Chicago Parent February 2017

FEBRUARY

2017 | FREE

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

LOVE is in the air

Spare a hug?

7 sizzlin’ date nights

CP_Cover_FEBRUARY_2017.indd 3

Your

CAMP compass A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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GOLDFISH IS TRULY A TROPICAL ESCAPE. THE FACILITY IS AWESOME AND “ THE TEACHERS ARE GREAT! BEST OF ALL, THE LESSONS HAVE REALLY HELPED AMIL’S CONFIDENCE IN AND OUT OF THE WATER. ” — JIMA BRAYNON

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Ask about our wonderful infant program! *Open enrollment in our Preschool Program at Lincoln Park and West Loop!* Lakeview 3111 N. Ashland, Chicago IL 60657 West Loop 118 S. Ashland, Chicago IL 60607 Lincoln Park 1929 N. Halsted, Chicago IL 60614 Evanston 2017! g n i C om 2814 Central Street, Evanston IL 60201

2 February 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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The Classical Experience begins here

Sapere Aude -- Dare to Know

Aspects of a Classical Education • The rigor of the traditional • The creativity of the progressive • Integrated arts and academics • Analysis that enables critical thinking • Cultural literacy

Our commitment to the liberal arts challenges the ordinary. CGS students enjoy and thrive in an environment that nurtures curiosity, develops academic proficiency, and inspires personal virtue and wisdom.

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P

alos Hills Riding Stables, Inc., offers first -class horseback riding lessons tailored to the

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4 February 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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contents IN THIS ISSUE 11

BEST IN CHI

12

INSIDE VOICE

14

GET OUT OF TOWN

Brookfield Zoo is free many days this month, plus best city spots for a family-friendly happy hour 3 artsy ways to show love

Leave your heart in San Francisco

12

22

CRAFT

23

REAL PARENTS IN THE TRENCHES

Make yarn hearts with the little loves in your life

How to teach kids to love 61 FEBRUARY 2017 | VOLUME 32 | NO. 2

CALENDAR

Find more than 100 great ideas for family fun this month

FEATURES WITH KIDS 25 LOVE, IN TOW

ON THE COVER Cover family: Carly Purcell Storey and her son, Michael Storey, 1, of Prospect Heights

It’s harder to date, but happilyever-after is possible again

POWER OF HUGS 28 THE Volunteer program at Lurie getting national attention

FUNNY 31 MY VALENTINE

PROBLEMS Valentine’s Day etiquette tips for school-aged children

THE 33 CALL SITTER! Wintertime date nights ghts to give you the warm and fuzzies

Photographer: Thomas Kubik of TK Photography

OF SPRING 37 POPS Put a little green in your winter DREAMING 39 SUMMER 3 How to prepare for overnight summer camp

Design: Claire Innes

Our big

CAMP GUIDE Find the perfect camp for your kid beginning on page 40

ChicagoParent.com February 2017 5

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EDITOR’S NOTE

For the love of kindness

It’s not school, it’s Quest

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

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Meet our teachers and administrators. Tour our campus and learn more about our curriculum and the admission process.

PRESCHOOL & PRE-K (Ages 3-4) Saturday, March 18 - 9:00-10:30 am Parents will have an opportunity to meet our teachers and learn about curriculum, observe your children as they interact with our teachers for fun activities.

Visit today!

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Tours available by appointment.

Contact our Admission Office at

I’m personally not a huge fan of Valentine’s Day because it’s too much about the paper valentines that wind up as clutter all over the house.

But I am a huge proponent of the feelings the day celebrates—love, friendship and kindness among them.

We especially need it right now. As our country works to find a way to TAMARA L. come back together under a new O’SHAUGHNESSY leader not everyone loves, we could all use a little more kindness toward each other.

I know you, like me, do everything you can to raise kind kids.

We teach them to hold open doors for others, to say “please” and “thank you,” to care about people, animals and the environment. My kids are pretty kind, but I always think I could be doing more.

I’ve been inspired lately by shows like ABC’s “What Would You Do?” and the sharing of stories on Facebook of everyday moments that otherwise might go unacknowledged. Many of the stories touch on the kindness of strangers in unpredictable, difficult moments.

The stories give me a gut-check on what I would do if faced with similar circumstances. Sometimes I would do the kind thing and step up, particularly in cases when someone is being bullied for being

different or when I need to open my wallet to feed hungry tummies.

Sometimes, I’ll admit, I think I would be one of the silent bystanders.

I need to do better.

I’d love to hear about random acts of kindness you’ve encountered, either on the receiving or giving end. Email me at tamara@ chicagoparent.com.

I wish you a February full of love and kindness.

A pile of chocolate won’t hurt, either.

admission@questacademy.org or call 847.202.8035, ext. 438 today. questacademy.org 500 North Benton, Palatine, IL 60067 6 February 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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CONTRIBUTORS

The thing we love most about Chicago in February EDITOR

Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy SENIOR EDITOR

Elizabeth Diffin DIGITAL EDITOR

Jackie McGoey ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Emily Adams ART DIRECTOR

Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNERS

Jacquinete Baldwin, Javier Govea IT AND DIGITAL DEVELOPER

Mike Risher CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Danielle Braff, Matt Boresi, Megan Murray Elsener, Keely Flynn, Lori Orlinsky, Shannan Younger, Marianne Walsh DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES

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

Kristen Benford ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER

Philip Soell

ADVERTISING DESIGN MANAGER

Andrew Mead

There’s no end to the fantastic cornucopia of restaurants offering Valentine’s Day specials—some all February long!

It’s one delicious (and refreshingly affordable) Date Month.

Keely Flynn

We love heading to Chinatown for the Lunar New Year parade in early February. I also love that the days get longer in February.

Chicago gains an hour and 10 minutes of daylight over the course of the month!

Shannan Younger

February weather can feel depressing, but it’s the best month to get out there and take advantage of free admission to many of the best Chicago museums.

Megan Murray Elsener

The excuse to get cozy. My favorite things to do include sipping hot chocolate at Mindy’s Hot Chocolate, attending Saturday morning coffee & donuts story time in front of the fireplace at the River Forest Library and snuggling in bed with my kids.

Danielle Braff

ADVERTISING DESIGN

Debbie Becker, Mark Moroney CIRCULATION MANAGER

Jill Wagner DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR

Caleb Thusat BUSINESS MANAGER

Joyce Minich CREDIT MANAGER

Laurie Myers PUBLISHER Dan Haley COMPTROLLER Ed Panschar FOUNDERS

Natalie Goodman, Carolyn Jacobs

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

chiparent@chicagoparent.com TO FIND A COPY

circulation@chicagoparent.com ADVERTISING

dhaley@wjinc.com

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At Shriners Hospitals for Children — Chicago, our mission is simple: deliver world-class care to children who need it most – regardless of their ability to pay.

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ON THE WEB

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Fallin’ for February on ChicagoParent.com Warm and fuzzies Valentine’s Day is one of those holidays that takes on a whole new life when you have kids.

Head to bit.ly/CPBeMine for recipes, crafts and Love Day events that will give you all the heart eyes, plus a couple of grown-up options in case you decide to call up a babysitter for the night.

Giveaways ways to t love If you’ree feeling g like winter is dragging ng on, fun fun family experiences es can make m that time pass quicker. Head to our Cont Contests tests page to enter to win tickets to Crayola Experience ayola Ex xperience Minneapolis (check out our thought thoughts ts on the Mall of America attraction at bit.ly/CPCrayola), bit.ly//CPCrayola), Adler Planetarium and The Lego Bat Batman tman Movie.

Plus, we’ve got our hands on the 2017 2 Girl Regis-of the Year, Gabriela, from Americann Girl and she’s up for grabs, too! tered sign

JACKIE MCGOEY

Love don’t cost a thing Don’t miss our huge list of museum free day days at bit.ly/CPWooHooFree.

Aquarium, The Field Museum Shedd A and the Museum of Science and Industry are all offering free admission for Illino Illinois residents this month.

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Brookfield Zoo opens its gates for free many days this month

I

f you think of Brookfield Zoo only as a warm weather outing with your kids, you might be missing out on some really special moments with the animals.

Not only do many of the animalss prefer the colder temperatures eratures and are more active, tive, particularly when itt snows, you might actually find d yourself on a nearlypersonal tour of their areas

because the zoo docents are less busy, says Sondra Katzen, director of public relations at Brookfield Zoo. “Most people find it very tranquil,” she says about the zoo in the winter. She particularly enjoys the stroll around Swan Lake at the zoo’s northwest corner.

Worried about the cold?

The animal buildings are heated and some even feel downright tropical, including Tropic World, allowing you to warm up building to building, Katzen says.

To make it even more tempting, the zoo is opening its gates for free general admission on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays through Feb. 28.

Plus, with the Hamill Play Zoo free through Feb. 28, many parents venture out to the zoo just for an hour or two this month to keep cabin fever at bay.

Best in Chi

Winter Fun

Mark your calendars for FREEze Day Feb. 19.

Brookfield Zoo offers dog sledding demos, meet-and-greets with animal ambassadors on the West Mall and zoo chats throughout the day.

ChicagoParent.com February 2017 11

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INSIDE VOICE

3 artsy ways to show love There are so many ways to feel and express love for Valentine’s Day (and all year ‘round); why limit it to the hearts ‘n’ chocolates route? Here are three of our favorite Chicagoland events worthy of wearing a heart on your sleeve. (Construction paper optional.)

KEELY FLYNN

Love for justice: ‘The Adventures of Robin Hood’ If you weren’t already hooked on the saga of Robin Hood, Filament Theatre’s take on the vigilant Band of Merry Men fighting the good fight should do the trick. Their production featuring the green-capped hero(ine) promises a fastpaced adaptation (by Oliver Emanuel) which breaks down gender roles—not to mention the fourth wall— with a fully immersive performance beginning the moment you step into the space. As Emanuel puts it, “It’s a tale that’s been told a thousand times, although never quite like this. It’s about the haves and the have-nots. The fat and the hungry. It’s about taking a

Love for yourself: Disney on Ice’s ‘Follow Your Heart’ If you listen closely, certain Disney princesses have a good bit to say about looking inward to find true happiness. Disney on Ice: Follow Your Heart showcases beloved characters believing in themselves and persevering in the face of adversity. Your tiny, fancy fans will thrill to learn that the sisters from Arendelle will be joined by Cinderella, Rapunzel, Ariel and more, traversing many familiar (and for many of your kids, recitable) story lines. Mickey and Minnie will be there, as will Buzz, Woody and the rest of the Toy Story gang.

Feb. 1-12; United Center, Chicago; disneyonice.com

stand.

And hope.

It’s ultimately about hope.” And if your budding thespians dig what they see, the folks at Filament invite them to craft their own Untold Stories from Sherwood Forest through a class series lead by Filament teaching artists and actors from the show.

Runs through March 19; Filament Theatre, Chicago; filamenttheatre.org

Love for community: Chicago Dance Marathon The Chicago Dance Marathon brings the love of giving back to the masses with its familyfriendly, eight-hour dance marathon. Since 2010, it has raised more than $2 million to benefit the patients and families of the Ann and Robert H. Lurie

Children’s Hospital. Two left feet? There are many ways to help; donations and sponsorship opportunities are as plentiful as requests for Justin Timberlake.

Feb. 25; Chicago Marriott Downtown; foundation. luriechildrens.org

12 February 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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BEST IN CHI

Indulge in theater The annual Theater Week offers astounding (and affordable) arts

S

o what makes a “theater week” so special in a town known for its year-round cornucopia of world-class theater? For starters, you’ll absolutely adore the ticket prices.

Presented by the League of Chicago Theatres and Choose Chicago, all shows will be $15-$30 and with more than 100 participating productions and theater companies, you’re bound to find the ones that thrill your brain, soul and wallet.

Some of our family-friendly picks include mainstay companies like Emerald City Theatre’s beautiful ode to Ezra Jack Keats and The Snowy Day and Other

Stories; Manual Cinema’s Magic City, a live, cinematic puppet show adaptation of Edith Nesbit’s novel at Chicago Children’s Theatre’s brand new space; Lifeline Theatre’s Fable-ous!, a take on the silly, wonderful stories of Aesop; and the Highland Park Players’ rock bandaccompanied A Fairy Tale Adventure. Larger-than-life performances like Blue Man Group at the Briar Street Theatre and the Chicago

Symphony Orchestra’s exquisite (and accessible) Family Matinee: Strauss’ Don Quixote are sure to bring the wow factor as well.

Other participating theater companies that we’re particularly thrilled about: Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, The Goodman, The Hypocrites, The Lyric Opera, Stage 773, Lifeline Theatre and The Joffrey Ballet.

Whether you’re supporting a neighborhood

Chicago Theater Week Feb. 9-19

For a full list of participating theaters, visit choosechicago.com theater or indulging in your love of Broadway, there’s no better time of year to see live theater in Chicago.

And for this price point, priming your offspring in the ways of the urban arts scene has never been easier!

Keely Flynn

Celebrations

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

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ChicagoParent.com February 2017 13

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GET OUT OF TOWN

Leave your heart in San Francisco

T

BY EMILY ADAMS

he city on the Bay has been the bae of travel destinations forever, but if there was ever a time for families to hit San Francisco, it’s now.

A place with insane cultural prowess where the dress code consists of hoodies and yoga pants? Mommas everywhere, say it with me: “Yes, please!”

On every crooked street (via cable car, of course), there’s so much to do, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer amount of awesomeness. So once you’ve booked your trip—hopefully including a stay at the drop-dead gorgeous Palace Hotel, San Francisco—grab

some CityPASS booklets to get admission to all the kidfriendly hotspots at a crazy good price.

And whatever you do, take along our tips for the chillaxing llaxing San FranFran stylee vacay you’ll u’ll never forget! get!

Historical hits

California Street

Museum M madness

The obvious historical highlight Strolling through museums might not of any San Fran trip is Alcatraz, be your kiddo’s favorite activity, but that’s which is totally worth your because they haven’t experienced how be afternoon. Tours sell out far in San Francisco museums make the arts advance, so make sure you book this his and sciences come to life. At the California experience as soon as you know you’re Academy of Sciences, a “living, breathing, ou’re Acade Exploratorium heading to The Pacific. Looking forr an all-green museum,” you’ll learn about all of the even quirkier way to learn about the innovative w ways the West Coast is saving the world he city’s edgy past? The San Francisco Dungeon geon has a and experience an earthquake stimulation room. haunted tour When planning your trek to the de Young Museum, your teens be sure to check out the de Youngsters program for the (and you) scheduled family-friendly artistic activities. And possibly will squeal the coolest art museum to show your little Picasso is the for—literally.

SFMOMA, which houses the most interactive, funkiest Around modern art installasunset, head tions that side of the Golden Gate Park - California out to the Mississippi.

Academy of Sciences heart of the But the absolute city, The favorite stop for kids Presidio, is the Exploratorium, where San a social learning, Francisco sustainable, scientific essentially playground where Alcatraz began. The tinkerers of all ages scenery is are more than welbeautiful, the buildings are historically brilliant and come to investigate munching on comfort food and sipping on seasonal the mysteries of the drinks at The Presidio Officers’ Club can’t be beat. universe.

14 February 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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Camp FRIENDship Golden Gate Bridge

Outdoor adventures Have littles who like to run around? Plan for an entire day to explore the incredible Golden Gate Park. Redwoods galore, botanical, Japanese and rose gardens, Segway tours, bike rides, boathouses, beachfront views and more make this spot a California dream.

Speaking of California sunshine, PIER 39 is a major tourist draw that the locals also adore.

Breathe in the bayside breeze, cruise the boutiques, candy shops and coffee kiosks and then hop on a Blue & Gold Fleet Bay Cruise Adventure to see the city in all its foggy glory from the water.

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Japanese Gardens

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Showstoppers Would any trip to San Francisco be complete without just a little bit of weird? The Madame Tussauds wax museum lives up to all of the strange and slightly eerie hype and is the red carpet of selfie spots.

And if you can steal away for a date night, Beach Blanket Babylon—the longest running musical revue in live theater history—is an outrageously fun variety show.

Culinary greats Let’s be real—the food is the best part of touring a spot like San Fran, and luckily, calories don’t count on vacation.

Although the Stinking Rose might not sound like the epitome of deliciousness, believe me, it is. As a restaurant that is entirely themed around garlic, this is an experience as much as it is yummy.

Swiss Louis Italian & Seafood Restaurant has a lovely view of Fisherman’s Wharf and the

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ocean, not to mention a fresh seafood selection that is like California in your mouth.

But on to the most important part of life: the chocolate.

Ghirardelli Chocolate, the pride of San Francisco, has sundaes that will make your entire year sweeter. So go ahead, get two.

ChicagoParent.com February 2017 15

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BEST IN CHI

and sippy cups

Southport & Irving

Best city spots for a family friendly happy hour

Y

BY LORI ORLINSKY

ou have a baby … in a bar?

While it was frowned upon in the movies, there’s no shame in indulging in a cold one (or two) after a long day alongside your littles, given the increasing number of restaurants that pair free or discounted kids’ meals and crayons with half-priced cocktails and apps.

Raise your glass to a few favorite spots to enjoy happy hour in Chicago, family-style.

Barn & Company This Lincoln Park BBQ joint is known for its varieties of smoked meat (pulled pork, beef brisket, ribs) and tasty housemade go-withs (coleslaw, herb breadcrumbs, sweet potato fries).

