Chicago Parent January 2016

MAKING THE GRADE Annual education guide

JANUARY

2016 | FREE

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

EASE THE FREEZE 10 hot spots JUMP-START YOUR

New Year CP_Cover_January_2015.indd 13

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“One test of the correctness of the educational procedure is the happiness of the child.”

– Dr. Maria Montessori

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ChicagoParent.com January 2016 1

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#resolutions HAPPIER! HEALTHIER! SAFER!

While some resolutions are a might-do, swimming lessons are a must-do. Sign your kids up for classes at Goldfish Swim School for a happier, healthier and safer new year!

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2 January 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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LEARNING SPANISH THROUGH MUSIC

DEDICATED TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE WHOLE CHILD Our amazing Spanish Instructor, Se単or Hamlet, uses

Multilingual education through music provides a foundation

interactive songs and musical play to create a bilingual

for Sonnets Academy students to excel cognitively. Our

atmosphere of enthusiasm, confidence & fun. In our

enrichment programs introduce Spanish Language Arts &

Spanish, Music & Yoga enrichment programs, students

music during infancy and toddlerhood when children are

can discover how to express themselves through the arts,

intrigued by phonetic and rhythmic components of language

language and wellness.

and follows through to preschool and pre-kindergarten when

"Our Spanish Curriculum uses interactive musical play and art to create a fun bilingual atmosphere that encourages students to express themselves through language while having fun!."

students are experimenting with grammar and language structure. Singing and conversing in Spanish during group activities builds both self confidence and social skills - key components for developing great communication skills and self expression.

-Se単or Hamlet, Spanish & Music Programs Director

Lincoln Park 312.951.1024

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River North 312.344.1926

FROM SIX WEEKS TO SIX YEARS

West Loop 312.733.7580

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12/15/15 2:11 PM

New for Fall 2016 Comprehensive Preschool and 8th Grade Programs

A “Classroom” Unlike Any Other At GEMS World Academy – Chicago, we believe learning shouldn’t be contained by a classroom’s four walls.

Attend an Admissions Coffee-and-Tour Session To learn more about GEMS World Academy - Chicago, tour the school, and meet faculty, join us for an admissions coffee-and-tour session.

To learn more and reserve your spot, visit gemschicago.org/Parent 312-809-8910 admissions@gemschicago.org

As a premier international school, GEMS World Academy – Chicago approaches learning from a global perspective that helps students develop an intuitive sense of their connections to people, ideas, and cultures. Our master teachers lead students through structured interactions with Chicago’s neighborhoods, institutions, and environment, empowering students to ask and answer deep questions. To know the world, you have to explore the world – up close and in focus.

Connections through Language:

Offering Spanish, French, Arabic, Mandarin

4 January 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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Lincoln Park Location Now Open!

O Now

p en!

ChicagoParent.com January 2016 5

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Resolutions are fine. But don’t start an exercise program without first consulting your doctor to see what is right for you.

Start 2016 with a healthy conversation.

Call 1-866-384-3278 to set an appointment. chicagomedicaldocs.com/stayhealthy

6 January 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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CLIENT: Tenet Physicians Network JOB NUMBER: 53171

SCALE FILE BUILT TO: 100% STUDIO: RYAN EVERETT

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contents

IN THIS ISSUE 15

GOOD TO GO

23

CRAFT

25

GOOD SENSE EATING

27

FAILING WITH GUSTO

Where to find jams for itty bitty music lovers, plus bowling at Kings Bowl America and a new all-ages theater Snow dough for inside fun Sprouted grains

Heated debate

40

JANUARY 2016 | VOLUME 32 | NO. 1

FEATURES

39

COLD COMFORT Best places for chicken noodle soup

53

CALENDAR

64

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS

Old dad, new tricks There’s no reason to hibernate this month Baby’s first movie at Chicago Children’s Museum

MAKING THE GRADE

19 Best workouts for busy moms: Four places to try

36 Parenting in 2016: New Year’s resolutions just for parents

VIVA DADDY

ON THE COVER

JUMP-START YOUR NEW YEAR

21 Fun ways to playfully kick off 2016: From jammies to cupcakes, make the most of the next 366 days 31 Kick it off: Make this the year you try new experiences

29

Annual education guide

JANUARY

2016 | FREE

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

EASE THE FREEZE 10 hot spots JUMP-START YOUR

New Year

40

10 PLACES TO FREEZE OUT WINTER You can win the war on cabin fever

43

BANISH WINTER BLAHS A trip to Wisconsin Dells should make your to-do list this winter

Cover kid: William Everett Pierce, 4, Chicago Photography:Thomas Kubik, TK Photography Design: Claire Innes

In this issue

MAKING THE GRADE Annual education guide ChicagoParent.com January 2016 7

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EDITOR’S NOTE

366 days to go

Artist

Inventor

Scientist

Big Dreams Start Young At Chiaravalle Montessori, we respect the potential in your child and treat them like the adult they will become. We honor each student’s strengths and support their challenges.

Learn how Chiaravalle prepares children for school, for the world and for life.

School life, real life and dreams co-exist here.

Enrolling for 2016-17 Infant/Toddler – 8th Grade 425 Dempster, Evanston

RSVP for a Parent Tour Call 847.864.2190 www.chiaravalle.org

TAMARA L. O’SHAUGHNESSY

I am a notorious New Year’s resolution failure. I really do set out every year with a solid plan to succeed, but by February, I end up hating myself when I fall off the wagon and find myself back to my old habits. I abhor failing.

If that sounds familiar to you, then you’ll really like this issue. Here are three takeaways (“resolutions,” if you must) in this issue guaranteed to be something you can stick to:

1

Teach kids to do more for themselves.

Julie Lythcott-Haims, author of How to Raise an Adult, tells us that we parents probably hold our kids’ hands too much. Guilty as charged. So this year, resolve to do a little less, literally. Have the kids do more for themselves. Not only will the kids gain life skills they’ll need sooner than later, but they’ll also get the message that they are capable individuals, she says. (And an upside for us? More time to do the things we actually enjoy.)

2 P M A C R E SUMM P

M A C R E M M SU

Founded in 1909 and nestled on the pristine shores of Lake Hubert in the Minnesota Northwoods, Camp Founded in 1909 and nestled on the pristine shores of Lake Hubert in the Minnesota Founded in 1909 nestled on the andHubert Camp Hubert focus Northwoods, Camp Lincoln and Lincoln Camp and Lake focusLake on skill and character development for boys and girls aged 5 to 17.

We strive to create a safe summer on skill and character development pristine shores of Lake Hubert in camp environment for children that encourages the discovery of self and a sense of for boys and girls aged 5 to 17.

Northwoods, Camp wonder in the the naturalMinnesota world!

We strive create afocus safe summer Lincoln and Camp Laketo Hubert 7460 Market Place Drive,environment Eden Prarie, MN camp for 55344 children that on skill and 800-242-1909 character development encourages the discovery of self and a for boyswww.lincoln-lakehubert.com andsense girls aged 5 to 17. of wonder in the natural world!

Have more fun.

One of our wonderful mom writers, Megan Murray Elsener, searched out positive new experiences for us to try this year instead of fixing negative old experiences. Top of my list: A family game night. Megan found a subscription service that delivers it right to the front door. Done.

3

Live in the now.

Dr. Shefali Tsabary, a 30 Second Mom contributor and world-renowned clinical psychologist, wants us to embrace our life as it is, to love it and live it—and take just one step toward a dream we have.

I’ll probably still try to drop some of my “baby” weight this year, get out of my desk chair a bit more to keep the ticker healthy and get my ear cartilage pierced to feel a little more hip.

You and me for the win in 2016! Together, we’re going to have a great year.

We strive to create a safe summer that 7460 Market Place encourages the discovery of self andDrive a Eden Prarie,world!

MN 55344 sense of wonder in the natural

8 January 2016 campChicagoParent.com environment for children

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800-242-1909 www.lincoln-lakehubert.com

12/16/15 4:14 PM

Lakeshore Academy of Artistic Gymnastics Call today to enroll for Winter classes!

Winter Term starts Jan. 25th

Classes for ages 6 months through adults

Call Us Today!

Downtown Chicago 937 W. Chestnut Street 312.563.9400

Mt. Prospect 520 E. Business Center Drive 847.376.8826

lakeshoreacademy.com ChicagoParent.com January 2016 9

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CONTRIBUTORS

My parenting resolution for 2016

EDITOR

Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy SENIOR EDITOR

Elizabeth Diffin DIGITAL EDITOR

Jackie McGoey ASSISTANT EDITOR

Emily Adams ART DIRECTOR

Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNERS

In 2016, I am going to spend more one-on-one time with each of my kids.

Whether it’s a special outing or reading a book just the two of us, it will help slow down time!

Megan Murray Elsener

I’m resolving to turn my phone off more in 2016 to show my daughter that screen-free life not only exists, it can be awesome.

Shannan Younger

An expert told me to give five minutes of positive attention before trying to improve anything.

So, more praise at dinner before pushing the vegetables!

Cortney Fries

My 2016 parenting resolution is to be more zen and less stressed. And to continue to take advantage of all of the wonderful kidfriendly activities in the city.

Jenny Muslin

Jacquinete Baldwin, Javier Govea IT AND DIGITAL DEVELOPER

Mike Risher CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Matt Boresi, Megan Murray Elsener, Sara Fisher, Keely Flynn, Cortney Fries, Caitlin Murray Giles, Jenny Muslin, Christine Palumbo, Meredith Sinclair, Marianne Walsh DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES

Annette Coffee, Dawn Engelhardt, Erika Goodman, Lourdes Nicholls, Alicia Plomin, Karen Skinner SALES AND MARKETING COORDINATOR

Kamil Brady

ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER

Philip Soell

ADVERTISING DESIGN MANAGER

Andrew Mead

ADVERTISING DESIGN

Debbie Becker, Mark Moroney CIRCULATION MANAGER

Jill Wagner DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR

Shanez Hudson

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

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

BUSINESS MANAGER

Joyce Minich CREDIT MANAGER

Laurie Myers PUBLISHER

Dan Haley COMPTROLLER Ed Panschar FOUNDERS Natalie Goodman, Carolyn Jacobs

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

chiparent@chicagoparent.com TO FIND A COPY

circulation@chicagoparent.com ADVERTISING

dhaley@wjinc.com

Chicago Parent is published monthly by Wednesday Journal, Inc. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Chicago Parent, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL, 60302. © 2016 Wednesday Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

10 January 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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Chicago Grammar School …experience the richness of a classical curriculum.

Sapere Aude – Dare to Know Congratulations to our students!

On the Iowa Test of Basic Skills May 2015, the CGS class scores ranged from 98th99th percentiles.

Follow us on Facebook

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The

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

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

• Active learning • Creative play • Daily art and gym classes • Nurturing environment with low student/teacher ratio • Half, full and extended day option Follow us on Facebook

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www.chicagogrammar.org ChicagoParent.com January 2016 11

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find your adventure with

JCYS Camps that put the

FUN IN SUMMER! starting at age 6 weeks BUFFALO GROVE Horner Grove Day Camp (age 6 weeks - 6) Counselor-In-Training (ages 13 - 15) CHICAGO Big City Day Camp (grades K - 8) Sunflower Day Camp (ages 15 months - 5) Counselor-In-Training (ages 13 - 15) HIGHLAND PARK Camp STAR* (ages 6 - 12) Jon Vegosen Champ Camp (grades 1 - 6) North Shore Day Camp (grades K - 6) NSDC Sports (grades K - 6) Sunflower Day Camp (ages 15 months - 5) Counselor-In-Training (ages 13 - 15)

Register today at jcys.org/ register

* For children with ADHD and related disorders

INGLESIDE (Round Lake area) Camp Henry Horner Day Camp (pre K - grade 8) Camp Henry Horner Overnight Camp (grades 3 - 10) Camp Red Leaf** (ages 9 & up)

jcys.org

wbu Jewish Council for Youth Services Serving children and families for over a century

** For individuals with various disabilities 12 January 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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ON THE WEB

Fun happens at ChicagoParent.com

1

There are tons of great reasons to love January, but one definitely is that every year, American Girl unveils its new Girl of the Year doll. And we have one!!! Head to ChicagoParent.com Jan. 7-15 for your chance to win. The winner will make the girl in their life happy for the whole year.

2

You won’t want to miss our next live chat over at Chicago Parent’s Facebook page Jan. 13.

Chat with Cultural Care Au Pair and other local experts who will help you find balance and calm in your day-to-day family life.

Learn tips from experts in childcare, household management, meal preparation, parenting/life coaches and other real moms on how they manage family schedules, find work/life balance and make sure everyone in the family gets what they need!

3

We love giving away family fun, and this month is no different.

We have family five-packs to Norm of the North and Kung Fu Panda from Classic Cinemas and to The Nut Job 2 from ArcLight Cinemas. Plus we have an inside track on this year’s must-sleepover, Adler Planetarium’s Astro-Overnight. We have a family five-pack of tickets for the first one on Feb. 5. Find details at adlerplanetarium.org.

