by the Chicago Park District Chicago’s Fish`N Kids fishing instructors. Fishing equipment and bait provided. $5. 8-10:30 a.m. Saturdays. Northerly Island, 1400 S. Linn White Drive, Chicago. (312) 745-2910, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

play independently. For those who need to learn, there is a drop-in group instructional session 10-10:30 a.m. every Saturday. Must have a deck of 60 cards. 10:30 a.m.-noon Saturdays. Cat & Mouse Games, 1112 W. Madison St., Chicago. cat-nmouse.com.

FIDDLEHEADS. Join the conservatory each weekend for activities and projects that get kids and families wondering about the plants and the natural world. Each week will be a different science-based activity. Noon-4 p.m. Saturdays & Sundays. Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago. (773) 638-1766, garfieldconservatory.org.

LITTLE SQUIRRELS STORYTIME.

KIDS POKÉMON LEAGUE.

The Cat & Mouse Games Kids’ Pokemon League brings together kids 6-12 who are serious about learning how to play the game. Participants need to understand the official rules and be able to

Stories and songs celebrating classic literature for preschool-age kids. Free with admission. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Saturdays. American Writers Museum, 180 N. Michigan, 2nd Floor, Chicago. (312) 374-8790, americanwritersmuseum.org. S.T.E.A.M. SATURDAYS. Each

week, kids get a chance to learn more through play, mostly focusing on chemistry, geometry and physics. Parents will get some great ideas to try with little ones at home. Free with museum admission. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Saturdays. Wonder Works, 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park. (708) 383-4815, wonder-works.org.

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PERFORMANCES ADMISSIONS. A play about the

progressive headmaster and head of admissions at Hillcrest, a New Hampshire boarding school, where they promoted diversity. However, Bill and Sherri Mason’s dedication to diversity is put to the test when their son Charlie claims to be a victim of reverse discrimination when his Yale application is deferred. Recommended for teens and older. $12+. 8 p.m. ThursdaysSaturdays, 3 p.m. Sundays through May 12. Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont, Chicago. (773) 975-8150. theaterwit.org. AMERICAN GIRL LIVE. Join your

favorite American Girl characters and the campers as they follow their hearts, share their dreams and learn the power of friendship at a sleepover camp. $39+. Through May 12. Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago. (800) 775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com. AUGUST RUSH. The musical

tells the story of Evan Taylor, an 11-year-old orphan who believes in music like some believe in fairytales. Evan has not given up hope as he relentlessly searches for the parents he knows need him. $36-$69. Wednesdays-Saturdays, times vary. Paramount Arts Centre and Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. (630) 896-6666, paramountaurora.com. BILINGUAL ROMEO & JULIET.

Teatro Vista presents performances in a new Spanish/English staging. Verona’s powers-that-be are English-speaking, as are Juliet’s family, the Capulets. The hired help is bilingual. Romeo, his family, the Montagues, his friends and Friar Laurence are native Spanish speakers who can speak English. $9. 10 a.m. May 6 & May 9. The Miracle Center, 2311 N. Pulaski Road, Chicago. teatrovista.org. CHICAGO KIDS COMPANY PRESENTS JACK & THE BEANSTALK.

Join Jack and his dancing Spanish Cow, Carmelita, as they try to save their village from a crazy Giant. All CKC productions feature

Th hat at’s ’s s Wei eirrd rd G an Gr and dm ma See pa p ge 69 Photo by Evan Hanover

professional actors, colorful scenery and costumes, sing-along songs, and plenty of audience participation. Recommended for ages 2-10. $14. 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays-Fridays through May 10. Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St., Chicago. (773) 445-3838, beverlyartcenter.org. CHICAGO KIDS COMPANY PRESENTS LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD. Sing along with Red and

her friends as she travels through the forest to visit her Grandma. This show is recommended for ages 2-10. $14. 10:30 a.m. WednesdaysFridays through May 31. Stahl Family Theater, 5900 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. (773) 286-8470, stpatrick.org. CHICAGO KIDS COMPANY PRESENTS PRINCESS AND THE PEA. Meet Princess Penelope and

her crazy friends. Recommended for ages 2-10. Cost: $14-$18. 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays-Fridays beginning May 15. Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St., Chicago. (773) 445-3838, beverlyartcenter.org. CIRQUE DU SOLEIL: VOLTA.

Energetic, urban and contemporary,

Volta is a captivating voyage of discovery that showcases never-beforeseen under the Big Top acrobatics in a visually striking world. $70+. Tuesdays-Sundays beginning May 15. Soldier Field Stadium and Field, 1410 S. Museum Campus Drive, Chicago. (312) 235-7000, cirquedusoleil.com.

a modern family… and a beautiful reminder that love can tell a million stories. Due to adult themes, recommended for 12 and older. $23+. Tuesdays-Sundays beginning May 28. James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St., Chicago. (800) 775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com. FAST FOOD CHAIN. Rudy dreams

DJEMBE! THE SHOW. Every

audience member gets to be part of this U.S. premiere experience; they receive a djembe to play along with the world-class African and international musicians during the show that mixes music, rhythm and African and Western traditions. $39-$69. 7:30 p.m. TuesdaysFridays, 8 p.m. Saturdays & 2 p.m. Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays. Apollo Theater Chicago, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 9356100, apollochicago.com. FALSETTOS. Falsettos revolves

around the life of a charming, intelligent, neurotic gay man named Marvin, his wife, lover, about-to-beBar-Mitzvahed son, their psychiatrist, and the lesbians next door. It’s a hilarious and achingly poignant look at the infinite possibilities that make up

of becoming a famous chef. The problem is, his schemes usually involve getting him and his younger sister, Akari, into big trouble. Their family struggles with food insecurity in Chicago until one day Rudy and Akari discover a garden. $17, $12 ages 14 and under. 4 p.m. Saturdays through May 18. Adventure Stage Chicago, 1012 N. Noble St., Chicago. (773) 342-4141, adventurestage.org. KING MIDAS AND THE MIRACULOUS GOLDEN TOUCH.