Grown-up special: Halfoff whiskey and $12.99 all-you-can-eat wings Kiddie special: Kids eat free When: 5-7 p.m.

Monday-Thursday 950 W. Wrightwood, Chicago; barnandcompany. com Café Ba-Ba-Reeba!

Loyal customers flock to

Café Ba-Oyster Bah Ba-Reeba!, a!, which features Spanish tapas in a casual atDunlay’s mosphere, re for staple menu on the Square items (bacon-wrapped This cozy Lincoln Square dates, paella, spicy eatery serves a wide array of potatoes) and signature American dishes (mac and sangrias. cheese, chicken pot pie, baby back ribs) that pair with an Grown-up special: $16 extensive wine menu. pitchers of Sangria and $1 pintxos (potato and onion Grown-up special: $5 bite, deviled egg, stuffed glasses of wine (Tuesday) & olive) $4 drafts (Thursday) Kiddie special: Kiddie special: Kids eat free Complimentary carrot sticks and hummus dip When: 4:30-6:30 p.m. with Tiny Tapas meals Tuesday and Thursday When: 4-6 p.m. daily 3137 W. Logan Blvd., Chicago; dunlayson 2024 N. Halsted, Chicago; thesquare.com cafebabareeba.com

Café Ba-Ba Reeba!

Frasca Pizzeria & Wine Bar Specialty pizzas and hearty Italian dishes (pasta rags, rigatoni gigante, roasted brick chicken) are the stars of the show at this Lakeview bistro.

Grown-up special: Half-price bottles of wine (Monday) and half-price glasses of wine (Tuesday) Kiddie special: Kids eat free When: 4:30-6 p.m.

Monday and Tuesday 3358 N. Paulina, Chicago; frascapizzeria. com

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Southport & Irving Southport & Irving features American cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, craft beers and an international wine list.

Grown-up special: $6 signature cocktails featuring gin, whiskey and bourbon Kiddie special: Kids eat free When: 5-6:30 p.m. daily 4000 N. Southport Ave., Chicago; southportandirving.com Hutch American Bistro Hutch lives up to its mission— to serve delicious, affordable food that guests will want week after week. Lobster nachos, skillet shrimp and baked crab cakes are sharable favorites here.

Grown-up special: $1 champagne, $2 well drinks, $3 drafts, $4 wines, $5 craft cocktails and half-off appetizers Kiddie special: Kids eat free When: 5-6:30 p.m. daily (kiddie special); 4-6 p.m. daily (grown-up special) 3301 N. Clark St., Chicago; hutchchicago.com

Frasca Pizzeria

Pork Shoppe This Andersonville BBQ hangout is a favorite for many who come in for hand-crafted meats (Carolina style pulled pork, Memphis dry rubbed ribs, Texas beef brisket), local draft beer and homemade cocktails.

Grown-up special: Half-off drafts of craft beer every weekday; $4 craft beer on Monday; $1 tacos on Tuesday; 25-cent wings on Thursday Kiddie special: Kids eat free When: 4-6 p.m.

Monday-Friday 5721 N. Clark St., Chicago; porkshoppechicago.com

Oyster Bah Designed to resemble a New England seafood shack, Oyster Bah features 12 varieties of oysters and hand-selected wines to pair with each one.

Grown-up special: $1.50 East and West coast oysters Kiddie special: Kids eat free (don’t worry, Oyster Bah has child approved options like chicken mittens and fish and chips) When: 5-6 p.m. MondayThursday, 3-6 p.m. FridaySunday 1962 N. Halsted, Chicago; oysterbah.com

ROCKS Northcenter Chicago’s home for whiskey, beer and burgers, the lively atmosphere of this neighborhood bar is perfect for families.

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18 February 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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FAILING WITH GUSTO

The marriage fantasy

Yet with a well-timed raised eyebrow or occasional “NO WAY,” my attentive performance goes unquestioned.

Joe and I both possess fiery personalities, yet we rarely fight. I would like to think it has to do with the mature status of our relationship and our ongoing evolution as a couple.

But I’d totally be fibbing.

Joe loses his mind over the small things (“Where are all the clean socks…

YOU KEEP SWITCHING DRAWERS!”). Though when real disaster or tragedy strikes, he holds it together.

Not me. Those are the moments I barely comprehend English, and logic and reasoning become as foreign to me as the top 10 fantasy picks for wide receiver.

As the kids started dropping off the assembly line 12 years ago, there was definitely increased tension. I had to lose the notion of “the marriage fantasy” promised to me by dozens of romcoms and poorly written romance novels.

Now our lives were a litany of questions. Who would remember to grab formula on the way home from work? Who would take off to go to the pediatrician’s office? Who would get up for the next 3 a.m. feeding?

And whose idea were these kids anyway?

In all seriousness, the kids were the impetus for us being together. Many of my earlier relationships failed because I sensed future bad dads. The men were often too selfish, too fragile or too unreliable to invest myself.

When I met Joe, there was instant safety. He was OK with my brand of crazy and not easily shaken. Plus, I thought he was totally dreamy.

Joe eventually bought me a beautiful engagement ring that I never wear because I have sensory issues and I hate rings. He is OK with that.

I reluctantly went along with the idea of a wedding, even though I wanted to go to Vegas and get married by Elvis. My dress was off the rack and cost about $200. I think

I ordered my invitations from the same place that killed George Constanza’s fiancée.

I never cared about the visuals. The big diamond. The big day. The big honeymoon (which I’m told we’ll get around to taking one day).

I cared about creating a family with someone I loved who would not run away when things got tough.

Recently, I directed my husband to the wrong school for one of the kids’ games. It was on a snowy day where we had five different events to hit. When we arrived, I realized my mistake.

The actual venue was two minutes from our house, but we were now 45 minutes away.

Joe frowned, threw the car into drive and tried his best to avoid getting another red light ticket. We made it in time for our son to play the second half.

Joe wanted to gripe, to direct his ire at me and to go into full-blown rant mode.

But he didn’t. So I questioned him about his Fantasy Football team. I asked him not to spare a single detail.

He had earned that one.

And so much more.

Life in Chi

My husband and I recently logged in another successful year of marriage.

Our body count held steady at zero. No dishes were thrown and/or broken. The ability to feign interest in each other’s favorite topics has never been stronger.

Joe seriously thinks I like Fantasy Football. When he rambles on about MARIANNE possible trades or player pick-ups, I WALSH am reminded of the adults from the old Peanuts cartoon: Mwha mwha mwhua mwha.

ChicagoParent.com February 2017 19

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MOMS OF THE MONTH

Chicago moms use their voices

#StandWithAleppo has become a rallying cry

BY SHANNAN YOUNGER

T

Photo by Jodi Swanson/Women of Strength

he images on the news of the horror in Aleppo, Syria, are haunting. More than 6,000 miles away, two moms in Chicago decided that doing nothing was no longer an option; Wendy Widom and Becky Carroll took action. They connected with Dr. Omar, the last neurosurgeon in Aleppo, and friended him via social media.

That personal connection led to greater understanding. “I realized something important.

Syrians are just like me. They are just like my friends and my family. They are teachers, doctors, salespeople, stay-at-home moms, journalists and carpenters. Once I developed friendships with the people whose lives had been torn apart by this war, I knew I would do whatever I could to help,” Widom says.

She and Carroll started tweeting using the hashtag #StandWithAleppo on social media, and others quickly followed suit. The hashtag has trended and garnered attention in the national media.

Carroll thinks that it has caught on and remained popular because “we provided people with an outlet to share frustration and outrage, and gave them a means to engage and do something about it.”

They have inspired others, from local Chicago parents to people around the country and the world, who have organized gift card donation drives for Syrian refugees, urged presidential debate moderators to ask about Aleppo and reached out to their federal

lawmakers and the United Nations to urge them to address the humanitarian crisis.

Mothers have been integral to the success of their efforts. “Wendy and I started this campaign with moms in mind because mothers in particular feel a sense of duty to children, even if they are not their own,” Carroll says. “You can’t help but be moved by children in Aleppo because so many have

been the target of a campaign by their own government and the Russians. We want to raise the level of noise to make sure these children and medical personnel are not left behind and not forgotten.”

The two women say that simply tweeting and sharing the latest news and information about what’s happening to the children in Syria with their networks can make a difference.

“The more people are talking and the more they are engaged, the more international leaders know that people are watching and listening. We like to think that will help to bring about change,” says Carroll.

While the campaign aims to help Syrians, both those in Aleppo and those who have fled, Widom and Carroll say they have also benefited.

“What has surprised me and has actually changed me are the friendships. There is Becky’s and my friendship with Dr. Omar, who is obviously a hero,” Widom says.

“But each day I’m also inspired by people around the world, people of all backgrounds and religions, who refuse to remain silent as atrocities are carried out in Aleppo and throughout Syria. #StandWithAleppo is no longer just a hashtag. It’s a symbol of hope and our shared humanity.”

The women also want to set an example for their children.

“I hope there will be a day when I can say Mommy and a lot of her friends rallied together for kids like her who wanted to live a safe happy life,” says Carroll. “That’s a tradition I will expect her to continue as she grows and develops her own life.”

20 February 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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VIVA DADDY

Towards a bigger Valentine’s season February is a brutal month for Chicago parents. It’s freezing. It’s been a long time since Christmas and it’s a long time until Spring Break. The Super Bowl is a Chicago-free zone and Groundhog’s Day was a great local movie but that’s it. Kids are stir crazy, marriages are tense and Valentine’s Day? It brings overpriced pre-fixe MATT BORESI dinners for couples, an obligatory exchange of boxed cards at school for kids like my 5-year-old, Viva, and for everybody else—nothing.

Unless your name is Fannie Mae, Valentine’s Day is dreary.

It wasn’t long ago that Halloween was also a mediocre holiday in a drab month.

Trick-or-treating was cute for kids who felt like dressing like a Smurf to snag some Sixlets, but no one else cared. Then Big Halloween made its move, and these days, there are literally weeks of Halloween celebrations: family fests, grown-up bacchanals—and trick-or-treating has become a booze-fueled progressive featuring animatronic porches. Come October, every abandoned storefront is a pop-up Halloween store, and Thanksgiving and Christmas are getting shown up.

St. Valentine’s Day involves me hastily purchasing roses while Viva crunches grumpily on chalky candy hearts and dreams of Easter. But Feb. 14 is a holiday celebrating LOVE! Love is an all-ages concept, and Valentine’s Day should have an angle for every member of the family just like Halloween does. I want to see Valentine’s pop-up stores selling inflatable, illuminated yard hearts, with sexy cupid costumes flying off the shelves. I want to go to neighborhood Valentine’s fests

ILLUSTRATION BY STEPHEN SCHUDLICH

featuring bobbing for truffles, and I want every craft beer to be cinnamon flavored for a month. I want Valentine’s block parties and house parties and parties in bars that make St. Patrick’s Day look like Arbor Day. Scratch the cinnamon beer, but I mean the rest of it.

Young couples don’t need another excuse to go to dinner.

It’s PARENTS that need a holiday in February. We need to make Valentine’s Day truly appealing to moms and dads instead of just the week we run to Target for a carton of Star Wars classroom valentines that say, “Yoda one for me!”

Somebody call some Chambers of Congress and get the ball rolling. It’s that or keep glumly fussing with the thermostat until May. Viva Valentines. Viva Viva.

Viva Daddy.

ChicagoParent.com February 2017 21

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CRAFT

Yarn hearts Create a little le love at home STORY AND PHOTOS BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER NER

S

pend a cold winter afternoon creating g some warm hearts for your home.

With a few simple supplies, you can wrap up these hearts to hang from your ur windows and spread the love this Valentine’s Day.

3

Directions Cut a piece of rustic floral wire and bend in half. Then create a heart shape by creating two round arches at the top and connecting them together in the center.

Continue to wrap until your heart looks like you desire.

There can’t be too little or too much yarn, it’s totally up to you how you want the heart to look.

2

4

1

Tie one end of string to the heart wire frame, then begin wrapping and criss-crossing the yarn from the edges through the center of the heart shape. Make sure you wrap the yarn around the edge once or twice tightly before crossing to another side.

Tightly tie off the final end of string. Tie a piece of string in the center of the heart to use to hang from windows.

Materials Yarn Scissors Floral wire

Megan Murray Elsener is a columnist at Chicago Parent and mom of three.

22 February 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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REAL PARENTS IN THE TRENCHES

@

Want more? Visit ChicagoParent.com/parentpanel

How do you teach kids to love?

Just by living it out each day in your own personal relationships and talking through the tough love decisions as well.

Gia Lee, Northbrook

Empathy. Exposing them to ways in which they can help others who may be less fortunate or just coming to the aid of a friend or family member who could use a little bit of sunshine.

Understanding the needs of others is what love is all about.

Kerry Quirin, Downers Grove

By loving them.

Being the example.

Showing them that you have love and compassion for others. All people.

Ryan Salzwedel, Chicago

I’ve never thought about how to “teach” them, because I show them every day. They know how to name it and how good and safe it feels to them, and they return the favor.

Rani Morrison, Oak Park

My children first learned to love as babies and toddlers. This was their foundation to know what love was and is. As they get older, they have been taught to love through performing acts of kindness and unselfishness toward others!

Diane Oliver, Chicago

The best way to teach children any behavior is by modeling it. Show care, concern, love for another and children will internalize it and make it part of their lives. Practice acts of goodness and kindness.

Lisa Cheruff, Skokie

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ChicagoParent.com February 2017 23

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Love, with kids in tow It’s harder to date, but happily ever after is possible again

BY DANIELLE BRAFF PHOTOS BY FRANK PINC

D

ating in our 20s was hard work.

We primped, we shaved, we put our best faces forward— the ones that showed our dates that we were smart, sensitive, kind and brave—and we hoped for the best. A happily-ever-after.

But for some women, happily-everafter ended too soon, whether due to divorce or death. Then they had to jump back into dating all over again— this time with kids in tow. Throw babysitters and custody battles into the mix and dating looks daunting.

But here are three women who have done it and come out on the other side happy. Their message: You can be, too.

A blast from the past After she separated from her husband, April Lenz’s son had just turned 4 and she was simply focused on making sure he was OK. When April re-met Jeff at a gathering of high school friends, he marched right up to her, determined to ask her out.

The Stanley Westmeyer family - Natalie and Marc with their girls.

The Lenz family - April and Jeff with their boys.

April said no. She wasn’t ready.

Two months later, he messaged her on Facebook, asking if she wanted to meet him for a drink. This time, she agreed.

“On the second or third date, I knew I would end up marrying him,” April says. “He knew I had a son and he was asking about Lucas on our first date. Any mom likes to talk about her children, so I went on and on about him, and he never changed the subject.”

Jeff didn’t have kids and he hadn’t been married before, but both knew that the relationship was going to be something serious.

He started planning how he would propose when they found out April was pregnant.

They got married when their baby was 8 months old; April’s son walked her down the aisle.

“My in-laws have treated Lucas like he’s their grandson,” April says. “Our family of four is as close to perfect as any family can be.”

Playdate or date?

When Natalie Stanley Westmeyer began dating after her 2012 divorce, she met guys who weren’t happy she had a child. Those were the ones she decided she didn’t need in her life, either.

“I wanted someone who would welcome her into their family,” Natalie says of her now 6-year-old.

She found that in Marc Westmeyer, who also has a 6-year-old daughter just four days CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

ChicagoParent.com February 2017 25

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apart in age from her daughter.

They met at work, and their first date was on a playground with their daughters, who became instant best friends.

“Neither of us knew if it was a true date or if it was a playdate,” Natalie says.

Their second date was a true date, however, though their daughters demanded another playdate.

“They’re best friends most of the time and true siblings 10 percent of the time,” Natalie says.

The girls share a room when they’re both there (Natalie’s daughter is there 50 percent of the time and Marc’s daughter is there one day a week, plus every-other weekend).

“It’s not all rainbows and unicorns, and it’s difficult blending families and transitioning everyone,” Natalie says. “The hardest part for the girls is that they were only children, and now they not only share their toys and our attention, but they also share a room.”

But the best part: They gained a twin.

And now, a brand new baby sister, Gwendolyn.

husband died at 39, leaving her with 4-year-old and 7-year-old girls. But before he lost his battle with colon cancer, he told her to marry again, to love again.

“He said that I couldn’t do this by myself,” Dena says. “He said that I would get re-married and that his mom would love whomever it was. No one wants to have that conversation, but it was one that resonated.”

Six months after he died, Dena’s father-in-law called to tell her that it was time for her to start dating again.

“My little ones said, ‘When am I getting a new daddy, when am I getting a new daddy?’” Dena says.

She met Eric Flagel, a single dad, through the kids’ school.

Since Dena was able to support her children financially and had a good support system, she was ready to try to love again.

Now, life is very busy, but it’s fulfilling.

“I remember when it was a Friday night, and everyone was here watching a movie and Eric looked at me and said, ‘We both really needed this situation.’ I believe that we were purposefully put together.”

Life after loss

Danielle Braff is freelance writer and a mom

Dena Sweitzer Flagel’s

of two enjoying life just outside Chicago city limits with her husband and two girls.

