Chicago Parent December 2014

73

DECEMBER 2014

| FREE

staycations

&

celebrations

connecting with families

CHI-BERIA 2.0 survival guide

Awesome!

50 toys for $50 Local picks for babies to tweens

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FREE MEMORY FOAM PILLOW OFFER VALID IN STORE ONLY WITH THIS COUPON

HURRY! Offer ends December 31st, 2014 One coupon per customer. Coupon must be turned in for pillow. May not be used for prior purchases. Valid at Rooms4Kids 629 W. Cermak Rd., Chicago location only. Offer available while supplies last. Not redeemable for cash.

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629 W. Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL 60616 www.rooms4kids.com 11/13/14 3:34 PM

Nobody does the holidays like MSI and our annual Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light exhibits! Delight in over 50 trees and displays representing traditions from around the world. Revel in an amazing 45-foot Grand Tree designed with a Disney theme. Enjoy performances on the holiday stage and even touch “falling snow” in the rotunda! After you stroll through the winter wonderland, catch the magic of Disney in Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives, presented by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club.

Make holiday memories at MSI, through January 4. Visit msichicago.org for tickets and information to help plan your visit.

©Disney

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ChicagoParent.com December 2014 1 11/4/14 4:12 PM

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contents

IN THIS ISSUE 19 22

27

29

73

98

BEST IN CHI

Off-the-beaten path holiday plays MOM OF THE MONTH

Kimberly Brodkin Johnson helps women through a difficult time in their lives WELL PLAYED

Four playful ideas to try this month CRAFT

How to make adorable reindeer hot cocoa cones for a treat or gifts CALENDAR

Get ready to celebrate big this month because there’s so much to do

DECEMBER 2014 | VOLUME 30 | NO. 12

FEATURES SCREAM WORTHY & 38 WALLET FRIENDLY

50 gifts under $50 for every kid on your holiday list this year

D’OEUVRES 47 HORS FOR EVERYONE Easy ideas for snacks and drinks kids will embrace

WINTER 53 YOUR SURVIVAL GUIDE

14 ideas sure to keep your sanity intact—especially if Chi-beria 2.0 really happens

59

A SAFE PLACE TO LAND Local organization works to keep families together while in crisis

ON THE COVER 73

DECEMBER 2014

| FREE

staycations y

&

celebrations

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

CHI-BERIA CHI-BE 2.0

SURVIVAL SURVI GUID GUIDE

AWESOME! 50 toys 50

for $

Local picks for babies to tweens

Cover kid:

Sofia Rose Pieranunzi, 8, Downers Grove

Photography: Thomas Kubik, TK Photography

Design: Claire Innes

GOING PLACES Now on stands

ChicagoParent.com December 2014 7

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EDITOR’S NOTE SPONSORED

White and wonderful

The greatest GIFT OF ALL

When snow falls, it covers the woods and the neighborhood in fluffy, white wonder. There are so many things we find fascinating about snow.

Snow is mostly air, trapped between millions of ice crystals that we call snowflakes. All that air makes it a good insulator, like the stuffing inside a comforter.

Instead of freezing plants and animals, it actually protects them against bitter cold and drying winds. Small animals such as voles tunnel beneath deep snow so hunting hawks and foxes can’t spot them.

In new snow, you can easily see animal tracks. It’s fun to figure out which ones come from birds and which ones were mice or squirrels. Try to imagine where they were going and what they were doing.

Many evergreen trees from cold places are built for blizzards, with a cone shape and bendable branches that help heavy snow to slide right off. That’s why Christmas trees are usually shaped like triangles.

Snow is good for snow forts, snow angels, and snowball fights. The best snowball snow, heavy and moist with big flakes, forms when it’s not too cold, right around freezing temperature at 32 degrees. That’s because warmer air can hold more moisture. Colder air means drier snow with smaller flakes, and drier snow doesn’t hold the shape of a ball or fort as well.

Any time it snows is a great time to get outside and discover a new and wonderful world.

Find your own adventures in nature at The Morton Arboretum.

Check out our award-winning Children’s Garden!

THE MORTON ARBORETUM

CONNECT WITH US

4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL mortonarb.org • 630-768-0074

#mortonarboretum

TAMARA L. O’SHAUGHNESSY

Happy Hanukkah! h!

Merry Christmas! as!

Happy Holidays!!

This is a wonderful time of year (if you don’t think about the cold and the credit card bills you’ll start seeing in January from all of your gift-buying enthusiasm). It’s a time for family, friends, food and fun, but especially food.

This month, Senior Editor Elizabeth Diffin gives you a little more free time to enjoy the holidays by hunting down that perfect toy we’re positive will bring a smile, whether on Dec. 25 or one of the nights of Hanukkah. In fact, she’s found 50 great ones at local independent toy stores.

No matter how busy this month tends to get with wrapping up the year at work, buying presents, baking and holiday parties, it’s important to remind ourselves often that the best gift of all for our kids is absolutely free: Our undivided attention.

With it, we can really get to know what our kids are thinking as we near another new year. My kids constantly amaze me with their views on the issues in the news and in the school hallways.

Giving them our time and attention also provides another opportunity to teach them how to express sincere gratitude for all that they have, as well as tolerance for other beliefs and cultures different from their own. It’s more important than ever that this generation of kids not have lingering prejudices over black and white, gay and straight, Christian, Jewish, Muslim and other faiths, old and young, rich and poor.

We can also teach them how to give back to the community. The other day, I heard from GenerationON (generationon. org), which finds volunteer opportunities that help kids connect with the spirit of the holidays. For example, its Joy Maker Challenge gives kids in grades K-12 ideas for hands-on service projects, and for each act of service completed now until Dec. 10, Hasbro will donate to Toys for Tots. s. I know I’m signing my girls up to take part this year.

As we close out 2014, I do want to take this moment oment to thank you for your loyalty. Hearing from so many of you through email and at events makes me work k even harder to make you proud to be part of our Chicago cago Parent family.

Happy December!

8 December 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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The region’s top pediatric specialists are right where you need them.

Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago is the area’s highest ranked pediatric program as rated by U.S. News & World Report. Our nearly 10year affiliation gives you access to more than 120 Lurie Children’s physicians and surgeons in 24 specialties at Central DuPage Hospital and Delnor Hospital in the western suburbs. Proof that keeping your kids healthy is, and will always be, our top priority. To learn more visit cadencehealth.org/kids.

Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago at Cadence Health is a collaborative program between Cadence Health and Lurie Children’s. The physicians participating in this program are neither agents of nor employed by Cadence Health or any of its affiliates. © 2014 Cadence Health

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CONTRIBUTORS

The best thing about winter in Chicago

EDITOR

Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy SENIOR EDITOR

Elizabeth Diffin DIGITAL EDITOR

Jackie McGoey ART DIRECTOR

Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNERS

I honestly think the best thing about ut Chicago in the winter is the community. During this past st snowy winter, our city neighbors banded ded together to help shovel, plow the alley and complain about the chill together. r. It’s what Chicagoans ans are all about!

Sara a R. Fisher

That it ends?

Other than that, I enjoy winter weekwee ends when I barely leave the house and an just cook and bake for two days straight. straight ghtt.

Paster Emily Past sterr

Never underestimate the fun of building a snowman.

We llook forward to it every year.

Samantha Sordyl Sam Sama mantha Sordy m yl

The best thing about winter in Chicago is that when I’m sitting in a snowdrift for 12 hours on Lakeshore Drive, I Lakes can rreflect back on the good things in all th life. my li Matt Rocco

Jaquinete Baldwin, Sky Hatter IT AND DIGITAL DEVELOPER

Mike Risher CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Megan Murray Elsener, Sara R. Fisher, Linda Marsicano, Emily Paster, Samantha Sordyl, Meredith Sinclair, Marianne Walsh DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES

Walter Burden, Dawn Engelhardt, Erika Goodman, Lourdes Nicholls, Karen Skinner, CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING SALES

Walter Burden

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Jessica Doerr

ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER

Philip Soell

ADVERTISING DESIGN MANAGER

Andrew Mead

ADVERTISING DESIGN

Debbie Becker, Mark Moroney CIRCULATION MANAGER

Kathy Hansen CREDIT MANAGER

Debbie Zari PUBLISHER Dan Haley

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

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

VP/OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Andrew Johnston

COMPTROLLER Ed Panschar FOUNDERS Natalie Goodman,

Carolyn Jacobs

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

chiparent@chicagoparent.com CALENDAR

calendar@chicagoparent.com TO FIND A COPY

circulation@chicagoparent.com ADVERTISING

dhaley@wjinc.com CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

classified@chicagoparent.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. © 2014 Wednesday Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

10 December 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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D O WNTOWN C A R E. H OM E TOWN C O N V EN I EN C E .

Far and away, some of the best care for your child is actually close to home. At Adventist Hinsdale Hospital, you’ll find the highest-level NICU, a pediatric-certified ER and specialty inpatient and outpatient services. Board-certified pediatricians work with certified pediatric nurses and specialists to provide advanced care, and our state-of-the-art 18-bed Pediatric Unit and four-bed Pediatric Intensive Care Unit were specifically designed to feel more like a playroom than a hospital.

And now, thanks to our affiliation with Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, not only is one of their pediatricians here 24/7, but you’ll also have immediate access to their broader range of services when necessary.

Learn more at KeepingYouWell.com/Kids or call 630-856-7525.

Hinsdale Hospital La Grange Memorial Hospital

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11/4/14 PMPM 11/13/141:50 3:01

British School of Chicago Lincoln Park • South Loop (Fall 2015)

The British School of Chicago opens a second campus in September 2015 The British School of Chicago is a vibrant international school that offers both local and international families a high-performance education for children ages 3-18.

Our truly personalized approach and unique focus on learning enable our students to make remarkable academic progress, and our internationally acclaimed curricula, culminating in the IB Diploma Program, ensures that our students are well-prepared for university and beyond. We welcome all inquiries regarding new admissions and invite you to get in touch with us.

www.britishschoolofchicago.org

admissionsbsc@wclschools.org

773-506-2097

12 December 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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Changes at Chicago Parent mean great things to come

ELIZABETH DIFFIN

Elizabeth Diffin, who celebrates four years with Chicago Parent this month, has been promoted to senior editor.

In her expanded role, she will not only continue to oversee our award-winning calendar and write in print and online about great things for families to do in the Chicago area. She also will become the editor of our quarterly magazine, Going Places, and coeditor of Chicago Special Parent.

Jackie McGoey, who has grown our social media by leaps and bounds in the 16 months she’s been here, has been promoted to digital editor. She replaces the departing Graham Johnston, who has been involved with the company that owns Chicago Parent since his childhood.

She will continue to oversee Chicago Parent’s Blogger Network as well as focus on creating new content online that makes it easier for you to plan an outing, better connects you to other moms nearby and helps you find information on being a parent in Chicago.

ON THE WEB

Win fun this month

W

inter Break is on its way, and what better way to celebrate than enjoying some fun time with family?

This month we’re all about the tickets, with family four-packs to the wacky hijinks of Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb and the modern remake of Annie with some fresh takes on the classic songs. Or, if Bulls tickets are out of your price range, enter for tickets to the Harlem Globetrotters, whose b-ball skills and tricks will fill you with amazement—and maybe inspire a new hobby for the new year.

Hint: We might have a very special giveaway you won’t want to miss, but you’ll have to watch ChicagoParent.com for details. Sign up for our newsletters on our homepage.

JACKIE MCGOEY

Now through January 3, 2015* Doors open: 5:00 p.m. Last entry: 8:30 p.m. Lights out: 9:30 p.m.

See trees in a different light.

Don’t miss the return of this groundbreaking, interactive spectacle Stroll over a mile of innovative lights and projections Experience trees that respond to your hug or voice Enjoy Symphony Woods with music from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Share this one-of-a-kind family activity or romantic date

Tickets are limited. *See website for full schedule. Advance purchase recommended: mortonarb.org/illumination 630-725-2066 Visitor Center THE MORTON ARBORETUM 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL 60532 • mortonarb.org • 630-968-0074

CONNECT WITH US #illumination #mortonarboretum

ChicagoParent.com December 2014 13

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14 December 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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Winterfests

P

WEST TOWN WINTERFEST

SOUTHPORT HOLIDAY STROLL Marena Beck Photography

ROSCOE VILLAGE WINTERFEST

ut some ho-ho into your step by taking the family to one of these jolly holiday fests. From lights to song to treats, each offers an exhilarating experience for kids and adults alike.

Roscoe Village Winterfest: This two-day event is one Santa never misses! On Dec. 6, gather for the tree lighting at 5 p.m. followed by late night shopping at the unique boutiques.

Family day on Dec. 7 is from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Children’s activities

Good to go

Three Merry

abound while the choir sings, trolley rides are offered, and Santa updates his nice and naughty lists while taking notes on Christmas gift requests. Roscoe and Belmont, Chicago. roscoevillage.org.

Southport Holiday Stroll: Enjoy festive holiday lights, vintage carolers and the company of Mr. and Mrs. Claus at this annual Lakeview family favorite. Shops remain open late, offering refreshments and special holiday deals.

5-9 p.m. Dec. 5. Southport Avenue (Addison to Belmont), Chicago.

lakeviewchamber.com.

West Town Winterfest: It’s a two-day party featuring holiday classical string performances by the Chicago Center for Music Education students, Jolly Trolley tour rides and local businesses offering tastings and beverages.

The all-new Santa Spirit Fun Run starts at 10 a.m. Dec. 6 to benefit LaSalle II school. Dec. 6-7. Halsted to California, Grand Avenue to Division Street, Chicago. westtownchicago.com.

Linda Marsicano

ChicagoParent.com December 2014 15

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GOOD TO GO

Four Seasons or four senses?

They’ve got it all figured out for a staycation with the kids

F

our Seasons Chicago has everything you need for the perfect staycation. For an upscale brand, it was remarkable how thoroughly their child-friendly program has been conceived.

I recently brought my crew there as guests of the hotel,

and we were blown away.

Check-in was super easy, which is always a plus. When we entered our room, the kids were thrilled to see plush toys, T-shirts, baseball caps and bathrobes in the right sizes on the bed. The hotel also provides special toiletries for kids.

Prior to arrival, we reserved

a pizza-making class for the kids. All three donned chef hats and aprons and bounded into the hotel kitchen to make pizzas. You can choose to have them served to your room or at the hotel’s farm-totable restaurant, Allium.

On our way back to the room, we stopped by the Kid’s Clubroom. The boys were pleasantly surprised to find a Wii, Foosball table and Air Hockey table. In fact, they have toys for all ages.

Another feature was the visit by the Ice Cream Man. He showed up at our door with an old-fashioned ice cream cart and all the fix-ins.

Eventually, we got the kids into the pool—one of the most beautiful and serene in Chicago. And after dinner we

settled in for a movie night.

We travel a lot as a family, but rarely have we experienced a hotel so welcoming to kids. Currently it’s featuring a suite package, Let’s Get Away!, which includes an executive suite and allows families to customize their stay.

Christine Jones

Four Seasons Hotel Chicago 120 E. Delaware Place, Chicago fourseasons.com/ chicagofs

Applies to general admission only and must use discount code 34CP. Plus tax. Not valid with groups, special offers or any other discounts. Upgrade packages are additional. Some restrictions may apply. This offer is valid at the Schaumburg castle only. Not valid on New Year’s Eve. Expires 1/31/2015.

ADMISSION CERTIFICATES

The prefect gift this holiday season!

16 December 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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GOOD TO GO

Park Hyatt makes kids V.I.C.s

W

e arrive at our room at the Park Hyatt downtown and my children excitedly dive onto the beds decorated with candy spelling out their names and into a backpack filled with goodies—all part of the hotel’s Very Important Child program. A Chicagothemed coloring and activity book, cozy socks and a few sweet treats get our stay off on the right foot.

Then we headed down to the NoMI Spa, where their tootsies were in for a treat of their own.

Park Hyatt

800 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago parkchicago.hyatt.com

For $25, children can enjoy a pampering manicure or pedicure complete with a chocolate or vanilla scrub, soak and lather. While my girls relaxed, they munched on a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie out of the pastry chef’s oven. Not too shabby for a 6-year-old!

With brightly painted toes, our next stop was the indoor heated pool. A lot of hotels claim their pools are kid-friendly, but kids actually

hugely annoy the adults. Not so at the Park Hyatt, where there were lanes blocked off for exercising, but plenty of extra space for splishing and splashing. Plus, we found a large chest filled with water toys, floating noodles and fins.

We had dinner reservations at the upscale restaurant in the hotel, NoMI Kitchen, and I was slightly concerned that it was a bit too opulent for the likes of my (sometimes rowdy) kids. There were

actually several tables with younger children, and all were immediately engrossed in the crayons and activities presented by the hostess.

The “urban achievers” kids’ menu was refreshing, with healthy but fun options like a kid-sized chef’s salad, spaghetti with turkey meatballs, organic peanut butter with jelly on whole grain bread and free-range chicken nuggets. For the sophisticated kid in your family, there is a California sushi roll option.

What struck me most about the Park Hyatt was how the kids were treated like royalty from the moment we checked in, including the servers at dinner. The V.I.C. program should also be called the V.R.P program—for Very Relaxed Parent.

Linda Marsicano

Go Anywhere.

Highlights.com/Imagine

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GOOD TO GO

Don’t knock old-school

family fun

B

ring the family, and Timber Lanes on Chicago’s north side will bring the bumpers. With wooden floors, manual scoring and only eight lanes, this cozy locale is a perfect outing for a frigid winter day.

With its throwback atmosphere, we felt immediately at home. Timber Lanes has an “everybody knows your name” kind of feel.

For the adults, the scoring sheets brought back great memories of bowling as children—we found the retro aspect trumps automated scoring with lights blaring and disco balls spinning.

Little ones can enjoy Shirley Temples while grownups can order any libation their hearts’ desire: try a White Russian to put you in the Big Lebowski frame of mine.

In addition to bowling, Timber Lanes has video games, large flat-screen TVs and darts to keep the kiddos occupied.

Leagues and parties of all kinds are hugely popular here, so call ahead and check the online calendar before showing up with your brood.

Tip: It is so old school that credit cards aren’t accepted.

Be sure to bring good oldfashioned cash.

Linda Marsicano

Timber Lanes

1851 W Irving Park Road, Chicago timberlanesbowl.com

Give the Gift

Give the Gift of Play!

Personal Growth

Positive Values

New Friends

Outrageo us Fun!!

• Overnight, resident camp • Boys & Girls, ages 7-16 • Sessions from 4 days to 1 or more weeks of summer fun!

• Traditional and Specialty activities, plus HORSES, Teen Programs, and Adventure Trips

to last a Lifetime!

800-7416931 www.anokijig.com

Plymouth, WI

5100 Museum Drive, Oak Lawn, IL 708-423-6709 Check our web site for programs and hours www.cmoaklawn.org

Gift Cards make great Stocking Stuffers! www.anokijig.com

The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to positively impact a child’s potential in life through play-based education.

18 December 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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BEST IN CHI

Off-the-beaten-path holiday plays

SARA R. FISHER

It’s about this time of year that you’re making your list and checking cking it twice—the list being the holiday performances you want nt to attend this busy holiday day season. In addition to the he tried and true, heree are some alternatives rnatives to consider. onsider.

Enjoy hot cider or hot chocolate around a warm and glowing campfire where you can roast s’mores.

Call ahead to reserve a nostalgic horse-drawn sleigh ride any day of the week (provided we have adequate snow cover). Don’t forget your camera and long carrots to feed the horses.

1

Dee Snider’s Rock and Roll Christmas Tale e Broadway Playhouse se at Water Tower Place, 175 75 E. Chestnut St., Chicago, go, (800) 775-2000, broadadwayinchicago.com Runs through Jan. 4 It’s strange but true: Dee Snider, former lead singer of heavy metal band Twisted Sister, is starring in Chicago in of all things, a family-friendly holiday play. This twist on the classic Christmas allegory of good vs. evil will rock the way to your heart—and soul. Tickets start at $39.

2

It’s a Wonderful Santa Land Miracle NutCracking Christmas Story…

Jews Welcome Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago, (773) 327-5252, stage773. com Runs through Dec. 28 Good for all ages and stages, this “cheery merry show” encompasses all religions and non-holidays into one exciting shebang of singing, dancing, cookies and eggnog. Yes, eggnog.

Plus, tickets start at $15 for the kids, so it’s holiday budget-friendly, too!

3

That’s Weird Grandma: The Holiday Edition The Neo-Futurist Theater (2nd Floor), 5153 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago, (312) 409-1954, barrelofmonkeys.org Dec. 8-Jan. 5.

Barrel of Monkeys uses Chicago Public School students’ stories and turns them into stage-worthy performances. This year’s holiday show features short sketches like “Santa and Taco Bell” and “Snowmen from Pluto.” The skits change each week by audience votes. Tickets are $6 kids, $12 adults.

December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21

ChicagoParent.com December 2014 19

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Chicago Grammar School

Celebrating Student Achievement: 2014 CGS Honor Wall 1st Place 2014!

CGS Certamen Team wins Chicago Regional Junior High Division

US Kangaroo Math 2014 Winners - CGS students place 16th and 17th nationally!

National Latin Exam 2014 - CGS students receive Outstanding Achievement Awards

The CGS Class of 2014 will be attending North Side Prep, Jones College Prep and St. Ignatius in the Fall.

Best wishes for their continued academic success!

CGS Student wins Top Prize in UK Based 2014 Minimus Mythology Competition

Illinois Kangaroo Math 2014 Winners CGS students place in the Top 15 in the State

900 N. Franklin, Chicago, IL 60610

The

ACHIEVEMENT LIKE THIS BEGINS WITH PRESCHOOL Come to a Fall 2014 Information Night and discover CGS. December 10 Call to reserve.

312-944-5600

www.chicagogrammar.org

Congratulations to our students!

On the Iowa Test of Basic Skills May 2014, CGS class scores ranged from the 98th to 99th percentiles.

Preschool at CGS ...begin the Chicago Grammar School experience.

Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, our program sparks children’s curiosity, enabling them to experience the world purposefully, acquire social skills and build the necessary foundation for a successful and joyful academic journey.

• Active learning

Join us for our information night: December 10 Follow us on Facebook

900 N. Franklin, Chicago, IL 60610

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20 December 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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11/14/14 10:05 AM

THE SELF-AWARE PARENT

The balance

CATHY CASSANI ADAMS

I recently heard motivational speaker Tony Robbins say that making progress, any kind of progress, results in a feeling of vitality and aliveness.