Submit your questions to Digital Editor Jackie McGoey (jackie@chicagoparent.com) in advance or jump into the conversation the night of the chat. All participants are eligible to win great prizes!

CREATIVITY CAN’T BE TAUGHT WITH FLASH CARDS

As one of the Chicago area’s premier cultural institutions, Kohl Children’s Museum’s outreach work is elemental to who we are. We reach the underserved in the city with substantive training, programs and activities. We provide professional training to help develop stronger educators in low-income neighborhoods. We create engaging learning experiences that welcome children with special needs and their families. Explore our 17 interactive hands-on exhibits and discover for yourself why we’re surprisingly serious about play.

2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview | (847) 832-6600 | kcmgc.org ChicagoParent.com January 2016 13

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

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

timberridgeski.com|269.694.9449

Locally owned for 54 years of Winter Fun

14 January 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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Jams for itty bitty music lovers 1 3 2 Not only does Roscoe Village’s Beat Kitchen offer up $6 tickets for its familyfriendly Sunday concerts, but it has that beer you love in stock. (Beat that, rest of the weekend plans!) beatkitchen.com

The place where you can get your banjo on with the best of ‘em is the exact same spot to experience some of the city’s coolest concerts with

your offspring, Old Town School of Folk Music. (Don’t even pretend you’re doing it for the kids.) oldtownschool.org

Turns out that the best place for reading is also the best place for getting your rock n’ roll on. Many of Chicagoland’s public libraries feature live performances by beloved children’s artists, but Bolingbrook’s Fountaindale Public Library takes it

Good to go

Olld Town O Old n Scho Scho Sc ool of Fo olk l Mu usi sc

Fountaindale Public Library

up a notch—its 7,000-square-foot media center encourages budding musicians to immerse themselves in the creation of their own jams. fountaindale.org.

Keely Flynn

ChicagoParent.com January 2016 15

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GOOD TO GO

Inside family fun: Bowling Kings Bowl America opens in Chicago

I

s it possible to have an exceptional evening out with the whole family?

Kings Bowl America seems to think so, and my clan would wholeheartedly agree.

With decor befitting a cool cat lounge and facilities impressive enough for even the most serious bowler, Kings Bowl has a heck of a lot that appeals to the younger set.

Foosball? Air hockey? Laser bumpers set to show up on your child’s turn to bowl? (Or yours; they won’t judge.)

And if you’re worried about wrangling a larger group for a child’s birthday, fear not; the new Kings Bowl in Lincoln Park has a semi-private (and ropedoff!) pair of lanes at the back of

Everyone—from the doorman to manager to server— was incredibly friendly and welcoming. The attached parking in the NewCity plaza is a major draw as well. (City parents, can I get an amen?)

Lincoln Park’s Kings Bowl is a must-visit (and must-chill, must-play and absolutely must-return).

Keely Flynn

the facility. This spot, however, keeps you within a stone’s throw of Kings’ impressive bar.

Its executive-chef designed menu is top notch, too; the buffalo wontons and Southwestern spring rolls were so good that

my husband and I didn’t even want to share them with the kids. (Thankfully, their thin crust pepperoni pizza was so off-the-charts the kids couldn’t have cared less what we were eating.)

Kings Bowl

New location in Lincoln Park, 1500 N. Clybourn Ave., Chicago (312) 973-4920 kingsbowlamerica.com/ lincoln-park

is part of your favorite social networks

Find us on Facebook

2/29/16.

Join the Twitter party!

Follow us @ChicagoParent On Pinterest pinterest.com/chiparent

16 January 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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GOOD TO GO

All-ages theater means all ages at Stage 773

M

any arts-loving parents face this problem: you’re jonesing to see something new and exciting with the fam, but more often than not, “family friendly” means it’s actually geared towards the sippy cup set.

Stage 773’s Inoffensive Theatre Series aims to change all that and, at the same time, put some of Chicago’s best theater companies on your “all ages” radar.

The lineup currently features Barrel of Monkeys and their hit kidwritten, grownup-performed sketch comedy, “That’s Weird, Grandma,” Theatre Unspeakable’s “hilarious history in under an hour” production of “The American Revolution,” and the tiny space/largely heroic

“Superman 2050.”

For Stage 773’s Director of Programming Amanda Long, the impetus to start this series was their beloved show “Bri-Ko.” While it didn’t quite jive with the company’s other programs, she knew it was something special.

“So we thought, there are more Chicagobased artists creating smart, creative, engaging theater,” Long says.

“Let’s bring a bunch of inoffensive theater together for audiences to enjoy in one funky-fun place.”

“Saying what my favorite bits are would give away some of the magic,” Long says. “So I’ll just say that one … involves our co-worker Brian Peterlin trying to eat chips very quietly. It’s silly. There’s so much to love.”

Keely Flynn

Stage 773

Inoffensive Theatre runs select Saturdays at 2 p.m 1225 W. Belmont, Chicago stage773.com for current and upcoming shows

The Magical Journey begins here...

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& Academy ChicagoParent.com January 2016 17

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GOOD TO GO

Get your family in harmony

S

ay you’re good at a handful of instruments—among them the ukelele and vocal beatbox—and have a history that includes three grownup albums and years of touring the country as a singer/songwriter. How do you follow up that kind of cool?

If you’re Rebecca Stoelinga, aka Super Stolie, you become a beloved children’s performer with legions of brightly dressed fangirls and boys.

Her new third album for kids, Family in Harmony, is mellower and a bit more introspective than her earlier offerings.

Hopes, fears, rules and a sense of fair play permeate these sweet and fun songs.

“Rock, Paper, Scissors” and “The Whale Song,” in particular, are personal favorites; both share great, accessible themes while managing to be on opposite sides of the musical spectrum from each other. Her fluent Spanish in “Boca Boca Boca” and “Paz Amor y Gozo” is not

only impressive but lovely as well.

And for my kids’ money, it’s hard to get sillier than the wordplay in “Chicken in the Kitchen.”

Super Stolie was, in all probability, that kid on the elementary school playground

who had the really, really fun ideas. Her lyrics are smart, tight and never cloying.

And parents? I dare you not to sing along in the car, even without your pint-sized passengers.

Keely Flynn

18 January 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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BEST IN CHI

Best workouts

for busy moms 4.0

SARA R. FISHER

In my *gasp* fourth year writing this column, I can say one thing definitively: every year I try new workouts, someone has invented yet another way to torture my body. By ‘torture,’ I mean kicking my butt until it burns. Literally.

Here are some of the newest, best workouts I’ve found for you.

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Studio Lagree Locations in Lincoln Park and Highland Park, (847) 433-8658 studiolagree.com Studio Lagree is like Pilates on steroids. Big, bad mega reformers are weighted with pulleys to create a total body workout in a momtime-sensitive 50 minutes.

Lagree tests your body with a core workout that is unforgiving, but super satisfying and body changing.

Go Row 525 W. North Ave., Chicago (312) 878-4999 gocyclestudio.com Go Row, a studio in Old Town, makes good use of the WaterRower—a rowing machine that uses water resistance just like on the lake—with an interval training class. Owner Emmy Rigali is motivational and tough.

The timed training encourages you to compete in a friendly environment (I came in last in the rowing challenge and was still smiling).

Title Boxing Club 2417 N. Clark St., Chicago (773) 327-7500 titleboxingclub.com Title Boxing Club is a studio with

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boxing-only workouts that use real boxing techniques, but for people like me. (I’ll never be Laila Ali.) The upper body workout was second to none. If I were to go back, I’d look for a kickboxing class to get the leg burn with the arm fatigue.

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6/16/15

Crosstown Fitness Locations in Lakeview and West Loop crosstownfitness.com After a friend convinced me to try this bootcamp fitness studio, I nearly unfriended him after the third round of frog jumps. But at the end of the 50-minute cross training session, I felt energized and stronger. Each class throughout the day offers something different, so it’s impossible to get bored.

It is one of the nicest of the new studios I tried, but fair warning, their “kid’s club” literally will fit just one kid. Better to go solo and get a babysitter.

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ChicagoParent.com January 2016 19

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Photo by Jade Albert

Learn more at

autismspeaks.org/signs Some signs to look for:

No big smiles or other joyful expressions by 6 months

No babbling by 12 months

No words by 16 months

Š 2012 Autism Speaks Inc. "Autism Speaks" and "It's time to listen" & design are trademarks owned by Autism Speaks Inc. All rights reserved. The person depicted is a model and is used for illustrative purposes only.

20 January 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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WELL PLAYED

Four fun ways

to playfully kick off 2016

MEREDITH SINCLAIR

The hustle and bustle of the holiday season has been wrapped and tied and stored away for another year. Now it’s time to set our intentions and make the most of the next 366 days we’re calling 2016.

Play with your Pajammies From January through the beginning of May, many Chicagoans spend a whole lot of time complaining about the cold and gray chilling us to the bone. If you could use a big dose of warm and cozy with a splash of whimsical fun, then you must nab yourself a pair of PJ Salvage flannel jammies. I bought a pair for my mom and myself for the holidays (so we could match).

These flannels are super-soft and warm, but also lightweight with the most playful patterns imaginable.

Mine are covered in French macaron cookies. Yummy indeed. pjsalvage.com

Play with your tootsies Last year my mom got both of my boys a one-year subscription for socks. Yep, SOCKS! The thing kids never want to get as a gift, right? Wrong.

The company, Foot Cardigan, has taken socks from boring to brilliant! FC is home to the silliest, grooviest, most awesome line of socks there ever was. Each month my boys receive a mystery sock bomb. From lobsters and monkeys to robots and popcorn, they never know what playful pattern their podiatric package will reveal. And they’re super comfy too! footcardigan.com

Play with your sweet tooth I recently attended the grand opening of Gigi’s Cupcakes in Wilmette and it completely changed my concept of what a cupcake is capable of.

We had a back-bakery tour and got a taste (literally) of what cupcakes are like when made with heaps of the freshest, finest ingredients, big dashes of creativity, and a whole lot of love.

I particularly loved the minis, which are just the right pop of playful indulgence as we all try to maintain our New Year’s fitness resolutions. With unique flavors like white midnight magic, Scarlett’s red velvet, and even tiny, perfect cheesecakes with cherries on top, Gigi’s is your answer to “what’s for dessert?” gigiscupcakesusa.com

Play with your family One way to survive our long winter is by taking advantage of the creative staycations hotels create to help us hibernate in style.

My son, Maxwell, and I recently took advantage of the Loews Chicago Hotel’s new “Snowed Inn” package as part of our yearly get-away. We had a ball enjoying hot chocolate and cookies upon arrival, free in-room movie rentals and 20 percent off at the spa, restaurant and mini bar. The package also includes a custom pillow fort in your room! Now that’s how to survive the tundra months.

“Snowed Inn” at the Loews runs through March 31; loewshotels.com ChicagoParent.com January 2016 21

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CRAFT

Snow dough Make your own snow to play iindoors ndoor ors

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MEGAN MURRAY Y ELSENER ELS SEN ENER E ER

W

e know the bitter cold and snow dayss are coming. Prepare yourself with a few ew household supplies for this easy projectt that will keep the kiddos busy without venturing outside.

Snow dough is a great sensory activity for preschoolers, ool o ers, oler s, but keeps older kids entertained as well.

Directions

1

In a large bin or plastic Tupperware, mix ½ cup of white hair conditioner with three cups of baking soda. Using your hands or a spoon, mix together the baking soda and conditioner until it creates a crumbly texture.

2 3 4

Add a generous amount of glitter er for the snow dough to sparkle.

Double the recipe for double thee fun if you desire more snow.

Mold the snow dough together to make snowballs, snowmen, mountains and more.

Add small figurines, Lego men or plastic animals to create scenes.

Supplies Baking soda Hair conditioner (white) Glitter (optional) Tupperware or bin

ChicagoParent.com January 2016 23

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24 January 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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GOOD SENSE EATING

Sprouted grains:

A hippie favorite returns Sprouted grains, a popular food of the ‘70s, are back. In fact, they are becoming trendy and can be found in bread, cereal, pasta and snack chips.

Sprouted grains refer to seeds of grain that are soaked in water and allowed to germinate or begin to sprout. Once a root appears, the grains can be frozen, dried or mashed and cooked into baked goods.

They’re considered a whole grain and can be CHRISTINE wheat, rye, barley, spelt or oat. Even naturally PALUMBO gluten-free corn, rice, amaranth and millet flours are being made from sprouted grains.

Proponents say the health benefits are significant: they are said to be higher in nutrients such as protein and vitamins.

But are the benefits being overstated?

“Whether there’s a significantly greater amount of nutrients or not, that’s not really clear,” says Julie Miller Jones, Ph.D., CNS, professor emerita at St. Catherine University in St. Paul, Minn. “Is it 10 percent more, enough to make a nutritional impact?”