26 February 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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ChicagoParent.com February 2017 27

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PHOTO BY JAN TERRY, LURIE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

Volunteer program at Lurie getting national attention

The power of hugs

W

BY ELIZABETH DIFFIN

hen Marcela Flores’ son was born on March 4, it was clear she would have a lot more to deal with than most parents of newborns. Samuel was born at just 25 weeks gestation, and the first months of his life were spent in hospitals, including Chicago’s Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital, where he’s had two stays in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

But Marcela also has a teenage daughter back home in Rockford. As much as she wanted to be with Samuel 24/7, in reality, she just couldn’t. That’s where Lurie’s team of volunteers stepped in—especially those who are part of what’s known as the NICU “hugging program.”

The initiative, which recently received the first grant from Huggies’ No Baby Unhugged program, allows parents and caregivers to go to work, take siblings to school, or simply step outside for a breath of fresh air, knowing that their baby will still get valuable physical contact.

“They’re really thankful because they can’t be here all the time,” says NICU nurse

Volun Volunteer Dee Jarrett Dow has an important role hugging NICU patients like Samuel Escutiaflores.

Carrie Prather. “They know somebody else is holding [the baby] and hugging and giving them that personal attention.”

Flores says Samuel is “a lot happier” when he’s being held, so she’s glad that Lurie’s volunteers are willing to step in.

A recent study, prepared for Huggies and presented at the Canadian Association of Paediatric Health Centres, “The Power of Human Touch for Babies,” found that physical touch has measurable benefits for the health of a baby, including increased weight gain, improved oxygen levels, more stable heart rates, less anxiety and stress, better pain tolerance, improved sleep and, ultimately, shorter hospital stays.

The study gives new credence to what health professionals had already observed in Lurie’s NICU. “It’s really important that babies get held,” Prather says. “You can see their vital signs stabilize.”

28 February 2017 ChicagoParent.com m

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The study found that “touch is an essential component to help [babies] reach their optimal potential,” and that, while there have been many technological developments in caring for ill babies, holding babies is the most natural and cost-free way to help them deal with the trauma of being in a hospital setting.

Not every baby is able to be held in the “normal” way, either due to extremely fragile health or medical apparatuses that can get in the way. In those cases, volunteers have been trained in what’s known as containment holds—providing soothing pressure to a baby’s head and feet. Even something as small as giving a finger for the baby to grasp can have health benefits.

That type of specialized care is where the $10,000 Huggies grant comes in. The hospital has 500 volunteers—and more on a waiting list—but only some are

“It’s really important ortant that babies get held.

You can see their vital signs stabilize.”

Carrie Prather R.N.

trained in how to care for the babies in the 44-bed NICU. Plus, situations regularly arise that require additional training or input from hospital staff.

Sherry Frenzel has been volunteering at Lurie for nine years, ever since she retired from her job. She undergoes an evaluation each year and takes an annual test to show that she understands the hospital’s policies.

training doesn’t “The tra end after the initial training,” she says. “Every day, there’s something new or something to talk about.”

Prather sees the importance, from a medical standpoint, of training the NICU volunteers.

“They’re babies, and they’re sick babies, so they tend to be a little bit more fragile. So [the volunteer] training definitely is important. [And] we’re so thankful that Huggies did donate this grant because that helps with their training.”

Amy Popp, senior brand manager for Huggies, says it all plays into the brand’s No Baby Unhugged program, which includes the creation of diapers and wipes specially designed to meet the needs of the 90,000 micro-preemies born each year.

“Huggies believes deeply in the power of hugs,” Popp wrote

in an email. “We thought the U.S. News & World Report’s nationally-ranked Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago would be a great first partner for the No Baby Unhugged program, as they too understand the importance of hugs.”

A typical volunteer shift in Lurie’s NICU is two-and-a-half hours. Depending on the day’s priorities, which are established

by Carly Jokich, a child life specialist, and the Child Life Team, that time can be spent with many patients or just one.

Frenzel says she usually talks to the babies while she holds them, sometimes rocks them.

And if no one else is around, she might even sing, she admits.

“The babies, they all want the same thing. They want some love and attention and to hear a voice,” she says. “I think that CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

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THE POWER OF HUGS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

babies do smile. … It might be a new face, but they think they can trust you.”

The parents trust the volunteers as well.

“Parents have told me in the past that they feel more at ease knowing that someone will be checking in with their infant, providing comforting touch,” Jokich says.

According to Frenzel, who has hugged and held more babies than she can count, there are benefits for the volunteers, as well.

“It’s a wonderful feeling, the satisfaction, as well as the opportunity to help people who are going through some very difficult times,” she says.

“It’s one of the most fulfilling things I’ve ever done.”

Elizabeth Diffin is the senior editor of PHOTO BY JAN TERRY, LURIE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

Chicago Parent who loves to hug her two nephews.

Patricia Kling, a NICU volunteer since April, hugs Nikola Lazarevic.

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My funny Valentine problems

Valentine’s Day etiquette tips for school aged children

BY LORI ORLINSKY

J

ust when you thought the holidays were behind you, February sneaks up, and suddenly, you find yourself decorating tissue boxes-turned card mailboxes for the school Valentine’s Day celebration.

But unlike our easygoing and less regulated days of yesteryear, where it was perfectly acceptable to bring homemade sugary desserts to a school classroom, the unspoken rules have changed, making it difficult to navigate strong opinions about candy, inclusion and everything in between.

For the mommas who want to make Valentine’s Day special for their little ones, we’ve put together a quick guide to school etiquette that won’t break any hearts:

Will you be my Valentine?

When giving out cards, DO be inclusive and make sure every kid gets one, not just the ones your child likes. Many schools have policies on card giving around the holidays, mandating that if you give to one, you must give to all. I wholeheartedly (pun intended) agree with this, as it teaches children to be polite and inclusive.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

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MY FUNNY VALENTINE PROBLEMS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31

Delete your Pinterest app

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No matter what you send your child to school with, another mom will do it better. They will create personalized Valentine cards in the shape of a shovel (“I like you a ton”) and take the Pinteresting to a whole new level. DON’T feel obligated by social pressure—meet somewhere in between boxed cards and paper chain hearts— and DO give your child free rein to make their own construction paper valentine. Remember, the holiday is about making people feel loved and special, not outdoing each other.

Skip the princesses and superheroes If you go the route of boxed cards, DON’T give in to the gender norms and get pink princess cards for girls and blue superhero cards for boys. We live in a time where we are recognizing a great variety of gender identities, so DO opt for gender neutral cards or give everyone the same thing.

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

It’s natural to want to give out candy for Valentine’s Day, but due to allergy restrictions and healthy eating initiatives, some schools may not allow for the distribution of sweets. If you are able to dole out the candy, DO make sure it’s nut-free, as well as packaged and labeled so the ingredients are visible. You’ll also want to avoid anything chewy or sticky that can cause

cavities. A few non-food alternatives to candy are pencils, stickers, tattoos, coloring pages and little toys.

Nip bullying in the bud We all know bullying starts at a young age, so consider doing your part to help prevent it. DO chat with your child’s teacher and suggest that the kiddos be asked to write one nice thing down about each of their classmates on a paper heart. The hearts can be hung around the room, making each child feel valued and worthy.

Lori Orlinsky is a Chicago mom of two, marketing manager, lover of cold weather and freelance writer.

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Call the sitter!

Wintertime date nights to give you the warm and fuzzies

R Take a sizzling cooking class Remember when cooking was fun? The Chopping Block puts the passion back into the kitchen with its wide variety of couples’ cooking classes in the Merchandise Mart and in Lincoln Square. The instructors are genuinely helpful and knowledgeable in a non-intimidating, join-in-the-fun type of way. Add in a glass (or two) of wine, an abundance of taste-testing and restaurant-quality recipes, and you’ll start feeling like the master chef you are. thechoppingblock.com

BY EMILY ADAMS omance? What’s that? You spend most of your free time helping your kids find their missing shoes and cleaning unidentified gunk off their faces (seriously, how are they always sticky?). You are more than overdue for adult time. Real, honest-to-goodness, peaceful, put-the-phone-down, wear-actual-clothes, stay-outpast-8 p.m. adult time.

And although a Chicago winter is more akin to a dystopian battlefront than a romantic evening in Paris, these hot spots could put the fire back into any frigid night in the city.

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Spend a cozy crafternoon If you’ve never tried to create something with your love (other than a child), a crafting class at Lillstreet Art Center is a must-do. From ceramics to glass blowing to painting to metalsmithing, these oh-soperfect couples’ classes challenge, soothe, inspire and invigorate in an intimate environment with instructors who take you step by step. Not to mention, you’ll walk away with a new thingamabob you made together, with love. Just promise us you’ll save the Ghost reenactment for home. No one else needs to see that. (Bonus points if you grab a slice of First Slice pie at the cafe downstairs. Because if love were a pie, we’re pretty sure it’d be First Slice’s French Silk.) lillstreet.com

Cuddle up at the movies Is there anything more perfectly timeless than a movie date? The vintage charm of the Music Box Theatre coupled with the classic romance films it traditionally shows during the Valentine’s season will make you feel like you’ve stepped into the nostalgic bliss of a long-gone era. musicboxtheatre.com

The Avery Coonley School

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

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

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Complimentary Well Baby Checks!

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Warm up by the fire Speaking of local gems, Fountainhead should definitely be on your foodie bucket list this winter, if for no other reason than the romance of dining by a crackling fire. It also doesn’t hurt that this Ravenswood gastropub sports an impressive beer and cocktail menu and comfort food that is so good, the carbs just don’t count. Fountainhead makes it a priority for its guests to have a comfortable, relaxed and lovely experience. fountainheadchicago.com

Get heated at game night There is no cuter way to argue or bond than over a board game.

Fact. Luckily, we live in a city where there’s Guthries Tavern, a comfy neighborhood favorite that’s home to more than 50 board games available for customers to enjoy any night of the week. To top it off, Guthries has a toasty drink menu of “Winter Warmers,” including a Peppermint Patty, a Hot Apple Pie and an Irish Coffee, all of which pair excellently with the likes of Scrabble and Monopoly.

Roll the dice and join in a 4+ player game with couples at other tables for lifelong double date friends. guthriestavern.com

Camp 2017

CHICAGO PARENT’S ANNUAL CAMP GUIDE January - May For more information, call (708) 386-5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com

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Escape to a tropical paradise It might be in the middle of downtown, but Three Dots and a Dash is about as far from Chiberia as you can get.

An urban oasis in the truest sense of the term, this funky underground tiki bar will make you feel hip again.

Come for the steamy islander atmosphere, stay for scrumptious appetizers—the Thai Fried Chicken and Kai’s Crab Rangoon will make you want to hula—and the decadently gorgeous cocktails. Get a few drinks to share with your date because they all taste like a honeymoon in a cup. threedotschicago.com

Melt your heart at fondue night Long live dipping things in chocolate! Get all gussied up for a night on the town at Geja’s Cafe, often dubbed the most romantic restaurant in Chicago. Enjoy mouthwateringly yummy meat, cheese and chocolate courses by candlelight, accompanied by gentle guitar music playing in the background. The ambiance at this city institution is sure to knock your fuzzy winter socks off. gejascafe.com Emily Adams is Chicago Parent’s associate editor.

June 12-July 28, 2017 Latin offers a variety of credit and non-credit arts, language arts and mathematics courses for grades 6-12

Register now

latinschool.org/summer

312.582.6080 summer@latinschool.org 36 February 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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The Moss twins growing broccoli at their Chicago home.

Put a little green in your winter

Plants

Pops of

C

BY SHANNAN YOUNGER hicago winters are not for the faint of heart. Are you tired of snow and ready to get back to eating fresh food? Wanting to see greenery and enjoy flowers again? Believe it or not, you can grow edibles and flowers even when the thermometer is below freezing.

William Moss, a Chicago-based garden expert and dad of twins, says that it is not only possible but it’s even easy to grow plants indoors in Chicago all year round.

Take that, polar vortex.

Edibles Moss says he knows that he raises a few eyebrows when talking about growing edibles in Chicago during the winter.

“Winter in Chicago means that you aren’t going to be growing tomatoes, but there are things you can grow indoors,” Moss says.

His favorite items to grow and eat are sprouts. “Sprouts are easy to grow—all you

have to do is sprout the seed, you don’t have to keep a plant alive— and they are nutritious,” he says.

Another reason he likes them is because they grow quickly.

The speed of the growing process makes it easy to get his children interested and involved.

“It’s almost instant, so they can watch them grow and change every day,” he says. Even better, sprouts “pretty much ensure success.”

Moss thinks every room of your home should have something living and green. “Plants are needed to purify the air, especially in the winter time when there is no exchange of air. They are nature’s air filter.”

He says that people underestimate the power of having something beautiful growing in their home, in addition to being useful.

When it comes to selecting the perfect house plant (and by “perfect,” we mean “easy to grow”), Moss recommends dracaena, also known as the corn plant.

“Everyone can grow dracaena, and they are available everywhere. It is usually cheap, and you can get a lot of foliage for a small price,” he says, noting that you can find it at garden centers and some big box stores that sell plants.

An added bonus: They can flower in the winter if they receive enough sunlight. He says the flowers have a lovely scent, but they open only in the evening, usually around 6 p.m.

Because sprouts are easy to grow, young kids can be very hands on. “Kids between ages 4 and 6 are tactile enough to do it themselves and can really start to understand the process,” Moss says.

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POPS OF SPRING

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Prepare for spring

Moss recommends growing sprouts of cruciferous vegetables, noting that his 3-yearolds really like broccoli and kale sprouts, which are rather mild and sweet. They also last a little longer than other sprouts. “They are good for three to four days, so you have time to eat them,” Moss says.

Moss uses a sprout grower, which you can find at garden stores or online, and places it near a windowsill. As long as plants are not touching the window, they should be fine on the sill no matter how cold it gets outside, he says.

If you are hoping to garden with your kids this summer, there are steps you can take now to get started. Moss recommends starting tomato seeds at the end of February or in early March in order to be ready to plant outdoors in May. Moss suggests keeping clear plastic clamshell packaging such as the containers that arugula and other greens come in at the grocery and repurposing the containers as seed starters.

“Put a few inches of dirt in the container, plant a dozen tomato seeds, wet them down and cover with the lid,” he says. “It’s clear, so kids can see the growth both above and below the soil. It’s great for them to see the action on both sides once the roots start to grow.”

An added benefit is teaching them to repurpose and reuse items whenever possible.

“Nature teaches so many

Camp Lee Mar Camp Lee Mar, located in the beautiful Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, is a coed overnight camp for children and teenagers (from 7 to 21) with mild to moderate developmental challenges.

A Life Changing Experience!

• Fun traditional summer camp activities • Academics • Speech and language therapy • Teenage campers enjoy social dancing every week with an end-of-summer “Prom” • Exceptional facilities featuring air conditioned bunks and buildings • Caring Nurturing Staff

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2017 Dates: June 24 - August 11

www.leemar.com Winter Office: Camp Lee Mar Ph: 215-658-1708 Fax: 215-658-1710 Email: ari@leemar.com Like us on Facebook

year’s Chicago Flower & Garden Show March 18-26 at Navy Pier (chicagoflower.com). Find more tips and growing inspiration at getoutandgrow.com.

Shannan Younger is a Naperville mom, freelance writer and blogger at ChicagoParent. com.

Sign up online for

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lessons about math, ecology, nutrition and science,” he says. “Kids can learn all of it in the garden.

The teacher in me loves the complete process with my kids and those moments when you can see the synapses building.”

Moss will be one of the featured presenters at this

• Lee Mar L.I.F.E. (Living Independently Functional Education) Program launched during the summer of 2015.

The unique feature of our L.I.F.E. Program incorporates everyday living skills into a personalized daily program.

We have a fully functional apartment specifically for this program with a large kitchen, washer and dryer, two bathrooms, a living room and bedroom.

Weekly Newsletters Be in the know about family events, coupons and great giveaways!

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38 February 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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Summer dreaming How to prepare for overnight summer camp

I

BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER

f your child has brought up the idea of going away to camp this summer, or you think they are ready for a new experience, now is the time to start getting information and making a plan.

From day camps to family camps to resident overnight camps, there are options for every child at every age.

“Camp provides a perfect setting for youth to branch out on their own, under the guidance of experienced and trained camp staff,” says Colette Marquardt, executive director of the American Camp Association Illinois. “Camp gives children the opportunity to develop critical life skills that help them excel in life and gain confidence in their ability to be independent.”

Since every child is different, the right time to try overnight camp will also differ with each child, she says.

“We recommend exploring if your child is ready to be away from home overnight by themselves, in addition to considering the age.”

The only way to know if your child is

ready for camp is to start talking about it with them.

“The earlier a child starts going to camp, the better,” says Kim Kiser, vice president of Camping for YMCA Metropolitan Chicago, where the traditional starting age for resident camp is 7. “When they start young, they become masterful, have tremendous growth and can gain so much more than older kids who start.”

One way to test the waters is to try a family camp.

“Parents can bring potential campers to family weekend sessions where they do the programming and activities as a family,” says Kiser. “Then the child is prepared to come back on their own and they feel like they own the camp, know the area and how camp works.”

It may seem obvious, but it’s important to allow your child to be part of the camp selection process.

“Look at websites together. Ask your child what they want in a camp experience. Let your child make a list of questions for the camp director,” says Marquardt. “The parent is helping the child have access to the experience, but the actual experience belongs to the child.”

Need help?

Check out the American Camp Association’s website, campparents.org.

Get started today Kiser recommends visiting the camp if possible.