That would explain why our to-do lists hold so much power, and why we are always rushing our kids in and out of the house. We are all seeking a progress-type “high.”

Progress does feel good, and naturally, it makes us feel like we are moving toward something meaningful. But that’s where progress can fool us. If we only associate its meaning with moving forward, then we never truly get to feel a peace that comes from paying attention to right now.

Being here now is just as important, if not more important, as progress. Being present with what is awakens a kind of peace that can’t be found through productivity.

This kind of peace is only available when we stop doing and start being.

Our busy lives fool us into thinking that slowing down is a waste of time—especially because this kind of serenity is often found in the things that we label mundane. So we take the easier route and seek fulfillment through excessive busyness.

I recently read that author Rob Bell suffered a concussion after doing continuous flips on his water skis. For a time, the concussion caused him to be fully present—he could not remember yesterday and he didn’t have the ability to worry about tomorrow. During this time, when his children would walk in the room, he would tear up at their beauty. He would fully experience their presence

Need to know

of progress and peace

and be overwhelmed with love just by the sight of them.

This is a wonderful example about realizing what we take for granted.

Our one-sided focus on constant progress distracts us from present-moment awesomeness.

True contentment is found in the balance—an awareness of our need for both progress and presence. It’s a teetering on the in-between, a recognition that at times we need to move forward and sometimes we need to sit still.

In an average day, you need to wake your kids up, get them to school, go to work, clean up—a typical to-do list that makes you feel like you’re moving toward something significant.

But if you want to maintain a sense of calm and sanity throughout your day, you absolutely need to engage in presence. Every single one of us benefits from silence, breathing the air, reconnecting to nature, and the most powerful, practicing gratitude.

These are the moments that stop time; the ones that fill us up and propel us to continue on with joy and anticipation.

Cathy Adams is an author, the host of Zen Parenting radio and the mom of three girls.

ChicagoParent.com December 2014 21

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11/13/14 2:50 PM

MOM OF THE MONTH their hair is going to fall out from their chemotherapy, and they are terrified of it.

We are able to sit down with them, in a feminine environment and tell them what’s going to happen. We get so much happiness and hugs and laughter because of the experience. I get the privilege of making people feel better.

What is the one thing you’d change if you had to do your life all over?

Of course, the standard answer, I wish I knew at 20 what I know in my 40s. I don’t feel like I would do anything differently because everything I’ve done has led me to this point and I’m very happy with everything.

A problem solver mom Kimberly Brodkin Johnson

{M.O.M}

One son, Parker, 11

You help women have good hair days, but what do you do when you have a bad hair day?

I suck it up and move forward. Seriously.

I do not focus on my own hair. I make fun of myself in front of my clients all of the time because I’m very low maintenance, especially hair-wise, so it’s a little ironic that I’m in the beauty business. So I throw a little hair spray in and … just go about my day and hope that people judge me for what I’m doing and who I am rather than my hair.

Chicago Owner, Chrysalis Custom Hair (chrysalis customhair.com, 3015 W. Roscoe St., Chicago), a personal boutique that creates customized wigs for women going through cancer treatment How do you juggle being a single mom and a business owner?

Very carefully. (She laughs.) I just try to do the best I can. My son is my biggest supporter; he is understanding that the ladies with cancer sometimes take precedence over my being at a function. I always try to be there for him, but he is very understanding and supportive and allows me to take care of business. Of course, if it’s something important to him, I’m there for him and he knows that.

>>

Best advice you ever received as a single mom?

Everybody said, just keep going forward because it’s the only direction you can go. I say it all the time.

How do you face women going through cancer treatments every day?

I look at the big picture and at the end of the day, what we do, specifically, makes people so happy.

People come to us with a specific problem, which is

A Grinch-free season Last year, I totally Grinched out on Christmas. I was juggling an active toddler, lots of travel and multiple families to coordinate. This year, I am going to use these ideas to make the holidays a bit happier:

1

4

2

5

3

6

Think about who the event/activity/ food is for and focus on them.

Perfection is just an illusion and a point of view, so give it up.

Manage your expectations to avoid disappointment.

Spread the responsibility so it’s not all on you.

Find a way to create a feeling, mood, atmosphere and soak it in.

Give yourself the gift of forgiveness, or at least acceptance.

Life is just too short!

30 Second Mom contributor Cheryl Leahy

22 December 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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11/13/14 5:40 PM

PLUGGED-IN PARENT

Uncovering family secrets Q A SHARON MILLER CINDRICH

Is it OK for my son to research our family tree online?

Connecting to family history or extended relatives has never been easier thanks to the Internet, and today’s apps are designed to help families explore their past.

Ancestry.com, the largest online genealogy resource, offers a variety of services for families looking for connections. Numerous online search engines and programs, such as myheritage.com and familysearch.com, provide free services, while other sites, such as findmypast.com, offer a free trial and then require a subscription.

Curiosity about family connections is a healthy part of childhood development, but letting children—even young teens—search genealogy sites on their own might present challenges.

To encourage an interest in exploring family history, consider these factors as you begin an online search.

’s y m m o M Eating

Satu

Make it a family affair.

Working with your child to explore a family tree will be most successful if you do it as a team and provide an opportunity for discussions about family and history. Start by collecting family photos and oral histories from living relatives to give you extra clues and information for online searches together.

Understand your child’s interest.

Ask your child what provoked his interest in researching the family tree. Identify underlying curiosities that might be at play.

Follow Holiday s the mo the all Pr ent ent Co. Entertainm ertainm Bros. er Ent Warner © Turn TM & ELD: TM & © WB SHI (s13)

Inc.

Consider family skeletons.

Previous marriages, adoptions or estranged family ties may ccome to light during a genealogy search. Before digging up o online records, consider your o cchild’s ability to learn about the ccomplicated nature of family relationships.

Be prepared to talk about DNA and other methods of proving a relationship to someone.

Today, many companies offer DNA testing or access to online forums to help people find relatives or connect to the past. Be prepared to talk tto kids about why someone might want or need these serm vvices to find a parent or family member. m

TM & © Turner Entertainment Co. WB SHIELD: TM & © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s14)

ChicagoParent.com December 2014 23

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11/13/14 2:49 PM

GOOD SENSE EATING

The little

candy sneak Three years ago, Kelli Worley made a decision that scared her. She decided cided to allow her three daughters to eat as many pieces of candy as they desired. Why? She wanted to eliminate her middle daughter’s candy sneaking.

And it worked.

During this “most wonderful time of the year,” with candy and treats galore, most of you likely put a limit on the amount of sweets your children CHRISTINE PALUMBO consume. But what if you discovered candy wrappers under the bed or stashed behind booksh bookshelves like Worley did? Then what?? itian Worley, a registered dietitian nutritionist, didn’t want to raise her children to be afraid aid of food. But this sneaking concerned her. “I thought I was managing the candy OK. It was in a place they could reach, but they always ys knew they had to ask me iff they could have some,” she says.

She allowed her girls, then ages 6, 5 and 4, to have just one piece at a time. “It seemed like a good idea. But I realized for the 5-yearold, it felt restrictive.” This child was sneaking candy regularly.

Eventually Worley decided to allow all the girls to have as many pieces as they wanted. “I just relaxed about it, but it was scary.

It was like, ‘oh no, she’s going to have 10 pieces!’”

At first they all had a little more candy than usual. Then they cut back to about two pieces, including the candy sneaker. The best part?

No more hidden candy wrappers.

Unintended consequences?

published a paper publ that proposes a definition of candy in defi moderation. mode The publication explains that the association between so restrictive eating re and the tendency an tto overeat has been studied extensively in children.

Parents may restrict certain foods in an effort to moderate a child’s intake of calories.

Yet a review of child-feeding behaviors found that highly restrictive eating practices are consistently associated with childhood overweight. Weight gain and a preoccupation with restricted foods are often unintended consequences.

As usual, there is no one right answer and it depends on the child.

Keep in mind that foods rich in protein and healthy fats slow down the effect of sugar, so a child eating well throughout the day may be less affected by sugars consumed.

This begs the questions: Should kids be allowed to eat candy at all, and if so, how much is too much?

What about once in a while?

Nutrition Today recently

Cinnamon Peach Swirl C Serves 2 (¾ cup per serving)

I Ingredients 1 cup Daisy Brand Low-Fat Cottage Cheese ¼ tsp. ground cinnamon 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 peach (may substitute 2 canned peach halves) 2 sprigs fresh mint (optional)

Directions 1 Gently stir together the cottage cheese, cinnamon and vanilla in a small bowl.

2 Peel and slice the peaches.

3 Place half of the peaches into two dessert glasses.

4 Top each peach layer with the cottage cheese mixture.

5 Top each glass with remaining peaches and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Add a sprig of mint, if desired.

Nutrition Information per serving: 122 calories, 12 g carbohydrate (1 g fiber, 11 g sugar), 15 g protein, 3 g fat (2 g saturated), 360 mg sodium.

Courtesy of Daisy Brand Cottage Cheese

Christine Palumbo, RDN, FAND, is a nutritionist in Naperville. Find her at Christine Palumbo Nutrition on Facebook and @PalumboRD on Twitter. Her new blog is at ChristinePalumbo.com.

24 December 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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11/13/14 2:48 PM

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ChicagoParent.com December 2014 25

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11/13/14 2:45 PM

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26 December 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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11/13/14 2:48 PM

WELL PLAYED

Play with your style: Metallic tattoos

MEREDITH SINCLAIR

The holidays are the perfect time to slap a bit of bling and sparkle onto your regular style. I adore these new metallic temporary tattoos inspired by beautiful jewelry from Juniper Boutique in Northbrook (one of my new favorite shops). They come in hundreds of patterns, from delicate chains to bold peacock feathers. Pop one on before you head out to your next holiday soiree, or lay them out for your party guests to play with over cocktails. They last four to six days and wipe off easily with baby oil. $15 per sheet, juniperboutique.com

Play with your food: Cooking class For me, cooking often feels like a nightly “get-’em-fed” chore consisting of very little joy and a whole lot of hurry up. A surefire way to bring some fun back into food prep is with one of the creative family events held at The Chopping Block’s Lincoln Square location. This month’s class brings parents and kids together to create a lovely holiday brunch.

10 a.m. Dec. 26 and Dec. 28 $75 per adult (includes one child), thechoppingblock.net

Play with your kids: Land of Nod goodies

Play with your pals: Rotten Apples A recent trend in grown-up gatherings is the quest to bring back “game night.” But it’s not charades or Trivial Pursuit on the menu anymore. T The new kids on the board game block are frisky little buggers involvirreverent, provocative ing irrever adult them themes and lots of entendre and edgy double ente Rotten Apples. wit. Meet R The game ccan quickly turn a little racy and wickedly funny. $22.99, for 17 and $22 up, Toys ‘R’ Us up

As the Chicago winter begins to really set in, it’s a great idea to stash away a few playful goodies to whip out when your cabin-fevered natives get restless. These two fun-makers from Land of Nod will get your youngins to step away from the screens and engage in some real, active cooperative or individual play.

Kardboard Kastle: Made completely from cardboard, this fortress features four functioning turrets, tunnels and a courtyard. Kids color it themselves and enjoy hours of make-believe play. $79 My Great Bean Bag Toss: Fling these adorable soft birdies through the holes in this festive bean bag toss that hangs easily in any doorway. Fun, fun, fun. $39 ChicagoParent.com December 2014 27

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28 December 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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11/13/14 4:17 PM

CRAFT

Reindeer

hot cocoa cones

Give the e ones you love this toasty treat

A Supplies Hot cocoa powder mix Mini marshmallows Mini chocolate chips (optional) Googly eyes Red pom-poms Brown pipe cleaners Clear piping bags (found at local craft store) Two-sided tape Rubber bands or twist ties

PHOTOS AND STORY BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER round the holidays, homemade presents sents can be the perfect thoughtful gift forr teachers, party hostesses or friends.

Deliver these adorable parcels on a cold winter day to spread some extra holiday iday cheer!

Directions

1

Fill your clea clearr twopiping bag tw wothirds to the top with w powdered hot cocoa c mix. m

2

Add mini ma marsharshmallows on top op of the powdered mix.

Also A add mini chocolate chips, depending on d n your hot h chocolate preferences. p

3

Using either a twist tie or rubber band, securely close the top of the piping bag after adding marshmallows and chocolate chips, leaving some of the bag at the top gathered d together.

4

Tightly wrap onee brown pipe cleaner ner over the twist tie or rubber band. Use another pipe cleaner to create reindeer antlers.

5

Make a face halfway down the piping bag by using two-sided tape to gently secure two googly eyes and a pom-pom nose.

ChicagoParent.com ChicagoParent com Dec December 2014 29

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30 December 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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FAILING WITH GUSTO

Is Daddy Santa Claus?

Oh how I wish Mr. Church was around today.

No, I do not need him to persuade my youngest son, Joey, that there is a Santa Claus. Joey knows that to be true. Rather, I wish he could convince my 7-year-old that his father is not secretly moonlighting as St. Nick himself.

The root cause for Joey’s suspicions is directly tied to his dad’s frequent absences on Christmas Day and Christmas Eve. Working as a Chicago firefighter has perpetuated my son’s belief that his old man covertly relies on his emergency home entry skills to deliver toys throughout the world. In Joey’s imaginative young mind, my husband streaks through the night sky, perched high atop his shiny red fire truck pulled along by eight flying dalmatians.

He may also believe that the other firefighters are exceptionally tall and burly elves.

It is not as though my husband is the jolly sort.

In fact, Big Joe is quite possibly the grumpiest person ever to have lived.

To quote a classic line

from A Christmas Story, “My father worked in profanity the way other artists might work in oils or clay. It was his true medium, a master.”

That is Big Joe. Despite his overworked and cantankerous demeanor, this same guy strives to give his sons everything his screwball wife thinks they should have. He often en accepts extra work to o help pay for ice hockey, ockey, piano lessons ns and chess tournaments. He is exceedingly generous, opening his wallet for every neighborhood fundraiser and local kid d selling candyy for baseball. I roll my eyes when en I do laundry, finding ding fistfuls of the latest atest charity raffle tickets. s. I have never quite forgiven the man for turning over his brand nd new $40 Christmas mas gloves to a homeless ss person several winters ers ago. ago

It got me thinking about Mr. Church’s letter again and his strongest argument.

“The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see.”

I have never actually seen my husband save a life as a paramedic.

I have never seen him race inside a burning building. I have never seen him march toward a horrific accident scene while maintaining complete composure and professionalism.

I have never seen it, but I know it is true.

Perhaps little Joey is on to something. Santa Claus and my husband have never been spotted together in the same room.

Big Joe devours freshbaked cookies and cold milk like they are going out of style. And his clothes? I cannot tell you how many times they’ve been tarnished with ashes and soot.

Yes, Joey. There is a Santa Claus.

And he just might be your dad.

But should you secretly wake up one Christmas Eve to find him agitated and throwing tools across the living room while assembling a new drum set or train tracks?

Please cover your ears.

Talk back

When 8-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon wrote The New York Sun in 1897 to question whether or not there truly was a Santa Claus, the response resulted in one of the most celebrated holiday letters of all time.

Francis Pharcellus Church penned the iconic words, assuring MARIANNE the young girl that, “Yes, Virginia, WALSH there is a Santa Claus … he exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist.”

Marianne Walsh is a Chicago

mom of three boys. Want more?

Go to ChicagoParent.com and

webandofmothers.blogspot.com.

ChicagoParent.com December 2014 31

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VOICE: LOLITA M. CUSIC

A special family Christmas affair It’s Christmas every day for us

S

ydney was 2 the first time we took her to see “A Christmas Carol” at the Goodman Theatre. I worried she’d get restless. But she sat there entranced through the entire show.

Thirteen years later, she has traded that theater seat for the stage. She’ll play Martha Cratchit, Fan and a Charity Worker in her school’s production of “A Christmas Carol.”

Her younger brother Phillip will play sibling Peter Cratchit in “A Christmas Carol”—though he will be performing on a different stage.

Phillip, 11, was cast in Goodman Theatre’s production of the Dickens’ classic. Almost 200 children auditioned during the open call.

My husband, the original Phillip in the house, also will be joining our children on stage this holiday season.

He was cast as Jacob Marley and the Ghost Christmas Present Our son of in eta Creative Arts goes from Foundation’s production of “If Scrooge Was a Chicago a Brother” at Kennedy College Theater. tween to a King “Phillip’s scene and 19th century improv work was the green light we needed Brit—com- to cast him in the roles Marley and Christmas plete with of Present,” says inaccent. He terim Executive Director Kemati Porter, who can even is directing the show. dance a jig. “Sonita Surratt (music director) really wanted his voice in the ensemble work. He was fearless, enjoyed the challenge and captured the spirit and intentions of the characters.”

Christmas definitely arrived early for us this year and we’re all having a good, if busy, time.

On a typical day, we drop everyone off at school. Before I know it, it’s time to pick them up again. One of us dashes (and no, not in a one-horse open sleigh) downtown to drop Phillip off

PHOTO BY SHARON THURMAN

at rehearsal and then back south again to pick Sydney up from her rehearsal, only to turn right back around in a few hours to pick up Phillip. My husband has rehearsal several times a week as well. Plus, there’s drumming practice for my youngest son, Jeffery, and choir rehearsal for me.

It seems one of us is always rehearsing for something.

The other day, I ran lines with my husband Phillip and right before my eyes, he morphed into an anguished, terrifying ghost. Our son also undergoes a transformation, going from a Chicago tween to a 19th century Brit—complete with accent. He can even dance a jig.

Sydney is a shape-shifter, too. She changes characters as easily as she changes outfits and waltzes like she was born in a ballroom.

I love my family’s energy, creativity and commitment to their craft. So do their directors.

“Her audition was actually quite funny because a lot of people came in by themselves to read and Sydney was constantly popping up and volunteering to read with them. In about 20 minutes, we saw Sydney read as Fred, Scrooge, the Ghost of Christmas Past, a Charity Worker and Belle. And she did all of them well! She’s just a fantastic performer and person,”

says drama and choir teacher Carrie Seavoy, director of “A Christmas Carol” at Brooks College Prep.

Phillip’s Peter Cratchit sounds a lot like the son we know and love.

“One of the things I like best about Phillip’s performance is his choice to play Peter Cratchit as a boy who wants desperately to be able to contribute to his family as a man. Phillip’s Peter is earnest, disciplined and mature. But we also get to watch his boyishness burst out every now and then. I find his interpretation of Peter Cratchit to be both charming and true to the spirit of Dickens,” says his director, Henry Wishcamper.

Long before they set foot on a professional stage, our children were acting in plays and skits written and directed by me, both at church and school. They’ve also done voices for our puppet theater group, I’m Your Puppet Productions.

As their three opening nights approach, the rehearsal pace is picking up, but we’re making it work. I’m proud of my talented family and thankful for our supportive friends and family.

God bless them, every one! (I couldn’t resist.)

Lolita M. Cusic is a Chicago writer, wife and mother of three.

32 December 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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VOICE: CAREY ROBIN

What to expect when you weren’t expecting Having a baby at 40 is a new adventure

F

or years, I was one of those women who was “OK” with not having children. The world of families may as well have existed on another planet because I was never having children. Besides being 38 and unmarried, I suffered from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, a condition that can cause infertility.

My annual trip to the gynecologist always included a “you know, you better hurry up if you want children.” The past year, she had even suggested I stop waiting for “Mr. Right,” just use Clomid and I guess hook up with some guy I’d never see again. I looked at her aghast.

Immediately, the movie Starman came to mind. Perhaps Jeff Bridges would show up at my door one night.

No such luck.

I didn’t really believe I was pregnant until week 13 when I had the ultrasound.

However, a year later, I had really come to terms with never having children. A friend of mine was pregnant, and it began to dawn on me what a life-changer having children can be.

I saw how her whole life was going to revolve around this tiny baby for at least the first few years of his life. I saw all the things she was going to give up.

There was still so much I had to do, and I could not imagine a way to do it with a baby. My novel was barely off the ground, my fitness classes had just started taking off, and my boyfriend said he wanted to eventually marry me but that he never wanted children. It was settled then, no children for me.

A week after my friend’s baby boy was born, I took a pregnancy test after suffering a week of strange symptoms.

OK, I took five pregnancy tests—and all five were positive.

I lined up the pregnancy tests in disbelief. Not possible. Not only was I almost 40, I had PCOS and was using birth control. I was convinced my PCOS made some strange hormone that disrupted the at-home tests. But then my doctor confirmed it. I didn’t really believe I was pregnant until week 13 when I had the ultrasound.

Shockingly, my boyfriend was overjoyed, though surprised, and we did move our wedding plans way up.

Winona was born on Dec. 31, 2013, and I am still discovering this new world I’ve been thrust into.

The question is always, can I do X with a baby, or more to the point, how will I do X with a baby? Between parks, play gyms, meetup.com, baby swim lessons, fairs, Chicago Parent suggestions, the Brookfield Zoo, and the mall (nursing rooms are a big plus and you can eat mall food while walking a stroller),

I’ve managed to navigate this unfamiliar terrain.

Most of all, I’m finding that there is life with a baby. It is a more hectic life with constant double-duty (does skating around my kitchen with soapy sanitary pads on my feet while holding a baby count as cleaning and as exercise?), but it is still a life.

Winona has to come along to my novel marketing trips to bookshops and community centers, and my husband and I have to take turns doing our projects, but somehow everything gets done.

What I’ve discovered most of all is the community of friends willing to help out. More people than I ever imagined I had in my life have been there for us. I even had a client offer us their summer home for a weekend so we could get away but still be in a place that would tolerate a crying baby.

We have realized that while our old life ended, we have a new adventure ahead of us with plenty of old and new friends more than willing to be part of it.

Carey Robin is a writer and mom who writes about motherhood and mythology at careyrobin.com

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ChicagoParent.com December 2014 33

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VOICE: SHARON SCHNEIDER

I didn’t want to fall into the stereotype of a nagging wife.

CARLO NAVARRO PHOTOGRAPHY

Mom’s the CEO But is she also chief cook and bottlewasher?

A

t the office, women may be the CEO or the administrative assistant, but at home many of us are the CEOs. Most people simply assume this to be true: if another parent wants to arrange a play date or see why you haven’t RSVP’d to the birthday party, they call or email Mom; if your daughter arrives at school with unbrushed hair or missing her lunchbox, most people assume Mom was not on her game.