Spouted grains are a touch sweeter and more flavorful than traditional whole grains.

“You’re breaking down some starch, which makes it taste sweeter,” says Jones, who attended a presentation on the topic at the American n Association of Cereal Chemists International all meeting last fall. She say ssays a s it’s a way for food compam ampamp nies to “get a sweet taste asste without added sugar.””

Some of the enzymes meess produced during the sp sproutpro rout uting process also can mak make m akee certain proteins easierr to

digest, she says. “It breaks down grain protein and legume protein, both of which are harder proteins for us to digest.”

In addition, sprouting activates certain plant enzymes that start breaking the cell wall down, which also improves digestibility.

As to the protein increasing, she says since the starch is being used up, it’s the percentage of protein that is going up, not the actual amount.

Is there a downside to sprouting?

Jones says that depending on how long you do it, “you can take all the bet beta glucan (fiber) out of things likee oats or barley.”

While sprouted flour can be sp p purchased d online and at natural foods fo oo stores, mainstream supermarkets are beginssu ning to offer it as well. n For more information on how to sprout tti your own or baking with yyo grains, check ssprouted p out Bread Revolution by ou o Peter Pe Reinhart.

P Christine Chr ris M. Palumbo, RD, is a

Sprouted Coconut Waffles Serves 4 Ingredients 2 large eggs ¼ cup yogurt 1 ¼ cups water 3 Tbsp. coconut oil ¼ cup maple syrup (plus more for on top) 1 Tbsp. vanilla extract 1 ¼ cups sprouted whole wheat flour ½ cup coconut flour ½ tsp. sea salt 1 tsp. baking powder 4 Tbsp. dried, shredded coconut

Instructions In a large mixing bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Add the yogurt, water, oil, syrup

1

and vanilla. Mix until blended.

Add the remaining dry ingredients to the egg mixture and mix until blended.

Follow the waffle iron instructions for cooking. Adjust the consistency of the batter by adding more water or flour as needed.

Serve with butter and maple syrup.

Nutrition facts per serving: 410 calories, 51 g carbohydrates, 11 g protein, 19 g fat (15 g saturated fat), 490 mg sodium, 13 g fiber Used with permission from copyright EssentialEating.com

2 3 4

Naperville-based nutritionist. Follow Nap Nape eer Twitter @PalumboRD, Facebook her on nT at Chr Christine Christ isttin Palumbo Nutrition or Chris@ ChristinePalumbo.com.

Chr Christ istine ineP Pa P

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FAILING WITH GUSTO

Heated debate

I attempted mirrors. I handed him pictures of me. I talked to him non-stop. The ear-piercing performances continued unabated.

One afternoon, I grabbed my dad and headed to lunch with Danny in tow.

Desensitized to the howling, I forgot to warn my father in advance. My dad became increasingly edgy, and afterr 10 long minutes of the usual fussing, he unbuckled his seatbelt to investigate. e. He yanked on the straps to make sure they were not too tight. ght. He felt Danny’s diaper to seee if he was wet. He checked his head for fever.

My dad’s gaze finally settled on Danny’s outfit. It was a cold November day,, and my son was once again bundled led in his winter coat. He offered d three simple words: “Maybe he’s hot.”

My initial reaction was righteous indignation. It was November! I had set the heat to a sensible 68 degrees! And wasn’t I the one drenched in maternal instinct and nurturing? Certainly I would have recognized if my baby was overheated!

I pulled over and removed Danny’s coat to prove the point, confident the wailing would commence instantly.

Danny cooed, grinned and gave me his nowfamiliar “thanks, Mom” look. It is the same look I currently get when I let him stay up late or skip piano practice.

I felt like a jerk.

The books had told me to dress the baby the same way I would dress for various temperatures. I had been wearing a down coat and gloves. Danny, it seemed, ran hotter.

Eleven years later, I fight a daily battle with my son over the inappropriateness of wearing shorts in winter. He insists he does not need a thick coat and that hoodies work just fine. He kicks off his blanket and remains warm to the touch even on the coldest of nights.

I complained to my husband last winter about the skirmishes regarding outerwear. Joe thought I was overreacting.

“Maybe he’s hot.”

Memories from that long-ago day flooded back and the righteous indignation returned. Looking to escape my ire, Joe quickly threw on a pair of shorts before taking ou our three sons out for ice cream.

It was January January.

I try to embrace the yin yi and yang of parenting.

I know my paren tendency tenden to overprotect and an overdress is muted by b Joe’s encouragement of cargo agem shorts shor and butter pecan. My husband peca also offers offe an innate ability to defuse any situation before things really hot. But with get rea the bo boys all gone to Baskin-Robbins?

Bask Things did get T hot. I put the ho thermostat at 75 th degrees and I set de my electric blanm ket to incinerate. k While the yang’s away…. ya Marianne Walsh is a Ma Chicago mom of three Chi boys. boys Want more? Go to ChicagoParent.com and Chica

Talk back

When my oldest child, Danny, was six month old, he developed a nerve-wracking new habit. My mellow baby started screaming like a lunatic whenever he was strapped into his rear-facing car seat. I scoured the internet and decided the impetus was separation anxiety. Many experts MARIANNE write how babies become WALSH inconsolable when not in the immediate presence of their mothers.

webandofmothers.blogspot.com. webandof

ChicagoParent.com January 2016 27 Chicag

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VOICE: DAVID TELISMAN

7 New Year’s resolutions my son chose for me

I

can say with absolute certainty that I have never carried out a single New Year’s resolution. Maybe they just haven’t been practical, sort of like my grand idea of creating a flu shot that protects against all strains of the illness.

I’m changing my approach this year. A good leader delegates to trusted advisors, and to that end I’ve asked my 7-year-old to make my 2016 New Year’s resolutions for me and to help me.

Here they are in his words:

7

“You need to lose your food baby.”

Everyone promises to lose weight when the new year starts, but not everyone’s kid puts it in these words. My son scores points for originality. I’ve grown quite portly over the last few years, so it’s time to opt for a side of fruit over the pancakes when I order the meat lovers omelet.

6

“Eat as much food as you want to.”

What? Huh? How are these meant for the same person?

“You just told me to get rid of my food baby, and now you’re saying to eat more?” I asked him.

“Well, I feel bad for telling you that you have a food baby, so you could keep eating a lot.”

5

“Watch more football with me.”

Twist my arm. Watching football is only my favorite thing to do. Talk about an attainable resolution! We watch the Red Zone channel

from noon to 6:30 p.m. every Sunday, but apparently we have been shortchanging ourselves. We will resolve to catch the Thursday and Monday night games as well now. However, this means more football snacks, which will turn my food baby into a food young adult.

4

“Don’t be so grumpy in the morning.”

I’m not, nor have I ever been, a morning person, so this one might be unrealistic.

“I’m very tired in the morning,” I said.

“So sleep more,” he says.

“That’s easier said than done. After you guys go to bed, I usually have work to do, and after that I watch Property Brothers and Real Housewives of fill-in-the-blank city. I wind up falling asleep around 11:30, which is too late.”

“That’s not fair that you get to watch so much TV.”

3

“Buy me the Lego 10188 Star Wars Death Star set.”

This is one of the largest and most complex sets in the Lego line with nearly 4,000 pieces and a sticker shock price of $400. I had to reinforce the meaning of a New Year’s resolution: It’s when you make a positive change for yourself, I explained. Like a goal.

“Exactly,” he said.

“Exactly what?”

“I ask you every year to get it for me, and you never do. That’s something you would change, and it’s positive, and you

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should make it your goal.”

“But how does this make me better?”

“Oh, it would make you A LOT better if you got it for me.”

2

“Don’t put me in timeout so much.”

“I’m going to need your help with that one,” I said.

“How?” “By not giving me reasons to put you in timeout.”

1

“Be the best dad.”

“Whoa, I need some criteria here,” I said. “How do I become the best dad?”

“You already are.”

“That’s sweet. But you’re still not getting the Death Star.”

David Telisman writes the blog Chocolate Diapers. He lives in Northbrook with his wife and two sons.

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www.grins4kids.com 28 January 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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VIVA DADDY

Old dad, new tricks

MATT ROCCO

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The New Year is a time for resolving to grow. As a dad north of 40, I find what is growing fastest about me is my nose hair and my desire for those darned kids to get off my lawn.

My daughter, on the other hand, learns new things every day. New words, new scientific facts and new ways to stall bedtime well past the cold open of SNL. Viva: Learn to tie shoes.

Daddy: Learn the Dunaway pocket square fold.

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Viva: Learn the difference between “want” and “need.”

Daddy: Learn the difference between “further” and “farther.”

Visit us at any of our locations!

In the city:

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1460 N. Halsted St. Suite 506

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680 N. Lake Shore Drive Suite 1207 In the suburbs:

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Niles, Skokie, Park Ridge, Libertyville, Glenview, Grayslake, Highland Park and Hoffman Estates

Katherine K. Hamming, M.D.

ILLUSTRATION BY STEPHEN SCHUDLICH

Robert P. Miller, M.D.

Viva: Learn your candy consumption limits.

Daddy: Learn your cured meat consumption limits.

David L. Walner, M.D.

Viva: Learn patience.

Daddy: Learn patience.

That should be plenty of challenge for both of us, and there’ll likely be an extra lesson in disappointment when she learns all of the above and J N : PCH0-PETS-O1650 Ver.B Daddy never figures out that pocket square fold.

J N : PCH0-PETS-O1650 Ver.B Viva Resolutions. Viva Viva.

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Viva: Remember to brush.

Daddy: Remember to vote.

Pediatric Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists of Illinois

by TheShelterPetProject.org

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Viva: Figure out how to call for help in case of an emergency.

Daddy: Figure out to whom I should complain about Daylight Savings Time.

fault ’s it’s fault not fault ’s fault

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Viva: Learn to swim.

Daddy: Learn to swim.

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Viva: Learn phonics.

Daddy: Learn Uber.

T:3.75”

S:3.625”

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Viva: Learn to set the table.

Daddy: Learn to arm the vacation laser thingies on the house security system.

T:3.75”

S:3.625”

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Viva: Learn all the Beatles albums by cover art.

Daddy: Learn the names of all the Disney Princess “Palace Pets.”

T:3.75”

S:3.625”

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I believe that children should be an inspiration, not only to keep us from getting into fistfights every time someone honks when a stoplight has just turned green, but also an inspiration towards selfimprovement. If my 4-year-old can stretch her knowledge and consciousness every day, can’t I? Here are 10 learning goals for Viva for 2016, and 10 learning goals for Daddy. (Twelve seems a little unrealistic so let’s leave some grace months.)

Does your child snore?

Does your child have multiple ear or sinus infections?

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ChicagoParent.com January 2016 29

Black Black

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12/15/15 2:34 PM

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Make 2016 the year you branch out to try new experiences

Kick it off

R

BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER ather than make a resolution you won’t n’t keep, start off the new year by challenging yourself to try new things in 2016.

Pick one of these new resources in each area of your life, from fashion to fitness, food and family. You may find they make your life easier, tastier and more fun. That’s way better than that resolution you likely will have forgotten by February!

Fitness ClassPass classpass.com A new year generally means reminding yourself that you should be more active and get to the gym. Add some variety to your fitness routine with ClassPass, a monthly membership that lets you create a workout routine that works for you with access to the largest network of fitness studios. Whether it’s cycling and circuit training or Bikram and barre, ClassPass allows you to attend your choice of group fitness classes all through the city. For $99 a month, with no

commitments nts and the ability to cancel anytime, time, try that Pilates, yoga, dancee or weight class you’ve been thinking ing about. With ClassPass, you can row, lift, run un and downward dog your way to fitness in 2016.

016.

Orangetheory eory Fitness orangetheoryfitness.com Want to burn 500-1000 calories in one hour? Orangetheory Fitness promises weight loss and strength performance with its five zone heart-rate interval training. Each 60minute session consists of treadmill interval training, indoor rowing and weight room or

resistance training. The idea behind resista Orangetheory is pushing participants Orange into the “orange zone,” which creates excess p post-exercise oxygen consumption continues to burn calories after your and cont workout. With all fitness levels welcome, workout power walkers to elite athletes, from pow Orangetheory is gaining a steady followOrange and can kick-start your new year. ing an Fitb Fitbit fitbit.com fitbi Ready to be held accountable to Read yourself and your fitness? Think yourse you get those 10,000 steps a day yo that doctors recommend? Start th tracking your steps with a Fitbit tr tracker, which all of your friends tr are also using. With a variety of ar products from waist clip-on to pr wrist trackers, Fitbit monitors your w steps, quality of your sleep and st ccalories burned. It syncs to your smartphone or computer. You can track your calorie intake by scanning food barcodes and make sure you’re drinking enough water. Best yet, it allows you to challenge other Fitbit wearers so you can compete with your spouse or friends to keep yourself accountable.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

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Social Table

KICK IT OFF

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31

Food Blue Apron blueapron.com That meatloaf and spaghetti meal rotation gets old real quick.