“Meet the director and bring your child along. Have your child prepare a list of questions and let them lead the way. See what a cabin is like so children can imagine themselves sleeping there. A visit to the camp shaves off a tone of anxiety for both the child and parent.”

If the camp is too far away for a quick visit, Kiser suggests doing an interactive webinar or virtual tour online with a camp director.

“More than any other place in life, camp teaches children critical coping skills and resilience,” says Kiser. “Kids truly develop into who they are at camp and they are free to be who they are. ”

ChicagoParent.com February 2017 39

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camp 2017 // special advertising section

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Children’s Multi-Arts Camps and Middle School Programs in art, design and mixed media.

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40 February 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section // DAY CAMP The Actors Gymnasium 927 Noyes St, Evanston (847) 328-2795 actorsgymnasium.org In Circus & Performing Arts camp, kids learn circus skills like juggling, tumbling, trapeze, tightwire, stilts; take fun-filled field trips; and perform in their very own circus theatre show!

Adler Planetarium 1300 S Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (312) 922-7827 Adlerplanetarium.org Full and Half-Day Science and Technology Camps. Adler Summer Camps give campers opportunities to do and observe real science, learn STEM skills, and to encourage positive social interactions and teamwork while having fun. The camps run from June 19 through August 18. Registration opens on February 7 at 10am

The Ancona School 4770 S Dorchester Ave (773) 924-2356 anconaschool.org/summer-2017 Day Camp - Journeys is a hands-on, Grades 1-8, student-centered eight-week adventure comprised of four unique two-week journeys: Makers, Theater, Cooking, and Ecology. Little Explorers is an 8-week Montessori-based program for rising P3-Kindergarteners.

ArtReach Educational Theatre 3201 Meadow Dr, Rolling Meadows artreachspotlite.com Affordable Summer Camps. Year-Round Musical Theatre Workshops, Acting/ Dance Classes and Private Voice Lessons in the Palatine/Schaumburg area!

The Avery Coonley School

www.circesteem.org

Field Trip Campers

Baker Summer Discovery Camp: offering a range of enriching camps for your PreK-8th grade students. Register at bakerdemschool.org/summer for individual weeks or all summer long!

Develop self-esteem, teamwork & individual potential through circus skills! Learn acrobatics, aerials, juggling, gymwheel, tightwire and more! Come for the circus, stay for the friendships!

1944 W. 87th St. Chicago (312) 256-4260 www.fieldtripcampers.com

BookClub Summer Camp!

Code Play Learn

Weekly Themes: June 12 - Sept 1 9am-3pm: $425 9am-12:30pm: $325 Ages 1st-6th grade (773) 278-2665 www.bookclubchicago.net One of a Kind experience! We Read + Make Art! We create book lovers and have FUN!!

Bubbles Academy 2184 N Elston, Chicago (312) 944-7677 bubblesacademy.com Experience the magic of Bubbles Academy all summer long! 3-5 year olds are invited to join in the arts and imagination adventure from June 5th - August 25th.

Chicago Academy for the Arts June 26-30 1010 W. Chicago Ave. (312) 421-0202 chicagoacademyforthearts.org

The Academy offers week-long programs in Dance, Media Arts, Music, Theatre & Musical Theatre, and Visual Arts!

Designed for students entering the 6th, 7th, or 8th grades

Chicago Architecture Foundation 224 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 922-8687 architecture.org/camps CAF camps are designed to help kids explore the world around them. The camps build teamwork and problemsolving skills. Plus, campers go outside everyday!

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

Chicago Grammar School

A diverse offering of summer enrichment courses for curious kids from kindergarten through eighth grade designed and taught by outstanding educators.

Creative art, science/technology, and sports camp for gr. JK-8 from June 12 July 21. High School Test Prep for gr. 6-8 from July 3 - July 21. Register at www. chicagogrammarsummer.org

Baker Summer Discovery Camp 201 Sheridan Road, Wilmette (847) 425-5814

SPRING SUMMER

camp 2017

bakerdemschool.org/summer

900 N. Franklin Ste. 104, Chicago (312) 944-5600 www.chicagogrammarsummer.org

CircEsteem Uptown, Chicago (773) 732-4564

Oak Park and Lincoln Park www.codeplaylearn.com Code Play Learn summer camps lay a computer science foundation by teaching programming, computational thinking, and problem solving through handson STEM programs. In addition to halfday camps, we are are partnering with Legacy Sports and The Paintbrush to provide full-day programs that engage children both physically and mentally.

College of DuPage

Youth Academy 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn (630) 942-2208 cod.edu/youth Join College of DuPage for a summer of fun and learning! We offer full-day camp, as well as enrichment and academic programs from kindergarten through high school.

Decoma Day Camp Northbrook (847) 945-4455 www.decomadaycamp.com Generations of children have enjoyed fantastic summers, special friendships and lifelong memories. Highlights include: individual attention, small staff/camper ratios, mature experienced counselors, and flexible programming.

DePaul College Prep Summer Camps 3633 North California Ave., Chicago www.depaulprepcamps.org Includes full day, sport specific and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Mathematics).

A Fairytale Ballet & Academy Lakeview, Bucktown, Evanston (773) 477-4488 (LV & EV) (773) 606-0318 (BT) AFairytaleBallet.com Exclusive Fairytale Ballet camps bring stories to life with weekly costumes, props & crafts. (2&3,3-6yrs). Academy workshops include ballet story study w/ performance (7-17yrs).

40 field trips in 8 weeks! Your camper to venture out and explore some of the great experiences Chicago has to offer. $125 off if registered by Feb. 27.

Funtopia- Glenview 2050 Tower Dr, Glenview (224) 432-5435 www.funtopiaworld.com/glenview If you are looking for a place that offers physically and mentally stimulating activities during school holidays, then come and join Funtopia’s Spring Break Camps.

Game On! Sports Camp 4 Girls North Suburbs: Woodlands Academy 760 E Westleigh Rd, Lake Forest City Location: Walt Disney Magnet School 4140 N. Marine Dr, Chicago (847) 229-9959 gameonsportscamp.com Multi-Sport Daily #Just4Girls * All levels * PreK-8th * Customized Teaching *Fun *Traditions * Building Strong Girls * Creating Valued Teammates 4 Life. Flexible Weeks #ProudToPlayLikeAGirl

GEMS World Academy Chicago Day camp, M-F 350 E. South Water St., Chicago (312) 809-8900 www.gemschicago.org

Join Camp GEMS this summer for fun in science, language, field studies, and sports! Six weeks: 6/19-7/28. Ages preschool-9th grade. More info/signup: www.gemschicago.org/summer”

Hubbard Street Dance Chicago’s Youth Dance Program 1147 W Jackson Blvd., Chicago (312) 850-9744 ext. 139 Hubbardstreetdance.com/ YouthDance Hubbard Street’s Youth Dance Camps offer creative and technical performance opportunities all summer long, for young dancers, beginning to advanced, ages 18 months to 18 years.

SPRING SUMMER

We make learning fun with aWe multi-sensory make learning approach. fun with a multi-sensory approach.

Our teachers will take the students Our teachers on a magical will takejourney, the students whereon a magical journey, where they will also learn and perfect theytheir will also Spanish learnlanguage and perfect skills. their Spanish language skills.

LEARNING HAS NEVER BEEN LEARNING SO MUCHHASFUN! NEVER BEEN SO MUCH FUN! www.chicago.cervantes.es www.chicago.cervantes.es

31 W. Ohio St., Chicago IL 60654 Tel. 312-355-1996

info.chicago@cervantes.org

31 W. Ohio St., Chicago IL 60654 Tel. 312-355-1996

info.chicago@cervantes.org

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camp 2017 // special advertising section

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special advertising section // iD Tech Camps Held at Northwestern, Loyola, GEMS World Academy, Benedictine, and Lake Forest College (888) 709-8324 iDTech.com At iD Tech Camps, students ages 7-17 can learn to code, design video games, mod Minecraft, engineer robots, model 3D characters, build websites, print 3D models, and more.

Inspire Girls Academy

(440) 796-7203 www.inspiregirlsacademy.org Inspire STEAM! provides day camp for girls with fun-filled real world exploration. Our curriculum provides creativity through play, art, music and project based learning.

Instituto Cervantes Chicago 31 W. Ohio Street, Chicago (312) 335-1996 Info.chicago@cervantes.org www.chicago.cervantes.es The Ultimate goal of all Summer Camp activities is to tackle Spanish content in a fun way so students learn the language, meet new friends, and explore the Spanish-speaking world. We offer a wide range of activities to help students develop teamwork and confidence when using Spanish.

Intercultural Montessori Language School Oak Park (708) 848-6626

oakpark@intercultural montessori.org West Loop (312) 265 1514 info@interculturalmontessori.org Children ages 3-6 can learn a foreign language while experiencing fun summer activities! Register now for our Chinese, Japanese, or Spanish programs.

JCC Chicago Day Camps Northbrook, Skokie, Lake Zurich, Chicago, Flossmoor (224) 406-9242 www.jccchicago.org/daycamp jcamp@jccchicago.org At nine Chicagoland locations, JCC Chicago Apachi Day Camps offer a summer filled with exploration, arts, sports, swimming and friendship.

Kensington School Nine locations in Elmhurst, Geneva, LaGrange, Naperville, St. Charles, Western Springs and Wheaton (630) 990-8000 kensingtonschool.com Join Kensington School for an active, funfilled summer - Junior Camp for 2-5 yearolds, Wings Camp for Kindergarteners, or Senior Camp for 6-9 year-olds!

Kids R Actors 2 Performing & Creative Arts Camp Westloop & Lakeview 312.770.0678 www.kra2chicago.com June 25 – Aug. 18, 2017 KRA2 offers half &

camp 2017

full day classes in acting, dance, singing, circus art and modeling. to the end of camp, kids perform on stage.

artistic growth. Our Kidstreet program offers summer camps and classes for babies, kids and teens.

The Laboratory Chicago

The Little Gym of Chicago

2349 W. North Ave, Chicago (630) 880-6458 info@thelaboratorychi.org

3216 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago (773) 525-5750 TheLittleGym.com/ChicagoIL

Make magical potions like Harry Potter.

Build robots. Train at Camp Half-Blood.

Find Fantastic Beasts. Survive a Zombie outbreak. Our unique STEAM camps combine hands-on science with popular topics.

Latin School of Chicago

Pre K -12th Grade 59 W. North Blvd., Chicago (312) 582-6000 (312) 582-6060 Admissions latinschool.org Latin School has set standards for academic excellence in Chicago for more than 128 years. We are committed to developing lifelong learners who succeed in college and beyond.

Serving 1,160 students from 75 Chicago neighborhoods and 18 suburbs with a student-to-teacher ratio of 8:1, Latin is a community where every student is known and valued. Visit our website to learn more.

Lillstreet Art Center 4401 N. Ravenswood Ave., Chicago (773) 769-4226 lillstreet.com Lillstreet Art Center is a community of artists and students that encourage

Combining physical activity, gymnastics, games, and arts & crafts, we’ll help your child beat the heat of summer by staying cool at The Little Gym.

Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts 6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park (708) 383-3456 Master-SH-Yu.com World Class Instruction in traditional martial arts is the foundation of our program. Children are expertly guided in the culture, customs, movement, and life skills of martial arts practice

MCGAW YMCA Children’s Center 1420 Maple Avenue, Evanston (847) 475-7400 x310 www.mcgawymca.org/camp Ready for a summer full of camptivities? Traditional day camp, extended day options & brand-new outdoor and science & nature specialty camps.

Professionally trained staff.”

Near North Montessori Summer Camp 1434 W. Division St., Chicago (773) 384-1434 summer.nnms.org

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camp 2017 // special advertising section

FieldTrip Campers

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Receive $125 OFF If Registered By Feb.27,2017 Chicago's 1st EVER Field-Trip Camp!!!!

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J O I N U S AT I N S P I R E S T E A M !

S UMMER CAMP Is your daughter curious about the world around her and inspired to discover

SPRING MUSICAL THEATRE WORKSHOP Begins February 18th!

12 Weeks of Musical Theatre Exploration culminating in a fully staged musical!

AFFORDABLE SUMMER CAMPS One, Three, and Six week sessions available!

Acting, Singing, Dancing, Crafts, and Outdoor Activities!

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Camps & Workshops taught in the Palatine/Schaumburg, Rolling Meadows area For more info - visit our website at www.artreachspotlite.com or call our offices at (847) 372-7798 or (773) 604-1892.

JhowOthings I N work?

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skills through project-based learning. STEAM concepts are o p e n g i r l s’ e y e s t o t h e w o r l d a r o u n d t h e m . implemented as a way of thinking, experiencedaily in a daily summer campapproaching that provides hands-on discovery.

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are oskills p e nthrough g i r l s’project-based e y e s t o t h learning. e w o r l dSTEAM a r o uconcepts nd them .

CAMP DATES: daily as a way of thinking, approaching implemented C A M P D AT E S : ST E A M (July c o n11-29) cepts are discovered daily and Chicago problems, experimenting, and finding solutions.

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NAges o r t4-6 h welcome Shore (Aug. 1–5) ACAMP g e s 4 DATES: –6 welcome

C A M P D AT E S : July 10th- August 4th Chicago (July 11–29) ages 5-7 North Shore (Aug. 1–5) Ages 4–6 welcome

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n o r t o r e g i s t e r, p l e a s e e - m a i l summercamp@inspiregirlsacademy.org

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n o r t o r e g i s t e r, p l e a s e e - m a i l summercamp@inspiregirlsacademy.org An all girls STEAM focused organization bringing innovative programming to the Chicago area.

I N SP I R E GI R L SA C A D E M Y. O R G

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An all girls STEAM focused organization bringing innovative For more information or to register, programming to the Chicago area. please e-mail summercamp@inspiregirlsacademy.org

An all girls STEAM focused organization bringing innovative programming to the Chicago area.

I N S P I R E G I R L S A CA D E M Y. O R G

An all girls STEAM focused organization bringing innovative For more information or to register, to the Chicago area.3:11 PM please e-mailprogramming summercamp@inspiregirlsacademy.org 1/20/17

special advertising section // Splash, create, play at our full-day, multiweek camp for preschoolers. Weekly adventures also await campers age 6-10 as they explore all Chicago has to offer.

New Traditions Riding Academy 10100 So. Kean Avenue, Palos Hills (708) 598-7718/7719 www.ntridingacademy.com Learn from world class instructors.

Riders participate in show on last day of camp. Save $50 if registered by March 1.

Open house Saturday, May 6.

Noggin Builders 3000 Dundee Rd. #201, Northbrook (847) 687-2450 www.nogginbuilders.com Explore, build, create! Your curious explorer will have a blast while enhancing problem solving and critical thinking skills with our fun, hands-on activities in STEM.

North Shore Country

Day School Summer Programs 310 Green Bay Road, Winnetka (847) 441-3350 www.nscdscamps.org daycamp@nscds.org A variety of traditional camp and enrichment program offerings for children ages 3-14 for full-day and half-day experiences. Transportation and extended care available.

Northwestern University Baseball Camps

Seton Montessori Institute and School

Rocky & Berenice Miller Park 2751 Ashland Avenue, Evanston (847) 467-1211 northwesternbaseballcamps.com

5728 Virginia Ave., Clarendon Hills (630) 655-1066 www.SetonMontessori.org

Northwestern University Baseball offers year-round luxury baseball camps, for kids of all ages, unlike any other in the greater Chicagoland area.

Accredited camp and school on beautiful four-acre campus with swimming pool. Offering full and half day programs for toddler through elementary. June 19-August 11.

River Forest Community Center

Summer Camp Programs 8020 Madison St., River Forest (708) 771-6159 rfcc.info Full and part-time programs for parents & tots and children ages 15 mo.- 12 years.

Arts, swimming, games, sports, special events and more.

School of the Art Institute of Chicago -Kids Camps 36 South Wabash Avenue Suite 1201, Chicago (312) 629-6170 saic.edu/cs/children/ summercamps/#saic / cs@saic.edu Kids work together on a variety of fun projects, including painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking. One- and twoweek camps for kids ages 4-13 begin in June.

@AdlerPlanet

summerlab.org

Skokie Park District 9300 Weber Park Place, Skokie (847) 674-1500 skokieparks.org/summer-camps For decades, the Skokie Park District has provided summer camps that focus on adventure, friendship, fun, exploration, discovery and safety.

Summer Adventures in Learning at Science & Arts Academy 1825 Miner Street, Des Plaines (847) 827-7880 www.scienceandartsacademy.org/ summer Offering enrichment classes in Math, Science, Visual Art, Technology, Language Arts, Specialty Sports, and more, plus physical education and recreation. All children PreK-8th grade welcome!

Summer Lab at The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools 1362 E. 59th Street, Chicago (773) 834-7766

fb.com/adlerplanetarium

camp 2017

Summer Lab programs range from sports and theater to urban adventure and academics. Summer Lab runs from June 19 - July 28 for children ages 3 - 17.

Taste Buds Kitchen 2521 Waukegan Road, Bannockburn (847) 230-0330 tastebudskitchen.com/bannockburn GRAND OPENING COMING SOON! Budding chefs age four to teen whip up batches of fun and new recipes each day during our hands-on summer cooking camps.