And we mostly accept it. At least, I know I did.

As a result, my wonderful, intelligent, competent, supportive and forward-thinking husband somehow became the equivalent of hired help when it came to managing our household. If I asked him to scrub the bathroom before guests arrived, he did. If I asked him to drive to

the birthday party, told him when and where it was, and handed him a gift (or told him what to buy), he did.

When my sister and I started our company, I was starting to feel overwhelmed by all my responsibilities as CEO of the family. I wanted more than just a willing assistant; I wanted someone to just take care of things (at least some things) without my having to provide direction.

I didn’t want to fall into the stereotype of a nagging wife.

What I needed was for him to join me in making decisions and taking responsibility for overseeing entire sections of our household operations, from planning to execution.

One night I asked him to sit down to talk about managing our schedules and workloads.

Together, we brainstormed six areas of the household that required constant management and oversight.

This fun little exercise allowed me to share with him, in a productive way, just how much work is involved in keeping our household running smoothly.

Here’s what we came up with: Executive Chef: Planning for the week ahead, securing ingredients, preparing meals/ snacks and ordering or packing school lunches.

Facilities Manager: Keeping the inside of the house (relatively) clean and straightened, and putting in a special effort when company is expected. This includes laundry, mopping floors, dusting and vacuuming, cleaning the bathrooms, and handling any repairs directly or through the landlord.

Chief Financial Officer: Paying the bills, doing taxes, handling insurance and investments and 401(k)s and managing the family budget.

Chief Medical Officer: Making and keeping appointments for well-baby visits and annual physicals, making and keeping dental appointments, getting forms filled out for sports and camps, picking up prescription refills and

making sure over-the-counter medications are on hand.

Dean of Students: Overseeing and checking all homework, handling all correspondence and interactions with school and child care providers.

Head groundskeeper: Maintaining the outside of the house, including grass, flowers, garage, sidewalk, trash and recycling bins and outdoor toys.

I’m sure we could have come up with more (Maybe “Cruise Director” in charge of creating and maintaining a social life? How about “Crew Chief” tasked with keeping vehicles cleaned, maintained, filled with gas and repaired as necessary?), but six was a nice even number to start with. We each picked three we were willing to manage.

So now, since my husband is Executive Chef, he would never look at me when I walk through the door at 5:30 and ask, “What’s for dinner?”

And when he decides that we are having fish sticks and macaroni & cheese for dinner (which I despise), I just say, “Thank you for making dinner, babe.”

In the year since this conversation first took place, things have shifted a lot in our household. If anyone is not pulling their weight these days, it’s me. Maybe my husband should sit me down and review those six areas again, to see where I can pick up some slack.

Sharon Schneider is co-founder and CEO of Moxie Jean, the site voted #1 for kids’ resale by moms all over the country. She is the mom of three in Chicago.

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VIVA DADDY

GHOSTS OF Wish Books past Some time in the early 1980s, I opened the Sears Wish Book— that magical five-pound bible of consumerism printed right here in Chicago—and started my Christmas list. Then I presented my parents with a page of Star Wars and G.I. Joe toys I simply couldn’t live without. They nodded. “Now page two,” I said, MATT ROCCO “Transformers and Thundercats.

Page Three is He-Man and Sectaurs, Four is Jayce and the Wheeled Warriors, Five...”

After a lecture on greed, I understood that the only thing it takes to make people starved to buy things they don’t need is pictures of things they don’t need.

She may not have a Wish Book, but advertisements are driving my daughter, Viva, into a materialistic froth.

“I need Santa to bring me the Lego Rapunzel Castle,” she tells us. Never mind that she’s too young for Legos. “I need a scooter for Christmas,” says the girl who falls down every third step.

“Will someone get me the Paw Patrol Headquarters?”

I have no idea what a Paw Patrol is—what they patrol, whether or not they have paws, and why they need a headquarters. Neither does she.

But logic goes out the window at Christmas time in the service of the engine of commerce.

So how to curtail her Pavlovian response to

CHIPAR1214_035.indd 1

pictures? Perhaps I’ll fight propaganda with propaganda! This year, all ads in my home will be replaced with Norman Rockwell prints of families eating turkey together, tucking in their beloved children, walking to school bravely in the face of segregationist mobs, and speaking their mind at town meetings.

Perhaps her need for MagicClip Disney Princess dolls will be replaced by a strong sense of family, social justice and a taste for lean proteins. Or perhaps my wife will just wonder why I spent $500 at AllPosters.

Viva is 3. Daddy is about 13 times that age. They live happily with Mommy in the Edgewater Glen neighborhood of Chicago.

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@

REAL PARENTS IN THE TRENCHES

Want more? Visit ChicagoParent.com/parentpanel

You’ve had a major argument with your best friend, whose son happens to be your child’s BFF. There’s no repairing your friendship, but your child is sad, especially with winter break coming up. What can you do?

Suck it up and think of the children. There are ways to get around the parents not seeing each other.

Jeff Mezydlo, Chicago

I would try hard not to impart my feelings on my child, as they are the innocent party. I would work to ensure my child is connecting with other peers at school, activities and elsewhere and schedule play dates with others over the winter break in particular.

Rani Morrison, Oak Park

I can’t imagine letting my issues get in the way of my child’s friendship.

Not only would that be setting a bad example, but it would be selfish.

I would continue to encourage their friendship and be as cordial and mature as possible during drop-offs and pick-ups.

Gia Lee, Chicago

With younger children, it’s out of sight, out of mind. Make other play dates and you should be fine. With older kids, forbidding a relationship is rarely a good idea unless you feel they are in danger.

Explain the situation and hope they drift apart on their own.

Lisa Cheruff, Skokie

I would think about what is the best for my child. If my friend’s child was good people, I would have the children continue to be friends. While I would be disappointed that our friendship did not work out, I would not want to penalize my child.

Rebecca Moulfarha, La Grange Park

I have a few fathers out there who I am not fond of and vice versa, I assume. I don’t hold it against the child, though. In the few cases where the relationship is beyond repair, I just tell my other half to schedule a Mom and Son day. It has worked great!

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Show off your child’s photos. Please include the first names of everyone in the picture, your children’s ages, your hometown and telephone number for verification purposes only.

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Scream worthy 50 gifts under $50 for every kid on your list

WALLET-FRIENDLY

Oball 2-n-1 Roller

I

BY ELIZABETH DIFFIN t’s unavoidable: the mad rush each holiday season to make sure you get something, anything, for the kids.

But before you settle for the same old, same old, take a look at our list. It’s chockfull of some of the hottest toys for 2014 (and a few holdovers from Christmases past). They’ve all been chosen with input from owners and managers at independently owned toy stores in the Chicago area. And best of all, they all come with a pretty price tag—$50 or less.

Just be sure to remember us when you’re dubbed the “best parent ever.”

Infant (0-12 months)

Meadow Friends Activity Spiral

My First Construction Play Set

pipSquigz

Last year’s hottest toy comes in a baby version, too! These brightly colored toys are BPA-free, making them a safe option for teething. And the suction cups perfectly stick to high chair trays, keeping babies occupied while waiting for dinner to be served. pipSquigz, $19.95, 6m+. ✲

their imagination. Oball 2-n-1 Roller, $19.99, 6m+. ✲

chewing, too. Baby Clemmy, $31.99, 6-18m. ✲

We all know that milk does a body good, and that’s especially true for the infant set. Let them show off their super-strength with these adorable soft barbells that do double duty as rattles. Kushies Cha Cha Barbells, $22.99, 0m+. ✲

Bob the Builder better watch his back. This soft construction set includes a rattle stop sign, crinkle boulder, dump truck with lift-up back, a mirror under the hard hat, and a squeaker safety cone. earlyears My First Construction Play Set, $24.99, 6m+. ✲

This mobile is perfect for on-the-go babies, thanks to a fun design that wraps around the handle of the car seat (it also works with playpens or cribs).

The mirror and soft elements will keep them entertained and content, even when stuck in traffic on the Kennedy. Meadow Friends Activity Spiral, $29.95, 0m+. ✲

Do you believe in miracles?

This teether claims to calm fussy babies with a combination of classical music, vibration, textured surfaces for teething, and other sensory stimulation.

Throw one in the diaper bag for your next extra-wiggly diaper change. IQ Baby Busy Bee Baby Buzz’r, $19.99, 3m+. ✲

Transition is the name of the game with babies, and this brilliant toy takes them from crawling to walking with ease.

Plus, the large rattle ball inside makes a fun sound to stimulate

IQ Baby Busy Bee Baby Buzz’r

Traditional building toys have such sharp edges, parents like to keep them away from the age group that pops everything into their mouths. These building bricks make impressive towers but are soft enough for

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Brio Magnetic Train

Toddler (1-3 years) Just because it’s a classic doesn’t mean it can’t be cool.

This train doesn’t need a track, and the 11 magnetic pieces give an easy introduction to primary colors and shapes, not to mention the ever-popular world of choo-choos. Brio Magnetic Train, $19.99, 12m+. ✲ Playing a game with a toddler can be an exercise in futility (or losing your sanity), but this one is designed with their abilities and attention span in mind.

Kids help put all the animals in bed for the night—and hopefully wear themselves out in the process. Haba My First Games Evening in the Stable, $14.99, 2+. ✲

Beezeebee Zeeland

Evening in the Stable

Magbot Magnetic Wooden Block Set

Ever wanted to build your own robot? The future is now with Tegu. These sustainablysourced magnetic blocks (they come from Honduras) can be combined in any number of ways to create a robot friend.

They’re compatible with all other Tegu sets, too. Magbot Magnetic Wooden Block Set, $24.99, 1+. ✲

Your iPad already half-belongs to your toddler, so you might as well let them use it for good. These fun learning toys help kids interact with educational apps to learn language skills, develop spatial reasoning and become more creative. Tiggly Shapes, $29.99, 18m+. ✲ There’s no shortage of building blocks in the world, but these colorful ones can connect by snapping top-to-bottom or sideto-side, plus they can rotate and slide. The big blocks are great for the littlest builders, while the standard blocks are best for when they stop putting things in their mouths. Snapo, $19.99$24.99, 1+/3+. ✲

Shopping legend ✲ Becky & Me Toys, Evanston ✲ Building Blocks Toy Store, Lakeview and Wicker Park ✲ Cat & Mouse Games, Bucktown and West Loop ✲ Galt Toys + Galt Baby, downtown, Lincoln Park and Skokie ✲ *play, Logan Square Tiggly Shapes

You probably don’t need a toy to make bathtime more fun, but it never hurts to have something in your back pocket. The activity center suctions to the tub so kids can play with the four sea creatures that fit in the holes and squirt water. Beezeebee Zeeland, $26.99, 12m+. ✲ This isn’t your average shapesorter. The eight beechwood blocks each come with their own special features, like bells or kaleidoscopes, and the non-toxic stain means they’re safe for tots.

Best of all, the sorter looks practically heirloom-quality. Curioso Shape Sorter, $49.99, 1+. ✲

combinations with the help of puzzle pieces and colorful gears, and then see them work together in an early exposure to basic mechanics. Gears & Puzzles, $24.99, 2+. ✲ CONTINUED ON PAGE 41

Parenthood might be a puzzle, but it’s nothing compared to this one! Kids can build endless

Gears & Puzzles Curioso Shape Sorter

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Weird Wanted SECONDCITY.COM/KIDS 312.664.3959 OLD TOWN - CHICAGO

IMPROV • ACTING • CAMPS & MORE

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GIFT GUIDE Great Pretenders Crystal Queen Dress

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Dino Contructables Set Robot Turtles

Lyla Tov Monsters

Preschool (3-5 years) There’s no doubt that programming is the way of the future—and this game teaches the fundamentals to preschoolers in a sneaky way! We just hope that by the time they become computer science majors in college, they’ll stop making the silly turtle noises. Robot Turtles, $24.99, 4+. ✲ Barbie might have gone on a mission to Mars, but these soft-bodied dolls are ballerinas, princesses and athletes. Best of all, they embody the girl-nextdoor look

Groovy Girls

Haba Doorway Puppet Theater

Teeter Popper

Park. Dino Constructables Set, $24.99, 3+. ✲ with brightly colored clothing, funky yarn hair, and not a curve in sight. Groovy Girls 12”, $20, 3+. ✲ It’s time to put on a show! This set adjusts to fit different doorways and has a porthole window for puppets to make surprise appearances. Just set it up and let their imaginations go wild—no Muppets required.

Haba Doorway Puppet Theater, $49.95, 18m+. ✲ Fidgeters, unite!

This toy is perfect for kids who just can’t sit still in front of the TV or while reading a book. Instead, they can rock back and forth on the snowboardesque toy—and enjoy the fun popping sound it makes every time.

Teeter Popper, $37, 3+. ✲ Dinosaurs are already pretty cool in kids’ eyes, but these motorized versions will elevate them to awesome status. Just combine the chunky plastic pieces and hook up to the battery pack, and you’ll be transported directly to Jurassic

The classic matching game gets a construction (and literary!) twist with this take on the New York Times’ Bestseller. And it features the same charming pictures you love from local illustrator Tom Lichtenheld.

Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site Matching Game, $14.99, 3+. ✲ Your resistance to buying some Frozen-themed gifts?

Just let it go. This ice blue gown bears a striking resemblance to a certain snow queen we know … and will make your little princess sparkle all over.

Great Pretenders Crystal Queen Dress, $49.99, 3+. ✲ Meet Forrest, Charlotte, Madeline and Squonk— four friendly monsters who help protect your little one’s sleep. The funny looking stuffed friends were created by a 3-yearold girl—and a portion of the proceeds go to a children’s charity. Lyla Tov Monsters, $21.99, 3+. ✲ Kids are notoriously

Crazy Legs

limber, so it’s no surprise that they’re tailor-made for yoga poses. This game gets them up and moving with 60 action cards divided between traditional exercises and poses like downward facing dog. Perfect for those days when you’re stuck inside this winter.

Crazy Legs, $19.95, 4+. ✲ Following in the footsteps of family favorite Press Here comes Herve Tullet’s latest, an exploration of colors and colormixing. Plus it’s a way to get your little one following directions without having to play another round of Simon Says. Mix It Up!, $15.99, 3-5. ✲

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GIFT GUIDE

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NHL Fastrack

Urban Fold Paper Punk

Early elementary (5-7 years) Beastie Boys dustup aside, we’re huge fans of any product that encourages girls to love science. This toy teaches them engineering principles as they build a zoetrope (an old-timey movie projector) to save their town’s film fest.

Plus, it’s compatible with the free movie-making app!

Goldie Blox and the Movie Machine, $29.99, 6+. ✲

Fashion Plates Design Set

YOXOmoto Doon

If you need a fun parentchild activity for the next #throwbackthursday, look no further than these retro gems. Kids will love mixing and matching the perfect outfit, while moms (and dads!) will be digging those go-go boots from the original set. Fashion Plates Design Set, $29.99, 6+. ✲ Wondering what to do with those empty toilet paper rolls or tissue boxes? This sustainable construction kit uses Y, O and X links and items found around the house to build robots, animals and vehicles.

And you just might have acquired a new garbageduty

volunteer. YOXOmoto Doon, $21.99, 6+. ✲ When you grow up in a Chicago, the birthplace of the skyscraper, you know your skylines. Kids can build the city of their dreams by punching out shapes, folding into blocks and customizing with urban touches.

They won’t look at the Willis Tower the same way again!

Paper Punk Urban Fold, $24.99, 6+. ✲

Moon in My Room

perform one of his infamous slam-dunks. But thanks to this glow-in-the-dark basketball net, kids can show off their hoops skills anytime, day or night. The hoop hooks over doors and glows or flashes, and the foam ball lights up, too. NightZone Hoops, Ho $19.95, 6+. ✲ 6

Blackhawks fans can bring the rink home thanks to this Can you NHL-themed trust tr your game. Use eyes? This ey your fingergame ga helps kids tips to shoot translate what tra the pucks they see onto the in a headpaper in order pap to-head to ccomplete a Doodle Ques competition. mission—but miss t The wooden rink is adorned they have to meet with NHL team logos, so targets and avoid you can create your own obstacles at the same time.

Red Wings-Blackhawks Think of it as James Bond style rivalry. NHL Fastrack, meets visual/spatial awareness. Doodle Quest, $24.99, $19.99, 5+. ✲ 6+. ✲ The fun parts of snow, minus the cold? Yes, please!

Your average nightlight These faux snowballs have seems downright boring a remarkably true-to-life once you see this authentic texture, but you never have moon that rotates through to take a break from your phases to match whatepic snowball fight to deever’s going on outside the frost your fingers. It’s the curtains. Hopefully the only one kind of polar vortex small steps you’ll be hearing we can get behind. will be on their way to the bathroom in the middle Snowtime Snow of the night. Moon in My Shield, $19.99, 3+. ✲ Room, $36.99, 6+. ✲ Even Jordan needed the lights on to

NightZone Hoops

Marco’s Polos

kids develop color and matching skills—and pay attention to the smallest of details. It’s also a Lekotek pick for kids who have special needs, and it has a great name to boot.

Marco’s Polos, $7.99, 5+. ✲ We all know walking on water is miraculous, but what about skipping, bouncing or spinning? This set of three balls comes with a Play Book explaining 21 different ways to have fun. The first warm-ish day in March, the kids will be dying to try them out. Waboba Get Out - Outdoor Active Play Kit, $24.99, 5+. ✲ Waboba Get OutOutdoor Active Play Kit

This fast-paced game, created by a Chicagoan, helps

42 D December ceem mbe ber 20 2 2014 014 14 Ch C ChicagoParent.com hiic cag ago oP Pa arre t

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Late elementary (7-10 years)

Batman 3-D Motion Clock

Flickerz Target Net Set

We won’t get to see Batman and Superman face off on the big screen until sometime in 2016, but these vintage-inspired wall clocks will make the wait a little bit easier.

Great for superhero fans of all ages—including dads who won’t ever grow up. Batman/Superman 3-D Motion Clock, $44.95, 8+. ✲ Finally, a good use for flicking other than bothering siblings!

With this game, kids take turns flicking minidiscs toward a target and racking up points

Smartphone Science

depending on which part of the net they hit. Buy extra discs for additional one-on-one fun (or stocking stuffers). Flickerz Target Net Set, $24.99, 8+. ✲ TV streaming, filtered photos, conversations in emoji. Your smartphone’s already used for all sorts of things, so why not make learning one of them?

This kit turns your smartphone into a portable science lab, complete with a real microscope attachment. Smartphone Science, $19.99, 8+. ✲

Those rubberband bracelets are so last year. Now kids can weave real textiles, thanks to this easy-touse loom. If you’re not careful, your kids will be hoping the groundhog doesn’t see his shadow so they can wear their fabulous scarves even longer.

Loopdeloom, $29.99, 8+. ✲ A little bit sweet and a little bit tough—Is there any better way to describe your daughter?

Kids can use nuts, washers and other items straight from the hardware store and transform them into chic jewelry with an edge. And it makes for a creative daddy-daughter date night.

Toolbox Jewelry, $21.99, 8+. ✲

Loopdeloom

Toolbox Jewelry

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GIFT GUIDE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 43

Late elementary (7-10 years) Rosie the Robot could dust and cook, but could she jump?

This science kit has kids using springs and spring-powered machines to build a robot that literally can hop, skip and jump. Who knows, your child just might be the one to invent that laundry robot you’ve been imagining. Jumperbot, $49.99, 8+. ✲

Jumperbot

If your daughter is begging for one of those trendy color streaks in her hair, here’s a more temporary way to get the same hip effect. This kit comes with three different colors to try—or to experiment with 45 application techniques. Bonus: It washes out with shampoo.

get the marble to a target.

Sounds more fun than what you find in a math book!

Gravity Maze, $29.99, 8+. ✲

Style Me Up Hair Chalk

Style Me Up Hair Chalk, $14.99, 8+. ✲ What happens when you combine a basic brainteaser with an old-fashioned marble run? You get this game, which challenges players to build towers and

Quadrillion

aze Gravity M

A quadrillion is a one followed by 15 zeros— which is about how many different ways there are to play this puzzle of a game. Just assemble the plastic grids and arrange the 12 pieces to match the game board. (We have a feeling it’s about a quadrillion times harder than it sounds.)

Quadrillion, $22.99, 7+. ✲ Don’t let it hit the ground!

That’s the idea of this quirky little ball that hovers when it senses a solid object underneath. The seemingly magical toy charges up via USB port and comes in five different designs, including the ever-popular smiley.

Mini Flyer, $21.99, 8+. ✲

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www.TheToyKing.com Munchkin Panic

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Tweens (10 years+) This hybrid of two popular tweener games—Castle Panic and Munchkin—has players working together and on their own. The delicate balance between working together and looking out for Number One is oddly reflective of real life, but a lot more fun. Munchkin Panic, $34.99, 10+. ✲

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Home brewing is all the rage, and this set cleverly appeals to the under-21 set. Kids can make their own non-alcoholic ginger ale and learn a little about the science of fermentation at the same time. Wonder if it compares to what they’re brewing over at Goose Island? Brew It Yourself Ginger Ale, $16.95, 8+. ✲ Forget stress balls or zen gardens—this crazy compound promises to ease tension and release inner creativity. Plus, with so many different varieties, it just looks (and feels!) cool.

Next time your tween is freaking

out over a test, pass some of this their way. Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty, $11.99, 3+. ✲ It is not your average gradeschool diary.

This treasure of a book takes the concept of journaling and turns it on Wreck This Journal its head, with prompts that get kids expressing themselves more inventively.

It might even make for some family bonding time (painting with dinner, anyone?). Wreck This Journal, $15, 10+. ✲

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Hors d’oeuvres for everyone!

Two easy recipes the kids will embrace

I

BY EMILY PASTER n my pre-kids days, I used to throw an annual holiday cocktail party with festive drinks and adorable canapés. These days when I throw a party, guests under 12 outnumber the adults. That’s what happens when so many of your friends have three kids, I guess!

I have not stopped entertaining just because half my guests cannot drink cocktails, and neither should you. I love to host and attend whole-family holiday gatherings because it reminds my children that they are part of an extended community of family, friends and neighbors. Plus it allows kids of different ages to interact, something that is increasingly rare in our society.

It is important to remember that feeding a multi-generational crowd is different than feeding a group of

adults. I have found that kids love the idea of hors d’oeuvres as much as adults do, but are weirded out by fancy ingredients.