With Blue Apron, you skip the grocery store completely and have everything delivered to you in a box with pre-portioned fresh ingredients. The family plan lets you pick two or four meals a week that come with easy directions. A refrigerated box arrives with all the components for the meal. Make it a family event and cook the dinners together. It’s an easy way to get dinner on the table, while also giving your taste buds a new experience.

The price breaks down to what you would spend at the store, but you don’t have uneaten leftovers.

Lincoln Park neighborhood.

With professional guidance, you cook, drink and eat for a three-hour class and leave the cleaning up for the staff. The Social Table has public classes each month and also offers private classes if you wish to make a guest list, pick the menu and rock your own playlist. Get a group of parents together for food, drinks and fun, while also learning something in the kitchen.

The Dinner Club thedinnerclub.biz The next time the kids ask, “What’s in all official arena parking lots with ticket purchase. for dinner?” you’ll have Visit arena website for details. an answer.

Even better, dinner will already be prepped. At The Dinner Club in La Grange, you assemble meals at stations where all the ingredients are chopped, prepped and ready for you. Then you Buy Tickets: Ticketmaster.com in all official arena parking lots with ticket purchase. Visit arena website for details. take home eight to 12 meals 800-745-3000 • Venue Box Office to store in your freezer until Social Table you are ready to eat them. At thesocialtable.com about $4 per serving, it’s way All parents need a night out DisneyOnIce.com less expensive than fast food away from the kiddos and it and much more nutritious. doesn’t hurt when good food The Dinner Club was designed and wine are included. The Buy Tickets: Ticketmaster.com •Social 800-745-3000 Venue Box Office by two sisters to help create Table hosts•small, intihealthy and delicious meals to mate BYOB dinner party-style DisneyOnIce.com bring busy families back to the cooking classes in an adorable #DisneyOnIce dinner table together. little yellow house in Chicago’s

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Fashion

game right to your home each month. You can customize your subscription and list the games you already own so there are never repeats.

Le Tote letote.com Bored by your current closet and wish you could constantly try new clothes? Le Tote is like the Netflix of clothing. It rents out apparel and accessories to wear and return. You select styles you love, get sent a box filled with clothing and accessories that you can wear for as long or as little as you want, and then you send the box back for a new shipment. And if you love anything you receive, you can buy it. With free shipping and just $49 per boutique box, your wardrobe can get a total rotating upgrade as often as you desire.

Stitch Fix stitchfix.com Wish you could have a someone else pick out clothes for you? Stitch Fix brings a stylist to you; you complete a personal style quiz online so your personal stylist gets to know you and your preferences. Five pieces of clothing and accessories are then delivered to your door. Try on and keep what you love and send back the rest. You only pay for what you keep and then your feedback makes your next “fix” even better. For only a $20 styling fee (and that amount is deducted from whatever you decide to buy), it’s worth getting your fix on.

Get your museum on Your family has no doubt visited Chicago’s world-class museums. But have you discovered some of the more hidden gems? Challenge your family to explore off the beaten path and learn about Chicago’s many amazing cultural backgrounds, neighborhoods and museums.

Try the National Hellenic Museum for some Greek mythology and stay for gyros in Greektown. Head to Andersonville and the Swedish American Museum or to Hyde Park for the DuSable Museum of African American History.

Try dim sum in Chinatown after you explore the Chinese-American Museum of Chicago. Get inspired in Pilsen by the National Museum of Mexican Art and fill tummies at Los Comales.

Family Game Box Monthly gameboxmonthly.com Start a new 2016 tradition of family game night that doesn’t involve screens or iPads. Game Box Monthly delivers a new, unique and sometimes hard-to-find board

Emerald City Theatre emeraldcitytheatre.com Theater should be for all ages, and the Emerald City Theatre makes that happen with fun and entertaining shows for the family. For the littlest family members, try the Little Theatre with plays geared toward ages 0-5. For grade school and older kids, the theater offers productions at the Broadway Playhouse and the Apollo Theater. Sign up for the yearly season subscription pass so the family can return time and time again.

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

Emerald City Theatre

Rent the Runway renttherunway.com Nothing to wear for a big black-tie event or formal wedding? You can wear designer dresses and wow the crowd for less than you imagine. At Rent the Runway, you can choose from thousands of designers like Narcisco Rodriguez, Versace, Oscar de la Renta or Vera Wang. Rent dresses and accessories for a fraction of their actual cost, wear and return. Now that it has a Chicago store location, it’s even easier to try on dresses and find the ideal fit.

Go big and stun the crowd at your next fancy event!

ChicagoParent.com January 2016 33

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Three trends SPRING MUSICAL THEATRE WORKSHOP Begins February 13th!

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to watch

1

Household managers Tiffanie Kinder, founder of Nanny Connections, says she’s seeing more families hiring household managers who help with morning and afternoon routines, kids’ activities, groceries, errands and more.

She says this trend might have something to do with an increase in the stay-at-home dad/working mom dynamic.

Expect to pay about $18-$25 an hour.

2

Adult coloring books There’s nothing quite like the simplicity and joy you get from coloring with the kids. This relaxing pastime has taken on new life with the new coloring books created just for adults that are flooding the market. Don’t be surprised to see Wine and Coloring Parties this year. Get your Crayolas ready.

3

On-point names Trendy Chicago moms are already picking the cool baby names ahead of the rest of the nation (take that, NYC and Dallas). So in 2016, baby name guru Bruce Lansky, author of 100,000+ Baby Names, predicts parents will pick places, such as Ireland or Malaysia, the last names of celebs, as in Aniston or Beckham, or a favorite character in a book or movie and abscond with their last name to create their baby’s first name.

New year, new you: 10 maverick acts MIND: Release judgment of shoulds and accept the as-is. SOUL: Make 10 heart connections today. LOVE: Drop on the floor and play with your kids. BODY: Pledge to eat only very divine things.

NATURE: Touch it, feel it, breathe it.

LIFE: To chores, say, “Thank you for allowing me to live.” PEACE: Write your worries on a paper and allow them to nap today. FUTURE: Take one, just one, step toward a dream you have. PAST: Recognize that it doesn’t exist anymore, only in your mind. THE NOW: Enter it, embrace it, love it, live it.

Dr. Shefali Tsabary, 30 Second Mom contributor, world-renowned clinical psychologist and author

34 January 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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ChicagoParent.com January 2016 35

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Parenting in 2016 New Year’s resolutions just for parents

J

BY SHANNAN YOUNGER

ulie Lythcott-Haims says her role as freshmen dean at Stanford University for a decade afforded her a view of the future—and what she saw frightened her.

A parenting shift is needed, she says.

In her book, How to Raise an Adult, her parenting recommendations make good New Year’s resolutions for moms and dads seeking to raise confident, capable kids who grow up to be independent, happy adults.

Teach kids to do more for themselves.

“Remember, your job as a parent is to put yourself out of a job,” says LythcottHaims. “We won’t be around forever, so we need to know our adult kids can fend for themselves.”

She encourages parents to not do what the kids can or can almost do for themselves. Not only will

kids gain valuable life skills, it also sends kids the message that they are capable individuals.

Lythcott-Haims cites studies showing that excessive parental hand-holding not only deprives kids of opportunities to learn, but also leads to higher rates of anxiety and depression.

Stop saying “we” when you mean your son or daughter.

While children’s activities do feel like they involve the entire family, Lythcott-Haims implores parents not to say “we are playing soccer this spring” or “we have a dance recital.” Your children are playing and performing, not you.

Using “we” deprives children of accomplishment and can lead to parents being too intertwined in their children’s lives. It’s OK to make the separation between parent and child clear from a very early age, and in fact will make separation down the road easier.

36 January 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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It’s not school, it’s Quest!

u Make sure your kids have some free time.

Cutting back on an activity or two this year could have benefits for both you and your children, including less time in the car, less hectic schedules, less stress and more downtime.

Kids need to know what it’s like to have unscheduled downtime before their freshman year of college.

“We are on autopilot in our minivans and serving as our kids’ concierge,” Lythcott-Haims explains, citing how the days of “go out and play” are long gone and replaced by a very full schedule of activities.

Parents don’t have to sign their kid up for every single opportunity, she says, and should fight the perceived notion that doing so is required to be a good parent.

“Stop cultivating kids like bonsai trees,” she urges.

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

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u Don’t sweat the small stuff.

This may be a common New Year’s resolution, but it takes on greater importance when viewed in light of the impact on kids.

“Our kids don’t need to feel that every moment is make or break,” says Lythcott-Haims. “It messes with them.”

Letting a few small issues go and not insisting on perfection takes pressure off you and your kids, and teaches them a valuable lesson in the process. “Our kids need to know that failure happens, and that it is OK,” she says.

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CONTINUED ON PAGE 38

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PARENTING RESOLUTIONS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37

u Don’t worry about college.

It’s not a shock that parents start thinking about college when their kids are little, but LythcottHaims stresses, “One does not have to mortgage childhood to get into an elite school.”

When Lythcott-Haims asks a group of high schoolers what

they want her to tell their parents, she frequently hears, “Tell them that the brand name of college we go to isn’t as important as they think.”

She says she couldn’t agree more. “It’s the kid, not the school, that leads to a bright future.”

u Remember how you parented when your child was learning to walk.

A parent helping a baby taking her first steps offers support, realizes stumbles are inevitable, doesn’t make too big a deal out of those stumbles when they happen and encourages a quick recovery.

In the world of overparenting, that may be the last time parents are comfortable with the idea of their kids failing, says Lythcott-Haims.

Parents should keep those early days in mind. They should continue to let their kids fall and

encourage them to pick themselves up when falls happen.

As much as parents would like their children’s path in life to be perfectly smooth, there will inevitably be potholes and unexpected turns. Teaching them to handle that as children means that they will be fully capable of doing so when they reach adulthood.

Shannan Younger is a frequent contributor at Chicago Parent and the mom behind the Mom Factually blog.

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Cold comfort Best places for chicken noodle soup

Café Vienna

A

BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER s if the bitter temperatures, bone-chilling wind and snow isn’t enough, winter brings nasty colds along for the season, too.

So we went on the hunt for the best five places to get good ol’ chicken noodle soup to cure that winter cold—and any other reason you need winter’s hot comfort food.

Mariano’s Fresh Market

Cafè Vienna

Goddess and Grocer

marianos.com 1649 N. Damen Ave., 901 N. Larrabee St., 1127 N. State St., Chicago The idea of grocery store soup goddessandgrocer.com usually brings to mind large vats of congealed broth lacking When your cold leaves you Chicken Dumpling taste or appeal. Mariano’s flat on your couch surrounded Soup Fresh Market, with locations by tissues, the idea of warm throughout Chicago and the chicken soup delivered to your suburbs, is changing that door is the next best thing to and brings its A-game to being healthy. The Goddess and chicken dumpling soup. The Grocer will deliver homemade deep chicken flavor, sweet chicken matzo ball soup to you. carrots and German-style It’s a simple soup, but it’s always on spaetzle dumplings combine for a the menu and one of the store’s most delicious soup that will hit the spot. Send popular items. Put down the snotty your spouse or best friend to grab you a tissue and easily order online to get large container the next time a cold hits. you on the road to recovery.

Manny’s Coffee Shop & Deli 1141 S. Jefferson St., Chicago mannysdeli.com Since 1942, Manny’s Coffee Shop & Deli has been a family-operated restaurant with recipes handed down from generation to generation. It is just as famous for its chicken broth soup as for the amazing deli sandwiches. Served as its daily chicken soup special is chicken broth with the option of matzo ball, kreplach (dumplings filled with meat or cheese), noodles or rice. Manny’s chicken soup will warm your soul and fill your belly on any winter day.

2523 N. Clark St., Chicago cafeviennachicago.com What may appear to be an average bakery on the outside is truly a delightful treasure inside. Serving traditional Austrian breads, pastries, soups, sandwiches, breakfasts and dinners, Café Vienna uses authentic Austrian recipes with only the best, all-natural ingredients. Its chicken noodle soup is simple and delicious, with chicken breast, veggies and noodles.

Pair it with a slice of one of the homemade European artisan baked breads and you’ll quickly become a huge fan, sick or not.

XOCO 449 N. Clark St., Chicago rickbayless.com/restaurants/xoco If your taste buds aren’t totally useless, treat yourself to award-winning Chef Rick Bayless’s take on Mexican street food. XOCO, the casual counter service restaurant, serves “caldos,” which are meal-in-a-bowl soups. The wood-roasted chicken pozole is made with Gunthrop Farms chicken, pozole corn, rich broth, crunchy garnishes, crushed red chiles and lime. It will leave you coming back for more, whether you are healthy, sick or just hungry.