Windy City Fieldhouse/ Windy City Sports Academy 2367 W. Logan Blvd., Chicago (773) 486-7300 WindyCityFieldhouse.com/youth WCF specializes in youth programs including sports classes and camps YEAR-ROUND for boys and girls ages 2-13. These programs strengthen children’s skills in a structured and safe no-pressure environment. All programs focus on learning rather than winning. WCF also offers a full schedule of Summer Classes and Camps including a SUMMER LONG ALL SPORTS CAMP.

The Yard 233 W. 63rd St. Westmont & 1607 Legacy Circle Naperville (630) 737-1000 & (630) 245-1100 westmontyard.com & napervilleyard.com Learn, Play, and Grow at summer Fun

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camp 2017 // special advertising section His Best Summer Yet!

Your Son’s Adventure Begins At

THIS IS YOUR SUMMER! BOYS & GIRLS AGES 3-12 NO CARPOOL NEEDED

Door to door transportation or free extended care

SAY GOODBYE TO BROWN BAGS Daily lunch included

PLANNING A TRIP?

We’re as flexible as you are—choose your weeks, 3 or 5 days/week

PEACE OF MIND

Going on 69 years of camping—your kids are in great hands!

Exceptional Swim Program • Fun-Filled & Unique Activities • Exciting Theme Days & Events • Optional Specialty Camps (Golf, Horseback Riding, Tennis) Shortened Day Camp For Preschoolers

CALL US: 847-945-4455

DECOMADAYCAMP.COM

Our mission is to develop Character, through Adventure, inspired by Tradition.

Since 1935.

Cass Lake, Minnesota 2-, 4-, and 8-week sessions June – August Contact: Mike Endres, Camp Director mike@campchippewa.com

218-335-8807

www.campchippewa.com

Making Summer Magic Seventy inclusive summer day and overnight camp programs for children with disabilities at 15 sites throughout the Chicago area and the Midwest Call 847-205-0274 or visit keshet.org

Keshet is a partner with the Jewish United Fund in serving our community. Keshet and the Jewish Community Centers of Chicago are proud partners in providing an inclusive community serving children and adults with disabilities.

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special advertising section // and Sports Camps. Kids of all ages will be immersed in science, art, field trips, sports, and more!

OVERNIGHT Animal Camp Jamaica

Teen travel program for boys and girls ages 14-18!

Business Address: 16795 State Route E Rolla, MO 65401 (573) 458-2125 AnimalCampJamaica.com

Black River Farm and Ranch Summer Horse Camp for Girls 5040 Sheridan Line Croswell, MI 48422 (810) 679-2505 blackriverfarmandranch.com

(218) 335-8807 www.campchippewa.com Established 1935. Balanced program of in-camp activities and canoe trips in Minnesota and Canada provides opportunities for growth and resiliency.

Unique enrollment of 75 boys.

Camp Timber-lee

Spend a week learning about God through His word and through amazing outdoor experiences! Try classic camp, an adventure trip or specialty camps in the arts, music, horsemanship, zoology and others! Co-ed, overnight camps, grades 2nd-12th.

The Country Experience

Camp Anokijig

The Country Experience is a summer sleep-away camp for 7-12yr olds. A working farm where real-world work & play develops confidence, respect, appreciation and joy.

New friends, positive values, personal growth, and outrageous fun are the foundations of the Anokijig experience.

Customize your summer adventure, including horses and adventure trips.

Sleep - over camp for your horse lover!

Girls ages 8 - 15. Located 25 miles west of Madison, Wisconsin. English and Western riding lessons daily.

YMCA Camp Glacier Hollow

N8705 Scout Rd. East Troy, WI 53120 (262) 642-7345 www.timber-lee.com

Campers will experience bringing in the horses, feeding, grooming, saddling them. Trail rides, mounted lessons, & ground lessons. Full of adventure creativity, and fun.

W5639 Anokijig Lane, Plymouth, WI 53073 (920) 893-0782 anokijig.com

Mazomanie, WI 53560 (608) 767-2593 hoofbeat.org

CAMP CHIPPEWA for BOYS

A summer camp with its own zoo!

16795 State Route E, Rolla, MO 65401 (573) 458-2125 MOScienceCamp.com

22767 Cap Endres Rd SE Cass Lake, Minnesota

5304 Reeve Road

Hoofbeat Ridge Camps

Offering a variety of Overnight Camps, Adventure Trips and Teen Leadership programs for youth ages 7-17. A special camp for youth with learning disabilities is also available.

SPECIALTY CAMPS Camp Invention

115 Wind Mill Road, Elizabeth (312) 852-7400 - Ed Amstutz thecountryexperience.com

Cub Creek Science Camp

1000 Division Street, Stevens Point, WI 54481 (715) 342-2980 x308 glacierhollow.com

30 plus locations throughout Chicago suburbs (800) 968 4332 campinvention.org Exciting, weeklong summer adventure with lessons exploring science, technology, engineering and innovation. k-6th grade work together seeking solutions to real word problems.

Center for Talent Development (CTD) at Northwestern University

2017 Summer Program 617 Dartmouth Pl., Evanston (847) 491-3782 ext. 2 ctd.northwestern.edu/summer

camp 2017

CTD’s Summer Program provides lifechanging residential and commuter programs for academically advanced children, age 4–grade 12, at Northwestern University and other Chicago-area sites.

Chicago Children’s Theatre Summer Camp at The Station 100 S. Racine Avenue, Chicago (773) 227-0180 x321 chicagochildrenstheatre.org/ summercam Let your child unleash their creativity and bring their imagination to life.

Explore innovative theatre arts that children in artistic, creative, and collaborative dialogues.

Chicago Red Stars Academy 710 W Belden Avenue, Chicago (773) 697-8699 chicagoredstars.com/academy/ Camps provide a professional, fun and welcoming environment for girls to further develop soccer skills. Campers receive a t-shirt and a free ticket to a Red Stars game.

GreenApple Campus NFP Naperville, Elmhurst & Chicago (872) 240-4230 greenapplecampus.org GreenApple Campus = STEM + Innovation + Entrepreneurship. Our mission is to inspire the innovators of the future.

Robotics, Coding, Minecraft, AppDesign, GirlsTech, FabLab Maker & Lego preK - HS

Kids learn to Parent • Tot Private Group Lessons

NORTHBROOK

∙

SKOKIE

∙

WEST ROGERS PARK

∙

HYDE PARK

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A new play inspired by Aesop’s fables

FABLE-OUS!

By Chris

Hainsworth Currie

Directed by Heather

A n y t hin

g is

possible!

January 14 – February 19, 2017

Lifeline Theatre | 6912 N Glenwood Ave | Chicago, IL 60626 For tickets call 773-761-4477 or visit www.lifelinetheatre.com

HUBBARD STREET’S 2017

YOUTH DANCE CAMPS

CREATIVE. TECHNICAL. COMPREHENSIVE. Hubbard Street’s Youth Summer Camps give aspiring dancers of all ages opportunities to explore, create, learn, and perform all summer long.

Come dance with us!

After care available from 4–6pm.

REGISTER ONLINE TODAY!

hubbardstreetdance.com/YouthDance For more information, email youth@hubbardstreetdance.com or call 312-850-9744 ext. 139 Photo by Todd Rosenberg.

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special advertising section // Lifeline Theatre 6912 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago (773) 761-4477 lifelinetheatre.com Explore new worlds at Lifeline’s Drama Camps! Our programs let your children celebrate their imaginations and hone their natural abilities as performers.

Li’l Buds Theatre Summer Camp 5451 N Broadway Ave, Chicago (773) 334-4543 www.lilbudstheatre.org Theatre Summer Camps for ages 3-18, including: Into The Woods Camp, Aesop’s Fables Camp, The Lion King Jr. Camp, Kid’s Cabaret Camp, Baby Buds Camp

Music Theater Works (formerly Light Opera Works) Summer Workshop 516 4th Street, Wilmette (847) 920-5360 MusicTheaterWorks.com/summer No auditions or experience needed. Kids 8 to 13 make friends and gain confidence while putting on an unforgettable musical after only six days. This summer’s lineup is “Annie,” “The Music Man,” “Spamalot,” “Singin’ in the Rain” and “Bye Bye Birdie.” Also audition-based teen production of “Candide.”

Northfork Farms and Outback 3637 Morrice Rd., Webberville, MI (517) 881-9142 www.northforkoutback.com Each camper is assigned a horse to care

for and ride up to 3 hours daily, Petting Zoo, Crafts, Swimming, Wild West Adventure.

Salt Creek Ballet 98 E. Chicago Avenue, Westmont (630) 769-1199 www.saltcreekballet.org Week-long summer camps for ages 3 to 7 (July 24 – August 11), “Summer Fun” classes on Tuesday afternoons for ages 3 to 8 (June 19 – July 28), and Summer Intensives for ages 9 and older (June 19 – July 28). Full schedule on our website.

Both girls and boys are welcome!

Sports Broadcasting Camp (800) 319-0884 playbyplaycamps.com facebook.com/ sportsbroadcastingcamps

Learn from the pros. Meet sports celebrities. Make play-by-play, reporting, sports talk radio and sports anchor tapes.

SPECIAL NEEDS Camp Kodiak 200 Kodiak Rd. McKellar, ON P0G 1C0 (705) 389-1910 and (877) 569-7595 www.campkodiak.com Integrated, non-competitive camp for children & teens with & without ADHD, LD & high-functioning ASD. SOCIAL SKILLS program, ACADEMIC program, 50+ activities, 2:1 ratio, professional staff.

Camp Lee Mar 450 Route 590,

camp 2017

Kohl Children’s Museum of Greater Chicago

Lackawaxen, PA 18435 (215) 658-1708 leemar.com

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

Traditional camp activities PLUS academics, speech & language therapy, music, art, daily-living skills, computers, therapeutic horseback riding, trips, heated pool and air-conditioned cabins.

Easterseals Camp FRIENDship

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

1939 W. 13th Street, Chicago and 100 W. 81st Ave., Dyer, IN 46311 (312) 961-4188 eastersealschicago.org

Odyssey Fun World

Summer camp designed to help children ages 5 to 14 with autism spectrum disorder and other disabilities acquire social skills.

19111 Oak Park Ave., Tinley Park (708) 429-3800 3440 Odyssey Court, Naperville (630) 416-2222 odysseyfunworld.com

Keshet

Tinley Park has an 11 acre outdoor park!

Naperville has paintball! Both locations have 200+ arcade and redemption games plus a laser tag arena.

Seventy inclusive summer day and overnight camp programs for children with disabilities. 15 sites throughout the Chicago area and the Midwest. 847-2050274 or visit keshet.org.

Pump it Up Party

(847) 205-0274 keshet.org

FIELD TRIPS:

Chicago (312) 664-7867 Orland Park (708) 479-2220 pumpitupparty.com The only 100% private party place with gigantically fun inflatables. Safe and clean environment. Brightly decorated private party room. Trained/dedicated staff for your group.

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

Safari Land 701 W. North Ave., Villa Park (630) 530-4649 safarilandfun.com

Celebrating 60 years of family fun! New light show and sound system. Public skating, private parties, fundraisers.

Artistic speed and roller derby skating.

Options and pricing for all ages, Safari Land is great for field trips. With wristband guests can receive unlimited access and play on exciting attractions

River Forest Community Center

Summer Camps

Registration Begins March 8th Half-Day Camps Breakfast Club (15 mos. – 2 yrs) Parent/Caregiver and Tot Camp M,W : 9:00 am–10:00 am Three For All (3 yrs. by 9-1-17) M,W: 10:15 am–12:15 pm T,Th : 9:30 am–11:30 am Little Explorers (4 & 5 yrs) M-Th: 9:00 am-11:30 am Summer Scene (K – 7th grade) M-F: 12:00 am – 4:00 pm

st

Young Voyagers (3 yrs. - 1 gr.)

M-F: 10:00 am– 4:00 pm Extended Care: 7:00 am-10:00 am & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm Adventure Camp (2nd – 4th gr.)

M-F: 10:00 am-4:00 pm Extended Care: 7:00 am-10:00 am & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm Urban Safari (5th – 8th gr.)

M-F: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm Extended Care: 7:00 am-10:00 am & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm

Unforgettable Adventures from June 12th – August 25th Arts & Crafts, Games, Sports, Swimming Field Trips, Special Events, and More!

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

OPS H S K R R WO

Formerly LIGHT OPERA WORKS

Full-Day Camps

2017

E SUMM

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

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

MusicTheaterWorks.com/summer • (847) 920-5360 ChicagoParent.com February 2017 49

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North Shore Country Day School Summer Programs

Summer adventures begin at an early age.

Preschool-8th Grade Summer Program • Programs run 9am-3pm, extended day available from 7:30am-6pm • Enrichment classes paired with games, trips, and entertainment

Climb on a rock. Climb a bigger rock. Learn what “jib” and “mast” mean while you get your sea legs. Achieve your first bullseye. Find out just how artistic you are as you create things from paper, paints and clay. For children 4-10 years of age, it’s all part of Day Camp at North Shore Country Day School.

GYMNASTICS•ARCHERY•TENNIS ROCK CLIMBING•SAILING•CANOEING•SWIM LESSONS

• Full and half-day preschool and kindergarten classes • Flexible enrollment options • Experienced and talented staff • Three, two-week sessions: June 19 through July 28

New discounts for early registration, siblings/multiple sessions, and referrals!

Visit our website to learn more!

A TIME FOR FUN, FRIENDSHIPS, ADVENTURES AND GROWTH.

Call 847.441.3350 for more information or visit www.nscdscamps.org

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special advertising section //

camp 2017

INSPIRING FUTURE INNOVATORS Sign up by March 20 to save $25 using promo code INNOVATE25

MCGAW YMCA SUMMER DAY CAMP REGISTER NOW: WWW.MCGAWYMCA.ORG/CAMP

For children entering K-6th grade — Led by experienced local educators • Hands-on Fun

• STEM Concepts

• Teamwork

• Problem Solving

• Design & Build Prototypes

Over 15 locations throughout the greater Chicago area!

THE Y DIFFERENCE Professional staff ∙ Welcoming & Inclusive NEW specialty camps ∙ Camptivities

campinvention.org | 800.968.4332 In partnership with the United States Patent and Trademark Office

Quality, year-round training

CAMP OPTIONS: TRADITIONAL DAY CAMP (9AM-4PM) Entering

• Traditional Martial Arts • Summer and Seasonal Camps • Ancient Swords • Artistic Weaponry NEW!

1st-6th grade

EXTENDED CAMP DAY (7:30AM-9AM AND/OR Entering 1st-6th grade 4PM-6PM)

THE ULTIMATE OUTDOOR ADVENTURE Entering 4th-6th grade (9AM-4PM)

NEW!

SCIENCE & NATURE IN THE WORLD AROUND US Entering (9AM-4PM)

4th-6th grade

6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park Financial assistance available; CCAP accepted.

McGaw YMCA Children’s Center 1420 Maple Avenue Evanston, IL 60201

For questions contact: Angie Swank, Camp Manager DayCamp@mcgawymca.org

708-383-3456

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

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence Serving Our Community ChicagoParent.com February 2017 51

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camp 2017 // special advertising section CAMPCAMP GLACIER GLACIER HOLLOW CAMP HOLLOW Stevens Point Area YMCA Stevens Point Area YMCA GLACIER HOLLOW Stevens Point Area YMCA

SUMMER CAMP

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special advertising section //

camp 2017

SALT CREEK BALLET

Sergey Kozadayev & Zhanna Dubrovskaya, Artistic Directors 98 E. Chicago Ave. Westmont, IL 60559

Ballerina Summer Fun Ages 3 to 8

June 19th —July 28th

Fairy Tale Camp Ages 3 and 4

Register TODAY!

SUMMER FUN AT COD

saltcreekballet.org (630) 769-1199 Both Girls & Boys are Welcome!

Creative Ballet Camp

Ages 5 to 7

July 24th — July 28th July 31st — Aug 4th August 7th —11th

/SaltCreekBallet @SaltCreekBallet

• Day camp • Educational and enrichment programs • High school classes

Photo: Heidi Peters

Excellence in Dance Training  Increases musicality  Promotes teamwork  Improves coordination  Builds strength  Fun for students

Something for everyone— including children ages 5 and up.

Summer programs begin in June. cod.edu/youth

2017 SUMMER BASEBALL CAMPS Wildcat Baseball Youth Experience Session 1 June 26 – 28 (Ages 6-12) Wildcat Baseball Youth Experience Session 2 July 24 – 26 (Ages 6-12) Northwestern Jr. Prospect Camp August 1 – 2 (Ages 12-14) northwesternbaseballcamps.com

s at Camp Anok e Friend ijig! k a M Person al New Friends

Positive Values

Growt

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s geou Outra n!