So I have devised a few go-to hors d’oeuvres that will please kid and adult palates alike. Like all good hors d’oeuvres, these can be made ahead of time to streamline your party preparation.

For fun, consider making a special non-alcoholic drink or punch to serve the kids—it will make them feel very sophisticated!

CONTINUED ON PAGE 48

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One of the most classic French hors d’oeuvres, a gougere is a small cheese puff. Everyone goes nuts for them. Once you make the dough, you need to form the puffs right away, but they can then be frozen on a tray until hard and stored in a plastic freezer bag until needed.

Don’t bother to thaaw w the gougères before baking—they can go right from the freezerr to the oven. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Ingredients 4 oz. (8 Tbsp.) unsalted butter 1/2 cup whole milk 1/2 cup water 1/2 tsp. salt Pinch cayenne pepper (optional) 1 cup all-purpose flour 5 eggs at room temperature 6 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Directions 1. If baking right away, preheat oven to 425.

2. Place the water, milk and butter in a medium saucepan over high heat. Bring mixture to a boil and turn heat down to low. Add flour and stir mixture with a wooden spoon until it comes together. Continue to stir for two more minutes.

3. Remove pan from m hea eatt an and d pour dough into the bo bowl owl w of a standing mixer or a large bowl.

4. Using a standing mixer, handheld electric mixer, or wooden spoon, beat the eggs into the dough one at a time.

Make sure each egg is fully incorrpo orated before addin ng the next one.

Byy tthe time you add th he last egg, the mixxture should be m sm mo ooth and shiny.

Ad dd the grated ccheese and stir to ccombine.

5. Line two baaking sheets with parrchment paper or Silpat baking mats. Using two soup spoons, place golf ballsized mounds of dough on the baking sheets.

6. If using right away, place the trays in the oven and turn down the heat to 375 degrees.

Bake the gougeres for 26 minutes, rotating the trays 180 degrees halfway through.

Make sure the gougeres are puffed and golden brown before removing from the oven.

7. Cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or room temperature. * If making ahead, freeze the mounds of dough on the trays until hardened. Then remove to a plastic freezer bag for storage.

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Roasted Red Pepper Dip Dips are a great way to get kids to eat vegetables, but I find that many kids do not like typical dip bases like mayonnaise or sour cream. And if the dip looks suspiciously green, like maybe it has spinach in it, t, kids will run for the hills.

This dip uses mild goat cheese to achieve a creamy texture without being too gloppy, and the red color is very appealing. g. I recommend nd serving it with raw bell peppers, carrots, radishes, and celery or blanched cauliflower, broccoli and green beans.

You can make this dip a day in advance.

Ingredients 1 head garlic 16 oz. marinated roasted red peppers, drained 8 oz. plain goat cheese 3 Tbsp.

T olive oil Pinch Pinc cayenne pepper 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil Salt S and pepper to taste

Directions Preheat oven to 350.

Begin by roasting the garlic. Cut off the top of the head of garlic exposing the cloves. (Do not peel.)

Place garlic in small baking dish and drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast garlic iin the oven uncovered for 45 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool. When garlic is cool enough to handle, squeeze the cloves of garlic out of their husks into a small dish.

Place roasted garlic, roasted red peppers and goat cheese in the bowl of a food processor.

Puree until smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary.

Pour roasted red pepper mixture into a large bowl. Add chopped basil, salt and pepper, cayenne pepper and olive oil

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and mix well. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary.

Refrigerate dip for a few hours before serving.

Emily Paster writes about fitting ambitious food into family life on her blog West of the Loop. Currently at work on her first cookbook, Emily is the founder of the Chicago Food Swap.

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ChicagoParent.com December 2014 49

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Your winter SURVIVAL GUIDE 14 ideas sure to keep your sanity intact

BY SAMANTHA SORDYL Brrrrrr … Brrrrrr… Brrrrrr…. So. Cold. Again.

Here are a few ways to survive the cold this winter and have a great time while you’re at it.

1

Strike while the iron is cold It’s so cold outside, it is a guarantee you will be wearing socks, so find a bowling alley anywhere (it doesn’t have to be the fancy kind) and play a game or two. It’s a great game for all ages 2 and up. For the little ones, make sure the alley has bumpers and everybody wins! You can even sneak in some learning by having young kids practice

Martin A. Pomerantz Observatory and Elevated Station, South Pole (see no. 12) Ambel via Wiki Commons

reading one and two digit numbers on the scoring screen and determine bigger and smaller numbers depending on who has the highest score. It might not always be Mom! And the older ones can work on fine-tuning their mad bowling skills.

2

Beach worthy dreaming It’s not much fun to walk the lake in the winter, but you can certainly drive it and still take it all in. The wind is pretty impressive kicking up the waves and crashing them into the bend near The Drake. Take the time to drive and spot your favorite sites along the way. Put in a favorite CD, crank up the heat, and you’ve got yourself a little outing along the water. How far up does it really go? How far down? Come on, it’s winter. You’ve got the time to find out.

3

If the slipper fits Get ready to get cozy and go slipper shopping with the kids at Old Orchard Mall in Skokie. Hit L.L.Bean and any other shop that might help keep your tootsies warm on chilly days and nights. Your feet and your kids’ feet will thank you.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 54

Women’s Hearthside Slippers, L.L. Bean

ChicagoParent.com December 2014 53

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SURVIVE WINTER

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 53

4

How the other half lives Feeling cooped up inside? Take a trip over to the beautiful Driehaus Museum, just off Michigan Avenue, where you’ll have plenty of space to roam. Decorated for the holidays, this museum is full of gorgeous antiques and works by the likes of Louis Comfort Tiffany. Also known as the Samuel M. Nickerson Mansion, this fully restored museum was originally a residence in the Gilded Age to wealthy banker Samuel Nickerson.

(Yes, there are period toys. No, you can’t play with them.) The museum is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Tuesday-Sunday for self-guided tours. $20 adults, $10 kids 6-12, free kids 5 and under. On “Santa Saturdays,” Dec. 13 and 20, don’t miss sitting on Santa’s lap and getting a complimentary family photo in the ballroom ($12 adults, $8 kids 12 and under). Audio tours just for kids are now available.

5

Get fancy Ride the elevators up and down, and sit in the historic Palmer House lobby with a few books or a snack just to take in the extravagant décor and low lighting of the chandeliers amid the hustle and bustle of the hotel. A little like Eloise.

6

Draw a warm-up bath for your kid A bath just for fun in the winter can be almost as fun as taking a dip in the pool in the summer. Armed with a few bubbles, some bathtub crayons and a new, surprise bath toy such as stick-on letters, this can be a relaxing and easy 30 minutes for all. The ideas for kids’ bathtub activities on Pinterest (like snorkeling in the tub) abound.

7

Off to see the wizard Pick a snowy day for a little adventure at Oz Park, which is tucked right in the heart of Chicago’s Lincoln Park. Find the statues of Dorothy, the Tin Man, and the Lion and take pictures with all of the characters in the snow— something like the snow scene in the movie! When you get home, cuddle up on the couch and put in the actual movie.

8

Drawing Room viewed from Main Hall, The Richard H. Driehaus Museum.

Alexander Vertikoff, 2011

Think lush and green Visit the famous Green City Market farmers market inside the natural light-filled Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum atrium for some great meat, tasty pastries and other local and sustainably grown offerings. Retreat to the butterfly room for a little color to brighten up the gray day and a delightfully warm temp. The indoor season runs November-April two Saturdays a month. This month, visit Green City Market on Dec. 6 and Dec. 20, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago.

54 December 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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Nothing beats warm bread The kids up early Saturday morning and you can’t stand one more minute of cartoons? Hop in the car and drive up to Great Harvest Bread Co. in Evanston for some fresh bread and goodies. “Warm bread starts rolling out of the oven around 9 or 10 a.m.,” says owner of 13 years Dave Schaps.

Warm scones and cinnamon rolls are ready at 6 a.m. when the store opens most days. Up to six families can arrange tours ahead of time to see how they make their bread, and, get this, mill their very own flour every day. The owner says that even if you haven’t arranged a tour in advance, “Come in and yell, ‘Dave, show us your kitchen!’” he’ll probably do it free of charge and full of fun. Opens 6 a.m. Monday-Saturday; 8 a.m.

Sunday. Great Harvest Bread Co., 2126 Central St., Evanston, (847) 866-8609.

10

Hot for fudge Order a hot fudge sundae from Margie’s Candies for the most delicious way to warm

up in Chicago! The hot fudge sundaes come with a pitcher of hot, hot, hot fudge on the side. Pour, and drift away to a warmer, tastier place than the bitter cold outside might suggest possible. Other warm-up treats at Margie’s: hot butterscotch, hot caramel, and apple cobbler that comes with warm apple pie, vanilla ice cream and hot caramel. There are two Chicago branches: 1960 N. Western and 1813 W. Montrose Ave.

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Seek out summer inside Find your way to Seurat’s “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte” and take in a perfect warm, sunny day inside the Art Institute of Chicago. Then see how many other paintings of warm places and seasons you can find! Visit the Artist’s Studio (in the Ryan Education Center) open every weekend year-round and do some art with your kids to take home. Kids under 14 are always free at the museum. artic.org.

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CONTINUED ON PAGE 56

ChicagoParent.com December 2014 55

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SURVIVE WINTER

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12

Consider the South Pole Keep a daily record of the temperature at the South Pole. Every day we beat them with a lower temp, celebrate with hot cocoa for breakfast!

Beating the temperature of the coldest place on Earth with no real known vegetation or wildlife is some kind of accomplishment. Who knew we’d get the chance to experience it?

13

Picnic time Lay out a big blanket on your living room floor. Have a picnic dinner in front of the TV basking in the sun, er, glow of the TV and the warmth of being together. Serve an easy winter picnic meal: pizza and carrot sticks or sandwiches and cookies. Pick out a great flick and enjoy. You can vacuum up the crumbs later.

14

Monkey around Visit Tropic World at Brookfield Zoo. It’s nice in there! Get comfortable and stroll around. The apes and monkeys will keep you entertained and the humid climate will keep you warm. A good spot for a game of “I Spy.” Go bananas.

Colobus monkey in Tropic World at Brookfield Zoo Sky Hatter

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A safe place to land

I

PHOTOS AND STORY BY KRISTY MACKABEN

t’s a chilly Sunday afternoon and Janessa and Jason Gustaveson are relaxing with the children in their cozy living room. Seven-year-old Grace is practicing backflips on a tumbling mat. Sitting sullenly on the couch is 9-yearold Wolf, who is bummed he can’t play basketball outside.

And 6-year-old Jeremiah is chasing after 18-month-old Henry, who stole his Lego creation. Wearing his favorite Spider-Man hat, Jeremiah, after retrieving the Lego, flies across the room like his favorite superhero.

An outsider would never guess the kindergartner was not a member of the family.

Two weeks prior,

Jeremiah Lebron had never set foot in the Gustavesons’ Park Ridge home. He was living in Chicago with his mom Anais and younger

brother Eli. Then Anais, who was trying to get back on her feet financially, sought the help of Safe Families, a Christian nonprofit organization that helps care for children temporarily in emergency situations.

Jeremiah was sent to live with the Gustavesons and Eli was sent to live with another family—the Donewalds, also in the Chicago suburbs.

“Jeremiah is a fantastic kid. He has a great mom.

She just needs some help,”

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Local organization works to keep families together while helping in a crisis

“Our goal really is to create a safety net for vulnerable kids and their parents.”

Dave Anderson

The Gustavesons shared their home with Jeremiah (top) through Safe Families. says Janessa, explaining this is the case with many parents helped by Safe Families.

Jeremiah and Eli have since returned home. Janessa still talks to their mom occasionally and says they are doing great.

Five years ago, after learning more about Safe Families from Dave Anderson, the founder of the organization who attends South Park Church in Park Ridge, the

Gustavesons decided to serve as a host family for Safe Families—meaning at any moment the couple could be contacted to take in a child in crisis.

“The impact it has on your own kids is actually pretty awesome,” says Janessa.

“They’re sharing and opening their house. It’s like ‘wow.’”

When children stay in their home, they become part of the family, she says. They

are enrolled in local schools, go along to sports practices and birthday parties. Janessa and Justin are the temporary guardians, so they deal with everything from discipline issues and food allergies to homework and sicknesses.

There are 965 Chicagoarea host families like the Gustavesons who help children for Safe Families.

Host families take in children on a temporary basis from

a few days to a few months.

(In rare cases the children become foster children or are adopted by the host families.) The host families, who usually take in children younger than their youngest child, must have the financial means to support another child, as well as enough time to devote to the child.

Safe Families cared for 1,000 Chicago-area children last year, Anderson says.

“Our goal really is to create a safety net for vulnerable kids and their parents,” Anderson says.

The idea behind Safe Families is to help parents during a crisis. Sometimes parents (mostly moms, but sometimes dads) contact Safe Families for help. Other times children are referred to Safe Families by the Department of Children and Family Services. In these instances, children need a safe place to live, but the situation has not reached the point to warrant DCFS intervention.

“Safe Families offers child welfare workers a placement alternative in situations in which there are safety CONTINUED ON PAGE 60

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SAFE FAMILIES

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 59

concerns that may not rise to the level of needing to take protective custody,” says Karen Hawkins, spokesperson for the Department of Children and Family Services.

A child would be referred to Safe Families if a parent enters a substance abuse program, a parent needs more time to address safety issues, a family is homeless, or a parent is living in temporary housing that doesn’t allow children.

“The goal is to keep families together. The goal is to help families who lack support to get that support,” says Tom Maluga, director of Safe Families.

Though host families do not get paid and are expected to provide everything a child needs, Safe Families coaches make sure host families have all the equipment and supplies, such as strollers, car seats, high chairs and clothing. Many churches that support Safe Families store such supplies for

Wolf and Jeremiah goof around. host families.

Coaches also help host families who may have trouble disciplining a child or communicating with the child’s parents.

Respite is available for host families who might need a small break from a child.

“We want to make each

hosting situation a very positive situation,” says Kristin Sorensen, a Safe Families coach who lives in Des Plaines. She and her family also serve as a host family.

“We’re choosing this because we want to come alongside people and make a difference in Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

their lives. It’s a big deal. It’s a very emotional thing. Even the hardest placements, you look back and see how you grew and how your family grew. The impact we’re making is deep and rich.”

Kristy MacKaben is a freelance writer and mom.

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At the Irving & Margaret Houck Family Birthing Centre,

We Treat You Like Family.

We know that the birth experience should be one where you feel empowered, joyful, confident, and cared for. For those seeking low intervention options for delivery, our Alternative Birthing Center is home to one of the largest midwifery programs in the area where we offer patients a variety of choices, including: • Support for low intervention birthing • Home-like setting with a queensize bed, television, refrigerator, microwave, and free internet access • Tubs for water labor and birth • Telemetry monitory to allow free mobility labor • All private, labor, delivery, recovery, and postpartum rooms All our patients – whether choosing the Alternative Birthing Center or planning a delivery with one of our board-certified obstetricians – can take comfort in the superior level of care offered at West Suburban Medical Center.

866-938-7256

to find a Call participating obstetrician or midwife, to schedule a tour, or enroll in a childbirth preparation class.

3 Erie Court, Oak Park, IL 60302 westsuburbanmc.com 62 December 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section // Discover Oak Park & River Forest

Home for the Holidays

PHOTO COURTESY OF DOWNTOWN OAK PARK

T

he holiday season is here and it’s the perfect time to celebrate all that we hold dear to us! The Oak Park/River Forest area is a treasure trove when it comes to offering places to go and people to see. And the best part of it all?

The whole family can join in the fun.

But before you can partake in the carefree feel of the season, you undoubtedly have quite a list to tackle.

It’s never been more important to shop local, and Oak Park has set up a wonderful way for shoppers to get rewards while doing so this holiday season! Downtown Oak Park’s Shopper’s Rewards rebate program encourages shoppers to save receipts between Nov. 1st and Dec. 25th for the chance to receive valuable Shopper’s Reward certificates! For more info and a list of participating businesses, check out www. downtownoakpark.net. continued on page 64

Learn from a Legend: Invest In Yourself!

How will YOU challenge yourself this month?

Interc u ltural Montessori Language School Two Locations: Oak Park (708) 848-6626 Chicago-West Loop (312) 265-1514

Dual Language Montessori Programs • Chinese/English • Spanish/English • Japanese/English • Ages 3-12 years old

ENROLL NOW! 6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park

708-383-3456

E-mail: admissions@interculturalmontessori.org Visit: www.interculturalmontessori.org

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence Serving Our Community

NEW! After School language programs in Spanish and Chinese

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

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Discover Oak Park &River Forest // special advertising section continued from page 63 Still stumped when it comes to gift ideas? Try gift certificates. In fact The Language and Music School at 150 N. Oak Park Ave. offers gift certificates for combo lessons in instruments such as violin, piano and guitar. FREE trials during the whole month of December in celebration of their 20 year anniversary” call 708-524-5252 to schedule one!!! (Restrictions apply) When your shopping is complete, take the time to stroll down our streets! Indeed, our towns are not only home for wonderful businesses, but wonderful people behind the businesses! Looking for more holiday-inspired events? Check out some of these: Three Thursdays in December December 4, 11, 18, 5-9 pm

Stroll through participating businesses to find holiday gifts, seasonal entertainment, festive cocktails and hors

d’oeuvres, as well as free gift wrapping and complimentary valet parking. End your evening at a participating restaurant enjoying seasonal food and drink specials. Five percent of sales from participating shops and restaurants will be donated to local non-profit organizations. More information at downtownoakpark. net.

Winterfest December 6, 11 am - 5 pm

Join us for a cookie walk inside over 50 participating shops and restaurants! Catch a glimpse of Saint Nicholas, enjoy a variety of family friendly acts and warm up inside the hospitality tent with free hot chocolate and coffee. More information at downtownoakpark.net.

Home for the Holidays December 20, 11 am - 3 pm

Catch the old fashioned holiday spirit in Downtown Oak Park! Celebrate the season with free horse-drawn

sleigh rides and a visit from Santa. Free cocoa & cookies too!More information at downtownoakpark.net.

Of course, before we know it, the New Year will be here!

West Suburban Medical Center celebrates more 100 years of caring for the community.

Over the past century, the Hospital has welcomed hundreds of thousands of new lives at the Family Birthing Centre; built a robust tradition of medical learning, including earning designation as a nationally recognized teaching site for robotics in general surgery; grown to offer the latest in minimallyinvasive orthopedic surgery and joint care; expanded to provide comprehensive cancer care, close to home; and opened the first Senior Emergency Department in the Chicago area.

West Suburban Medical Center is here to be your partner in health. Call (866) 9387256 to learn more or to find the right doctor for you.

Interested in shaking up your exercise regimen for the New Year? Head on over to visit Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts in Oak Park to learn from a legend how martial arts can tone not only your body, but your mind too! And for the moms out there…martial arts can also be quite the stress relief! Contact (708) 383-3456 for more information.

For your young sports enthusiast, check out the River Forest Community Center *WINTER BREAK BASKETBALL CAMP* (One, Two, Three or Four Day Options) for ages 6-14yrs.

Monday, Dec 22nd, Tuesday, Dec 23rd, Monday, Dec 29th, Tuesday, Dec 30th from 9am-3pm.

Fee: $75 for 1 Day, $120 for 2 Days, $160 for 3 days, $200 for all 4 days And, save the date for the DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE, Friday, February 6th 6:30pm9pm Preschool registration be-

River Forest Community Center Early Childhood Learning Center Half-Day & Full-Day: Preschool & Pre-K  Before and After School Care  Summer Camps  Parent and Tot Programs Full-Day Infant—Preschool Programs at our OPRF HS location 8020 Madison Street River Forest , IL 60305 (708) 771-6159 www.rfcc.info

Languages Currently Offered Polish

Spanish

Japanese

French

Russian

Chinese

Italian

German

and more!

Instruments Currently Offered Piano Guitar Cello Oboe

Violin Voice Trumpet Harmonica

Clarinet Saxophone Banjo and more!

Try out a class of your choice!

A trial lesson is only $28, and a second trial is just $10.

Sign up today!

Ask us about our “free promotrials”!!!

Celebrating our 20th Anniversary!!

Call us about our Parent & Tot/Preschool Spanish Classes!

Gift Certificates available!

Bring in this ad to receive $10.00 off your initial registration fee! CPOPRF &WGP

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special advertising section // Discover Oak Park & River Forest

EV

PHOTO COURTESY OF DOWNTOWN OAK PARK

D

E OF AN TH M H IN L R PA OU Y

ER O EV A YT O ER K P HIN AK Y A G PA ON RK RK E

gins February 9th Look for our Winter/ Spring brochure coming out Mid-December. Call (708) 7716159 for details.

Celebrating over 50 years of Montessori excellence, Alcuin Montessori is not only one of the oldest Montessori schools in the United States, but one of the jewels when it comes to educational opportunities in Oak Park. Alcuin offers a crosscurricular learning environment that balances academic and emotional intelligence.

Programs for children ages birth through 14 years are designed to help each child become confident, curious, self-disciplined and motivated. Call (708) 366-1882 to learn more.

However you decide to spend the holiday season and start 2015, keep your priorities in order. Take the time to create precious memories alongside your loved ones, right here in your very own back yard!

Check out the new mobile version of Available Now

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Jingle Bell, Jingle Buy - Gift Ideas // advertising Out-Of-This-World Holiday Gifts at the Adler

Give the gift of Drury Lane Theater

Find everything on your young explorer’s list from unique stocking stuffers including astronaut ice cream and Moon night lights, to fun - and educational - toys and books like Bubble Blast Off Rockets, plush space shuttles, LEGO Man in Space and more!

A gift certificate or subscription to Drury Lane makes a perfect holiday gift! Billy Elliott, White Christmas, Bye Bye Birdie, Beaches.

Drury Lane Theater (630) 530-0111 Drurylane.com

Adler Planetarium Store 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago adlerplanetarium.org

Gift a family membership to Chicago Children’s Museum

Give the gift of Goodman Theatre this holiday season.

Shop for Goodman gift certificates, the WILD CARD (4 flexible tickets), merchandise and more! GoodmanTheatre.org/ Gifts

Gift a family membership where play and learning connect and enjoy benefits like daily free art classes for a year.

Children’s Museum at Navy Pier

Goodman Theatre 170 N. Dearborn, Chicago (312) 553-7172 GoodmanTheatre.org

Chicago Children’s Museum Located at Navy Pier, Chicago (312) 527-1000 chicagochildrensmuseum.org

Give the gift of year round learning and fun Check an entire family off your holiday shopping list with a museum gift card - available in any amount for admissions, annual memberships, or birthday parties!