Chicken Pazole Caldos

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

ChicagoParent.com January 2016 39

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winter 10 places to freeze out

D

BY JENNY MUSLIN

on’t let bitter Chicago temps keep you stuck at home! We set out to find some great destinations that will keep your family active—and help you escape any winter blues.

Adler Astro-Overnights

The City of Big Shoulders also is the city of big dreamers. And there’s nothing better to kickstart your littles’ imaginations than a fun sleepover under the stars. Adler Planetarium is THE place to start. This winter through summer, families with kids 6-12 get a magical, out-of-this-world experience at AstroOvernights. It’s a night filled with fun hands-on activities, two sky shows and a continental

You can win the war on cabin fever

Adler Astro-Overnights

breakfast come morning.

Chicago Parent is even hosting the bedtime story. $60 per person overnight, $30 per person evening only (6-10 p.m.). For the ultimate VIP experience, sleep under the stars in the Grainger Sky Theater for $70 per person. Get your tickets soon because these will sell out quickly.

1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (312) 922-7827; adler planetarium.org

E

Our cover boy William Everett Pierce, 4, isn’t afraid of the cold.

Photo by Thomas Kubik/TK Photography

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Exploritorium

The Kids’ Table

Your kiddos won’t miss the outdoors when they set foot in this suburban indoor playground. The facility is centered around interactive play ideal for kids 1-8.

A life-size Lite Bright, expansive water play area and climbing wall are just a few of the attractions to keep little ones on their toes. $5 per person 4701 Oakton St., Skokiee (847) 674-1500; exploritorium.org

Frozemont

For the child who has an interest in cooking or the one who has yet to discover their way around a kitchen, a drop-in cooking class is a great way to expose your little one to new tastes and flavors. At each hands-on class, kids learn to connect with wit food by making delicious deelicious meals. Class themes change weekly based on the sseason. Choose from two tw Chicago locations. $25 per class for kids 2 and up 2337 W. North Ave., Chicago C 2864 N. Lincoln Ave., Av Chicago Av ((773) 235-2665; kidstable.com tabl ta blee Legoland Discovery Center

They can’t do this in California! At Rosemont’s Polar Peak Tubing Hill, take advantage ge of the snow drifts and gett your your u thrills thr hril illls l sliding sli lid d ng down d wn a steep, do steep p, twot otw story stor st o y hill. or h Kids 2-5 will enjoy enjo en joyy the children’s hill hiill while sitting h on o an adult’s lap, and a older kids can sprint down the s main slope. While m you’re there, take y a few spins around tthe he free outdoor NHL-sized ice skating N NHL H next to rink nk llocated o Exploritorium Polar Peak.

P ola lar Pe Pea a $3 per er rrun, un tubes provided $8 skate rentals 5501 Park Place, Rosemont mon nt (847) 349-5008; rosemont. mont mo nt.. com/mbfinancialpark/ frozemont

Legoland Discovery Legola C Center t

Get your fill of Legos at this miniamusement park. Leave yourself at least a few hours to experience rides, 4D cinema and countless Lego attractions. Although the space is ideal for ages 3-10, discounted Toddler Tuesdays ($7) feature exhibits just for littles. Buy tickets on online onli line ne aahead head d off time to avoid lengthy lines. $13 and up The Streets of Woodfield 601 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg (847) 592-9700; lego landdiscoverycenter. land la n discoveryce com/chicago c m/chic co

Morton Arboretum Take in Mother Nature as you crosscountry ski or snowshoe among 4,000 different types of trees and shrubs. Yes, it’s a workout, but it makes for a fun family outing and the ideal place to try out these winter sports for the first time. $9, $6 kids 2-17 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle (630) 968-0074; mortonarb.org

Growth Spurts Escape a dreary day at this engaging indoor play space. Activities include a crooked house kids can run through, toddler jungle gym, loads of learning toys and a creative painting station. Adults can enjoy a latté from the coffee bar while children play in the imaginative and spotless surroundings. Check hours before going. $12 kids 404 Linden Ave., Wilmette (847) 850-9059; agrowthspurt.com

Oak Brook Park District Family Aquatic Center

Who says you need to travel to a warm day at the cclimate cl lim imat atee to sspend pend pe nd dad pool? p po oll? At tthis hiss iindoor hi water park, w wa terr p te ark r kids of aalll ag al ages es will have blast a bl blas as splashing aamong am o the many m ma a water ffeatures, fe e which w iinclude n a water playground, p pl l water w Oak Brook Park vvortex, o District Family zero-depth zero Aquatic Center We’ve found the splash area and sp North Shore’s best 105-foot 1 05--fo foo o slide. sledding hill! Bundle up Pack a lunch Pa lun and in your layers for a day ttake ta ke a rrest e t at the large es Ghirardelli Ice of winter fun at Lovelace eating area that borders the ti th tb Cream and long-time Park, a long n tim popularr pool.

Your pass is good all day long, so Chocolate Shop destination for sledding ng and even if you run home to take a nap, you skating. own tube skatin ing. Bring yourr ow o n tu can return in the afternoon for more sled and make countless trips or sle Warm up with a decadent cup of hot water fun. down the snow-laden hills. cocoa, the perfect treat on a winter day. dow $12, $8 kids; discounts for residents 2740 Gross Point Road, With five different types of hot choco1450 Forest Gate Road, Oak Brook Evanston late offered, from a classic topped with E (630) 645-9581; obparks.org/aquatics (847) 448-4311; whipped cream to a decadent sea salt caramel version, you can’t choose wrong. ccityofevanston.org/ Jenny Muslin is a freelance writer and mom to an active parks-recreation/parks 830 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago p 2-year-old who loves to explore Chicago and the suburbs.

(312) 337-9330; ghirardelli.com

Lovelace Park

Ghirardelli G h rdelli Ice Ice Cream and Chocolate Choco Shop

ChicagoParent.com January 2016 41 zemont CHIPAR0116_041.indd 1

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COMING SOON to Willowbrook in 2016!

Serving Infants through Pre-Kindergartners, offering: Kiddie CamsTM LuvNotesTM Red Carpet ServiceTM Double Secured Entry 6258 Kingery Hwy S Willowbrook, IL 6052

For more information: email us at willowbrook@littlesunshine.com or visit us at www.littlesunshine.com 42 January 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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Banish winter blahs A trip to Wisconsin Dells should make your to do list this winter

Y

BY CORTNEY FRIES

our family so needs a mini-escape and you’ve always wanted to check out the “The Waterpark Capital of the World,” but when it comes time to book the trip, the choices can become a tad overwhelming and you never make the reservation.

So we put together an insider’s guide to the warm waters, winter sports and fun indoor activities to keep your winter boredom at bay.

WHERE TO STAY

Wilderness Resort 511 E. Adams St., (800) 867-9453; wildernessresort.com Best for: Winter tanning Wilderness boasts four indoor water parks, all accessible through inside walkways. Wild WaterDome’s transparent roof makes sunbathing possible even when there’s snow on the ground. Here you can ride the waves in America’s largest indoor wave pool. Or try the new slideboard experience, a surfboard ride that combines the thrill of water slides with the interactive skill of gaming, which opened in December. When your time in the water is done, have some fun at the new indoor attractions. Spin around the spiraling two-story go-kart trail, test your agility in the Lazer Maze or have a showdown in the Lazer Tag arena.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 44

ChicagoParent.com January 2016 43

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WISCONSIN DELLS

Kalahari Resort

Smile wider, laugh louder, have more fun.

Get a free Winter Guide.

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

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

Birthday Parties & Group Packages

701 W. North Ave., Villa Park 630•530•4649 www.safarilandfun.com

1305 Kalahari Drive, (608) 254-5466; kalahariresorts.com/ wisconsin Best for: Family slides Kalahari offers Disney-caliber comforts within an Africanthemed atmosphere. There’s fun for all bravery levels, from bodyboarding to tot slides. With rafts for up to three people, family water slides are great for getting 3:45 PM little ones used to big rides or sharing group giggles.

Kalahari’s indoor theme park features a six-story Ferris wheel, ropes courses for tykes and teens, bumper boats and even a pulse-pounding pendulum ride.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 43

Great Wolf Lodge 1400 Great Wolf Drive; (608) 253-2222; greatwolf.com/ wisconsin-dells Best for: Festive suites Great Wolf’s warm indoor water park is sure to thrill your whole pack. With zero-depth entry pools and many mini water slides, even the tiniest tots will have a great time while the big kids swirl down the tornado slide.

After splishing and splashing, snuggle up in your own winter wonderland.

WHERE TO PLAY INDOORS

Rick Wilcox Magic Theater 1670 Wisconsin Dells Parkway.; (608) 2545511, rickwilcox.com Best for: Mesmerizing illusions Want to add some wow to your Wis Dells getaway? Illusionists Rick and Suzan Wilcox keep audiences guessing, and laughing, in their Vegas-quality magic show. Kids will be captivated by the double levitation. Parents will appreciate that, even though it’s in Wisconsin, the show isn’t too cheesy.

Audience members can volunteer to participate in the action and get a great prize. Check for tickets first. Shows resume in February.

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Knuckleheads Trampoline Park * Rides * Bowling 150 N. Gasser Road, Lake Delton; (608) 254-7332, dells knuckleheads.com Best for: Giant trampolines Got a few cooped-up kids?

Knuckleheads is just the place to set those jumping beans free.

Shoot hoops, play dodgeball, take a flying leap into the foam pit or bounce around the huge trampoline court. A 60-minute session is enough to wear anyone out. Little leapers will love the jumping pillow. Cool down at the 4D theater, bowling alley, arcade or indoor coaster.

WHERE TO EXPLORE OUTDOORS

Tommy Bartlett Exploratory

Bigfoot Zipline Tours

560 Wisconsin Dells Parkway; (608) 2542525, tommybartlett.com/ exploratory Best for: Brain boosters Examine the silly side of science in more than 175 handson exhibits. Ever wonder what

it’s like inside a thundercloud?

Find out as your hair stands on end (an awesome photo opportunity). Tykes can tackle the Big Dig while bigger kids get a kick out of the interactive sports.

1550 Wisconsin Dells Parkway; (608) 254-5555, bigfootzip.com Best for: High-flying fun Experience the cool exhilaration of zipping through the treetops over frozen waters. Bigfoot Ziplines is open year-round and thrill seekers ages 4 and up can glide across seven different ziplines, including the longest at almost 1,400 feet long.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 46

Summer Camp for Kids with Special Needs Rose Deneen

Assistant professor of Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management

Offering 8-week, full day, and overnight integrated camp options

Has worked in food service for nearly 40 years.

Is passionate about sharing her knowledge of the culinary arts industry.

Enjoys getting to eat sweet treats every day.

How will YOU fill in the blank? #fillintheblank @morainevalley

Spring classes start Jan. 19.

REGISTER NOW!

For more information, call 847-205-0274 or visit Keshet.org.

A RAINBOW OF HOPE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

ChicagoParent.com January 2016 45

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WISCONSIN DELLS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 45

WHERE TO EAT

MACS Macaroni and Cheese Shop

Woodside Ranch

Woodside Ranch

Cascade Mountain

W4015 State Road 82, Mauston; (800) 626-4275, woodsideranch.com Best for: Horseback heaven Take in a peaceful winter horseback ride at Woodside Ranch, a 15-minute drive from the Dells. With more than 1,000 wooded acres and 100 horses and ponies, no two trail rides will be the same. Wagon and sleigh rides are also available.

W10441 Cascade Mountain Road, Portage; (608) 742-5588, cascademountain.com Best for: New skiers Small children or anyone new to skiing will feel confident here. Try the Cascade Kids program, where kids 4-10 can learn the basics of skiing and snowboarding.

Kids ski free with a paid adult.

208 Broadway; (608) 6782300, macandcheeseshop.com Best for: Wisconsin cheesiness There’s nothing like comfort food on a cold day, and MACS has mac ‘n’ cheese down. Not only have they mastered the gooey goodness of the Original Mac, with bubbling cheddar and mozzarella cheeses atop noodles with crispy breadcrumbs, but their unique offerings hit the mark.

High Rock Cafe 232 Broadway; (608) 254-5677, highrockcafe.com Best for: Fresh favorites Looking for fresh food in a contemporary setting? Sit on the second floor of High Rock Café and overlook the downtown

Dells. The hearty, flavorful wraps and savory soups are sensational, and the garlic tator tot and broccoli salad sides are worth the upcharge. While this restaurant is slightly more upscale, it offers classic kids’ meal with quality ingredients.

Buffalo Phil’s Pizza & Grille 150 Gasser Road, Lake Delton; (608) 254-7300, buffalophilsgrille.com Best for: Traindelivered food Retrieving your meal from a model train is fun, especially when a cast of stuffed animal characters accompanies it.

Buffalo Phil’s offers Lil’ Buckaroo meals, plus it’s connected to Knuckleheads.