Fu

• Traditional and Specialty • Overnight, resident camp activities, plus HORSES, • Boys & Girls, ages 7-16 Teen Programs, and • Sessions from 4 days to Adventure Trips 1 or more weeks of summer fun! ing community with many Camp Anokijig is a welcom your own camp experience ect opportunities to self-dir

800-741-6931 www.anokijig.com Plymouth, WI ChicagoParent.com February 2017 53

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camp 2017 // special advertising section LEARN HOW TO FLY THIS SUMMER IN CIRCUS CAMP! Spots available in 4-week, day camps Starting June 13 & July 11 Ages 9-15

Scholarships available

847.328.2795 www.actorsgymnasium.org/summer-camp

Aerial silks Lyra/Aerial Hoop Stage Presence Trapeze Juggling Contortion Acrobatics Tight rope Rolling Globes Spanish web Unicycle

Unique hands-on STEAM camps Bringing magical worlds to life through hands-on science

CHICAGO’S #1 HOME CHICAGO’S #1 HOME FOR FUN & HASSLE-FREE FOR FUN & HASSLE-FREE CHICAGO’S #1 HOME BIRTHDAY PARTIES BIRTHDAY PARTIES FOR FUN & HASSLE-FREE VOTE BIRTHDAY PPARTIES LVAOCE TD BEST O TEDOBWE

PLAUCTETHE ESTAR KIEDAS OUVTOTTHO W R TED E K IEDSST B PLACE OUT TTHO WEAR E KID Hassle-free andSconvenient

Call Alexis at

Call Alexis at (773) 486-7416 (773) 486-7416

or email at akniaz@windycityfieldhouse.com Call Alexis at or email at akniaz@windycityfieldhouse.com

for parentsand convenient Hassle-free for parents KIDS PLAY TOGETHER with Hassle-free and convenient activities and games KIDS PLAY TOGETHER with for parents organized and facilitated activities and games by WCF event staff organized and facilitated KIDS PLAY TOGETHER with by WCF event staff activities and games Many themed parties organized andparties facilitated available including Many themed

by WCF including event staff Ultimate Sports, available Mad Ultimate Sports,parties ManyScience, themed LaserTag, Mad Science, available including Build-A-Friend Stuffed Animals, LaserTag, Ultimate Sports, Scavenger Hunts more!

Build-A-Friend Stuffed Mad Science, andAnimals, Scavenger Hunts and more!

LaserTag, Fun and exciting for kids of Build-A-Friend Stuffed Animals, all ages, 1 to adult Fun and exciting for kids of Scavenger Hunts and more! all ages, 1 to adult No cleanup and Funcleanup andcatering exciting for kids of flexible No and options all ages, 1 to adult flexible catering options CALL NOW! No cleanup Dates filling and fast!

CALL NOW! flexible catering Dates filling fast! options CALL NOW! Dates filling fast!

Chicago's #1 Home for Birthday Parties

WindyCityFieldhouse.com/birthdays (773) 486-7416 WindyCityFieldhouse.com/birthdays or email at akniaz@windycityfieldhouse.com Chicago's #1 Home for Birthday Parties

Chicago's #1 Home for Birthday Parties

WindyCityFieldhouse.com/birthdays

Camp Registration Open Now • Welcome to Hogwarts • LEGO Robotics • Finding Fantastic Beasts • The Science of a Zombie Apocalypse • Camp Half-Blood

The Laboratory • 2349 W North Ave • Chicago, IL 60647 (630) 880-6458 • www.thelaboratorychi.org

“I am a citizen of the world.”

Dual-Language Montessori Education for ages 3 to 12 Your choice of programs: Chinese Mandarin / English Spanish / English Japanese / English

Two Locations: Historic Oak Park Chicago’s West Loop

ROLLING ADMISSIONS – SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY! www.interculturalmontessori.org

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special advertising section // Hoofbeat Ridge Camps For Your Horse Lover!

camp 2017

THE AWARD-WINNING

N Br atio oa n’s dc #1 as tin Spo g C rts am p

SPORTS BROADCASTING CAMP is back for our 12th year in Chicago

July 10-14, 2017

FROM CAMPS RUN WEEK LONG September 1 e 5 to

Jun

LILLSTREET ART CENTER

4 4 0 1 N R AV E N S WO O D

|

773.769.4226

|

L I L L S T R E E T. C O M

BOOK

Resident (sleepover) Camp for Girls ages 8-15 1 and 2-week sessions (Sunday-Saturday) Horseback riding lessons daily (English or Western) crafts, sports, trail rides, modern bunkhouses Located 25 miles west of Madison, Wisconsin 250 acres, 65+ horses Western & English riding certified riding instructors family owned and operated since 1962 Camp Presentation Winnetka Community House February 16, 7 - 8 p.m., Room 211A Hoofbeat Ridge Camps 5304 Reeve Road, Mazomanie, WI 53560 (608) 767-2593 hoofbeat@chorus.net www.hoofbeat.org

• Boys and Girls age 10-18 will have an opportunity to learn from the pros in the industry • Make sports anchor tapes from a TV studio • Make Play-By-Play tapes of the Super Bowl and NBA Finals • Make reporting tapes at a professional stadium • Meet sports celebrities… and much more Day/Overnight sessions available For more info call 800.319.0884 or visit www.playbyplaycamps.com facebook.com/sportsbroadcastingcamps youtube.com/sportsbroadcastcamp

CLUB

WORDS CREATE ART

create your summer story

SIGN UP for a one of a kind reading and art summer camp bookclubchicago.net 773 278 2665 ChicagoParent.com February 2017 55

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camp 2017 // special advertising section 3-18!

SUMMER CAMPS AGES

Into The Woods Camp

Aesop’s Fables Camp

The Lion King Jr. Camp

Kid’s Cabaret Camp

Ages 10 and up July 24 - August 11, 2017 $900 for three week session Monday thru Friday 9am-4pm Ages 7-14 June 19-30, 2017 $650 for two week session Monday thru Friday 9am-4pm

Ages 7-14 July 10-21, 2017 $600 for two week session Monday thru Friday 9am-4pm

Ages 7-13 June 12-16, 2017 $350 for one week session Monday thru Friday 9am-4pm

Baby Buds Camp

Ages 3-6 Session 1: 6/12-16 Session 2: 7/31-8/4 Session 3: 8/7-11 $275/full-session OR $60/day to drop-in Monday thru Friday, 9am-12pm

Li’l Buds Theatre Camp 5451 N Broadway Ave Chicago, IL 60640 773-334-4543 www.lilbudstheatre.org

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special advertising section // Northfork Outback girls resident camp

camp 2017

JOIN US FOR AN

ACTIVE, FUN-FILLED SUMMER part-day & full-day available

Summer camp for horse lovers Up to 3 hours daily horseback riding 2 hours hands on with horses along with Petting zoo, 1800’s Wild West Adventure Swimming, crafts Make friends, learn about animals, stay safe Northfork Farms & Outback

3637 Morrice Road, Webberville, MI 517-881-9142 www.northforkoutback.com

Junior Camp | 2 to 5-year-olds Wings Camp | Kindergarteners Senior Camp | 6 to 9-year-olds LOCATIONS:

Elmhurst, Geneva, LaGrange Highlands, LaGrange, Naperville, South Naperville, St. Charles, Western Springs, Wheaton Learn more at kensingtonschool.com or call us at 630.990.8000 /KensingtonSchoolECE

Academic Adventures for Bright Young Learners 2017 Summer Program Age 4 – Grade 12 • • • • •

Academics which engage advanced learners Enrichment and credit courses in a range of subject areas Leadership and civic engagement offerings Residential options held on top-tier college campus Single and multi-week programs

Center for Talent Development Northwestern University

EXPLORE OUR PROGRAMS

www.ctd.northwestern.edu | 847/491-3782

Other Great Programs for Age 4 – Grade 12 • Assessment to identify strengths • Rigorous, individualized online courses • Weekend Programs

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camp 2017 // special advertising section Early Registration Discount Until February 28th!

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60 February 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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calendar FEBRUARY

1

A heaping bowl of steaming hot chili?

Get in my belly. The ultimate winter comfort food takes the spotlight at Skokie’s Winter Chilly Fest, a celebration of everything that is winter in Chicagoland (except your desire to hibernate).

The weekend includes ice skating, hayrides and roasted marshmallows, not to mention lots of snowy surprises. And once your fingers are just about ready to succumb to frostbite, you can head inside for a chili dinner served beside a roaring fire. $6; dinner $11, $8 kids under 10 (by Feb. 10), $13, $10 kids. 4-8 p.m. Feb. 11-12. Emily Oaks Nature Center, 4650 Brummel St., Skokie.

(847) 677-7001, skokieparks.org.

2

Setting preschoolers loose in an art museum might not sound like the smartest idea, but that’s exactly what Artful Play: Art with a Beat aims to do.

Kids 3-5 (with an adult, #sorrynotsorry) explore the famed galleries of the Art Institute while also making connections between art and its jazzier sister, music. And mini-Monets won’t soon forget their first glimpse of those water lilies, even if they’re still a few years away from re-creating them. $8, $5 member. 11 a.m.-noon and 2-3 p.m. Feb. 4. Art Institute of Chicago, 159 E. Monroe, Chicago. (312) 443-3600, artic.edu.

3

Black History Month is a great time to learn about one of the unique aspects of the African-American experience: the Underground Railroad. The interactive Underground Railroad Hike invites visitors to take a guided walk on a route that escaped slaves used in Illinois in the mid-1800s. The 45-minute hikes focus on the dangers for passengers on the railroad, as well as the skills, like navigating by the stars, that they had to use in order to reach freedom. Free.

11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Feb. 26. Sand Ridge Nature Center, 15891 Paxton Ave., South Holland.

(708) 8680606, fpdcc. com.

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CALENDAR

Pete e the e Cat Seee Fe Se Feb. b. 3

2 | THURSDAY “DOES AMERICA HAVE TALENT?” A hilarious spoof on

reality TV talent competitions featuring a host of loveable, zany characters with a wide range of sometimes questionable talents. $8. 6 p.m. Winnetka Community House, 620 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka. (847) 446-0537, winnetkacommunityhouse.org.

AFTERNOON ADVENTURES: AN ARTFUL VALENTINE. Kids

5-12, with adult, create Romero Britto’s famous heart art in honor of Valentine’s Day. Britto is a Brazilian-born artist whose bright vivid art pieces have traveled the globe. $3, $2 members. 3:30-5 p.m. Des Plaines History Center,

781 Pearson St., Des Plaines. (847) 391-5399, desplaineshistory.org.

3 | FRIDAY ADLER AFTER DARK: FAMILY EDITION. Explore the museum,

take in unlimited sky shows, participate in special family programming, grab a kiddie cocktail (or a regular one), and enjoy live entertainment. $15, $12 kids; $10 member. 6-10 p.m. Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 922-7827, adlerplanetarium.org.

FIRE & ICE WINTER FESTIVAL.

Enjoy an evening of ice bowling, art projects, indoor ice skating, a toddler area with ice fishing, marshmallow roasting, stargazing and more. $5, free adults. 5:30-7:30

p.m. Women’s Park and Garden, 1801 S. Indiana, Chicago. (312) 742-4914, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

Lincolnwood. (847) 677-9740, lincolnwoodil.org.

PETE THE CAT. Join Jimmy and

“DOES AMERICA HAVE TALENT?”

Winnetka. See Feb. 2. Today’s time is 7 p.m.

DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE “SWEET MEMORIES.” A night of

music and dancing at Monastero’s Ristorante. Dads and daughters 5-14 enjoy dinner, dessert and a candy buffet. The evening also includes music, dancing and DJ-led games, and special daddy/ daughter photos at the photo booth. $80 couple, $25 additional daughter; $65 resident couple, $20 additional resident daughter.

6-9 p.m. Lincolnwood Parks & Recreation, 6900 N. Lincoln Ave.,

Pete on a new adventure of friendship, all the way to Paris and back in a VW Bus. Features a post-show meet and greet with the cast and books available for purchase.

Recommended for kids 3-9. $20, $12 kids. 7:30 p.m. McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. (630) 9424000, atthemac.org.

4 | SATURDAY CHICAGO ACCESS WEEKEND. Features

services for people with disabilities integrated into public performances

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CALENDAR

About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the March issue is Feb. 27. All events are subject to change. Please call the event sponsor at the number listed to confirm before you go.

Events taking place on four or more dates during the month are listed in Ongoing Events, beginning on page 73.

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar of “The Hundred Dresses,” including live open captioning for guests who are deaf or hard of hearing (11 a.m. Feb. 4) and a sensory-friendly performance with quiet room for children on the autism spectrum or with Down Syndrome (11 a.m. Feb. 5). $10-$39. Chicago Children’s Theatre, The Ruth Page Center for Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn St. (872) 222-9555, chicagochildrenstheatre.org.

ANGÉLIQUE KIDJO. Three-time Grammy winner Angélique Kidjo performs an acoustic “storyteller” concert of world music accompanied by guitarist Dominic James and percussionist Magatte Sow. Kidjo will discuss the origins of the songs, what they mean and how they relate to significant moments in her career. $10-$15. 2 p.m. Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph Drive in Millennium Park. (312) 3347777, harristheaterchicago.org.

ONCE UPON A SYMPHONY: THE THREE LITTLE PIGS. Three pigs

build houses of straw, wood and brick, but a hungry wolf threatens to blow them down. This story emphasizes the importance of caring for others, particularly in the face of challenging circumstances. Designed for kids 3-5. $17. 10 and 11:45 a.m. Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 294-3000, cso.org.

SUBURBS

WINTER ASTRONOMY.

Families with kids 6 and up see the moon through a telescope and learn to identify winter constellations.

7-8 p.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

NATURE DISCOVERY DAY.

Visit the nature classrooms, complete a craft to take home, explore the science of nature, go sledding or cross country skiing, view live animals and enjoy a roasted marshmallow around a crackling campfire. 10 a.m.-noon.

Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 4336901, hellernaturecenter.org.

ROCK & MINERAL IDENTIFICATION. Geologist Sara

Johnson presents an introduction to rocks and minerals for families with kids 8 and up. Hands-on identification procedures include observation skills and hardness tests. All materials are provided. $5, $3 members. 10:30 a.m. Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, 220 Cottage Hill Ave. (in Wilder Park), Elmhurst. (630) 833-1616, lizzadromuseum.org.

WINTERFEST. Attractions include tractor rides, candle-making, crafts, petting animals, snowshoe rentals and ice rescue demonstrations. $6, free kids 2 and under. Noon-4 p.m.

Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens, 7402 Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights. (708) 361-1873, lakekatherine.org.

“DOES AMERICA HAVE TALENT?”

Winnetka. See Feb. 2. Today’s time is 10:30 a.m.

DADDY/DAUGHTER WINTER LUAU. Dads and daughters 3 and

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CALENDAR “A FUN EXPERIENCE, AND A GREAT WAY TO INTRODUCE YOUR CHILD TO THEATER“ –BROADWAYWORLD.COM THE KENNEDY CENTER THEATER FOR YOUNG AUDIENCES ON TOUR PRESENTS

ELEPHANT & PIGGIE’S WE ARE IN A PLAY! Sat, Feb 11 at 10am & 1pm

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Based on Mo Willems’s beloved, award-winning, best-selling children’s books comes a brand-new vaudevillian romp of a musical.

Recommended & best for ages four and up!

SSeee Fe Feb. b. 4

FAMILIES, DON’T MISS! up are invited to a luau featuring treats and a DJ playing tunes. Each couple receives a commemorative photo. Tropical dress is encouraged.

Registration required. $22, $15 resident. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Ranch View School Gym, 1651 Ranchview Drive, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, naper villeparks.org.

JAPAN FEST. Enjoy sampling various Japanese foods, making food-related crafts, playing games and learning about Japanese food and food culture. Stage performances include Japanese drums, koto harps, Shamisen guitar, traditional dance, Aikido, Karate, Kendo and singing.

Noon-4 p.m. 201 N. Scoville Ave., Oak Park. (708) 434-3386, oprfhs.org.

THE LINCOLN CARNIVAL. Play

games such as “Plinko” and “Bozo Buckets,” and enjoy a goldfish toss, bingo, face painting and airbrush tattoos, balloon animals and a cake walk. Plus, raffles and healthy meals and snacks. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Lincoln School, 1111 S. Grove Ave., Oak Park. ptolincoln.org.

experienced. 1:30 p.m. Sand Ridge Nature Center, 15891 Paxton Ave., South Holland. (708) 868-0606, fpdcc.com.

Mar 04

MAKIN’ MUSIC BLUEGRASS JAM. Make a simple instrument, then

join the fun in a bluegrass jam circle.

Or bring an instrument from home.

1 p.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

9 | THURSDAY SIPS & SMOCKS. Kids 7-12 are

CHICAGO

10 | FRIDAY

PIONEER LIVING. Visit the cabins and find out what the pioneers

847.673.6300

NorthShoreCenter.org NORTH SHORE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS IN SKOKIE

2016-17 SEASON SPONSOR YEARS

2017

Discover some fun things to do in and with snow. $9.50, $7.50 resident.

1-2 p.m. Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Harrison and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. (630) 871-2810, lincoln marsh.org.

5 | SUNDAY

SUBURBS

Jackie Robinson: A Game Apart Apr 09

LINCOLN MARSH SNOW DAY.

guided to express themselves through paint and other media. Young painters leave with a finished canvas to take home or to give as a gift. $38, $25 resident. 5-6 p.m. Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, naper villeparks.org.

ACCESS WEEKEND. See Feb. 4.

Odd Squad - Live!

FAMILY VALENTINE’S DANCE.

Put on your dancin’ shoes and join the annual dance. $5. 7-8:30 p.m.

Gompers Park, 4222 W. Foster Ave., Chicago. (312) 742-5039, chicago parkdistrict.com.

Summer School Full Session: June 19–July 28 Session I: June 19–July 7 Session II: July 10–July 28

Children from Nursery through twelfth grade may choose from the variety of Morning, Afternoon, and Full Day classes.

Summer School offers academic enrichment programs such as Math, Reading, Writing, Science, Art, Cooking, and more.

Join us at Summer Lab, where the love of learning spends the summer.