Give the Gift of Play information The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn invites you to give the gift of PLAY this Holiday Season! Toys break but memories your kids will make with you at the Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn will never fade. Ask about our gift cards!

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

Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn 5100 Museum Dr, Oak Lawn (708) 423-6709 cmoaklawn.org

Give the Gift of Learning!

Inspire young learners…with fun educational gifts from Lakeshore! From engaging math and language games to building sets, science kits and more, our products get kids excited about learning!

Give the gift of theatre this holiday season!

SYMPHONY OF CLOUDS by Margaret Larlham, directed by Ann Wakefield.

Follow the adventures in the life of young Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: boy genius, musical prodigy, and gifted composer. For all ages, January 13- February 21. Chicago Playworks for Families and Young Audiences at DePaul’s historic Merle Reskin Theatre.

Lakeshore Learning Visit your stores in Chicago, Orland Park and Palatine or shop online at LakeshoreLearning.com.

Gift a second language to your children Language Stars offers top-quality, year round fun foreign language immersion programs for children ages 1 - 10 in Spanish, French, German, Italian and Mandarin Chinese.

The Theater School at DePaul University (312) 922-1999 Tickets: theatre.depaul.edu

Looking for that perfect gift for everybody on your list?

Bring the world to your child.

Language Stars Many Chicagoland locations (866) 55-STARS (557-8277) languagestars.com

Think Downtown Oak Park gift certificates! Good at over 70 shops and restaurants.

Purchase at the Oak Park Visitors Center – 1010 Lake Street.

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advertising //

Jingle Bell, Jingle Buy - Gift Ideas

Give the gift of real life skills

Empower yourself and those you care about the most with some new skills – real skills for real life - to keep you safe & warm through the winter and beyond. We are ready to train you!

Daily classes and seasonal camps offer a variety of martial arts training options. Call today!

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

Celebrate holidays around the world at Museum of Science and Industry Don’t miss Museum of Science and Industry exhibition of Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light with trees featuring cultures from across the globe.

Museum of Science and Industry 5700 South Lake Shore Dr.,Chicago (773) 684-1414 msichicago.org/education/field-trips/ learning-labs/

A great gift selection at great prices We offer the gift of selection - over 150 styles and colors of bedroom furniture for kids, with matching accessories. Outlet prices. Free parking.

Rooms4Kids Furniture Outlet!

629 W. Cermak Rd., Chicago Sat. 10-5 Sun. 12-5 by apt. during the week rooms4kids.com

Visit Stratford Square for shopping, dining and play this holiday season!

5 Department stores, 135 retailers, restaurants, movies, bowling, Santa, events and so much more. For more information visit www.StratfordMall.com.

Stratford Square Mall Located on the corner of Schick Rd and Gary Ave in Bloomingdale, IL. (630) 351-9400 Stratfordmall.com

Next day toy delivery in Chicagoland!

Your best source for last minute gifts at LOW prices. Did you forget something? We can get you out of that jam. Great selection, low prices FAST DELIVERY.

The Toy King 7246 W. Foster Ave, Chicago (708) 831-4175 TheToyKing.com

Custom Jewelry is a great gift for all Meaningful, custom handstamped jewelry and Christmas ornaments created with any names, dates or inspirational words- made just for you!

Save 20% off your order of $75 or more! Use code: “ChiDEC20” (Exp. 12.31.14. cannot be combined.)

Vintage Pearl Thevintagepearl.com

Frozen fun this season!

This winter, bring the whole family to FROZEMONT for a day of fun. Enjoy free ice skating and even winter tubing on the brand new four-story Polar Peak.

MB Financial Park 5501 Park Place, Rosemont MBParkatRosemont.com/Frozemont

Give The Gift of Laughter at Second City!

Ages 4 and up can spread Holiday Laughs in improv, acting, comedy writing classes and more for one to fourteen weeks at The Second City Training Center. Winter camps and classes can be found

The Second City secondcity.com/kids

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BOOK PEOPLE UNITE

Help us get books to kids in need.

Help us get books to kids in need.

TAKE THE PLEDGE TAKE THE PLEDGE BookPeopleUnite.org BookPeopleUnite.org All trademarks and copyrights are properties of their respective owners.

All trademarks and copyrights are properties of their respective owners.

68 December 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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Gifted & Enrichment Directory

special advertising section // Dolphin Swim Club ENRICHMENT Crystal Lake, Skokie

A Fairytale Ballet

Where Imagination & Dance live Happily Ever After Chicago/Lakeview (773) 477-4488 Chicago/Bucktown/Wicker Park (773) 606-0318 (773) 477-4488 Evanston www.afairytaleballet.com

Chicago Blue Dolphins An aquatic fitness business delivering state-of-the-art swim instruction and training programs 2222 N Elston Ave, Chicago (773) 342-7250 chicagobluedolphins.com

Chicago Athletic Clubs You will have access to the finest workout machines, cardio equipment and free weights, coupled with uber-modern locker room amenities and stunning facilities geared for anything from energizing spinning classes to relaxing massages Bucktown/Lincoln Park/West Loop/Lakeview/Lincoln Square Wicker Park/Evanston chicagoathleticclubs.com

(847) 854-1300 dolphinswimclub.com

Intercultural Montessori Language School Language immersion programs in Spanish, Japanese, or Chinese PreK – 6th 301 S. Ridgeland, Oak Park 114 S. Racine, Chicago (708) 848-6626 interculturalmontessori.org

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

The Language and Music School 150 N. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park (708) 524-LALA (5252) Lmschool.com

Little Gym From infant to toddler, our Parent & Child classes promote early development & provide a strong foundation for your childʼs critical first three years.

3216 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago (773) 525-5750

Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts

GIFTED Avery Coonley School Pre-K ~ 8th grade independent school for academically gifted students.

1400 Maple Ave., Downers Grove (630) 969-0800 averycoonley.org

Developmentally Appropriate & focused in a safe, traditional martial arts environment.

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

Eye Level Learning Center, Northbrook

Second City

GiftedandTalented.com

Ages 4 and up can spread Holiday Laughs in improv, acting, comedy writing classes and more for one to fourteen weeks at The Second City Training Center.

1608 N Wells St., Chicago (312) 664-3959 www.secondcity.com

1512B Shermer Road Northbrook (847) 559-0898 www.eyelevelnorthbrook.com Online K-12 courses in Mathematics, Language Arts, Science and Computer Programming developed by Stanford University.

(844) 9-GIFTED (844) 944-3833 www.giftedandtalented.com

Quest Academy Independent day school, gifted and talented students prechool-8th 500 N. Benton, Palatine (847) 202-8035 questacademy.org

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Mary Macaroni

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

As seen on WGN, WTTW, and NBC Local!

Children’s Parties!

Corporate Events!

Award-winning magician with over 30 years experience!

All Birthday Shows include balloon animals and live rabbits!

Also offering Face Painting!

Don’t miss our newest magic trick, “BirthDAy ChilD levitAteS”

Magical Entertainment for all occasions!

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

Call Today:

www.kidzmagic.biz

773-774-3755

www.marymacaroni.com

Traveling Players presents

T is theSeason with Mrs. Klaus

• Magic Tricks • Singing Carols • Face Painting • Balloon Animals • Games • Cloe the Clown Book your Birthday, Holiday Parties Today!

Call: 630-816-2288 www.cloeclown.com

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

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

847-672-6165

www.letsclownaround.net

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

Custom designs for all ages 503-867-9223 Chicagoland

msAnnaArt.com

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

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Natures Creatures Animal Show

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

Serving the Chicago land area for over 10 years!

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

For more info or to book:

call Erin at

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

Make your next Birthday Party a

(773) 881-9379 or visit:

www.naturescreatures.net

#1 Birthday magician

Amazing Tim Adamz 3 Arrives Early

3 Amazes Kids 4-9

Rated

3 As Seen on WGN

• Hands-on • No mess fun • Ages 5-12!

3 Live Rabbit

HHHHH

Book Him Here Now: www.AmazingAdamz.com - 630-416-4318

847-895-2340 Schaumburg

www.mypartyprincess.com Come experience the ultimate

Girly-Girl Party!

• Princess Tea Parties

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

North Cook and Lake

• Diva/Glamour Parties • Spa Parties • All New! Doll Parties • All New Limo Service!!

• Ultimate Pajama Parties

We Come to You!

• All-New FROZEN Parties - Elsa & Anna are HERE!

Chicago 773-227-3345

224-676-1635

Western Suburbs 630-393-3322

Planning a Party?

Check out our Entertainment & Party Planning section for the perfect entertainer, party supply or service.

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community

Balloonists!

Stiltwalkers!

Facepainters! & More!

calendar

education

Licensed, insured & bonded

Cupkake's Family

Fun Time Entertainment

babies

708-633-1867 www.cupkakes.com

Santa & Mrs. Claus

Aunt Holly & Frosty

web extras

Magic & Juggling Shows Balloon Animals and Puppets

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

Video clips and party ideas are provided on the website.

museums party planning special needs

847-228-0882

travel

•We Visit You! •Christmas Parties •School & Church Parties •Christmas Eve Visits

(Visits in South/SW suburbs only)

708-720-2899

Looking for Childcare Solutions?

You can find great options in our Childcare Services section.

www.partypop.com/ Vendors/3218748.htm

Traveling Players

Aurora area

CLOE the Clown

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

Book your Birthday Parties Today!

Call: 630-816-2288 www.cloeclown.com

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family

www.IYQENT.com IYQ Entertainment

presents

ChicagoParent.com

CLOWNS! MAGICIANS! Jugglers Caricature Artists!

SuE’S Party Diane Cloe Knight is AnimAlS

Weekend Scoop Treasure Chest

CP rEwards and much more!

Visit us today.

Cloe Clown Book us for your next party or event!

the

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

115 Cedar You'll LOVE US!

Street, Aurora IL 60506 www.cloeclown.com Online at ChicagoParent.com 847-215-8508 Children’s birthday parties a specialty with balloon animals, face painting, silly story telling with puppetry, magic, games, prizes, goody bags and more Call (630) Sue Johnson, Educator 816-2288

11/13/14 4:50 PM

calen c darr DECEMBER

1

If we’ve If ve lleaarned d anything a ythi from fro r m Wil W Will ill Ferrell, it Fe Fer it’ss that at eelves lves l eat at fr from tthe four main m n ffood o dg grou groups: roups: oup cand ccandy, andy candy canes, an cand ndy corns corn orns and sy syrup. yrup. At A Pancakes P ca ake wiit ith Santa anta nta, you u can an enjoy enjo a vvisitt with the origin iginal al eelf as well as a ssweet pancake p a bar—toppi ar t ngs include crushed cand candy canes, n chocolate ch hips, whipped cream, syrup, yrup, strawberry and a chocolate sauce. (We never n er claimed la it was h healthy!) Plus, enjoy joy ffestive e music and geet a chance cee to tell tel Santa your holiday wishess. yyo s $10. $10 9-11:30 a.m. Dec $ Dec. e 6, 13, 6 13 20.

1 2 Homewoo od Flossmoor Park D District, 3301 3 3 Flossmoor m Roaad, Flossmoor. (708) 95770300, 0 0 h hfparks.com. p m

2

Dust ust off your o tutus—it’s tu it time to o dance! We usually su y le leave the d delicate steps t of The Th Nutcracker to Nutcracker o the professionals, but att Dance-Along D nc o Nutcracker, Nutcrackerr, amateurs mateurs ma ur can g get in on th action, the c io too. o Don’ Don’t wo worry, B Ballet Chicago giv s a short gives h lesson before beforehand beforeha eforehand efore fo h nd and dances ri righ right rig alongside along alongs alon l the beginner beg beginners. Maybe you can can ca an hide hid be behind hin one of tho those tutuss if you u ttake kee a misstep. m sstep sstep. Free.

F Lessons Lesson o at 10:30 0 30 0 a.m. aa.m m. aand d1 1:30 :30 0 p.m.; p m dancing at n noon oon and a 3 p.m. an m. Dec. m D 7. Chicago Chicag Culturral Cultu Cultural rall Center, Cen en r,, 78 8 E. E Washington Washingt h ton St., St t., C Chicago.

Chicago hicago. hicago. (312) 312) 744-6630, 74 630 7 ch chicagoculturalcenter.org. chic hiccaag gocu cu ura ralcenter.org

3

When the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles exclaimed “tubular!” we have a feeling they might htt have be been talking ab about out this. Twilight Tub Tubing ub g is an ad adventure adve ventu e under derr th the stars ar (weather (weathe weather eather pe permitting!) perm rmitting!) at Good Goodenow deenow no ow Gro ow Grove’s ro rov ove o vee’s ve ’ss sledding hil hill, complete c wit with a fi fire re aand dh hot ott chocolate chocolat te for when you need ed d to o th thaw. haw w B w.

Br Bring ng g yo your own w eq equipment, or rent a tube equi be for for $1. $ Free. ee. 5--10 p.m. Dec. 27. Goodenow Grove ro ovee Fo Forest o t Pre Preserve, eseervve, 1.25 miles east of the interrseection t on n off Ro Routes ou utes tes 1 and nd n d 394 39 3 94 on on Goodenow Road, Road d, Beecher.

Beec Be Beech ch herrr.. ((815) 815 727-87 78 7-87 77-8 87 7 700, 00,, fpdwc.org. fpd f

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CALENDAR

Fostering a Lifelong Love of Learning for Over 50 Years!

Tw T wililig ight ght ht Tub ubing ubi ing in Seee pa Se page ge 73

1 | MONDAY PARENTING RESOURCE PROGRAM ON THE GO. Paint with

a pine tree branch, squish some clean mud and guess what’s hiding in the smelly jars. Free with admission. 11 a.m.-noon. Wonder Works, 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park. (708) 3834815, wonder-works.org.

2 | TUESDAY Parent Child /Toddler / Primary Extended Day Lunch Early Bird Enrichment – Math and Science; Art and Spanish; Reading, Writing and Yoga Summer Camps NEW! Toddler Enrichment NEW! Kindergarten Enrichment

Open House Dates Wednesday, December 3 9:00am – 11:00am Wednesday, January 14 9:00am – 11:00am

(847) 256-2922 2031 Elmwood Avenue in Wilmette www.ronaldknox.org

PARENT & ME HOLIDAY REINDEER. Parents create a rein-

deer with kids 4-12. Each participant will stuff his or her own reindeer, add a star to make a wish, decorate a holiday T-shirt and create a rhinestone collar. Reindeer birth certificates are provided. $56, $37 resident.

6-7 p.m. Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Community Center, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

SANTA HOUSE SPECIAL NEEDS NIGHT. An evening for

families with special needs to visit Santa in his house on the Riverwalk,

and have a photo taken. Reservations required. Photos $8 or two for $15.

5-8 p.m. Riverwalk at Jackson Avenue and Webster Street, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

3 | WEDNESDAY NATURE NUTS. Little nature-lovers

can sing, take hikes, visit the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven and more.

Kids 2-4 learn and discover through coloring, puzzles, sensory and water tables. Parents or caregivers participate in each class with their child.

Today’s theme is Animal Tracks. $15 pair; $10 member pair. 10-11 a.m.

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

(773) 755-5100, naturemuseum.org.

KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE SKY. Get out a telescope and view

astronomical objects in the fall skies.

Staff will be on hand to help locate cool objects. Telescopes available to borrow. 7:30-9 p.m. Forked Creek Preserve, Butcher Lane, Wilmington.

(815) 727-8700, fpdwc.org/index.cfm.

About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the January issue is Dec. 1. All events are subject to change. Please call the event sponsor at the number listed to confirm before you go. Events taking place on multiple dates during the month are listed in Ongoing Events, beginning on page 87.

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar

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

SPECIAL KIDS DAY HOLIDAY PARTY. Event is designed for children

of all ages with special needs and their families to celebrate the joy of the holidays in an environment planned for their unique needs. Santa will be there for pictures, and he has a gift bag too. Plus, face painters, balloon blowers, a craft to make, music, story time, homemade cookies, and even a quiet room. Lots of handicapped parking. 3:30-8 p.m. Wilder Mansion, 211 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst.

(630) 530-7700, specialkidsday.org.

4 | THURSDAY

Stt. Lu S Luci cia Cele Ce ebr bra attio ion See De See Se Decc.. 13

ELF CREATIONS. Kids 2-5, with

adult, start the holiday season off

NEW!

Light Show and Sound System!

As Seen on TV ABC’s Ch. 7 “190 North”

Celebrating Over 55 Years in Business • EST. 1957 PRIVATE PARTIES • PRIVATE & GROUP LESSONS FUND RAISERS • ROLLER DERBY & SPEED SKATING ENJOY YOUR NEXT BIRTHDAY PARTY AT FLEETWOOD

BIRTHDAY PACKAGE INCLUDES:

As Seen on TV WGN’s Ch. 9 “Around Town”

• ADMISSION TO RINK • SKATE RENTAL • DECORATED CAKE • PIZZA & SOFT DRINK • HELIUM BALLOONS

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CALENDAR the Great Tree lighting, old-fashioned candy cane pull, roasted chestnuts, Swedish cookies and shopping. 6 p.m.

Geneva Court House, 100 S. Third St., Geneva. (630) 232-6060, geneva chamber.com.

with a class inspired by Elf on the Shelf. Make an elf bed, a snack and other fun, elf-sized creations. $24, $16 resident. 1-2:30 or 6-7:30 p.m.

Barn Recreation Center, 421 W. Martin Ave., Naperville. (630) 8485000, napervilleparks.org.

Ligh ghts ts off Lis sle e

PARENT/CHILD HOLIDAY JEWELRY GIFT BOUTIQUE.

Kids 3-11, with adult, experience a gift-making experience filled with beautiful jewelry, crafts and homemade wrappings. Each couple creates jewelry items that are wrapped to take home. $54 couple, $36 resident couple. 6:30-8 p.m. Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Community Center, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

TREE LIGHTING IN WILDER PARK. Enjoy the tree lighting

ceremony, a visit with Santa and live music. 6-7:30 p.m. Wilder Park, 175 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 7391071, epd.org.

STORYBOOK COOKS: BAKING DAY. Kids 4-5 bring stories to life

Seee Dec. Dec.. 6

5 | FRIDAY CHRISTMAS WALK & HINSDALE’S STORYBOOK VILLAGE - A GINGERBREAD’S TALE. The streets come alive with

gingerbread men, Santa and more.

Merchants will be open late. 4-8 p.m.

Downtown Hinsdale. (630) 3233952, hinsdalechamber.com.

HOLIDAY WALK AND TREE LIGHTING. Features live-action store

window displays, horse-drawn sleigh rides, a marshmallow roast, face painting, refreshments and Santa. 6-9 p.m.

Visit website for schedule. Madison Street, between Des Plaines and Harlem avenues, Forest Park. (708) 366-2543, exploreforestpark.com.

GENEVA’S GREAT TREE LIGHTING AND CHRISTMAS WALK. Santa Lucia arrives by horse-

drawn carriage and Santa opens the Gingerbread House. Enjoy carolers,

through the recipes featured in both old and new beloved tales. All recipes are provided. Bring an apron. $29, $19 resident. 9:30-11:30 a.m. 95th Street Center, 2244 W. 95th St., Naperville.

(630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS IN HOMEWOOD. Watch the tree

lighting ceremony, visit the outdoor marketplace, explore shopping opportunities and enjoy live reindeer.

“Holiday Pop-Up Retail” indie-craft vendors will fill empty storefronts for more shopping options. Plus, visit the Holiday Yard Card painting workshop as families bring their favorite holiday card to life. 6-9

312.266.3381 catherinecookschool.org

EMPOWERED. Book Smart AND Life Smart From preschool through 8th grade our engaged students learn to make good decisions. Nurtured in a climate of creativity and computational thinking, they explore problem solving in fresh and useful ways.

Visit us online or in person 226 West Schiller (2 miles from the loop)

They graduate as empathetic, culturally competent students able to confidently adapt to an ever-changing world.

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CALENDAR p.m. Downtown Homewood. homesweethomewood.com.

SOUTHPORT HOLIDAY STROLL. Southport boutiques,

restaurants and neighborhood service businesses break out the holly and stay open late for this annual tradition complete with music, complimentary beverages and appetizers, a sleigh, carolers, discounts and free samples. 5-9 p.m. Southport Avenue from Belmont to Irving Park, Chicago. (773) 472-7171, lakeview chamber.com.

6 | SATURDAY CHICAGO BREAKFAST WITH SANTA.

Chesterfield Community Council hosts a breakfast and photo with Santa Claus. $15. 10 a.m.-noon. Tuley Park, 90th and King Drive. (312) 7476763, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

FROZEN BREAKFAST WITH ANNA & ELSA. Join the royal sisters from

Arendelle for breakfast with singing, dancing, stories and playtime. Bring a costume or borrow one. $25 adult/ child pair; $10 siblings and additional adults. 10 a.m.-noon. Purple Monkey Playroom, 2040 N. Western Ave. (773) 772-8411, purplemonkey playroom.com.

HOLIDAYS ON THE SQUARE.

Participating businesses celebrate the season with deals, sweets, treats, tastings, pop up shops, trunk shows, Santa and a tree lighting. Check website for schedule. 3100 Logan Blvd. holidaysonthesquare.net.

MYTHBUSTERS: BEHIND THE MYTHS. All new live show starring

Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage, co-hosts of the Discovery series “MythBusters.” The show presents an evening of on-stage experiments, audience participation, rocking video and behind-the-scenes stories. Call for cost. 3 and 8 p.m. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St. (312) 977-1700, broadwayinchicago.com.

JUNIOR ARCHAEOLOGISTS.

Kids 5-12, with adult, learn how

Zoo Zo oo Ye Yea arr’s s Ev E ve See De Se D c. c. 31

archaeologists work in the field and discover artifacts, then take part in excavating a simulated dig in the Oriental Institute’s Kipper Family Archaeology Discovery Center. $14, $10 member; $7, $5 additional. 2-4 p.m. Oriental Institute Museum, 1155 E. 58th St. (773) 702-9514, oi.uchicago.edu.

LINCOLN AVENUE JOLLY-PALOOZA. Stroll Lincoln Avenue, dis-

covering unique local businesses and plenty of holiday cheer. Expect to see Santa and Mrs. Claus and Victorianera carolers. 1-4 p.m. Lincoln Avenue from Diversey Parkway to Addison Street. (773) 472-7171, lakeview chamber.com.