A mysterious stranger offers King Midas the opportunity to wish for anything he desires. When Midas wishes that all he touches turns into gold, he quickly discovers the golden touch is not quite what he expected. Recommended for grades 1-6. $14, $10 students. 10 a.m. & 6 p.m. May 2-3, 1 p.m. May 4.

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PERFORMANCES

SUMMER CAMP 2019

Phys y ical ys ic cal F stival Fe Seee this page Se

“What at AMAZING two weeks my daughter had! She wished it would never end.” – Summer Camp Parent Metropolis School of the Performing Arts, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. (847) 577-5982 ext. 221, metropolisarts.com. MATILDA THE MUSICAL. The

story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to change her own destiny. Based on the beloved novel by Roald Dahl. WednesdaysSundays. Drury Lane Theater Oakbrook Terrace, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 530-0111, drurylaneoakbrook.com. PHYSICAL FESTIVAL. An annual

contemporary, visual and physical theater festival that presents new forms of theater being performed around the world. It features four shows from around the world, a hometown show, master classes with international guest artists and a Scratch Night featuring new short works from local performers. $15$20 per show; $50-$65 for festival pass. Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. (773) 327-5252, physicalfestival.com. PINOCCHIO. Carved from an

enchanted stump, toyshop owner Geppeto’s small puppet child flourishes. Pinocchio will be portrayed by a Bunraku-style puppet, created and crafted by Tom Lee of Chicago Puppet Studios. Recommended for

ages 11 and older. $30+. 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays & 3 p.m. Sundays through May 19. Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division St., Chicago. (773) 278-1500, chopintheatre.com.

June 3 – August 16, 2019

Lakeview | Lincoln Park | Lincoln Square

Enroll at EmeraldCityTheatre.com or call 773.529.2690

RENT. A re-imagining of Puccini’s La Bohème, Rent follows an unforgettable year in the lives of seven artists struggling to follow their dreams without selling out. With its inspiring message of joy and hope in the face of fear, this timeless celebration of friendship and creativity reminds us to measure our lives with the only thing that truly matters—love. Recommended for ages 12 and older. $25+. Tuesdays-Sundays, May 10-19. James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St., Chicago. (800) 775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com.

CELEBRATE AT THE

MOVIES

Birthday party packages available at a Classic Cinemas near you CHECK OUT THESE UPCOMING TITLES!

THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: STORIES THAT SING AND DANCE. Barrel of Monkey’s

all-musical line-up returns with a mix of new and classic songand-dance numbers performed to live accompaniment. Features adaptations of stories written during Barrel of Monkeys’ creative writing residencies in Chicago elementary schools. $5-$20. 7:30 p.m. Fridays & Saturdays. Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago. barrelofmonkeys.org.

Ages 3.5 – 15

May 3

May 10

May 24

June 7

June 21

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Switch on the fun

Games, prizes and energy saving extravaganza awaitit

ace painters, music and bounce houses usher in the start of a summer of fun in Chicago. With a human foosball field and Connect 3 basketball, Playground Games will help highlight the Chicago Parent Kids Zone at ComEdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s huge Switch on Summer event May 5. As WGN Meterologist Tom Skilling and ComEd turn on Buckingham Fountain at 2 p.m. to officially open the summer season in Chicago, kids can have their faces painted, take photos with costumed characters and climb the American Ninja Warrior Wall. Live entertainment and music from

bands Sixteen Candles and Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Trade will keep kids of all ages rocking while learning about saving money and energy. ComEd will be on hand to teach parents about discounts and recycling as they learn about conservation techniques in their own homes. The kickoff to summer is loaded with giveaways and other family activities. Museums, such as Adler Planetarium, Museum of Science and Industry, the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium and the National Museum of Mexican Art, are scheduled to have booths to highlight their summer schedules. Hillary Bird

Switch On Summer

u Noon-3 p.m. May 5 u Free u Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park u For more info, visit ComEd.com

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CRAFT

Garden ladybugs

Turn rocks into garden gems as summer approaches STORY AND PHOTOS BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER

ummer is coming and with that comes gardening season. n. Spice up your backyard garden or planters with some bright, painted ted ladybug rocks. Make an entire family of ladybugs bugs to help explore your garden and watch it grow! ow!

Materials:

Rocks, with a flat top

ack Acrylic paint, red and black Sharpie marker, black Googly eyes Paintbrush Glue or hot glue gun

Directions:

1 2

If needed, wash off any dirt or dust from your rocks and dry them.

Paint the entire surface of the rock red to create the ladybug body. It may require multiple coats of paint to achieve the desired color of red.

Once dried completely, draw a straight line down the center of the rock with a black Sharpie marker.

With either black paint or a black Sharpie, create the head of the ladybug by creating a semicircle shape at one end of the rock and filling it in with black.

5 6

Using the Sharpie or black paint, create as many black dots on the wings of the ladybug body. With glue or a hot glue gun, attach two googly eyes on the head of the

body.

Megan Murray Elsener is a Chicago Parent contributor, freelance writer and mom of three.

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