Save $150—Register by March 15 Complimentary Bus Service Full Day, Morning, and Afternoon Programs for Children of All Ages.

Call (773) 834-7766 or visit us online at: http://summerlab.org

ChicagoParent.com February 2017 65

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CALENDAR Rotunda. Recommended for families with kids 5 and up. $6-$57. 11 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 294-3000, cso. org.

PAW PATROL LIVE! RACE TO THE RESCUE. An action-packed,

On O nc nc ce e Up po on a Sy Symp mph ho ony ny: The T Th Th hree hr ree Li re Lit itt ttlle e Piig g gs s See Fe See Se Feb. 4

high-energy adventure set around the day of the great race between Adventure Bay’s Mayor Goodway and Foggy Bottom’s Mayor Humdinger.

The show combines theatrical scenery with a high-tech video wall to visually transport families to locations from the TV series. The show incorporates innovative costumes to help bring the pups to life on stage, as well as their vehicles and packs. $15 and up.

10:30 a.m., 2 and 5:30 p.m. Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St. (312) 9021500, thechicagotheatre.com.

FAMILY VALENTINE’S DAY DANCE. Concessions and photo

Center, 2244 W. 95th St., Naperville.

(630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

op (separate fee) are provided. $5.

6:30-8:30 p.m. Mayfair Park, 4550 W. Sunnyside Ave., Chicago. (773) 6853361, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

VALENTINE’S DAY SPA CHEMISTRY: SOAPS AND SCRUBS. Use chemistry (and math

PARENT/CHILD GOODIES TO SHARE. Parents and kids 4-11 work

skills) to create soaps and scrubs. $45, $41 members. 6:15-9 p.m. The Laboratory Chicago, 2349 W. North Ave. (630) 880-6458, thelaboratory chi.org.

Party for kids under 5 features dancing, music, games, inflatables, food and fun. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Skinner Park, 1331 W. Adams St., Chicago. (312) 746-5560, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

together to create delicious dishes.

Each parent/child pair takes home a few creations. Menu includes Valentine cookies or cupcakes. Recipes provided. $39, $26 resident. 6-7:30 p.m. Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 8485000, napervilleparks.org.

VALENTINE DANCE. Dance the

FULL MOON CAMPFIRE. Take a

night away with music by the Horner Park Jazz Band, plus photos and refreshments. $5. 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Horner Park, 2741 W. Montrose Ave., Chicago. (773) 478-3499, chicago parkdistrict.com.

short hike with a naturalist along the trails, play games with family and friends and enjoy marshmallows roasted over the campfire while watching the full moon rise over Lake Michigan. $9, free kids 2 and under. 7-8:30 p.m.

Heller Nature Center, 2921 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

TOTS VALENTINE PARTY.

VALENTINE DANCE. Kids 6-16

enjoy music, games, a dance contest and refreshments. 3-6 p.m. Shedd Park, 3660 E. 23rd St., Chicago. (773) 762-3168, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

learn about the science behind Valentine’s Day as they make secret valentine messages with invisible ink, create Valentine-themed lava lamps and make a tasty Valentine treat. $39, $26 resident. 4-5:30 p.m. 95th Street

CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY! Kids can make a Valentine

mailbox and a Kindness Catcher, write a personalized book about kindness, listen to hourly stories on acceptance, respect, emotions and more. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Lakeshore Learning Store, various locations. lakeshorelearning.com.

ENCHANTED PRINCESS BALL.

FAMILY MATINEE SERIES: DON QUIXOTE. Richard Strauss’ sym-

Dads and their princesses dance the night away to popular music spun by a DJ under the sparkling lights. Enjoy sweets and snacks. Every princess receives a flower as they leave. $20, $18 resident; $16 sibling, $12 resident sibling. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Mundelein Park & Recreation District, 1401 N. Midlothian Road, Mundelein. (847) 566-0650, mundeleinparks.org.

phonic poem uses the full force of the orchestra to tell the hilarious story of a knight with the unshakable courage to pursue his dreams. Come one hour early for preconcert activities in the

BUILD A BEAVER. The beaver is especially adapted to life in the water, even in winter. Learn about their unique adaptations through a

11 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

COOL SCIENCE: LET’S DO SOME VALENTINE SCIENCE. Kids 3-5

SUBURBS

fun, interactive activity. 1:30 p.m.

Sand Ridge Nature Center, 15891 Paxton Ave., South Holland. (708) 868-0606, fpdcc.com.

CHOCOLATE WEEKEND. Celebrate chocolate and its connection to the natural world. Visit, taste and buy specialty chocolates and treats from a variety of vendors. Free with arboretum admission. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

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

VALENTINE FAMILY GEOCACHE.

Use a GPS unit to find valentines hidden at Lincoln Marsh. $12.50, $10 resident. 1-2:30 p.m. Northside Park, 1417 N. West St., Wheaton. (630) 665-4710, wheatonparkdistrict.com.

VALENTINES FOR THE BIRDS.

Celebrate your love for nature on Valentine’s Weekend in the Children’s Garden. Make some tasty treats to hang on the trees for feathery friends.

Free with arboretum admission. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

WINTER PLAY DATE. Play outside with winter-themed nature activities. 1:30 p.m. Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center, 9800 Willow Springs Road, Willow Springs.

(708) 839-6897, fpdcc.com.

12 | SUNDAY CHICAGO PAW PATROL LIVE! RACE TO THE RESCUE. See Feb. 11.

VALENTINES HEART MOSAIC WORKSHOP. Make a unique

Valentine’s heart mosaic. A cardmaking area will also be available.

Register online. $20. 4-6 p.m. Unicoi Art Studio, 2059 W. Belmont. (773) 975-6515, unicoistudio.com.

SECOND SUNDAY. Drop-in, hands-on art-making workshops for kids and families, providing an interactive experience that engages visitors of all ages in contemporary art, while also offering insight into the exhibits.

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CALENDAR

Chocol Ch oc colat ate e S nd Su ndae ae a e Sund Su nd day ay S e Fe Se F b. b 12

1-4 p.m. Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Ave. (773) 324-5520, hydeparkart.org.

SUBURBS CHOCOLATE SUNDAE SUNDAY.

17 | FRIDAY HEJSAN–CHILDREN’S STORY AND CRAFT HOUR. A story and

craft hour for all ages. Free with museum admission. 11 a.m.-noon.

Swedish American Museum & Brunk Children’s Museum of Immigration, 5211 N. Clark St., Chicago. (773) 7288111, swedishamericanmuseum.org.

WEEKEND FAMILY CLASS: SWEET TREATS: COLD EATS. Kids 4-10,

SUBURBS

with adult, put together (and taste!) some easy-to-make fruity treats like smoothies and flavored shaved ice and take home recipes. $24 per child.

9:30-11 a.m. or 1-2:30 p.m. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

DISCOVER ENGINEERING. Dozens of professional engineers from local firms give kids and adults hands-on experiences. Conquer fun challenges, meet high school robotics teams, erect an edifice, make-and-take some amazing stuff, and enjoy special science demonstrations. Free with museum admission. 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

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

Feb. 11.

— EINSTEIN adopted 12-09-10

History, 425 W. State St., Sycamore.

(815) 895-9777, mmnh.org.

Enjoy a sundae you design yourself, create special valentine crafts, and delight in the music of Auburn Jazz Ensemble. $3, $2 members; plus admission. 2-4 p.m. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford.

(815) 963-6769, discoverycenter museum.org.

CHOCOLATE WEEKEND. Lisle. See

SURE, AT FIRST I WAS A LITTLE TAKEN ABACK

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

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

18 | SATURDAY

VALENTINES FOR THE BIRDS.

Lisle. See Feb. 11.

16 | THURSDAY MINK DISSECTION. Learn about the anatomy of the mink. $35 pair, $30 member pair; $5 additional observer.

7-8 p.m. Midwest Museum of Natural

BIRCH LEGGINGS AND THE BIRKIE. Learn the history of the

Birkebeiner Ski Race and how it became “the greatest show on the snow.” Ski with wood skis and wool knickers or dress like a Viking and win a prize. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sagawau Environmental Learning Center,

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CALENDAR 12545 W. 111th St., Lemont. (630) 257-2045, fpdcc.com.

Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

HOME SWEET HOMEWOOD CHOCOLATE FEST. Features live

music, children’s activities, demos by professional chefs and vendor booths featuring sweets, desserts and gourmet baked goods. Plus, the Chocolate Bakeoff Contest. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. H-F Park District Auditorium, 2010 Chestnut Road, Homewood. (708) 798-3000, homesweethomewood.com.

HIBERNATION HAPPENS.

Learn about local animals that will be waking up soon. 1-2:30 p.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

ROCK CLIMBING. Spend the day

practicing climbing skills, trying technical routes, traversing the bouldering wall and having a blast at Vertical Endeavors. Bring a peanut-free lunch. $60; $5 shoe rental. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

ORY

19 | SUNDAY SUBURBS IN SEARCH OF THE SNOW FLEA. Hunt for these tiny creatures

and learn about other insects and their winter habits. Dress for the weather. 1:30-2:30 p.m. River Trail Nature Center, 3120 N. Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook. (847) 824-8360, fpdcc.com.

20 | MONDAY PRESIDENTS DAY CELEBRATION. Includes a perfor-

mance by Chicago Brass Band and Meeting the Lincolns by With Lincoln Productions. Special family-friendly activities and performances are designed to honor and celebrate significant moments and figures in

history. Visitors have one last chance to see “Lincoln’s Undying Words” and discover how Abraham Lincoln’s changing views toward slavery transformed America. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., Chicago. (312) 642-4600, chicagohistory.org.

PRESIDENTS DAY CAMP. At this

“All About Primates” camp, participants in grades Pre-K-4 explore the fascinating world of primates, from how they raise their young to how scientists at the zoo study ape behavior, helping to conserve primates in the wild. $58-$68. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

SNOW DAY. An afternoon of exploring everything that makes winter great. Hike, play in the snow, go sledding, do science experiments and play games, then head inside to enjoy a hot cup of cocoa while watching a snowy movie. $40. Noon-4 p.m.

Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

MAKER/NATURE HOLIDAY DAY CAMPS. Enjoy creative art projects

and active nature exploration. $69.

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

24 | FRIDAY FAMILY NIGHT OUT. Families with kids 6 and up spend quality time together playing board games, basketball, volleyball and more.

Brainerd Park, 1246 W. 92nd St., Chicago. (312) 747-6027, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

WINTER NIGHT HIKE. Meet for a night hike to learn about the nocturnal animals that live at River Trail.

Then warm up inside with snacks and hot cocoa. $2. 7-9 p.m. River Trail Nature Center, 3120 N. Milwaukee

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY Pediatric dentistry

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Outstanding Pediatric Dental Care –

We take the fear out of dentistry for your child.

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

pediatric dentistry

It’s at the heart of what we do.

Nominated as one of CHICAGO’S FAVORITE

Kids

Doc

John P. Kenney, DDS, MS

Diplomate American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

Children's Dentistry in Park Ridge

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

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

847-698-2088

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

Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

16345 S. Harlem • Tinley Park

708-633-8700 • www.kidsdds.net

Infants, Children, Teens & Special Needs Children

www.care4kidsteeth.com

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

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CALENDAR Ave., Northbrook. (847) 824-8360, fpdcc.com.

25 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

DADDY DAUGHTER BALL. Enjoy

music, food and a balloon drop. Each couple can take a photo together. $35 adult/child pair, $30 resident pair; $15 additional child, $10 additional resident child. 6:30-8 p.m. Worth Park District, 11500 S. Beloit Ave., Worth. (708) 4487080, worthparkdistrict.org.

THE LIGHTNING THIEF.

Theatreworks USA brings one of Kid Lit’s most beloved characters to life with a quest that sees Percy traverse the perils of Olympus, solve riddles of the gods, and come to terms with the father who abandoned him. Adapted from the book by Rick Riordan.

Features a post-show meet-and-greet with the cast and books available for purchase. Recommended for kids 8-12. $20, $12 kids. 7:30 p.m.

McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn.

(630) 942-4000, atthemac.org.

FAMILY WORKSHOP: HIDE AND SEEK. Families with kids 6-12

explore unseen details in artwork with a teaching artist in the galleries, then head to the studio to reimagine what these artworks would look like with their secrets exposed. $8, $5 member.

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or 2-3:30 p.m. Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan.

(312) 443-3600, artic.edu.

POLAR ADVENTURE DAYS.

Tour the Northerly Island Natural Area; see Siberian huskies, wolves and other live animals; encounter birds of prey from Flint Creek Wildlife Rehabilitation; explore the island on snowshoes (if there’s snow); enjoy a treat and sip hot cocoa. $3 parking.

Noon-4 p.m. Northerly Island, 1400 S. Linn White Drive. (312) 745-2910, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

Da D add ddy/ y/ Dau Da ug ght hter er Win Wi ntter er Luau See Fe Se Febb.. 4 Feb

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY pediatric dentistry

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

• Flexible Hours • Insurance Accepted

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

(708) 799-9755

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

TUTORING

PEDIATRIC DENTAL ASSOCIATES, P.C.

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.

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

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

847-537-7695

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

815-459-2727

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

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Sitters Available Days, Nights, Weekends

www.collegenannies.com Lincoln Park • 773-697-9326 Glenview • 847-998-5657 ChicagoParent.com February 2017 69

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CALENDAR ONCE UPON A SYMPHONY: THE THREE LITTLE PIGS. See Feb. 4.

SUBURBS DR. SEUSS’S BIRTHDAY BASH. Enjoy rhyming activities and

gross-motor games, hourly readings of Dr. Seuss classics and one-of-akind bookmark crafts. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Lakeshore Learning Store, various locations. lakeshorelearning.com.

Grove. (847) 929-5102, webrary.org.

SAP’S RISING. Walk in the sugar maple forest as winter comes to an end to learn about the sweet history of maple syrup making. 1:302:30 p.m. River Trail Nature Center, 3120 N. Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook.

(847) 824-8360, fpdcc.com.

WEEKEND FAMILY CLASS: SWEET TREATS: COLD EATS. Glencoe. See

Feb. 12.

ROCK & MINERAL IDENTIFICATION. Elmhurst.

26 | SUNDAY

See Feb. 4.

CHICAGO

T e Liincoln Th C rn Ca niv iva ival all Seee Feb. Fee 4

ORY

CHARLOTTE’S WEB THE MUSICAL. Based on the beloved

KODO: DADAN. The world’s

book, “Charlotte’s Web” is the story of a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered by the farmer, Charlotte writes messages praising Wilbur in her web in order to persuade the farmer to let him live. 2-3 p.m. Morton Grove Public Library, 6140 Lincoln Ave., Morton

foremost taiko ensemble Kodo returns to Symphony Center for a thunderous performance that explores the limitless possibilities of traditional Japanese drumming with precision, dexterity and speed. $30 and up. 3 p.m. Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 294-3000, cso.org.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY Pediatric eye care

Pediatric dentistry

Pediatric dentistry

Pediatric Ophthalmologists

Medical and Surgical Eye Care for Infants, Children and Teens

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

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

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

www.eyesbypremier.com

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Christopher J. Morin, DDS

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CALENDAR LITTLE MISS ANN BAND CD RELEASE PARTY, CONCERTS FOR KIDS! Little Miss Ann has enjoyed

national acclaim for her upbeat, down-to-earth and interactive folksy kids music. Her fifth album, “Keep On,” is the result of a collaboration with children’s music newcomer Amy D. Join Ann, Amy and her band as they play songs from their new album. $6; $7 at the door. Noon-1 p.m. Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont. (773) 2814444, beatkitchen.com.

SUBURBS SAP’S RISING. Northbrook.

See Feb. 25.

SNOWSHOE HIKE. Enjoy a guided nature hike on snowshoes if there’s 4 inches of snow (or on foot if not). Limited number of snowshoes available; registration required to reserve snowshoes. 1-2:30 p.m.

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

Pola Po la ar Ad A dve ent ntu urre u Da D ay ys s Seee Feeb.

Se b. 25

● Home of 25+ Midwest & Nationally ranked players. ● 39 NCAA D1 scholarship recipients. ● Introducing 2000+ new students to the game of tennis each year.

REGISTER AT THE XS TENNIS DESK: 1301 E. 47th St., Chicago, IL 60653 773-548-PLAY (7529) Download the registration form at: www.xstennis.org ChicagoParent.com February 2017 71

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4 February festivities

T

he holidays are over, the snow is deep, and our spirits are most likely in need of some boosting. And while you might not think of February as being the most festive of months, there are still some reasons for merriment over these next 28 days.

Here are four celebrations that are worth getting out from under that cozy blanket.

NATIONAL FERRIS WHEEL DAY: This one’s probably not marked on your calendar in bright red ink, but that doesn’t make it any less worthy of celebration. In fact, since the carnival staple was invented right here in our fair city, it would be downright un-Chicagoan to ignore this holiday.

Head to the Centennial Wheel, whose heated gondolas provide some epic (and warm) views of the Windy City.

Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago.

(312) 595-7437, navypier.com.