SUBURBS COMPOSE YOURSELF! Event begins at 9 a.m. with an open house in the Nichols Concert Hall lobby.

Kids can play a variety of instruments at the Music Institute Instrument Petting Zoo and enjoy student performances. At 10 a.m., Chicago composer James Stephenson introduces kids to the instruments of the symphony orchestra and then leads the audience through the creation of a new work. $5. 10 a.m. Nichols Concert Hall,

Music Institute of Chicago, 1490 Chicago Ave., Evanston. (847) 9051500, musicinst.org.

HOLIDAY BREAKFAST WITH SANTA. Santa talks to each child and

hands them a present. Breakfast consists of pancakes, sausage, eggs, fruit, coffee, juice and milk. After Santa’s visit, enjoy entertainment where kids can participate in the show. $61 family of four; $47 resident family; $18 per person, $14 resident. 8:30 a.m. Batavia Park District, 327 W. Wilson St., Batavia. (630) 879-5235, bataviaparks.org.

NATURE NAVIGATORS. Kids 6-9

enjoy a wide variety of hands-on material, creative explorations, and fun activities based around the theme of the day. Dress for a nature hike.

Bring an extra pair of dry socks and shoes for indoor exploration. Today’s theme is Gross/Weird Science. $27, $22 resident. 1-4 p.m. Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 941-8747, obtpd.org/lvnc.

CELEBRATE THE SEASON HOLIDAY FESTIVAL. Activities

include tree lighting ceremony, Mistletoe Market, ice carving

demonstrations, carolers, live reindeer display and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Small fee for some activities; $2 parking. 4-7 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.

(630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

CITY OF ELGIN TREE LIGHTING. Mayor David Kaptain,

City Council members and Santa Claus turn on the holiday tree lights at 5 p.m. Other activities include Winter Wonderland and free skating at City-Skate. Noon-6 p.m. Civic Plaza, Elgin. cityofelgin.org.

CREATE A GEM TREE. Lapidaries Bill and Lois Zima of the Des Plaines Valley Geological Society teach kids 9 and up how to create a small tree using gemstones and wire. All materials provided. Reservations required. $25. 1-3 p.m. Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, 220 Cottage Hill Ave. (in Wilder Park), Elmhurst. (630) 833-1616, lizzadromuseum.org.

ELFIN MAGIC. Kids choose an elf

name, play games, sing songs, learn an elf dance and make a special holiday card to take home. Elf costumes provided for in-class use. $37, $25 resident. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (ages 3-5); 1-2 p.m. (ages 6-8). Alfred

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CALENDAR

Tree Tr ee Lig ight httiiin ng in Wililde derr P de Pa arrk k Seee De Se Dec. c.. 4

Rubin Riverwalk Community Center, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville.

(630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

FARMSIDE CHRISTMAS.

T:10”

Take a hay ride around the farm, and warm up in the farm house with hot chocolate. Enjoy performances by the Elmhurst College Brass Quintet and the Elmhurst College Voice Ensemble, which will include Christmas carols and an opportunity to sing along. 3-6 p.m.

Fischer Farm, 16W680 Old Grand Ave., Bensenville. (630) 766-7015, bensenvilleparkdistrict.org/pdcms/fischer-farm.

GINGERBREAD HOUSE COMPETITION. Participants are chal-

lenged to create gingerbread houses entirely of edible materials and showcased on a base measuring no more than 12 inches by 8 inches with a maximum height of 20 inches. The competition is open to youth (8-17) and adults. Plus, Chef Roby will create a 10-foot replica of his Guinness World Record-breaking candy cane and will then break the candy cane into tiny pieces with a “magical” golden hammer for guests to enjoy. 6:30 p.m. All Chocolate Kitchen, 33 S. Third St., Geneva. (630) 2322395, allchocolatekitchen.com.

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE. Enjoy

refreshments, holiday music, and a visit from “You Know Who!” 1:30-3:30 p.m. West Chicago Public Library, 118 W. Washington St., West Chicago.

(630) 231-1552, westchicago.lib.il.us.

HOMETOWN HOLIDAY. Santa arrives by fire truck, carolers stroll the

sidewalks, and hayrides, bonfires and a petting zoo set the stage for a lively holiday walk with merchant open houses. Free trolleys shuttle shoppers throughout the area. 3-8 p.m. 53 S. La Grange Road, La Grange. lgba. com/hometown-holidays.

HORSE-DRAWN SLEIGH RIDES. Enjoy a free ride in the park

and take advantage of a festive photo opportunity. $5 parking. Noon-4 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

LIGHTS OF LISLE. Festivities begin when the Santa Parade brings Santa to Main Street. “Once Upon a Christmas” features children’s crafts, brick oven baking and blacksmithing. Take a trolley ride through the downtown to view thousands of luminaria that line the streets.

Inside Village Hall, enjoy delicious holiday cookies, hot chocolate and festive holiday music. The annual Tree Lighting Ceremony is at 6 p.m. at Village Hall. 4-8 p.m.

Downtown Lisle. (630) 769-1000, stayinlisle.com.

SKATING WITH SANTA. Families with kids 2 and up celebrate the season and skate with Santa. Enjoy private ice time, holiday music, hot chocolate and cookies. Registration required for each participant. $17, $11 resident. 11 a.m.-12:40 p.m.

Rocket Ice Arena, 180 Canterbury Lane, Bolingbrook. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

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CALENDAR SUGAR PLUM FAIRY TEA. State

Street Ballet’s includes an appearance

by Santa, dance with the Sugar Plum Fairy, face painting and more. $40, $25 kids. 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Eagle Brook Country Club, 2288 Fargo Blvd., Geneva. (630) 232-0444, statestreetdancestudio.com.

WEST CHICAGO FROSTY FEST. Features a Christmas Parade,

crafts and activities, horse-drawn sleigh rides, dance performances, live reindeer, carolers and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Enjoy popcorn and hot chocolate. 4-7 p.m. Downtown Main Street, West Chicago. we-goparks.org.

CERAMIC WORKSHOPS. Kids 6 and up join Richard Cohen in a one-day workshop to create fun and exciting projects. Today’s project is a Holiday Special. $35. 1-4 p.m. Jewett Park Community Center, 836 Jewett Park Drive, Deerfield. (847) 9450650, deerfieldparks.org.

7 | SUNDAY CHICAGO A VISIT WITH SANTA. Santa and Mrs. Claus visit with children young and old. Bring your Christmas list. 1:30-3:30 p.m. The Red Balloon Co., 1940 W. Damen Ave. (773) 4899800, theredballoon.com.

a.m.-3 p.m. Irish American Heritage Center, 4626 N. Knox Ave. (773) 2827035, irish-american.org.

LINDA MARIE SMITH PRESENTS MEARRA - SELKIE FROM THE SEA. This family-friendly performance

features Smith’s adaptation of a classic Celtic tale told with original songs and performed with a six-piece orchestra playing along to projected animation. $18. 3 p.m. Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 728-6000, oldtownschool.org.

KIDICAL MASS. Bike ride for

kids and their families is held the first Sunday of every month, rain or shine. 10 a.m. Audubon School, 3500 N. Hoyne Ave. (773) 534-5470, chicagokidicalmass.org.

SUBURBS AN EVANSTON SYMPHONY CHRISTMAS. See the Evanston

Children’s Choir, Northshore Choral Society, Evanston Dance Ensemble, ETHS A Capella Choir perform and enjoy an audience sing-along of Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus. Santa and his elves also stop by! $30, $10 kids; family packages available.

3 p.m. Evanston Township High School Auditorium, 1600 Dodge Ave., Evanston. (847) 733-0814, evanston childrenschoir.org.

FUN FACT The Earth and the Moon are “natural” satellites. A satellite is an object that moves around a bigger object. The Moon revolves around the Earth, and the Earth orbits our Sun. Learn more about the Moon by following your favorite friends from Sesame Street in One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure now playing at the Adler Planetarium.

CANDY CANE TRAIN. Travel from CHICAGOLAND TOYS FOR TOTS MOTORCYCLE PARADE.

Thousands of motorcyclists ride in Chicago’s biggest motorcycle event to bring toys to underprivileged children. Bikers start at Dan Ryan Woods and ride regardless of the weather. 9:30 a.m. Dan Ryan Woods, 8300 S. Western Ave. (773) 866TOYS, chicagolandtft.org.

CHRISTMAS BAZAAR.

Includes mass, a breakfast, craft sale, bake sale and visit from Santa Claus. The Fifth Province and first floor will be transformed into a Winter Wonderland. The Bake Shop sells tea, coffee, homemade pies, bread, scones, cakes and cookies.

Santa Claus visits from 1-3 p.m. and will pose for photos with each child. $8 breakfast, $4 kids breakfast. 9

the Metra Train Station on Deerfield Road to meet Santa and favorite holiday “friends.” Refreshments will be served. $19, $15 resident. 1-3:30 p.m.

Jewett Park Community Center, 836 Jewett Park Drive, Deerfield. (847) 945-0650, deerfieldparks.org.

BRUNCH WITH SANTA. Enjoy a special holiday buffet and meet Mr. Claus. Young guests can have their picture taken with Santa and receive a Santa-style stocking cap.

Plus balloon-twisting entertainment. $23, $15 kids 3-12, free kids 2 and under. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.

(630) 260-8260, cantigny.org.

PARENT/CHILD GINGERBREAD HOUSE. Families with kids 6-11

can build a gingerbread house.

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CALENDAR Pre-made structure and candies are provided, as well as hot cocoa, light snacks and music. One gingerbread house per family. $48 couple, $32 resident couple. 1-4 p.m. Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Community Center, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

POLAR EXPRESS. Enjoy a trolley ride full of laughter, fun and a story.

After exploring the North Pole, head to the Holiday Inn in Oakbrook Terrace for a delightful meal, games and crafts.

During the event, Santa will make an appearance to visit with the children. $47, $42 resident; $10 kids 1-2; free kids under 1. 9-11 a.m. or 1-3 p.m.

Oakbrook Terrace Park District, 1 South 325 Ardmore Ave., Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 627-6100, obtpd.org.

9 | TUESDAY PRE-ENGINEERING WITH LEGO.

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Kids 5-6 can let their imaginations run wild with more than 100,000 pieces of Lego. Build engineer-designed projects such as boats, bridges, mazes and motorized cars, and use special pieces to create first-time designs. An experienced builder from Play-Well TEKnologies gives expert instruction.

Legos provided for class use. $20; free parking. 4:30-6 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

JUNIOR NATURALISTS. Kids 10-14

explore nature, practice survival skills and participate in behind-the-scenes animal care. Participants learn simple data collection and mathematical analysis methods and work with equipment used by real scientists to study plants and animals. Dress for the weather and wear clothes that can get dirty. $16, $11 resident. 4-5:30 p.m.

Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace.

(630) 941-8747, obtpd.org/lvnc.

10 | WEDNESDAY ENGINEERING FUNDAMENTALS WITH LEGO. Kids 7-12 can power

up their engineering skills with more than 100,000 pieces of Lego.

Apply real-world concepts in physics, engineering and architecture through

engineer-designed projects such as arch bridges, skyscrapers, motorized cars and the Battletrack. An experienced builder from Play-Well TEKnologies gives expert instruction and challenges new and returning students to engineer at the next level.

Legos provided for class use. $20; free parking. 4:30-6 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.

(630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

11 | THURSDAY VOYAGEUR FAMILY FUN NIGHT. The 18th century French fur

traders worked in teams called brigades to transport their goods across the vast wilderness of North America.

Find out how good of a brigade your family is in a series of fun games and trivia. 6:30-8 p.m. Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E. 135th St. (Romeo Road), Romeoville. (815) 886-1467, reconnectwithnature.org.

12 | FRIDAY CANDY CANE LANE. Families with kids 2-8 enjoy holiday activities, including visitation and a picture with Santa, crafts, games, a giant candy cane hunt, storytelling, face painting and more. Registration required. $21, $14 resident, free kids under 2.

6:30-8 p.m. Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville.

(630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

13 | SATURDAY CHICAGO FAMILY DAY: BLINK. Inspired by the exhibition Anne Collier, families with kids 12 and under can play with the art of looking, seeing and freezing moments in time. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave. (312) 280-2660, mcachicago.org.

ST. LUCIA CELEBRATION.

Andersonville’s celebration includes a procession from the SwedishAmerican Museum and a program at 5 p.m. Then the celebration continues at Ebenezer Lutheran Church, 1650 W. Foster Ave., with holiday songs, readings and a final Lucia procession.

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CALENDAR SUBURBS GATHER HOLIDAY CELEBRATION.

Welcome the holiday season with hot chocolate, music making and creating a handmade gift. Free with admission. 10 a.m.-noon. Gather, 602 Davis St., Evanston. (847) 859-2312, meetatgather.com.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA.

Families with kids 2 and up enjoy a kid-friendly continental breakfast, fun holiday crafts and entertainment. Kids can tell Santa their holiday wishes and get a picture together. $31, $25 resident. 9:30-11 a.m. Wilder Mansion, 211 S. Prospect, Elmhurst. (630) 993-8900, epd.org.

Le L eg ego go o Tra raiin n Sh S how w SSeee ee Deec. c. 13

Free procession; $1 or a canned food item for admission to the museum.

4:45 p.m. procession; 7 p.m. service.

5211 N. Clark St. andersonville.org.

A

FALL FAMILY WORKSHOPS. Explore

themes of winter and find time in the holiday hustle to create and move. From ballet to hip-hop, the whole family

Magical S E A S O N !

can learn and create together. $20 per family. 2-3 p.m. Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, 1147 W. Jackson Blvd. (312) 850-9744, hubbardstreetdance.com.

FEEDING FRENZY. Kids 8 and up learn how to properly prepare diets and feed reptiles alongside a staff member. Register by Dec. 6. Check website for cost. 12:30 p.m. Midwest Museum of Natural History, 425 W. State St., Sycamore. (815) 895-9777, mmnh.org.

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NorthShoreCenter.org ChicagoParent.com December 2014 81

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CALENDAR with the stars available. Check website for cost. Hollywood Palms Cinema, 352 S. Route 59, Naperville. (630) 4285800, hollywoodpalmscinema.com.

HOLIDAY HOOPLA. Wonder Works celebrates Hanakkuh, Christmas, and Kwanza on two very special days.

Events include storytelling, games and special art activities all celebrating the holidays and the diversity they represent. Free with museum admission. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wonder Works, 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park. (708) 383-4815, wonder-works.org.

LEGO TRAIN SHOW. The Northern Illinois Lego Train Club presents a model train show, displayed in a creative diorama that includes special items and whimsical pieces made by members. $5 parking (parking fee waived with a new and unwrapped toy donation).

9 a.m.-4 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 6685161, cantigny.org.

LEGO TRAIN SHOW PARTY. Guests can enjoy the Lego Train Show without lines and meet the creative builders from the Northern Illinois Lego Train Club. Snacks, desserts and hot chocolate will be served and a cash bar will be available. Ticket holders also receive a holiday keepsake and complimentary parking. $15, $8 kids 3-12, free kids 2 and under; free parking. 6-8 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

PARENTS DAY OUT. Includes lots of

activities to keep kids entertained such as a candy cane hunt, crafts, pizza and a movie. Children must be potty trained. $30, $25 resident. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Oakbrook Terrace Park District, 1 South 325 Ardmore Ave., Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 627-6100, obtpd.org.

14 | SUNDAY

HEJSAN - CHILDREN’S STORY AND CRAFT HOUR. Read

“The Wild Christmas Reindeer” by Jan Brett and create hand print reindeers. Reservation requested.

11 a.m. Swedish American Museum & Brunk Children’s Museum of Immigration, 5211 N. Clark St., Chicago. (773) 728-8111, swedish americanmuseum.org.

Ho oliday yW Wa allk k and Tr Tree ee Lig ght htin tin ing ng

members. 3:30-5 p.m. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive. (312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

LITTLE SCRIBE. Kids 9-14

learn how writing began, how it changed over time, and how it changed the world forever through this hands-on program. Try writing in two of the world’s most ancient written languages. Presentations and guided writing-themed tours begin at 2, 2:30, 3 and 3:30 p.m. 2-4 p.m. Oriental Institute Museum, 1155 E. 58th St. (773) 702-9514, oi.uchicago.edu.

WEST/FOX VALLEY SUBURBS HOLIDAY HOOPLA. Oak Park. See

Dec. 13.

LEGO TRAIN SHOW.

world of hibernating bears, harbor seals and cold-blooded reptiles, and learn how the animals survive in frigid habitats. Prep for winter by trying out ways to keep warm with extra fur, feathers and fat, building weather-resistant beaver dams, and saving up lots of food for the cold winter months ahead. $10, $8 zoo

interact during guided activities, facilitated by a Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory docent, and highlighting a different topic each month. 10:30-11:15 a.m. (18-30 months); 12:15-1 p.m. (3-5). Oak Park Conservatory, 615 Garfield St., Oak Park. (708) 725-2400, oakpark conservatory.org.

S e Deec.

Se c 5

CHICAGO FAMILY POLAR PARTY. Explore the

TODDLER EXPLORATION TIME. Parents and kids 18 months-5

Wheaton. See Dec. 13.

16 | TUESDAY TABLETOP HOLIDAY TREE. Kids

3-12 design a tabletop tree using their creativity combined with provided tinsel, lights, ornaments and more.

Some of the ornaments will be of original special design. Then create

a skirt to complete the tree. $56, $37 resident. 6-7 p.m. Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Community Center, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

17 | WEDNESDAY NATURE NUTS. Chicago. See Dec.

3. Today’s theme is Snow.

GINGERBREAD HOUSE DECORATING. Kids 2-6, with adult,

enjoy cocoa, cookies and festive holiday music while decorating a gingerbread house. Cardboard frame gingerbread houses and all candy decorations will be provided. $36 couple, $36 resident couple. 9:30-11 a.m. or 6-7:30 p.m. Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Community Center, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

19 | FRIDAY

20 | SATURDAY CHICAGO CHICAGO CHILDREN’S CHOIR AND SPHINX VIRTUOSI. A

special concert celebrating the holiday season. Call for cost. 7:30 p.m. Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., 5th Floor. (312) 8498300 ext. 10, ccchoir.org.

SUBURBS BREAKFAST WITH SANTA.

Enjoy breakfast, crafts, games and more. Pictures will be taken with Santa. 9 a.m.-noon. Hartman Recreation Center, 511 N. Collins St., Joliet. (815) 741-7296, jolietpark.org.

A CHRISTMAS STORY REUNION.

Naperville. See Dec. 19.

A CHRISTMAS STORY REUNION.

GINGERBREAD HOUSE WORKSHOP. Decorate a gingerbread

Meet “Flick” Scott Schwartz, “Scut Farkus” Zack Ward and everyone’s favorite little piggy “Randy” Ian Petrella.

Watch “A Christmas Story” on the big screen and hear stories of a holiday family classic. Autographs and pictures

house. All supplies will be provided.

Feel free to bring special candy or decorations. $20, $15 resident.

10-10:45 a.m. (2-4 with parent); 1111:45 a.m. (5-7). Oakbrook Terrace Park District, 1 South 325 Ardmore

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CALENDAR Ave., Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 6276100, obtpd.org.

FUN FEST. Families can prep for the Wolves’ game in the Skyline Room across the street from the arena’s north entrance. Play games, create posters, enjoy music and take part in several other activities.

5-6:30 p.m. Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Road, Rosemont. (800) THE-WOLVES, chicagowolves.com.

CERAMIC WORKSHOPS. Deerfield.

See Dec. 6. Today’s project is a Soap Dish.

21 | SUNDAY CHICAGO FAMILY POLAR PARTY. See Dec. 14.

JULMIDDAG: FAMILY CHRISTMAS DINNER. Festive and traditional

New Y New Ne Ye ear ar’s ’s Cele Ce ebra attio on Seee Deec. c. 31

Swedish Christmas Smörgåsbord is catered by Tre Kronor. Includes julklappar (gifts) for children from Tomten, a

TIMBER RIDGE WINTER FUN FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS Kids Love Timber Wolves, Timber Tykes and Sunday Kids for Fun on the Snow.

Families learn to Ski or Snowboard together Special programs on Sun., Tues. or Wed. Racing for all (ages 5 thru Seniors) NASTAR most Sat & Sun. for medals

timberridgeski.com|269.694.9449

Locally owned for 53 years of Winter Fun ChicagoParent.com December 2014 83

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CALENDAR

The Ultimate Guide to Family Fun!

Lucia procession and dancing around the tree. $70, $60 member, $20 kids 2-12; free kids under 2. 5 p.m.

Swedish American Museum & Brunk Children’s Museum of Immigration, 5211 N. Clark St. (773) 728-8111, swedishamericanmuseum.org.

SUBURBS CHRISTMAS SKATING EXHIBITION. Enjoy a variety of

holiday music while watching competitive skaters of all ages and levels perform. A very special guest will join immediately following the show. $3. 1 p.m. Homewood Flossmoor Ice Arena, 777 Kedzie Ave., Flossmoor.

(708) 957-0100, hfparks.com.

SKATE WITH SANTA. Take the ice with Santa Claus and bring a camera to capture the holiday memories. $6, $4 skate rental. 2:30 p.m.

Homewood Flossmoor Ice Arena, 777 Kedzie Ave., Flossmoor. (708) 957-0100, hfparks.com.

A CHRISTMAS STORY REUNION.

Naperville. See Dec. 19.

23 | TUESDAY HOLIDAY COOKIE DECORATING.

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Kids 6-12 spread some holiday cheer and make some delicious cookies and other holiday snacks. Recipe books will be distributed to each participant. $12, $7 resident. 6:15-7:15 p.m. Hartman Recreation Center, 511 N. Collins St., Joliet. (815) 741-7296, jolietpark.org.

24 | WEDNESDAY CHRISTMAS EVE BUFFET.

Chicago’s Holiday Carolers ring in the warmth and festive magic of Christmas in the city. Menu includes a la carte selections for kids, plus an extensive buffet. $109, $52 kids.

Noon-7 p.m. Drake Bros’, The Drake Hotel, 140 E. Walton Place, Chicago.

(312) 932-4626, thedrakehotel.com/ dining/drake-bros.