Cortney Fries is a frequent Chicago Parent contributor and Chicago mom of two.

! n u f e in th

Jo Pre-K through 8th Grade Independent School Guiding Bright & Gifted Children Onward & Upward

Upcoming Tours

January 6 and January 20

Junior Kindergarten Information Night January 7

For more information:

The Avery Coonley School 1400 Maple Avenue Downers Grove, IL 60515 www.averycoonley.org admission@averycoonley.org 630-969-0800 Our students prefer complex challenges to simple tasks.

They have an insatiable appetite to learn.

They are motivated children of high intelligence.

Lifeline Theatre’s 2016

SUMMER DRAMA CAMPS & CLASSES

DRAMA KIDS

SUMMER CAMP For ages 5–7 June 20–24 (Session 1), June 27–July 1 (Session 2) 9:00–12:00 noon

$200 (one session) or $350 (both sessions) per child

DRAMA STARS

SUMMER CAMP For ages 8–12 July 11–22, Monday through Friday 9am–3pm (Full Day) or 9am–noon (Half Day)

$650 (Full Day) or $395 (Half Day) per child

CALL 773-761-4477 or visit www.lifelinetheatre.com to register your child today!

46 January 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section // ArtReach Educational Theatre Musical Theatre Workshops, Voice Lessons, and Summer Camps 3839 W. Frontage Road, Palatine artreachspotlite.com

Arts Education

Lifeline Theatre

Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts

Skokie Park District

World premiere musicals for children based on beloved books.

6912 N. Glenwood Ave, Chicago (773) 761-4477 lifelinetheatre.com

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

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

DePaul University School of Music/Community Music Division Music instruction for all ages in a university setting 804 W. Belden Ave., Chicago (773) 325-7262 Music.depaul.edu/cmd

Kohl Children’s Museum Interactive art programming daily.

Themes change each month!

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

Lakeshore Academy of Artistic Gymanstics 937 W. Chestnut St., Chicago (312) 563-9400 520 E. Business Center Dr., Mt. Prospect (847) 376-8826 lakeshoreacademy.com

Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

Camp

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Specializing in Dentistry for Children & Adolescents

Dennis R. LaMonte, D.D. Steven T. Kuhn, D.D.S. Our newly Specializing expanded in Dentistry for Exceptional Specializing Comeand enjoy our Children & in Dentistry forGeneral & Cosmetic decorated office Adolescents Children & Dentistry will office allow- Steven us T.to Dennis R. LaMonte, D.D.S., M.S. Kuhn, see D.D.S. Ourexpanded newly Adolescents for Adults We’re excited to see T. Kuhn, D.D.S. Dennis R. LaMonte, D.D.S., M.S. expanded more of you & Steven your Exceptional Michael Kasper, Niki Kasper, D.D.S. Modern you and your & Cosmetic and decorated office family’s smiles! General Same&relaxed & fun atmosphere – now expanded General Cosmetic Dentistry family’s smiles! provide the entire family with quality dental servi Dentistry will allow us to see for Adults CHICAGO PARENT’S for Adults 10313 West Lincoln Hwy. , in Frankfort ANNUAL CAMP more of you & your Michael Kasper, D.D.S. Niki Kasper, D.D.S. Niki Kasper, D.D.S. Michael Kasper, D.D.S. GUIDE family’s smiles!

Same relaxed & fun atmosphere – now expanded to We offer a relaxed & fun atmosphere, providing January May | Diplomats of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

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camp 2016 // special advertising section DAY CAMP Avery Coonley School, The Enrichment program for preschool - 8th grade.

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

Bright Horizons Early Education and Preschool Day camp full of fun, friendships, and exploration!

Locations throughout Chicagoland (877) 624-4532 brighthorizons.com/ ChicagoParent15

Chicago Grammar School 900 N. Franklin, Chicago (312) 944-5600 chicagogrammar.org

JCYS Big City Day Camp 957 W. Grace Street, Chicago (773) 281-2533 jcys.org

JCYS Camp Henry Horner 26710 W. Nippersink Road, Ingleside (847) 740-5010 jcys.org

JCYS Counselor-In-Training Camp 26710 W. Nippersink Road, Ingleside (847) 740-5010 957 W. Grace Street, Chicago (773) 281-2533 800 Clavey Road, Highland Park (847) 433-6001 jcys.org

JCYS Horner Grove Day Camp

JCYS Sunflower Camp Highland Park 800 Clavey Road, Highland Park (847) 433-6001 jcys.org

JCYS Sunflower Day Camp Lakeview 957 W. Grace Street, Chicago (773) 281-2533 jcys.org

Lakeshore Academy of Artistic Gymanstics 937 W. Chestnut St., Chicago (312) 563-9400 520 E. Business Center Dr., Mt. Prospect (847) 376-8826 lakeshoreacademy.com

Little Green Tree House Preschool and Childcare 118 S. Ashland Ave., Chicago (312) 492-9876 littlegreentreehouse.com

Montessori Academy of Chicago 1335 W. Randolph St., Chicago (312) 243-0977 montessoriacademychicago.org

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

OVERNIGHT CAMP 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

1700 Weiland Ave, Buffalo Grove (847) 279-0900 jcys.org

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

Camp Anokijig Friendship and values, personal growth, and OUTRAGEOUS FUN! W5639 Anokijig Lane, Plymouth, WI 53073 (920) 893-0782 or (800) 741-6931 anokijig.com

Cub Creek Science Camp

SPECIAL NEEDS CAMP Camp Lee Mar Special needs camp with traditional activities, academics, speech, daily living skills & more 450 Route 590 Lackawaxen, PA 18435 (215) 658-1708 leemar.com

Camp STAR 800 Clavey Road, Highland Park (847) 433-6001 jcys.org

A summer camp with its own zoo!

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

JCYS Camp RedLeaf

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26710 W. Nippersink Road, Ingleside (847) 740-5010 jcys.org

SPECIALTY CAMP ArtReach Educational Theatre Musical Theatre Workshops, Voice Lessons, and Summer Camps 3839 W. Frontage Road, Palatine artreachspotlite.com

Lifeline Theatre Summer Drama Camps, June 20-July 22, for ages 5-12.

6912 N. Glenwood Ave, Chicago (773) 761-4477 lifelinetheatre.com

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

26710 W. Nippersink Road, Ingleside (847) 740-5010 jcys.org A Rainbow of Hope for Individuals with Special Needs 3210 Dundee Road, Suite 100, Northbrook (847) 205-0274, keshet.org

FIELD TRIP Kohl Children’s Museum Interactive art programming daily.

Themes change each month!

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

Safari Land Indoor Amusement Park Perfect for field trips 701 W. North Ave., Villa Park (630) 530-4649 safariland.com

JCYS Jon Vegosen Champ Camp 1195 Half Day Road, Highland Park (847) 433-6001 jcys.org

JCYS North Shore Day Camp 800 Clavey Road, Highland Park (847) 433-6001 jcys.org

JCYS NSDC Sports 800 Clavey Road, Highland Park (847) 433-6001 jcys.org

48 January 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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e Friend k a M New Friends

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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 Kamil Brady at kamil@chicagoparent.com with your resume and a cover letter about yourself.

ChicagoParent.com January 2016 49

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Traveling Players presents

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Natures Creatures Animal Show

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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 Kamil Brady at kamil@chicagoparent.com with your resume and a cover letter about yourself.

50 Janaury 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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Make your next Birthday Party a

visit chicagoparent.com to explore our amazing & astounding directory of entertainers!

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ChicagoParent.com January 2016 51

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save the date!

APRIL 10, 2016 ATHLETICO CENTER* NORTHBROOK

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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.

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52 January 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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JANUARY

1

Your kids’ chicken-scratch handwriting might occasionally resemble the images etched into the walls of the pyramids, but at Introduction to Hieroglyphs, they’ll see what real rudimentary writing looked like.

Kids 9-12 can learn the basics of the Egyptian hieroglyphic writing system, as well as how to read some of the key symbols. Afterward, they can create their own Egyptian-inspired code (hopefully one that mom and dad know how to crack). $10, $5 member. 1-3 p.m. Jan. 23.

Oriental Institute Museum, 1155 E. 58th St., Chicago. (773) 702-9514, oi.uchicago.edu.

2

We know at least onee little boy who wants to be a ninja inja detective when he grows up, so o this year’s Japan Fest, with the theme “Ninjas and Geishas,”” is sure to be a hit. Say “konnichiwa” to an afternoon of fun, where families can practice ctice using chopsticks, try their hand d at calligraphy, experience martiall arts and learn a few Japanese phrases, plus try on a kimono or ninja costume to really get in a cultural frame of mind. Free.

Noon-4 p.m. Jan. 30. Oak Park k and River Forest High School, 201 N. Scoville Ave., Oak Park..

(708) 434-3386, oprfhs.org.

3

Stateside, king cake is traditionally served during the lead-up to Mardi Gras, but in France, it’s a dessert that’s whipped up to celebrate the Festival of Epiphany. This tasty treat, known as a “Galette des Rois,” is just as welcome in Chicago as Paris. Create your own version of the flaky delicacy at the Family Cooking Class, where kids 7-10 learn that you don’t have to be the second coming of Julia Child to mix up some French delights.

Noon-2 p.m. Jan. 9. $35 parent/ child pair; $50 family of four.

Alliance Francaise de Chicago, 810 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. (312) 337-1070, af-chicago.org.

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CALENDAR

Ja apa pan Fe F es stt Seee Ourr Pi P cks

8 | FRIDAY

SUBURBS

10 | SUNDAY

OWL PROWL. Kids 6 and up, with adult, learn about owls with information and hands-on demonstrations, then head outside for a night hike to listen for owls. Dress for walking through snow. $6. 7-8 p.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

SATURDAY SPLAT. Northfield Community Nursery School opens its classrooms and brings out the gooiest, bubbliest, splashiest activities for a messy good time. Dress for a mess.

9:30-11 a.m. Northfield Community Nursery School, 400 Wagner Road, Northfield. (847) 446-1116, nfcns. org.

CHICAGO

9 | SATURDAY

MUSHER MANIA. Experience the Siberian husky breed and watch sled dog teams in action. Pull a dog sled in the “human mushing” activity, play on snowshoes, take a photo with a sled dog and warm up by roasting marshmallows over the fire or visiting with vendors or enjoying a special viewing of “Icebound: The Greatest Dog Story Ever Told” in the warming tent. Become a musher in the “Great Race to Nome” activity, and pan for gold. Noon-4 p.m. Monee Reservoir, 27341 Ridgeland Ave., Monee. (708) 534-8499, reconnectwithnature.org.

CHICAGO ONCE UPON A SYMPHONY: THE KING ELEPHANT AND THE MICE.

Originally from a collection of Indian fables passed down through centuries, this story teaches that we will find friends—and courage—in unexpected places. Recommended for families with kids 3 and up. $17. 10 and 11:45 a.m. Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 294-3000, cso.org.

WINTERFEST! Features multiple bands and performances, as well as crafts, face painting and other activities. Musicians include Miss Jamie from the Farm, Ice Cream Vendors, Mary Macaroni and more. $10. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont. (773) 281-4444, beatkitchen.com.

SUBURBS

15 | FRIDAY TODDLER EXPLORATION TIME. Children learn about plants

and nature by listening to a story, engaging in a hands-on learning experience and enjoying a short walk in the conservatory. 10:30-11:15 a.m.

(18-30 months); 12:15-1 p.m. (3-5).

Oak Park Conservatory, 615 Garfield St., Oak Park. (708) 725-2400, oakparkconservatory.org.

16 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

MOSCOW FESTIVAL BALLET:

“Cinderella.” More than 50 of the company’s highly skilled dancers grace the stage in the lavish fulllength story ballet “Cinderella,” one of the most beloved ballets of all time. $55; $45 kids. 2 and 7 p.m.

McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. (630) 942-4000, atthemac. org.

TOO HOT TO HANDEL: THE JAZZGOSPEL MESSIAH. A jazz combo,

orchestra and 100-person choir join soloists Rodrick Dixon, Alfreda Burke and Karen Marie Richardson in one of Chicago’s favorite annual events. $25-$70. 7:30 p.m. Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E. Congress Parkway. (312) 922-2110, auditoriumtheatre.org/wb.

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CALENDAR SUBURBS NAPERVILLE PLAYS! Features

hands-on arts and science exhibits, a live performance and an exclusive traveling exhibit about the children of Hangzhou. $11, $10 seniors.

10 a.m.-2 p.m. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 420-6010, naper settlement.org.

17 | SUNDAY CHICAGO TOO HOT TO HANDEL: THE JAZZGOSPEL MESSIAH. See Jan. 16.

Today’s time is 3 p.m.