VALENTINE’S DAY: We’re all about the love at Chicago Parent (and the candy, flowers and homemade cards that come with it). Celebrate your crew’s unique brand of affection at the Family Valentine Dance, an evening packed with games, crafts and enough dancing to thoroughly embarrass your offspring. $5. 5:30-6:30 p.m. Feb. 10. Maggie Daley Park, 337 E. Randolph St., Chicago. (312) 742-3918, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

PRESIDENTS DAY: There are 45 presidents to choose from, but we tend to be partial to Illinois’ native son, Abraham Lincoln. You can Visit with the Lincolns (or some actors that portray them) as Abe and Mary Todd prepare to visit the Ford Theater on a fateful night more than 150 years ago. Free. 2-3 p.m. Feb. 11. AlsipMerrionette Park Public Library, 11960 S. Pulaski Road, Alsip. (708) 371-5666, alsip-mp. lib.il.us.

GROUNDHOG DAY: While Punxsutawney Phil is searching for his shadow over in Pennsylvania, Illinois kids can learn about these weatherforecasting rodents. The Grumpy Groundhogs program teaches kids 6-8 what the mammals are really doing this time of year—and whether they’ll be coming for Tom Skilling’s job anytime soon. $22, $15 resident. 10-11:30 a.m. Feb. 4. Knoch Knolls Nature Center, 320 Knoch Knolls Road, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

Elizabeth Diffin

ChicagoParent.com CommunityCalendarEducationBabiesWebExtrasFamilyMuseums PartyPlanningSpecialNeeds TravelNewsletters ...and much more! Visit us today.

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ONGOING EVENTS

Ch C hic hiic cag go Au uto Sho ow See th this iss pag a e

EXHIBITS BRICK BY BRICK. Through Feb. 12. Features more than a dozen giant Lego-built structures of engineering marvels, including a 60-foot-long Golden Gate Bridge.

Guests will learn how architects and engineers push the limits of design, materials and location; witness how form follows function; learn how building uplifts us; and explore Chicago’s impact as the birthplace of the skyscraper. Requires a separate, timed-entry ticket.

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

(773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

ENCHANTED RAILROAD. Through

Feb. 19. Enjoy the intricate model railroad as it winds through a four-season display. Watch as more than 10 model trains run on a two-level, larger-thanlife platform. Free with arboretum admission. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. MondaysFridays; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. SaturdaysSundays. The Morton Arboretum,

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

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE: THE WORKS OF MAURICE SENDAK. Through Feb. 20. Explore

original artworks by Sendak, including sketches, illustrations and works on paper. Presidents, illustrators, friends and celebrities also share their words about the renowned author. Free with museum admission.

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

(773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

DREAM WITH DA VINCI. Visitors

learn the basics about Da Vinci and the Renaissance era and add their own ideas and voices to the exhibit.

Kids can explore elements of flight and connect today’s technology to Da Vinci’s innovations; check out machines and structures, from bridges to clock gears; try on the role of engineer; express themselves with different artistic mediums; and dress up in Renaissance clothing. Free with

museum admission. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 637-8000, dupage childrensmuseum.org.

FUN UNPLUGGED: LITTLE ADULTS. Located in the room across

from the museum’s electric HO gauge model railroad, the exhibit displays popular and homemade toys that entertained children without electricity, from Army figurines to tea sets, board games, dollhouses, erector sets, irons, stoves, cabins and more. DuPage County Historical Museum, 102 E. Wesley St., Wheaton. (630) 510-4941, dupagemuseum.org.

OTHER EVENTS GROUNDHOG DAYS. Things start with the Awakening of the Groundhog Ceremony at the Woodstock Opera House. Other activities include the Lion’s Club Pancake Breakfast, Willie’s Family Fun Day, “Groundhog Day” movie showings, walking tours of filming sites, a Woodstock Community

Choir concert, Groundhog Trivia, chili cook-off, bowling tournament, “Groundhog Tales” by Storyteller Jim May and Groundhog Willie’s official Groundhog Day prognostication.

Check website for cost and schedule.

Feb. 1-5. Woodstock. woodstock groundhog.org.

DOWNERS GROVE ICE FEST.

Unique ice sculptures line the streets of downtown while visitors enjoy an array of events. Live ice carving demonstrations take place on Friday at 5:30 p.m., as well as Saturday and Sunday (11 a.m.-3 p.m.). Plus, a pancake breakfast, shopping and dining. Feb. 10-12. Downers Grove. downtowndg.org.

CHICAGO AUTO SHOW. The

nation’s largest and longest-running auto exposition showcases more than 1,000 domestic and imported vehicles, auto-related exhibits, competition vehicles and project, antique and collector cars. Check website for cost and schedule. Feb. 11-20. McCormick

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ONGOING EVENTS Themes change each week. $5. 1111:45 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays.

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

Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. chicagoautoshow.com.

LINCOLN STATE CAT CLUB FELINE EXPO AND CFA ALL BREED BENEFIT CAT SHOW.

Features an Education Ring with veterinarians, behavior counselors, groomers and speakers giving talks on feline issues. Many CFA-registered purebred cats are on display to pet, with their owners present to answer questions. Multiple shelters will have cats available for adoption. The main event is a CFA Championship and Household Pet Cat Show, where 250 cats of all breeds compete for Best in Show. $8, $6 seniors and kids 6-12, free kids 5 and under. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Feb. 25-26. Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles.

(630) 584-2926, lscats.org.

ARBOR READING ADVENTURES.

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

CRAFTS FOR KIDS. Kids 3 and up enjoy crafts at all Lakeshore locations. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Lakeshore Learning Store, various locations. lakeshorelearning.com.

Dow Do wn ner ers Grro G ov ve Ic Ice ce Fe F est s SSeee paage 73

NATURE DISCOVERY DAYS.

The River Room is open for families to participate in self-guided activities.

11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays. Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, naperville parks.org.

ICE SKATING AT LINCOLN PARK ZOO. Whiz past the goats and cows

at the rink in Farm-in-the-Zoo. Snacks and winter warming drinks are available for purchase. $5; $5 skate rental. Open Presidents Day and weekends. Lincoln Park Zoo,

2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago.

(312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

GNOME HOMES. After taking a hike

through the Children’s Garden to hunt for the hiding gnomes, create a keepsake, light-up gnome home of your own. $10. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. weekends.

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

GNOME HUNT. Search for gnomes

in the Children’s Garden using “I Spy”

Come enjoy our expanded office We’re excited to see you & your family’s smiles!

Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

Specializing in Children & Adolescents S. Kuhn, D.D.S.

D. LaMonte, D.D.S., M.S.

skills. Checklist is provided. Free with arboretum admission. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

WINTER PLAY. A self-guided glimpse

into the world of outdoor play will depend on the day. Possibilities include painting snow or building a fort. Free with arboretum admission.

11 a.m.-3 p.m. daily. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

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74 February 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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PERFORMANCES

Th The he Hu Hun Hund nd dred rre ed D Drres esse ses Seee th Se this pagee

DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS FOLLOW YOUR HEART. Join in

on the deep-sea adventure as Dory comes off the screen and onto the ice.

“Inside Out” also makes its Disney On Ice debut as Riley’s Emotions help her find the confidence to win the hockey championship. “Follow Your Heart” immerses families in an array of treasured stories. $20 and up. 7 p.m.

Wednesdays; 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Thursdays-Fridays; 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays. Feb. 1-12. United Center, 1901 W. Madison St., Chicago. disneyonice.com.

THE SNOW QUEEN. Through

Feb. 11. This frozen fairy tale comes to life in an all-new adaptation of the Hans Christian Anderson classic.

Follow Gerda on her quest to save her sister Kai before they are trapped in the Snow Queen’s palace. Playing at various venues, including Joliet Junior College, North Central College, Museum of Science & Industry,

Tivoli Theatre and Prairie Center for the Arts. $8.50. 10:30 a.m. Check website for schedule. AlphaBet Soup Productions, P.O. Box 85, Lombard.

(630) 932-1555, absproductions.com.

Museum of Science & Industry, Tivoli Theatre and Prairie Center for the Arts. $8.50. 10:30 a.m. Check website for schedule. AlphaBet Soup Productions, P.O. Box 85, Lombard.

(630) 932-1555, absproductions.com.

THE HUNDRED DRESSES.

Through Feb. 12. A timeless tale that explores the bonds of friendship, the willingness to be yourself, and the courage that it takes to stand up to others—even when you’re standing alone. Recommended for families with kids 6 and up. $39, $28 kids.

Chicago Children’s Theatre, The Ruth Page Center for Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. (872) 2229555, chicagochildrenstheatre.org.

ROBIN HOOD. Opens Feb. 24. Join Robin Hood on a merry musical adventure as he fights for justice, triumphs over evil and wins the heart of Maid Marian. Playing at various venues, including Joliet Junior College, North Central College,

NIGHT RUNNER. Through Feb. 18.

When a cruel slave owner snatches Cora’s brother Marcus in exchange for debt, Cora flees to find him. In steps the legendary Night Runner, a fierce, fast-talking female superhero, who helps Cora escape to freedom and discover her own inner strength.

On Feb. 5, there will be a post-show discussion. The performances on Feb. 10-11 will be interpreted in American Sign Language. The performance on Feb. 9 will include a live audio description for patrons who are blind or have low-vision. Recommended for families with kids 9 and up. $10. 10 a.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays; 2 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays. Merle Reskin Theatre, 60 E. Balbo Drive,

Chicago. (312) 922-1999, theatre. depaul.edu.

MAGIC CITY. Through Feb. 19.

Manual Cinema’s first all-ages production explores the hard work and love it takes to rebuild your life when the unexpected throws everything into uncertainty. Using overhead projectors, live music, paper shadow puppets, live actors in silhouette and miniature toy theater, this performance updates the novel for a modern retelling. Recommended for families with kids 6 and up. $25. Chicago Children’s Theatre, The Station, 100 S. Racine Ave., Chicago. (872) 2229555, chicagochildrenstheatre.org.

FABLE-OUS! Through Feb. 19. Make some new friends in a world premiere comedy that turns the world of Aesop’s fables on its ear. An autism/ sensory-friendly performance takes place on Feb. 4. $15. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays. Lifeline

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EXHIBIT

Worth crowing about

Children’s China

H

appy Year of the Rooster! (Can I get a cock-a-doodle-doo?)

It’s not likely that you’ll be getting over to China to celebrate the Lunar New Year, so it’s a good thing that Kohl Children’s Museum has just debuted its new temporary exhibit, Children’s China: Celebrating Culture, Character and Confucius. It’s the perfect space for littles to learn a bit about what it’s like on the other side of the globe—and to gain some respect for this rich culture.

The exhibit, unlike those that delve into China’s complex history, looks at life in modern-day China, especially for its youngest members. So kids can experience handson activities that allow them to step into the shoes of their Chinese counterparts, such as celebrating National Teachers’ Day and learning to write “Thank you, teacher” in Chinese characters, shopping for fish, fruits and veggies in

a traditional Chinese neighborhood market and then preparing a healthy meal in a restaurant, and participating in a dragon parade led by a traditional dragon headdress in honor of Chinese New Year.

Additionally, animal lovers will enjoy acting as researchers at the panda reserve, while your little wiggleworms can take on cabin fever by trying out the fitness equipment common in China. And mini-philosophers

u Jan. 20-April 25 u Free with admission u Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview u kohlchildrens museum.org

(and their thoughtful parents) will appreciate the exhibit’s emphasis on Confucius, the wise teacher who continues to have an impact on modern-day Chinese children.

It’s sure to reinforce the idea that we all have more in common than we might

think—whether we eat with chopsticks or a knife and fork, shop in a mall or a market, or write in letters or characters.

And that’s something that will serve our little ones well in the future, even if they never climb The Great Wall.

Elizabeth Diffin

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PERFORMANCES Mag Ma gic Ci C ty y See paage ge 75

A Fun-Filled Musical Adventure!

classic musical. A new script features two new songs, funny dialogue and new, catchy orchestrations. $14.50$18.50. 2 and 5 p.m. Saturdays; noon and 3 p.m. Sundays. Feb. 4-20.

Windy City Music Theatre, 5340 W. Lawrence Ave., Chicago. (312) 3243700, youthcompanychicago.org.

the performance, audiences can join the cast for a post-show discussion.

Recommended for families with kids 10 and up. $22-$34. 11 a.m.

Saturdays. Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 595-5600, chicago shakes.com.

SHEN YUN 2017 WORLD TOUR WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA. Through

THE YEAR I DIDN’T GO TO SCHOOL: A HOMEMADE CIRCUS.

the universal language of music and dance, Shen Yun weaves a wondrous tapestry of heavenly realms, ancient legends and modern heroic tales, going on a journey through 5,000 years of authentic Chinese culture. $70-$180. 2 and 7:30 p.m. Feb. 11 and 18; 1 p.m. Feb. 12 and 19; 7:30 p.m. Feb. 16-17. Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph Drive in Millennium Park, Chicago.

(312) 334-7777, harristheaterchicago. org.

QUEST. Opens Feb. 11. Loosely

based on the Leo Tolstoy story “The Three Questions.” The hero, with her sidekicks, ventures through obstacles, misinformation, slapstick fun, unexpected detours, music and songs, near crises and amazing feats of partnership seeking answers with live music, circus arts and more. $20, $15 students and kids. 4:30 p.m. Fridays; 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays; 3 p.m.

Sundays. The Actors Gymnasium, Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes St., Evanston. (847) 328-2795, actorsgymnasium.org.

SHORT SHAKESPEARE! ROMEO AND JULIET. Opens Feb. 25.

This 75-minute adaptation, told in Shakespeare’s own words, speaks to today’s youth about their lives. After

Opens Feb. 28. Based on the book by acclaimed illustrator Giselle Potter.

Join 7-year-old Giselle and her sister Chloë as they spend a year traveling through Italy by truck, performing in their parents’ puppet theater company. $39, $28 kids. Chicago Children’s Theatre, The Ruth Page Center for Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. (872) 222-9555, chicago childrenstheatre.org.

FEB. 13 at 6PM © 2017, The Fred Rogers Company. The PBS KIDS logo is a registered trademark of PBS and is used with permission.

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK.

Jack and his dancing Spanish cow Carmelita try to save their village from the crazy giant. Recommended for families with kids 2-12. $12.

Check website for schedule. 10:30 a.m. weekdays; 1 p.m. Feb. 28. Stahl Family Theater, 5900 W. Belmont, Chicago. (773) 205-9600, chicago kidscompany.com.

LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD.

Sing along with Red and her friends as she travels through the forest to visit her grandma. Will she get to Grandma’s before the Big Bad Wolf?

Recommended for families with kids 2-12. $12. 10:30 a.m. weekdays.

Chicago Kids Company, Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St., Chicago.

(773) 205-9600, chicagokidscompany. com.

MARCH 16-19

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PERFORMANCES THE ADVENTURES OF ROBIN HOOD. Two actors bring this

action-packed adaptation to life.

The moment they walk into the theater, audiences are invited to step inside the world of the story, from interactive lobby activities to the fourth wall-destroying production. Filament Theatre offers a sensory-friendly version of the play on Feb. 4. Recommended for families with kids 7 and up. $25. 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. SaturdaysSundays. Filament Theatre, 4041 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago. (773) 270-1660, filamenttheatre.org.

JUICEBOX. Parents and young children can enjoy Chicago’s best music, dance and theater in a kid-friendly setting. Kids can sit on the floor, walk around, meet the artists and sometimes play with instruments and puppets. Parents are welcome to bring snacks and juiceboxes. 11 a.m. first and third Fridays at Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., Chicago; 11

a.m. first and third Saturdays at Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago. cityofchicago.org/dcase.

HOGWASH: AN IMPROVISED TALL TALE. Hogwash is an

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

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

THE GREATEST STORY NEVER TOLD. Professional

improvisers take suggestions and volunteer performers from the audience come on stage and co-create a 45-minute story.

Each original performance is transformed into a digital and physical storybook. $15-$25. 11 a.m. Saturdays. Under The Gun Theater, 956 W. Newport Ave., Chicago. greateststorynever told.org.

Juic i eb box ox S e tthhiss pag Se age ag PHOTO BY WALTER MITCHELL

Chicago Parent needs a few good moms and dads.

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

Email Lori Smerz at lori@chicagoparent.com.

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78 February 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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ChicagoParent.com February 2017 79

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WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS

The new crew at the zoo

C

hiberia isn’t just a cutesy name; it’s the reality of [at least] three months of the year here in the Windy City.

And it turns out frigid February actually is the perfect time to head to Lincoln Park Zoo to meet its newest polar friends.

At the Walter Family Arctic Tundra (not to be confused with the arctic tundra known as Lake Shore Drive), you’ll meet Siku, a 6-year-old male polar bear. Like the first-graders you have at home, Siku enjoys swimming and playing with pool toys.

He’s also a big guy, weighing in at about 1,000 pounds, who can be seen chowing down on large quantities of fish. And while

Siku himself hails from Toledo, Ohio, his ancestors made their home closer to the North Pole.

The zoo’s new penguin pals, however, are practically South Pole natives, but not as accustomed to Chicago-style weather as you might expect. The 12 tuxedoed birds come from South Africa (by way of zoos and aquariums around the country) and now make their home at the Albert & Mayari Pritzker Penguin Cove, which emulates the temperate weather of their motherland. Be sure to look online before you visit, so you can use the handy cheat sheet to differentiate Mandela from Madiba and Preston from Pilchard (they really do look alike).

So while you’re probably tempted to hibernate right about now, resist the impulse. Because a visit to the penguins and polar bear of Lincoln Park Zoo might be just what you need to pull you out of that winter funk.

Elizabeth Diffin

80 February 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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