25 | THURSDAY CHRISTMAS DINNER. Drake

Bros’ serves their annual Christmas

Day Plated Dinner to celebrate the magic of the season with Santa and Chicago’s Holiday Carolers. Dinner includes an a la carte children’s menu. $99, $45 kids. 5-10 p.m. Drake Bros’, The Drake Hotel, 140 E. Walton Place, Chicago. (312) 932-4626, thedrakehotel.com/dining/drake-bros.

28 | SUNDAY CHICAGO FAMILY POLAR PARTY. See Dec. 14.

29 | MONDAY WINTER DAY CAMPS. Each day

brings a new theme and activities: Big and Small, Young and Old, Hot and Cold and Quiet and Loud. Both full-day and half-day programs are available for campers. Pre-K-grade 4. $27-$67 per day. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

GRANDPARENT/GRANDCHILD BINGO & PIZZA. Event includes 12

games of Bingo for grandparents and kids 6 and up, a snack, pizza and a drink, and prizes for everyone. $22, $15 resident. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Community Center, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

30 | TUESDAY WINTER DAY CAMPS. Chicago. See

Dec. 29.

31 | WEDNESDAY WINTER DAY CAMPS. Chicago. See

Dec. 29.

COUNTDOWN TO FUN! Design

a party hat, create a noise maker and get showered with confetti with countdowns to midnight each hour.

Ring in the New Year with fun, art, and music from Kantorei, the singing boys of Rockford. Free with admission. 12:30-4:30 p.m. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 963-6769, discovery centermuseum.org.

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CALENDAR

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FLEXIBLE APPOINTMENT TIMES • CREATIVE PAYMENT PLANS • PERSONALIZED CARE NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY. Ring

in the New Year at the biggest kids’ party in Oak Park. Includes snacks, games, crafts, singing and more. No reservations required. Free with admission. Noon-5 p.m. Wonder Works, 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park. (708) 383-4815, wonder-works.org.

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ZOO YEAR’S EVE. Includes live DJ music, games, party favors, prizes and an early countdown at 8 p.m. (in the Holly Jolly Theater). At the Hamill Family Play Zoo, make a noisemaker and enjoy an early kid-friendly countdown at 8 p.m. Free with admission.

6-8 p.m. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. (708) 688-8400, brookfieldzoo.org.

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Ring in 2015 with bricktacular balloon drops at noon, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Guests can also enjoy the

center’s nine attractions, including the Jungle Expedition, Kingdom Quest Laser Ride, Lego 4D Cinema and more. Free with admission.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Legoland Discovery Center, The Streets of Woodfield (next to Woodfield Mall), 601 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg.

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Holly jolly

cookie monsters

B

etween decorating the house, buying gifts and hosting parties, certain aspects of the holiday season fall right to the bottom—or off—the to-do list. If you’re scrambling to find some time to decorate cookies, we’re got a solution for you. These events all include some cookiedecorating fun, in addition to other holiday-related festivities.

The “dessert” at Country Christmas & Dessert with Santa is one you decorate yourself!

Families can step back in time at the Pioneer Log Cabin to help trim a Christmas tree, make crafts, and enjoy the season away from the usual hustle ustle and bustle. Th Then walk the lk tto th Redfield Estate to enjoy refreshments, decorate cookies and visit with Santa. $10. Check website for times. Dec. 3-4. The Grove, 1421 Milwaukee Ave.,

Glenview. (847) 299-6096, glenviewparks.org.

Holiday teas already feel like they’re from a different era, and this one adds in some motherdaughter bonding (another relic of the past). At Gingerbread Tea, m moms and kids 2 aand up learn which parts of w trees make the tr best teas, make bes own tea bag, their o and then d decorate d th t a gingerbread cookie to take home. $28, $20 members. 10-11:30 a.m. Dec. 6.

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

What were the holidays like back in the 19th century? Peek into the past with Christmas in the Valley, a glimpse into how German-American farm families celebrated so long ago.

Families can meet a traditional St. Nicholas, sip some soup, make crafts and decorate cookies. The chaos of the 21st century will be waiting when you leave. $8 family, $2 person, kids 3 and under free. Noon-4 p.m. Dec. 6-7. Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm, 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. (847) 985-2100, parkfun.com.

Just ask Bobtail: It doesn’t get more festive than a ride in a one-horse open sleigh. At Family Night Out: Sleigh Rides & Cookie Decorating, go for a chilly spin through Cantigny’s extensive grounds, then warm up inside with cookie decorating for the whole family. Bonus points if you can figure out a way to make that sugar cookie dough vaguely resemble a sleigh. Free, $2 parking. 5:307:30 p.m. Dec. 18. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

Elizabeth Diffin

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ONGOING EVENTS HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD AND HOLIDAYS OF LIGHT.

The museum’s 45-foot Grand Tree takes center stage in the Rotunda, surrounded by more than 50 smaller trees decorated by volunteers from Chicago’s ethnic communities to represent their cultures and holiday traditions. Stroll through the trees, enjoy falling “snow” and savor performances on the stage. School choral groups perform during the week, and ethnic song and dance performances take place on the weekends. Free with admission. Nov. 13-Jan. 5. Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

ADVENTURE TO SANTA. A

2,000-square-foot holiday cottage combines the latest technology with magical storytelling from creative minds behind such hit franchises as Shrek, Madagascar and How to Train Your Dragon. Families can make appointments by app before embarking on the adventure, which includes an immersive, eye-popping journey with Shrek and his friends as they guide children and families to the North Pole. Check website for cost.

10 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Nov. 18-Dec. 24. Oakbrook Center, 100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook. (630) 573-0700, oakbrookcenter.com.

CHRISTKINDLMARKET CHICAGO. Discover a traditional

centuries-old holiday market in the heart of downtown Chicago.

Christkindlmarket features German and international vendors who display hand-crafted ornaments, toys and unique gifts as well as traditional German foods, sweets and beverages.

School groups, professional singers and dance groups perform. Special events include appearances by the Christkind and the annual Children’s Lantern Parade, which celebrates St. Martin’s Day. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday.

Nov. 21-Dec. 24. Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago. (312) 4942175, christkindlmarket.com.

ZooL Zo oLig oL Lig ight htts See pa Se pagee 88

ILLUMINATION: TREE LIGHTS.

Walk a mile-long path to marvel at trees illuminated in colors and interact with lighted trees that respond to voice or touch. Kid-friendly interactive stations and a scavenger hunt to find the “Glow Man” planned. Plus, hear local bands every weekend. Cost varies; check website. 5-9:30 p.m.

Nov. 21-Jan. 3. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

NAPER LIGHTS. Stroll the museum grounds and experience a magical holiday lights celebration. 5-9 p.m. Nov. 27-Jan. 1. Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville. (630) 420-6010, naper settlement.org.

CAROLING AT CLOUD GATEMILLENNIUM PARK. Hear a variety

of choral groups and join them in a holiday sing-along. 6 p.m. Fridays.

Nov. 28-Dec. 19. Michigan Avenue between Randolph and Monroe streets, Chicago. (312) 744-3316, millenniumpark.org.

DALEY PLAZA SANTA HOUSE. Visit Santa’s House from

Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday-Sunday Nov. 28-Dec. 21; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. daily Dec. 22-23; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 24. Check website to confirm dates and times.

Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago. (312) 744-3315, cityof chicago.org/dcase.

CHRISTKINDLMARKET OAKBROOK. Enjoy a special

suburban edition of the Chicago German-American Holiday Market.

Includes hot beverages, German food, and gift shopping—just like at Daley Plaza. Check website for hours. Thursday-Sunday Nov. 28Dec. 14; daily Dec. 18-24. Oakbrook Center Village Green, 100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook. christkindl market.com.

AURORA FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS. A drive-through of more

than one mile of spectacular lighted displays, many of which are animated and illuminated by tens of thousands of bulbs. Donations accepted. 5-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 5-10 p.m.

Friday-Saturday. Nov. 28-Dec. 28.

Phillips Park, 615 S. Smith Blvd., Aurora. aurorafestivaloflights.com.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS TOUR. Festively

named trolleys transport passengers through a lightly narrated 2 ½-hour tour showcasing the lights of The Magnificent Mile, the Macy’s holiday windows, State Street and Navy Pier’s Winter Wonderfest. In addition, stop at Christkindlmarket and ZooLights. Passengers will enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and a cookie provided by Hershey’s Chocolate. $29, $19 kids 3-11; Holiday Combo Ticket: $66.50, $35 kids. 6, 6:30 and 7 p.m. FridaySaturday; 5, 5:30 and 6 p.m. Sunday.

Nov. 28-Jan. 4. Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Bus Company, Chicago. (773) 648-5000, chicago trolley.com.

WONDERLAND EXPRESS. Enjoy

indoor and outdoor lighted displays, designer wreaths and trees, and garden-scale trains that wind their way over bridges and through tunnels, and past more than 80 miniature versions of Chicago landmarks.

Call or visit the website for times and cost. Nov. 28-Jan. 4. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicago botanic.org.

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ONGOING EVENTS DISCOVER HOLIDAY TRADITIONS IN THE CHICAGO LOOP. Enjoy holiday magic at

beloved attractions, world-class shopping and dining, and a variety of family-friendly activities. Various locations, Chicago. loopchicago.com.

SYMPHONY IN LIGHTS.

Features more than 250,000 highly efficient LED lights embedded in thousands of feet of holiday foliage and choreographed to the music of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

The show is created with 1,100 channels of computer programming and 60 computers. 5-9 p.m. daily through Dec. 31. The Promenade Bolingbrook, 631 E. Boughton Road, Bolingbrook. thepromenade bolingbrook.com.

LONG GROVE HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES. Celebrate the holiday

season in the quaint and historic village of Long Grove. 308 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove. (847) 634-0888, visitlonggrove.com.

NAPERVILLE PARK DISTRICT SANTA HOUSE. Kids

can visit and have their photo taken with Santa. Photos $8 or two for $15.

Check website for schedule. Dec. 2-22. Riverwalk at Jackson Avenue and Webster Street, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS IN DOWNTOWN TINLEY PARK.

Features live entertainment, specialty vendors, kids’ crafts and activities, and food. Enjoy tree lighting ceremony, parades, carriage rides, movies and carnival rides. Visit website for schedule. 6-9 p.m. Dec. 5; noon-6 p.m. Dec. 6; noon-5 p.m. Dec. 7. Oak Park Avenue Train Station Parking Lot, 173rd and Oak Park Avenue, Tinley Park. (708) 444-5678, tinleypark.org.

ZOOLIGHTS. This holiday celebration illuminates the sky with two million lights, including largerthan-life lighted animal and seasonal features, holiday crafts and activities, visits with Santa and sweet treats.

5-9 p.m. Dec. 5-7, 12-23, 26-31;

Jan. 1-4. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (312) 7422000, lpzoo.org.

WINTER WONDERFEST AT NAVY PIER. 170,000 square feet of

holiday fun features indoor ice skating, entertainment, rides and inflatable slides. There are thousands of glistening lights, plush holiday décor, and holiday trees. Check website for hours. Dec. 5-Jan. 11. Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. (312) 595PIER, winterwonderfest.com.

WINTERFEST. This all-new neighborhood-wide holiday event includes a “Santa Sprint” fun run to benefit LaSalle School, horsedrawn carriage rides and carolers, holiday shop hop with wine and beer tastings, Jolly Trolley tours and more. Dec. 6-7. West Town, Chicago. westtownchicago.com.

JULMARKNAD. Visit the Children’s Museum for crafts, games and a special visit from Santa. Includes a kaffestuga, Lucia processions and folk

dancers. $2. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 6; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 7. Swedish American Museum & Brunk Children’s Museum of Immigration, 5211 N. Clark St., Chicago. (773) 728-8111, swedish americanmuseum.org.

ROSCOE VILLAGE WINTERFEST.

Kick off the holiday season with the annual tree lighting and late night shopping on Saturday. Enjoy kids’ activities on Sunday plus trolley, choirs and Santa. 5-9 p.m. Dec. 6; 1-5 p.m.

Dec. 7. Roscoe and Belmont, Chicago.

(773) 327-5123, rvcc.biz.

DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS.

Carriage rides and visits with Santa continue every Saturday through Dec. 20. Dec. 6 features complimentary refreshments and holiday specials in participating stores, plus ice sculpting on Front Street and Dec. 13 includes a “Reindog” Costume Contest. Cost for some activities.

Check website for schedule. 129 W. Front St., Wheaton. (630) 682-0633, downtownwheaton.com.

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ONGOING EVENTS Woodfield Mall), 601 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg. (847) 592-9700, legolanddiscoverycenter.com/chicago.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT BROOKFIELD ZOO. An all-you-

can-eat breakfast buffet with Santa and Mrs. Claus and some special costumed characters. Afterward, visit the zoo’s animals. Call (708) 688-8355 for reservations. $40.95, $28.95 kids; $29.95 members, $21.95 member kids. 9 and 11 a.m.

Dec. 6-7; 13-14; 20-21. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. (708) 485-0263, ext. 355., czs.org.

BROOKFIELD ZOO HOLIDAY BRUNCH. All-you-can-eat brunch

Long Long Lo ng Gro ove e Holilida Holi Ho day Fe day F st stiv iv vit itie ies

BROOKFIELD ZOO ANNUAL HOLIDAY MAGIC. Chicagoland’s

largest lights festivals features more than one million LED twinkling lights, singing to the animals, professional ice-carving demonstrations, light shows and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Select animal exhibits will remain open, as will zoo restaurants and gift shops. Enjoy live entertainment, magic shows, a friendly 38-foot talking tree, costumed characters and a model train display. Free with zoo admission. 4-9 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays

ory

featuring an appearance by Mr. and Mrs. Claus, costumed characters and furry creatures, who will be available for photos. Call (708) 688-8355 for reservations. $49.95, $35.95 kids; $39.95 members, $29.95 member kids. 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Dec. 7, 14 and 21. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. (708) 485-0263, ext. 355, brookfieldzoo.org.

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Dec. 6-21; Fridays-Wednesdays Dec. 26-31. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. (800) 201-0784, brookfieldzoo.org.

HOLIDAY BRICKTACULAR. Play special seasonal games and deck the halls with loads of brick-tastic holiday fun. Festivities include a stroll through winter-themed Miniland decked out with snowmen and

hundreds of holiday-themed minifigures, make a Lego Gingerbread House in the Master Builder Academy, snap a festive photo with the life-sized Santa and Snowman Lego models in Santa’s Grotto, take a festive factory tour and join creative building challenges. Free with admission.

Check website for schedule. Dec. 6-Jan. 4. Legoland Discovery Center, The Streets of Woodfield (next to

BREAKFAST WITH TOMTEN (SANTA). Event includes a Swedish

pancake breakfast, traditional crafts, dancing around the Christmas tree, and a special visit with Tomten.

Prepaid reservations required. $17, $12 members, $5 kids 1-2, free kids under 1. 9 a.m. Dec. 13-14. Swedish American Museum, 5211 N. Clark St., Chicago. (773) 728-8111, swedish americanmuseum.org.

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ONGOING EVENTS BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT LAMBS FARM. Enjoy brunch with

Santa Claus. After brunch, kids do a variety of crafts and activities, and get a photo with Santa. Reservations required; call (847) 362-5050. $16.95, $7.95 kids 23 months and under with activities. 9 and 10:30 a.m. and noon. Dec. 13-14; 20-21. Lambs Farm, 14245 W. Rockland Road, Libertyville.

(847) 362-4636, lambsfarm.org.

CHARLES DICKENS BRUNCH.

Visit The Drake to see carolers and whisper holiday wishes into Santa’s ear. Menu includes soup, salad and appetizer, a carving station and desserts. Kids enjoy a la carte selections such as grilled cheese, beef sliders and cheese pizza. $89, $44 kids.

Noon-4 p.m. Dec. 13-14 and 20-23.

The Drake Hotel, 140 E. Walton Place, Chicago. (312) 932-4626, thedrake hotel.com/dining/drake-bros.

HOLIDAY HOOPLA. Deck the halls

with boughs of jolly as in a merge of hands-on arts and crafts and math.

Vote for your favorite cookie, fashion

a snowflake, construct a kaleidoscope, and find the hidden shapes.

Free with admission. 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Dec. 26-30. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford.

(815) 963-6769, discoverycenter museum.org.

EXHIBITS BATTLE OF THE BULGE LEGO DISPLAY. See the key mo-

ments of the epic World War II battle recreated in Lego bricks. $5 parking. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; closed Mondays. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.

(630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

XOXO: AN EXHIBIT ABOUT LOVE & FORGIVENESS. Families come to-

gether in a place that fosters conversations and interactive experiences about love and forgiveness. Visitors can illuminate a message about love, write down loving thoughts and press them into Tokens of Love, build and explore a variety of facial expressions and write down what makes them angry or sad and then crank

it through a paper shredder. Free with admission. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 637-8000, dupage childrensmuseum.org.

THE MACHINE INSIDE: BIOMECHANICS. Exhibit explores

animals and plants as machines built for survival, complete with pumps, pipes, insulation, motors, springs and intelligence gathering devices.

Presented in English and Spanish.

Included in Discovery and All-Access passes. Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 9229410, fieldmuseum.org.

BUILD IT! Exhibit puts a new spin on an old favorite by letting children explore dozens of different types of building blocks—oversized, oddshaped, magnetic, and more—all in a single space. Start an earthquake, construct skyscrapers and explore angles. Free with admission. Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org.

LIONEL TRAIN ADVENTURE. The new electric-powered locomotive seats 28 children with a coal car, passenger cars and a caboose, courtesy of Lionel. $3. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

PLANT HUNTERS. The new library

exhibit highlights the research that takes place at the arboretum and brings awareness to the work of plant researchers throughout history.

Visitors can explore modern plant hunting by getting a close look at instruments used in the field and during scientific study. Also features interactive elements, challenging visitors to identify various plant species. Free with admission. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb. org.

NUMBERS IN NATURE: A MIRROR MAZE. An interactive and

immersive new permanent exhibit that will expose and explain the mathematical patterns that abound

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ONGOING EVENTS in the natural world. Dead ends are scattered throughout the maze, and hidden within the maze is a small secret room. Free with admission.

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

(773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

RAINFOREST ADVENTURE. Visitors can climb a kapok tree, explore a gorilla’s nest and meet virtual rainforest scientists. The exhibit will allow museumgoers to explore tropical rainforests around the world, learn about the challenges these delicate ecosystems face and find ways to help make a difference. Free with admission. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (773) 755-5100, nature museum.org.

OTHER EVENTS TODDLER TUESDAYS. Legoland

Discovery Center Chicago opens early on the second floor exclusively for toddlers and their parents. Guests enjoy story time and free play, plus

ory

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Professional services Directory special needs dentistry

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Tutor Services Individualized sessions to your child’s needs by a certified tutor.

Nanny Services We specialize in active role models who support your family’s lifestyle.

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www.ChildproofingChicago.com ChicagoParent.com December 2014 91

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ONGOING EVENTS NOW PLAYING THROUGH FEBRUARY 15

Adapted and Directed by David Catlin From the works of Lewis Carroll

XO X OX XO O: A An n Exhib xh bit i Abou out L Lo ove e and Forg For Fo rgiv ivenes nes ess ess SSeee pagge ge 90

“Astounding... eye catching entertainment” —The New York Times

play-based, foreign language story time, music class, make-your-own wrapping paper, water art, exotic animal adventures and discovery stations with sand and water sensory tables. $7. 10 a.m.-noon. Dec. 2, 9, 16. Legoland Discovery Center, The Streets of Woodfield (next to Woodfield Mall), 601 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg. (847) 5929700, legolanddiscoverycenter.com/ chicago.

ICE SKATING AT LINCOLN PARK ZOO. Whiz past the goats and cows at

Family groups of 8 or more save up to 20% In association with:

Call 312.337.0665 or visit LookingglassTheatre.org Lookingglass Theatre l Water Tower Water Works l Michigan Ave at Pearson Production Sponsor:

the rink in Farm-in-the-Zoo. Snacks and winter warming drinks are available for purchase. $5; $5 skate rental. 4-9 p.m. Fridays; noon-9 p.m.

Saturdays and Sundays. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago.

(312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

CRAFTS FOR KIDS. Kids 3 and up enjoy crafts for kids at all Lakeshore locations. Dec. 6: Chilly Snowman; Dec. 13: Welcome Winter Wreath; Dec. 20: Festive Card Holder; Dec. 27: Celebration Noisemaker. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays. Lakeshore Learning Store, various locations. lakeshorelearning.com.

EXPLORATION STATION. Try hands-on activities at the Exploration Station created by the Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory. There will be

a new topic each month highlighting special aspects of the conservatory for both adults and children. 10 a.m.-noon Saturdays; 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Sundays. Oak Park Conservatory, 615 Garfield St., Oak Park. (708) 7252400, oakparkconservatory.org.

GNOME HOMES. Kids create a

keepsake, light-up gnome home of their own. Tickets are limited and can be purchased in the Visitor Center. $10, $7 member. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. weekends. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 9680074, mortonarb.org.

GNOME HUNT. Search for gnomes

in the Children’s Garden using “I Spy” skills. Checklist provided. Free with admission. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 9680074, mortonarb.org.

FROZEMONT. Frozemont’s center-

piece is the four-story “Polar Peak,” which takes visitors on a tubing thrill ride (opens Dec. 12). The excitement continues with Shovel Racing and a Sled Box Derby on Dec. 27-28. The “Skating in the Park” ice rink is open to the public for free.

Check website for schedule and cost.

MB Financial Park at Rosemont, 5501 Park Place, Rosemont. (847) 349-5008, mbparkatrosemont.com.

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PERFORMANCES CALENDAR A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Dickens’

classic story of miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, his poor but optimistic clerk Bob Cratchit and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come. This 70-minute show features a cast of more than 40 local actors and children. $15, $12 kids. Through Dec. 2. McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. (630) 942-4000, atthemac.org.

BRAIN SURGEON THEATER FAMILY MATINEE SERIES. Brain

Surgeon hosts a rotating ensemble of musicians, magicians, theater artists, dancers, storytellers, improvisers, and teaching artists. $10, $5 kids. 3 p.m.

Saturdays. Through Dec. 6. Gorilla Tango Bucktown, 1919 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago. (773) 598-4549, gorillatango.com.

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE. $24, $16 kids

17 and under. 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5; 1 and 4 p.m. Dec. 6-7. Northwestern University’s Josephine Louis Theatre, 20 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. (847) 328-6683, evanstondanceensemble. org.

THIN ICE THEATER PRESENTS LOIS LOWRY’S NUMBER THE STARS. In this adaptation by Dr.