SUBURBS TRIBUTE TO DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. The concert

explores themes of brotherhood, struggle, adversity, triumph and love to celebrate the legacy of Dr. King. Features five-time Grammy Award winner Victor Wooten and the

Apostolic Church of God Sanctuary Choir. $10-$60. 3 p.m. Wentz Concert Hall, North Central College, 171 E. Chicago Ave., Naperville. (312) 2363681 ext. 2, chicagosinfonietta.org.

18 | MONDAY

About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the February issue is Dec. 28. All events are subject to change. Please call the event sponsor at the number listed to confirm before you go.

Events taking place on four or more dates during the month are listed in Ongoing Events, beginning on page 62.

BLACK CREATIVITY FAMILY DAY. Meet and interact with STEM

professionals in workshops, enjoy hourly facilitated workshops in the Innovation Studio (10 a.m.-3 p.m.), and visit The Black Creativity Juried Art Exhibition, which features more than 100 art works from both professional and amateur African-American artists from around the country. Free for Illinois residents. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY ZOO CAMP. Each group explores

the zoo and participates in a variety of activities. Activities focus on animal diversity, environmental

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar conservation and the ways the zoo cares for animals. The theme for this camp is “Armored Animals.”

Kids in Pre-K through grade 4 investigate how animals use these adaptations, along with more unusual methods of protection, to fend off ferocious predators. $57-$67. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago.

(312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

AFRICAN DANCE CELEBRATION. The Soli Performing

Arts Company celebrates African

culture through authentic dance, drum music and stories for the entire family. The dancers will wear authentic attire and play native instruments.

2-3 p.m. Morton Grove Public Library, 6140 Lincoln Ave., Morton Grove.

(847) 929-5102, webrary.org.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN, DR. KING?

Take a journey back in time and learn about freedom through an interactive musical drama. Pick up a ticket one hour prior to the performance. Free with museum admission. 1, 2 or 3 p.m. Chicago Children’s Museum,

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY ORTHODONTICS

Pediatric dentistry

Pediatric dentistry

We take the fear out of dentistry for your child.

• Shots and drilling are no longer necessary

PEDIATRIC DENTAL ASSOCIATES, P.C. We offer braces for children & adults

Bonciel Griffin-Burress DDS

773-239-7696

10019 S. Western Ave., Chicago, IL 60643

www.bgriffinorthodontics.com NEW OFFICE!

773-358-4350

1040 E. 47th St., Chicago, IL 60653

www.ivorydentalspecialists.com Complimentary Orthodontic Evaluations Most Insurances Accepted • Flexible Payment Plans

George Lin, D.D.S. Anjali Talati, D.M.D. Kyung-Hong “Cal” Kim, D.D.S. Buffalo Grove Business Park 195 Arlington Hts Rd., Suite 150 Buffalo Grove, IL 60089

847-537-7695

• 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

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

815-459-2727

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

www.kidsmyl.com

Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

16345 S. Harlem • Tinley Park

708-633-8700 • www.kidsdds.net ChicagoParent.com January 2016 55

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CALENDAR 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 527-1000, chicago childrensmuseum.org.

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY.

Kids 5-12, with adult, celebrate the inspirational Nobel Peace Prize winner by creating a colorful collage of Dr. King. $3, $2 members. 1-3 p.m. Des Plaines History Center, 781 Pearson St., Des Plaines. (847) 3915399, desplaineshistory.org.

23 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

Today’s time is 7:30 p.m. and location is Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago.

21 | THURSDAY

SUBURBS

THIRD THURSDAY. A time designated for families of children with special needs to enjoy the museum.

Accommodations are made so that all children can participate in general programs and resources are available to help visitors structure their visit.

Free with museum admission. 5-7

Once On ce Upo on a Symp Sy mpho ph ho ony ny: Th ny: The K ng Ele Ki lep eph phan ant a d th an the Mic Mice Mi ce

JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER ORCHESTRA: WHO IS DUKE ELLINGTON? Families of kids 5 and

up explore the life and music of one of the greatest composers in jazz history. $25-$60. 1 p.m. Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 294-3000, cso.org.

TRIBUTE TO DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. See Jan. 17.

ORY

p.m. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 637-8000, dupagechildrensmuseum. org.

PRESCHOOL AND ENRICHMENT FAIR. The fair

showcases more than 25 area preschools, daycare centers and enrichment programs for area families. Parents also can learn about educational opportunities at museums, dance studios, park districts

Seee Ja Jan. 9 Jan

and other programs. 10 a.m.-noon.

Park Ridge Public Library, 20 S. Prospect, Park Ridge. (847) 8253123, parkridgelibrary.org.

is required. Check website for cost.

11:15 a.m., 12:15 p.m. or 1:15 p.m.

Pilcher Park Nature Center, 2501 Highland Park Drive, Joliet. (815) 741-7277, jolietpark.org.

TALES OF THE UNDERGROUND.

This special event offers a glimpse into what fugitive slaves endured on their trip to freedom. Light refreshments will be available. Registration

BUILDING EXTRAVAGANZA FEATURING LEGO. Kids 5-12

build skyscrapers, vehicles, cranes and a motorized project with more

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CALENDAR 29 | FRIDAY

Dance, 205 E. Randolph Drive in Millennium Park. (312) 334-7777, harristheaterchicago.org.

LEGO KIDZ NITE OUT: MINING & CRAFTING. Kids 7-10 experi-

ence the world of Minecraft with Lego bricks, gears and motors, while crafting shelters, mobs, critters and tools. Kidz Nite Out incorporates building and exploring STEM concepts through motorized creations, model builds, themed games and challenges. $65, $43 resident. 6-9 p.m. 95th Street Center, 2244 W. 95th St., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

Mu M ush she err Man nia ia

30 | SATURDAY

See JJaan.

Se n 9

CHICAGO

than 200,000 Legos. Trained, expert instructors lead Lego projects. $27, $18 resident. 1-2:30 p.m. Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Community Center, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

SUBURBS EAGLE EXTRAVAGANZA. Kids 6 and up, with adult, travel to Starved Rock State Park for the annual Eagle Watch Weekend. See live bird shows, view wild eagles fishing along the river, make crafts and participate in hands-on activities. Meals are not included. $20. 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

ECO-EXPLORERS: GROUNDHOG DAY CELEBRATION. Why do

TABLE TENNIS TOURNAMENT.

AROUND THE WORLD WITH KRONOS. The quartet leads

A single elimination tournament, with the top two finishers in each age division receiving awards. $8. 8 a.m. River Woods School Gym, 2607 River Woods Drive, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

audiences in an exploration of sounds from across the globe, from faraway continents to discoveries right here at home. Recommended for families with kids 4-12. $12. 2 p.m. Harris Theater for Music and

we celebrate Groundhog Day? Kids 6-8 find out the answer while investigating the life of a groundhog. $21, $14 resident.

1-2:30 p.m. Knoch Knolls Nature Center, 320 Knoch Knolls Road, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

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Welcoming

T

.S. Eliot might have said that April was the cruelest month, but as longsuffering Chicagoans, we think January takes the cake. But rather than struggle under Mother Nature’s fickle, frost-bitten thumb all month, we’ve decided to embrace the joys of winter with these great family-friendly events.

Long before there was fleece-lined leggings, the pioneers really had to rough Celebration it in winter. Step back in time at Spring of Winter Valley Winter Fest, which celebrates the V season the old-fashioned way, complete with show shoe walks, horse-drawn wagon rides and marshmallows roasted over a bonfire (those sweet treats have been around a lot longer than you thought). The day also includes indoor fun like crafts and other activities, not to mention some visitors of the canine variety. Noon-3 p.m. Jan. 16-17. $3, $12 family. Spring Valley Nature Center & ice rink, warm up with some snowHeritage Farm, 111 E. Schaumburg Road, shoeing, watch an expert carve an ice Schaumburg. (847) 985-2100, parkfun. sculpture, meet some sled dog friends com. and play a game of Holiday Bingo. Oh It’s OK to have a little fun, even if your yeah—and be sure to roast a marshmaltoes are frozen stiff. That’s the idea of low or two (sense a theme yet?). 11 Northbrook’s Winter Carnival, which is a.m.-1:30 p.m. Jan. 16. Free. Meadowhill Park, 1479 Maple Ave., Northbrook. all about having a good time despite—or (847) 291-2995, nbparks.org. maybe because of—the chill in the air.

You’ll want to bundle up before you Show off your axels and salchows on the u

Winter Carnival

head out to Homewood-Flossmoor’s Celebration of Winter, which encouragess you to get up close and personal with whatever fresh powder is out there.

Families can work together to build the ultimate snowman (Olaf would approve), brighten up the stark landscape with some Kool-Aid snow spray, go on a cross country skiing adventure, enjoy a hayride or sing some karaoke from the comfort of tthe great indoors. We call dibs on “Let It Go.” 3-6 p.m. Jan. 23. Free. Coyote Run Golf Course, 800 Kedzie Ave., Flossmoor.

(708) 957-0300, hfparks.com.

There couldn’t be a better spot for a celebration of the great outdoors than a 47-acre natural area, unsullied by car tires or your kids’ bootprints. Head to Volo Bog’s WinterFest, which features snow-sculpting contests for the artistically inclined, winter bog hikes for the athletes, and cookies and hot cocoa for the rest of us. There will also be live music and storytelling, as well as winter-themed crafts, for those who prefer to enjoy the wonders of winter through a window. Noon-4 p.m. Jan. 10.

Volo Bog State Natural Area, 28478 W. Brandenburg Road, Ingleside. (815) 3441294, dnr.state.il.us/lands/Landmgt/ parks/r2/volobog.htm.

Elizabeth Diffin

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PERFORMANCES

Diisne D ey y Prre esen ntts The L Th Liion on Kin ng See this pag agge

DISNEY PRESENTS THE LION KING. Through Jan. 17. More than

80 million people around the world have experienced the awe-inspiring visual artistry, the unforgettable music and the uniquely theatrical storytelling of this Broadway spectacular. Check website for cost and schedule. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago. (312) 977-1700, broadwayinchicago.com.

PROSPERO’S STORM. Opens Jan. 14. Wizard Prospero wields crashing sea-storms, airy spirits, savage ghost hounds and terrifying creatures to exact revenge on his enemies—trapping them on his magical island. This vaudeville adaptation of Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” uses puppets, singing, slapstick and magic to weave an enchanting tale of fatherhood and forgiveness. Recommended for families with kids 8 and up. $10.

10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays. Chicago Playworks at DePaul University, Merle Reskin Theatre at DePaul University, 60 E.

Balbo Drive, Chicago. (312) 9221999, theatreschool.depaul.edu.

(630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

perately wants a pet, but her mother says she can only have one that doesn’t need to be walked, bathed or fed. So she orders a sloth and names him Sparky. Recommended for families with kids 5 and up. $15.

11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago. (773) 7614477, lifelinetheatre.com.

before in a freewheeling folk musical adventure of the puppet who becomes real. The show features six actor/musicians who move from character to character while playing instruments including guitar, upright bass, accordion, piano, saxophone, clarinet and violin. $5-$20. 3 and 7 p.m. Saturdays; noon and 3 p.m. Sundays. Filament Ensemble Theatre, 4041 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago. (773) 270-1660, filamenttheatre.org.

HAIRSPRAY - THE BROADWAY MUSICAL. Opens Jan. 20. Based

JUNIE B. JONES, THE MUSICAL. Opens Jan. 23. A

on the John Waters hit movie, Hairspray is a high-octane ride with thrilling choreography, rockin’ tunes and explosively colorful costumes, plus some really cool hairdos. $41-56. Check website for schedule.

Paramount Arts Centre and Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. (630) 896-6666, paramountaurora.com.

precocious and lovable first-grader springs to life on stage. New friends, new glasses, sugar cookies, the annual kickball tournament and a top-secret personal beeswax journal are all part of the fun in this one-hour production.

Recommended for families with kids in preschool and up. $10-12.

10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Northbrook Theatre for Young Audiences, 3323 Walters Ave., Northbrook. (847) 291-2367, northbrooktheatre.org.

SPARKY! Opens Jan. 16. Libby desBEAUTY AND THE BEAST. Opens

Jan. 15. Full of comedy, romance and audience participation, this one-hour musical adaptation is recommended for families with kids 2-6. Find out if true love can turn the Beast into a handsome prince. $6-$12. Check website for schedule. Chicago Kids Company, Stahl Family Theater, 5900 W. Belmont, Chicago. (773) 2059600, chicagokidscompany.com.

MARY POPPINS. The Naperville

Park District and Magical Starlight Theatre presents the story of The Banks family, a family fraught with frustrations, who is touched by the cool and confident Mary Poppins.

A sign language interpreter will be present at the 7:30 p.m. performance on Jan. 16 and the 2 p.m. performance on Jan. 24. $12, $10 in advance. Check website for schedule.

Jan. 15-17 and 22-24. Naperville Central High School Little Theatre, 440 W. Aurora Ave., Naperville.

PINOCCHIO: A FOLK MUSICAL.