Douglas W. Larche, a Danish family protects a Jewish girl from the Nazis during the German occupation of Denmark. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. $12, $10 students. 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5-6; 3 p.m. Dec. 7. Mayer Kaplan JCC, 5050 Church St., Skokie. thinicetheater.com.

YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN. The Peanuts gang comes to

life in a musical for all ages. $28, $15 kids. 7:30 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays; 3 p.m. Sundays; special matinees on Saturdays. Through Dec. 7. Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. (630) 587-8521, steelbeam theatre.com.

A WINNIE-THE-POOH CHRISTMAS TAIL. Celebrate the holiday season

and see how friendship prospers as Winnie-the-Pooh and the gang come together to find Eeyore’s missing tail.

A Chrrist stma as Ca aro roll att the he e Goo o dm d an SSeee pa page g 94

Following the 11:15 a.m. performance on Dec. 1, 8, 5 and 12, enjoy a hot dog lunch for an additional $4.50 per person. $9.50, $7.50 kids.

Dec. 1-2, 4-6 and 8-13. Theatre at the Center, The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Ind. (219) 836-3255, theatreatthecenter.com.

A CHRISTMAS MEMORY. Based on Truman Capote’s memoir of his own childhood, this Southern Christmas tale is a tender portrait of a rare friendship across generations with a joyous musical score. $40-$44. Through Dec. 14. Theatre at the Center, The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Ind. (219) 836-3255, theatreatthecenter.com.

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A LIVE RADIO PLAY. Step back in time to

Christmas Eve 1946 and be part of the live audience broadcast. Watch five actors and a live Foley sound effects artist bring the beloved American holiday classic to life as they play 50 different characters in this retelling of the timeless story. $25, $22 students and seniors. 8 p.m.

Fridays-Saturdays; 3 p.m. Sundays; 3 p.m. Dec. 6 and 13. Through Dec. 14.

BrightSide Theatre and BrightSide Theatre Youth Project, P.O. Box

5976, Naperville. (630) 447-8497, brightsidetheatre.com.

6-21. Fox Valley Repertory, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. (630) 5846342, foxvalleyrep.org.

THE LOVE OF THREE ORANGES.

A holiday Panto, combing commedia dell’arte and live storytelling in a reworked classic Italian fairy tale about friendship and love. Cursed by an evil sorceress, a prince goes on a quest to find three giant oranges, and along the way encounters wizards, trickery, talking animals and love. $11-$27, $70 family of four. Through Dec. 20. Piccolo Theatre, 600 Main St. (inside the Main Street Metra Station), Evanston. (847) 424-0089, piccolotheatre.com.

WINTER PAGEANT. Dozens of talented community artists from across Chicago share their unique talents alongside professor performers. This year, Redmoon gathers true stories of love from real Chicagoans and adapts them into fantastic, beautiful and poetic expressions of love. $25, $15 kids, free kids under 3. Dec. 12-21.

Redmoon Theater, 2120 S. Jefferson St., Chicago. (312) 850-8440 ext.

111, redmoon.org.

CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE.

SING ALONG WITH SANTA. An

original short play starring Santa himself followed by visits with Santa and a treat for the children. $10.

10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays; 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Sundays. Dec. 6-21.

Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. (630) 587-8521, steelbeamtheatre.com.

LEGALLY BLONDE JR. As she tackles stereotypes, snobbery and scandal in pursuit of her dreams of getting her law degree, Elle finds that books and looks aren’t mutually exclusive—in fact, law may be her natural calling. $10-$15. 10:30 a.m.

Saturdays; 7 p.m. Sundays. Dec.

Production brings together the best elements of a cirque show, a Broadway musical, a Christmas spectacular and a family holiday show.

Watch as snowmen, penguins, angels, reindeer, toy soldiers, gingerbread men, ornaments and Santa perform elaborate production numbers, soaring acrobatics, gravity-defying feats, astounding illusions and more.

Also includes singers, original music and seasonal favorites. $25-$75.

Dec. 17-21. Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., Chicago. (312) 902-1500, thechicagotheatre.com.

THE SANTA CLAUS CAPER. Join Mother Goose and her fairytale

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PERFORMANCES friends as they tell the story of how Rowdy the Green-Nosed Reindeer saved Christmas Day. Enter Sidney Sneakthief, a villain who is plotting to steal Santa’s magical sack of toys.

Only with the help of the audience is the mystery solved. $7. Dec. 2-22 at a variety of venues. AlphaBet Soup Productions, P.O. Box 85, Lombard.

(630) 932-1555, absproductions. com.

MRS. CLAUS, A HOLIDAY MUSICAL. Join the Elf Class as they

try to find the missing list in time for Christmas in this musical show.

Recommended for families with kids 2-12. $12. Check website for schedule. Dec. 4-23. Chicago Kids Company, Beverly Arts Center, 111th and Western, Chicago. (773) 2059600, chicagokidscompany.com.

WELCOME YULE! Full-length musical production includes favorite carols, dancers, children’s chorus and appearances by holiday characters. $35-$125. Dec. 13-23. Chicago

Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 294-3000, cso.org.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Families

can have breakfast with Santa Claus on select performance dates, with a festive buffet-style menu complete with seasonal favorites. $15 and up. 10 a.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays; 1 p.m. Sundays. Through Dec. 23.

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

A CHRISTMAS CAROL. It’s the story of old, grumpy Mr. Scrooge and his employee Bob Cratchit, all told from the perspective of the Cratchit family. $30, $15 kids 12 and under. Through Dec. 24. Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. (847) 577-2121, metropolisarts.com.

A CHRISTMAS STORY. Based on

the hit film, the play by Phil Grecian tells the story of 9-year-old Ralphie

Parker, who longs for a genuine Red Ryder BB gun. $40-$44. Through Dec. 27. Theatre at the Center, The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Ind. (219) 836-3255, theatreatthecenter. com.

numbers, spoken word, puppets, and cookies and eggnog. Recommended for families with kids 5 and older.

Call for cost. Through Dec. 28. Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago.

(773) 327-5252, stage773.com.

THE CHRISTMAS SCHOONER. The

IF SCROOGE WAS A BROTHER. It’s

all about Scrooge in this hilarious reconstruction of the classic Christmas ghost tale. Spirited jokes and holiday music chronicle a journey from selfhatred to love as Scrooge faces his past, present and future. Call for cost.

Through Dec. 28. eta Creative Arts Foundation, 7558 S. South Chicago Ave., Chicago. (773) 752-3955, etacreativearts.org.

IT’S A WONDERFUL SANTA LAND MIRACLE NUT-CRACKING CHRISTMAS STORY… JEWS WELCOME. This show packs the

world’s most beloved stories and traditions into one extravagant cavalcade. The interactive show features original Christmas carols, dance

whole family will enjoy this heartwarming story of the first Christmas tree ship and the family who risked their lives to fill Chicago with the Christmas spirit. $20-$55. Through Dec. 28. Mercury Theater, 3745 N. Southport, Chicago. (773) 325-1700, mercurytheaterchicago.com.

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: LIVE IN CHICAGO! Full-scale production

with Foley sound effects, an original score and a cast of eight. After each performance, milk and cookies are served. $19-$49. Through Dec. 28.

Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 4047336, greenhousetheater.org.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL. The

Chicago Playworks for Families & Young Audiences

Follow the adventures in the life of young Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: boy genius, musical prodigy, and gifted composer. For all ages.

By Margaret Larlham directed by Ann Wakefield

JAN 13 – FEB 21, 2015 at DePaul’s historic Merle Reskin Theatre 60 E Balbo Dr, Chicago | 312 922 1999 | theatre.depaul.edu

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PERFORMANCES

Mrs. Mr s. Cla aus us, A Ho Holililida da ay M Mu us siiica cal ca al S e pa Se p ge g 94

Goodman presents its annual production of the Dickens Christmas classic. Tickets can be purchased at the box office, by phone or on the website. $25-$83. Through Dec. 28.

Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. (312) 443-3800, goodmantheatre.org.

GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS. Music and mayhem in this

classic fairytale make it just right for the entire family. Check website for cost. Through Jan. 3. Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 935-6100, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

CINDERELLA. A contemporary take

on the classic tale. Call for cost. Dec. 16-Jan. 4. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago. (312)

977-1700, broadwayinchicago.com.

BINGO’S BIRTHDAY. Kids are invited to Bingo the dog’s birthday, but no one can find Bingo. An interactive performance just for kids 0-4. Call for cost. Through Jan. 4. Emerald City’s Little Theatre, 2933 N. Southport Ave., Chicago. (773) 529-2690 ext.

810, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

DEE SNIDER’S ROCK AND ROLL CHRISTMAS TALE. This show tells

the story of Däisy Cütter, a heavy metal bar band looking to make it big. The four guys sell their souls to the devil in exchange for success, but every time they try to seal the pact, their head-banging anthems turn into warm-hearted carols. Dee Snider, lead singer of Twisted Sister, created and stars in this new holiday

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PERFORMANCES

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musical. Call for cost. Through Jan. 4. Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago. (800) 775-2000, broad wayinchicago.com.

HANSEL AND GRETEL. The classic story of Hansel & Gretel is reimagined as a rock musical for all ages, with music and lyrics by Justin Roberts and a book by Ernie Nolan. Call for cost. Through Jan. 4.

Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago.

(800) 775-2000, broadwayin chicago.com.

Y

THE B.F.G. (BIG FRIENDLY GIANT). The story of the lonely

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orphan Sophie, who is snatched away by the Big Friendly Giant to an enchanted land. Call for cost.

Through Jan. 4. Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago.

(773) 935-6100, emeraldcity theatre.com.

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CMY

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Treat your family to a Breakfast Buffet or Dinner With Santa

Group Discounts Available

drurylane.com 630.530.0111

THE WIZARD OF OZ. Join

Dorothy, the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow (and little Toto) as they journey down the yellow brick road to the magical Emerald City. This is a special one-hour

presentation, followed by a Q&A session with the cast. $15. Through Jan. 4. Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. (847) 634-0200, marriotttheatre.com.

THAT’S WEIRD GRANDMA: THE HOLIDAY EDITION. Celebrate

the holiday season with this show, which features an array of holiday-themed favorites like “Santa and Taco Bell,” “The Crazy Reindeer,” “Snowmen from Pluto,” and “Santa’s Mean Day.” 8 p.m.

Mondays. Dec. 8-Jan. 5. $12; $6 kids under 12. Barrel of Monkeys, The Neo-Futurarium Theater (2nd Floor), 5153 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago. (312) 409-1954, barrel ofmonkeys.org.

LOOKINGGLASS ALICE.

Transports audiences down the rabbit hole to a circus-infused playground for a wonderland adventure inspired by Lewis Carroll’s beloved stories. Recommended for families with kids 5 and older. $35 and up. Through Feb. 15. Lookingglass Theatre in the Water Tower Water Works, 821 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 337-0665, looking glasstheatre.org.

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JOY

SHARE THE HE E

Hurry, BEsT sEATs GoinG FAsT! Charles Dickens’

ADAPTED BY TOM

CREAMER |

DIRECTED BY HENRY

WISHCAMPER

NOw through DECEMBER 28 312.443.3800 | GoodmanTheatre.org For Groups oF 15+: 312.443.3820

Major Corporate sponsor

official Beverage sponsor

Corporate sponsor partners

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HowElls & Hood preferred partner

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Nutcr THE NUTCRACKER. The House’s

fantastical expansion of this holiday centers on young classic cente to save Clara’s journey j Christmas. This Chris modern holiday mo production pr weaves together w dialogue, pupd ppetry, original song and so spectacle to tell spe heartwarming, a he darkly moving story of magic and hope. $15-$45.

Now-Dec. 28. Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division St., Chicago. (773) 278-1500, chopintheatre.com.

THE NUTCRACKER. This pro-

duction features guest artists and members of Naperville’s DanceWest Ballet Company. The performance lasts about two hours. Call (630) 637SHOW for tickets and cost. 7 p.m.

Dec. 5; 1 and 5 p.m. Dec. 6; 1 p.m.

Dec. 7. DanceWest Ballet, Pfeiffer Hall, 310 E. Benton, Naperville. (630) 778-1303, dancewestballet.com.

THE NUTCRACKER. The

Schaumburg Dance Ensemble’s 20th annual production of the Nutcracker continues to delight audiences of all ages. A corps of professional dancers leads lead a large cast in Tchaikovsky’s magical ballet.

Tchaikov $26, $$18 kids and seniors.

Dec. 5-14. Schaumburg Dec Dance Ensemble, Da 201 Schaumburg 20 Court, Schaumburg.

C (847) 895-3600, (8 ci.schaumburg.il.us/ ci schaumburgdance. sc

State Street Dance

THE NUTCRACKER.

Tickets are available at 982-2787 or ticketmas(800) 982 ter.com. $32-$ $32-$134. Dec. 5-28.

Chicago, Auditorium Joffrey Ballet of C Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E. Congress Parkway, Chicago. (312) 902-1500, joffrey.com.

SALT CREEK BALLET THE NUTCRACKER. RACKER. Photos with Santa

are available ilable at 3 p.m. p m $20-$40. $20 $40 1 and 5 p.m. Dec. 6. Center for Performing forming Arts at Governors ors State University, 1 University ersity Parkway, University ity Park. (708) 235-2222, centertickets.net. ickets.net.

THE NUTCRACKER. UTCRACKER. Guest

dancerss from nationally renowned dance companies join the Rockford orchestra ra and the local talent of the Rockford rd Dance Company to present this holiday iday tradition. Call for cost. 7 p.m. Dec. ec. 6; 3 p.m. Dec. 7. Coronado Performing ming Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford. ckford. (815) 968-CPAC, coronadopac.org. dopac.org.

families with kids 4 and up. Nutcracker Tea takes place at 1 p.m. Dec. 6.

Check website for cost. 2 p.m.

Dec. 6-7. Northside College Prep, 5501 N. Kedzie Ave., Chicago.

(773) 262-3262, performingarts limited.com.

THE MAGIC OF THE NUTCRACKER. Performa Performance ance

will be presented at Libertyville High School’s Butler Auditorium, 708 W. Park Ave., Performance mance is recommended for Libertyville, at 3 p.m. familiess with kids 3 and up. Tickets Dec. 6-7. There will be are available ilable through the North a special “storybook” Shore School of Dance. $22, $15 kids version for preschool10 and under. Dec. 6-7. Lake Forest ers, “Clara’s Dream,” Academy, my, Cressey Center for the Arts, at 10:30 a.m. Dec. 6.

1500 W. Kennedy Road, Lake Forest.

Tickets for these (847) 432-2060, north noorth performances shoredance.com. ance.com. perform mancees can onlyy be pu purchased urchased by calling (847) RUTH PAGE CIVIC C 367-7970, BALLET’S T’S “THE 36 67-7970, or in person NUTCRACKER.” RACKER.” p at 540 N. Milwaukee Ave. Ruth Page age Civic M The Ballet’s popular l Th Nutcracker k Salt Creek will re-creation of the w also be Ballet performed at the beloved holiday per Genesee classic comes to life. e.

Gene Theatre in Waukegan $25, $12 kids underr Waukeg at 1 and 5 p.m. Dec. 12-13.

These tick12. 7 p.m. Dec. 6; 1 and 12 ets are available at the box office at 5 p.m. Dec. 7. Northeastern Illinois 203 N. Genesee St., by calling (312) University, 3701 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., 559-1212 or at ticketmaster.com. For Chicago. neiu.edu. information, visit themagicofthenutcracker.com. Dancenter North, 540 THE NUTCRACKER. Dream along N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville. (847) with Clara and her friends as the 367-7970, dancenter-north.com. mischievous mice battle the toy soldiers. Upon arriving in the Land of the Sweets, be dazzled by the THE NUTCRACKER AND PREYouth Company of Ensemble Espanol BALLET HOLIDAY SHOW. Hyde as they perform. Recommended for Park School of Dance performs the NORTH H SHORE SCHOOL OF DANCE: E: THE NUTCRACKER.

98 December 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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acker classic,, preceded by SALT CREEK BALLET’S “THE a holiday hooliday show NUTCRACKER.” Salt Creek Ballet featuring performs the traditional favorfea aturing the school’s ite, with accompaniment by the sc chool’s youngChicago Youth Symphony Orchestra. eest st dancers.

Recommended for families with kids A Sugar Plum Tea featuring 4 and older, recommended. $15-$40.

T costumed 1 and 5 p.m. Dec. 13; 2 p.m. Dec. co ostumed characters 14. The North Shore Center for the ac cters from The Nutcracker Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Nut tcracker and catered Skokie. (630) 769-1199, saltcreek catere ed treats takes after place af fter the Dec. ballet.org. matinee.

14 matin neee. $20, stu$10 kids and stu uTHE NUTCRACKER. NUTCRACKER. dents, kids 4 and d t ffree kid d Tchaikovsky’s Tcha aikovsky’s world-renowned under. 7 p.m. Dec. woorld-renowned music is brought 12; 1 and 6 p.m. m Dec. 13; 2 p.m. too life through Dec. 14. Mandel the d l th h talent l Hall, 1131 E. aand grace of 57th St., Chicago.

Svalander’s Sv Ruth Page (773) 493-8498, ballet company. bal Civic Ballet hydeparkschoolof $23, $16 student. ballet.org.

2 and 7 p.m. Dec. noon and 6 13 and 20; n p.m. Dec. 14; 2 p.m. Dec. 21. Judith THE NUTCRACKER. Following Svalander School of Ballet, 83 E. the Dec. 13 matinee, there will be Woodstock St., Crystal Lake. (815) a backstage tour for an additional 455-2055, jsvalander.com. $6. $25, $20 seniors and kids 11 and under ($2 extra at the door). 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 13; 2 p.m. Dec. 14.

THE NUTCRACKER. Performances Dominican University Performing

by Ballet Chicago are recomArts Center, Lund Auditorium, 7900 mended for families with kids 3 W. Division St., River Forest. (773) and up. Tickets are available at 237-1874, balletlegere.org. atathenaeumtheatre.org, by calling

(773) 935-6875, or by visiting the Athenaeum box office. $16-$30, $14 kids 10 and under. Dec. 13-21.

Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport, Chicago. (312) 251-8838, balletchicago.org.

THE NUTCRACKER. Tickets are available at online, by calling (847) 382-6333, or in person at the Barrington Dance Academy, 758 W. Northwest Highway, Barrington. $15-$28. Dec. 19-21. Barrington High School, 616 W. Main St., Barrington.

(847) 382-6333, byde.org.

THE NUTCRACKER BALLET.

performances.

There will be a free MAC Chat preceding the evening performances. $42, $32 kids 16 and under. 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 20; 1 and 5 p.m. Dec. 21. McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. (630) 942-4000, atthemac.org.

THE NUTCRACKER. This produc-

tion is in conjunction with The Berkshire Ballet Theatre. $27-$30.

3 and 7 p.m. Dec. 20; 3 p.m. Dec. 21. Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. (815) 3569212, rauecenter.org.

$15-$25. 7 p.m. Dec. 19; 1 and 5 p.m. Dec. 20; 3 p.m. Dec. 21.

1. Illinois lli i Youth Dance Theatre, Lake Zurich Performing Arts Center, 300 0 Church St., Lake Zurich. (847) 47) 438-4500, iydt.org.

THE NUTCRACKER.

New Philharmonic Orchestra teams up with Von Heidecke’s Chicago Festival Ballet for a holiday presentation of “The Nutcracker” ballet. Teaa Parties ($25) with sandwiches, hes, scones, sweets and tea, plus lemonade, cheese and PBJ sandwiches dwiches will take place prior to the matinee

Ballet Légere

ChicagoParent.com December 2014 99

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Holy New Year’s Eve, Batman! ost grownups are used to toasting the New Year with a little champagne or other sparkling beverage.

But at DuPage Children’s Museum, you don’t have to be an adult to enjoy some bubbly. y The museum welcomes families to t ring in 2015 with its annuaal Bubble Bash.

This year’s New w Year’s Eve extravvaganza is titled “A A SuperPOWERED D New Year’s Eve” featuring a fun— — and timely—sup perhero o theme. Kids caan try Marv rvel-ous activvitiees such as creeat a ing their ow wn “bat signal,”” fen ending offf bad guys with h cr crim imee--fig ghting

devices and designing their own capes.

There’s also an educational piece: Kids can create Super Hero Stretch Putty or delve into “powerful” science concepts like electricity, magnetism and circuits.

And when all that crime-fighting makes them hungry? g y Theyy get to create a yummy energy wand ou ut off healthy snacks.

No New Year’ss Evee party would be comp ete w pl withou ut a hip soundtrack, o cou of urse, so Mr. Dave and his Superr Herro Sidekicks provide some fun music for dancing.

Then n preepare for noon (even superherroes can’t make it until pe midn m night) with a countdown n desig gned just for kids.

It might not be a ro ock ckin’ New Y N Year’s Eve, but we th hink w we can guarantee it willl be a su uper one.

Elizabeth Diffin n

Bubble Bash 2014:

A SuperPOWERED New Year’s Eve 9 a.m.-noon Dec. 31

Through Dec. 8: $20, $15 members; after Dec. 8: $25, $20 members. Pre-registration required. dupagechildrens.org

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WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS

Let there be

W

hat happened the last time you sang to a tree?

We’re guessing nothing—or else someone gave you a concerned look.

But that’s not the case at Illumination: Tree Lights, where guests can sing to trees to make them change color and give the term “tree-hugging” a new— and more festive!—definition when those trees actually respond to human touch. (And no one will give you the side-eye.)

In other words, this is not your average light show. Illumination was a great hit with visitors in its first year, and its second outing has expanded to include

Symphony of Lights, lights that dance to music from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra; Meadow Lake Magic, where a series of lit orbs light up the lake; and a larger Tinsel Colonnade with multicolored strings of LED lights hanging from the trees like tinsel.

Illumination takes place along a onemile path at the heart of the arboretum, but you can take pit stops at one of three warming areas (roast a s’more while you’re there). On weekends, local bands perform and there are kid-friendly interactive stations and a scavenger hunt to find someone called the “Glow Man.” We’d say it sounds scary, but with 50 acres of lights around, there’s no way it can be anything but dazzling.

Elizabeth Diffin

Illumination: Tree Lights 5-9:30 p.m. Nov. 21-Jan. 3 (closed Dec. 1, 8, 15, 24 and 25) $10-$20; $5-$13 kids Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle mortonarb.org.

104 December 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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