Opens Jan. 22. Experience Pinocchio as he’s never been seen

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PERFORMANCES SNOWFLAKE. Opens Jan. 27. A tale

THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA. A

of a kindhearted soul who, with little more than imagination and hope, breathes life into what others regard as useless, transforming the simplest of objects into comedic treasures.

Check website for cost and schedule.

Chicago Children’s Theatre, Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn, Chicago. (872) 222-9555, chicagochildrenstheatre.org.

variety show of short sketches and songs adapted from stories written by kids in Barrel of Monkeys’ arts education programs. The line-up changes each week by audience vote, so no two shows are ever the same. $12; $6 kids. 8 p.m. Mondays. Barrel of Monkeys, The Neo-Futurarium Theater (2nd Floor), 5153 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago. (312) 409-1954, barrelofmonkeys.org.

TREASURE ISLAND. Through Jan.

The Little Gym off-ers a wide variety of classes that help children ages 4 months through 12 years reach their greatest potential.

The Little Gym of Chicago www.thelittlegym.com/ChicagoIL (773) 525-5750

Find your special friend

31. Set sail with young Jim Hawkins, Long John Silver and a crew of swashbuckling rogues, regaling thrill-seekers of all ages with a story both epic and intimate, hilarious and harrowing. Recommended for families with kids 10 and up. $35 and up. Check website for schedule.

Lookingglass Theatre in the Water Tower Water Works, 821 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 337-0665, lookingglasstheatre.org.

STORYTOWN. Kids are invited

onstage to decorate the backdrop and start to bring the story to life. As the tale unfolds, graphic artists construct props, paint backdrops, modify costumes and create an environment as unique as the story. A pianist supplies creates original songs on the spot. Recommended for families with kids 3-10. $10. 10:30 a.m. Saturdays.

Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. (773) 327-5252, stage773. com.

THREE LITTLE KITTENS. Three

little kittens are on the hunt for their missing mittens, and they need help finding them. Gather the clues and make new discoveries before Mother Cat comes home. This interactive spy story is the perfect way to introduce little ones 0-5 to the mystery and excitement of live theater. $15, $8 kids under 1. Little Theatre in Lakeview, 2933 N. Southport Ave., Chicago.

(773) 935-6100, emeraldcitytheatre. com.

BEAT KITCHEN CONCERTS FOR KIDS! A series of music shows geared

toward families with school-age children. The Beat Kitchen’s full bar and brunch menu with homemade kid-friendly options is always available during the show. Jan. 3: Sarah Jayne Lane; Jan. 17: Mr. Dave; Jan. 31: Human-Tim + Robot-Tim. $6.

Noon-1 p.m. Sundays. Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont, Chicago. (773) 281-4444, beatkitchen.com.

A world premiere musical based on the book by JENNY OFFILL and CHRIS APPELHANS

SPARKY!

January 16–February 21, 2016

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

Sn S nowfl ow o wfl flak ak ke See th See Se this his is pag age age

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ONGOING EVENTS OTHER EVENTS WINTER WONDERFEST AT NAVY PIER. Through Jan. 10. 170,000

square feet of holiday fun features indoor ice skating, entertainment, rides and inflatable slides. There are thousands of glistening lights, plush holiday décor and holiday trees. $3.75-$5 general admission, $17-$25 for activities. Check website for hours. Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. (312) 595-PIER, winter wonderfest.com.

THE PROFESSIONAL BULL RIDERS CHICAGO INVITATIONAL.

Fans experience heart-stopping wrecks and exhilarating 8-second rides as the toughest men on dirt face the world’s top ranked bulls, weighing in at 1,700-plus pounds. $20 and up.

6:50 p.m. Jan. 9; 1:50 p.m. Jan. 10.

Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Road, Rosemont. (847) 635-6601, allstatearena.com.

PROGRESSIVE INSURANCE CHICAGO BOAT, RV & STRICTLY SAIL SHOW. Activities for kids

Progre Pr og grre es es ss siv ve In Insu ns su urra anc nce Ch hic icag icag ago o Bo B oat at,, RV RV & Str tric ic ctl tly ly S Sa ail Sho how Seee thi thhis is pag agge

CHICAGO TRAVEL & ADVENTURE SHOW. Features more than 1,200

include the Gypsy Rose III Landship, a life-size pirate ship full of hands-on fun; the “Be a Diver Pool” where kids can learn how to scuba dive in a heated pool and get their picture taken underwater; a paddle sports pond; a trout fishing pond and Rockin’ Rollin Bubbles, which are similar to hamster wheels on water. $14, $10 seniors on Jan. 14 only, free kids 15 and under. Check website for schedule. Jan. 14-18. McCormick Place - South Building, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. chicago boatshow.com.

travel experts from the world’s top destinations, tours and suppliers. Stages include the Destination Theater, the Savvy Traveler Stage, the Taste of Travel Stage and the Global Beats Stage. Speakers include family travel expert Collen Kelly. Family entertainment includes a rock climbing wall, camel rides and Segway rides. $16, $25 two-day; free kids 16 and under. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 23; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Jan. 24. Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. (203) 878-2577 ext. 100, travelshows.com/ chicago.

ILLINOIS SNOW SCULPTING COMPETITION. Watch snow-

WICKERICE. The only commu-

sculpting teams form “frozen art” from giant blocks of snow. Abstract shapes and whimsical figures take shape under the skilled hands of state teams and high school teams.

Walk or drive the one-mile route to see the sculptures and cast votes for “People’s Choice.” Sunrise-10:30 p.m.

Jan. 20-23. Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. Second St., Rockford. (815) 9878800, ilsnowsculpting.com.

nity-funded and maintained ice rink in the city. The Chicago Park District’s field house will be open during the hours of operation as a warming space and for restrooms. Skate rentals cost extra. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. daily. Wicker Park, 1425 N. Damen Ave., Chicago.

(312) 742-7553, chicagoparkdistrict. com.

ICE SKATING IN MILLENNIUM PARK. An outdoor

rink with warming facilities and a concession stand. One hour before the rink opens on Fridays-Sundays, enjoy Winter Workouts, free ice skating lessons for the community. $12 skate rental. Noon-8 p.m. MondaysThursdays; noon-10 p.m. Fridays; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays.

McCormick Tribune Plaza and Ice Rink, 11 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago.

(312) 744-3316, millenniumpark.org.

MAGGIE DALEY ICE RIBBON. Skaters can experience

“alpine in the city” as they lace up their ice skates and follow a path twice the length of a lap around a traditional skating rink. There are places to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and to rent skates. $12 skate rental.

Noon-8 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; noon-10 p.m. Fridays; 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Saturdays-Sundays. Maggie Daley Park, 337 E. Randolph St., Chicago.

(312) 552-3000, maggiedaleypark. com.

TODDLER TUESDAYS. Legoland opens early on the second floor exclusively for toddlers and their parents.

Includes story time, free play, creative building, music classes and water art,

special guests and treasure hunts. $7 in advance; $9 at door. 10 a.m.-noon.

Tuesdays. Legoland Discovery Center, The Streets of Woodfield (next to Woodfield Mall), 601 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg. (847) 592-9700, legolanddiscoverycenter.com/chicago.

TINY TOT OPEN PLAY. Features an indoor playground boasting a ball pit, slides and soft mats along with a play kitchen, blocks, pint-sized basketball hoops and a variety of toys for kids 5 and under. $3. Noon-2 p.m. Tuesdays.

Schaumburg Park District, 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg.

(847) 490-7020, parkfun.com.

ARBOR READING ADVENTURES.

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

Themes change each week. $5, $4 members. 11-11:45 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.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

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ONGOING EVENTS are available for purchase. $5; $5 skate rental. Check website for hours.

Fridays-Sundays, plus MLK Day. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

per run. Check website for hours. MB Financial Park at Rosemont, 5501 Park Place, Rosemont. (847) 3495008, mbparkatrosemont.com.

EXPLORATION STATION. Try hands-on activities created by the Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory.

A new topic each month highlights special aspects of the conservatory.

January’s theme is Habitat: Ponds and Streams. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Saturdays; 1:30-3:30 p.m. Sundays.

Oak Park Conservatory, 615 Garfield St., Oak Park. (708) 725-2400, oakparkconservatory.org.

RUN! JUMP! FLY! ADVENTURES IN ACTION. Through Jan. 10. The

GNOME HOMES. Children can

create a keepsake, light-up gnome home of their own made from natural materials. Tickets are limited and can be purchased in the Visitor Center. $10. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. weekends. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

FROZEMONT. The NHL-sized ice

skating rink is free, with skate rentals available for $8. The ice rink will be open on Sundays only, starting Jan. 3. Two-story Polar Peak runs through Jan. 31. Tickets start at $3

www.classiccinemas.com

EXHIBITS

exhibit allows visitors to engage in exciting activities including surfing, snowboarding, kung fu and rock climbing in a fun and immersing environment. Visitors jump into “Action Star Training,” which are activities that build strength, coordination, balance and endurance, and can earn stamps for each adventure they try.

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

MATERIALS SCIENCE. Learn the

science behind familiar materials, like plastics and metals, explore where materials science is headed next and discover how breakthroughs in materials science have shaped our world. An Atomic Probe Field Ion Microscope is on display. Free with museum admission. Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 6841414, msichicago.org.

plan your birthday party around these coming movies!

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Call 1-800-432-5646 (JOIN) ChicagoParent.com January 2016 63 savethemanatee.org Photo © David Schrichte

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WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS

Baby’s first movie

Y

ou already know the Climbing Schooner, the Tinkering Lab and the firetruck-tastic Play It Safe exhibit. But you might not be familiar with the brand new and quietly brilliant Story Hub, a multimedia experience that keeps your visit to the Chicago Children’s Museum from being totally forgotten by the time you hit the parking garage.

Story Hub allows parents and kids to make a mini-documentary of their museum visit, using a variety of photos and conversational prompts to build the film. It’s designed to be the last stop on your excursion, so you can memorialize the successful excavation of some prehistoric bones in Dinosaur Expedition or the epic skyscraper you build in Skyline (or maybe even both!). Afterward, the movie is emailed to you, and once downloaded, makes an

excellent keepsake of your visit.

And if you’re the type to visit the museum often, it could be a great little record of your child’s development from year to year.

Of course, the big idea is to encourage two-way conversation between kids and adults, as well as to help little ones develop self-expression, the ability to verbalize and share the meaning of their experiences.

And if they just happen to become the next Scorsese along the way, well, we’re not complaining.

Elizabeth Diffin

Story Hub: The Mini-Movie Memory Maker Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago chicagochildrensmuseum.org

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Learn. Grow. Discover.

Little GEMS International Preschool

in Lincoln Park is the place where your child can learn and explore, grow and develop, and enjoy discovering the world.

As part of GEMS Education’s global network of award-winning schools, children at Little GEMS International Preschool receive an early start on a world-class education in structured and safe learning environments. Our STEAM-based curriculum provides introductions to math and science while leaving room for exploration, play, music, and the arts.

www.littlegemschicago.com

Schedule a preschool tour today!

Learn more about Little GEMS International Preschool

Call us today at 312-361-3539.

Little GEMS International Preschool 2301 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60614 • 312-361-3539

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Serving Chicagoland Since 1987

Dr. Brian Evans

290 Springfield Drive Suite 130 Bloomingdale, IL 60108 (Near Stratford Square Mall)

www.StratfordDental.com

630-980-3880 Evening and Saturday Hours Available Does Your Child Suffer from any of these health disorders • Bedwetting • ADD/ADHD • Aggressive Behavior • Crowded Teeth • Poor Academic Performance

• Snoring/Mouth Breathing • Swollen Adenoids and Tonsils • Chronic Allergies • Nightmares

Only recently have health care providers and researchers begun to understand the impact of Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) on these symptoms. Research has shown that SDB-induced oxygen deprivation is a major contributing factor to the childhood health disorders shown above. Yet many kids with these disorders are still being prescribed powerful drugs that often fail to address the root causes. Now there is a natural, permanent and more effective solution to treat SDB-related issues in children.

Male Patient Age 9

Before HealthyStart: Bed Wetter, Crooked Teeth, and High Arch

Same Male Patient Now at Age 14

After 12 months in HealthyStart with NO BRACES and no more bed wetting!

Call Dr. Evans today, a Premier Healthy Start Provider, for more information on how we can help your child achieve their full potential.

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Every night in America, an estimated 9 out of 10 children suffer from Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) Healthy Start is an All-Natural Oral Appliance Therapy System delivered by dentists, which addresses the root causes of SDB by reshaping the child’s oral cavity and airway to optimize airflow and promote proper nasal breathing during sleep. As this happens, many of the symptoms of SDB diminish or disappear entirely.

In addition, because Healthy Start has been specifically designed to promote proper growth of the jaws, most kids develop enough room for their teeth, and the need for braces can be eliminated. Healthy Start is appropriate treatment for children ages 3 - 12 years old.

Because Every Child Deserves a

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