Chicago Parent November 2013

NOVEMBER 2013 | FREE

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holiday

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

happenings

The

Baby Issue

Tips & tricks

from the trenches

Slow cooker The Invisible

Pregnancy

saves supper

One mom’s story ChicagoParent.com November 2013 1

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2 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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You’ll be amazed by what your child will achieve.

Students love school and love learning at the British School of Chicago Primary School

British School of Chicago Call 733.506.2097 or email admissionsbsc@wclschools.org

The British School of Chicago is an international school, offering personalized learning in a happy and nurturing community. You’ll be delighted by the progress your child makes, and they’ll surprise themselves as they surpass the goals in their individual learning plan.

We use the proven and acclaimed International Primary Curriculum; an engaging, theme-based curriculum that fosters personal development and a global view alongside academic learning. Our students enjoy varied programs of art, music and sport, and contribute to their communities at home and abroad.

British School of Chicago students are excited by their onward journey. Visit to see us at work and play.

Get ready for your brilliant future.

Get re your b

Reach your goals at the British School of Chicago’s High School

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In preparation for your college of choice, you'll study with expert teachers in small discussion-based classes and benefit from individualized instruction. The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme takes a global perspective, and you'll enjoy a fascinating trip overseas, a well-respected music and arts programme and traditional sports alongside fencing, rowing and rock-climbing.

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Equipped and inspired, British School of Chicago graduates progress to colleges and universities all over the world. Visit us to find out more.

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Equipped and in progress to colle us to find out mo

ChicagoParent.com November 2013 3

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Full-time and part-time early childhood education 6 weeks to 5 years old OPEN HOUSE West Loop location Saturday, December 7th 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.

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www.littlegreentreehouse.com 4 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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ŠDisney

SHARE IN THE MAGIC OF DISNEY NOW OPEN! Explore nine decades of Disney innovation, imagination and history in Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives, presented by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club. See more than 300 props, costumes and artwork from your favorite Disney live-action films and television series, animated classics and theme parks. Kids of all ages can explore the technology behind all 53 Disney animated films and even learn to draw some of their own favorite characters!

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Presented by

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We’re taking pediatric care to astonishing new heights.

Fintan’s surgery didn’t just give him a new heart, it’s given him his childhood.

You’d never guess it today, but Fintan was airlifted to our hospital as a newborn for critical cardiac care. Three months later, he received a life-saving heart transplant. Ranked as one of the nation’s top pediatric cardiology programs, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago performs more pediatric heart transplants than any other Illinois hospital, with success rates significantly higher than the national average. At Lurie Children’s, we’ve brought the compassionate care and great medical minds of Children’s Memorial to a state-of-the-art facility, with a neonatal intensive care unit designed so fragile newborns can heal faster, sleep more soundly and go home sooner. Learn more about Fintan’s story at luriechildrens.org/Fintan

Main Hospital: 225 E. Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL Outpatient Services: Lincoln Park · Arlington Heights · Glenview · Grayslake · Gurnee · Lake Forest · Lincoln Square · New Lenox · Uptown · Westchester · Winfield

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©2013 Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago Building photograph: Nick Merrick, Hedrich Blessing

Lurie Children’s is ranked nationally in ALL 10 pediatric specialties

M pla ake n t sure ha t in you clu c de hoos sL uri e a h eC e hil alth dre n ’s .

contents IN THIS ISSUE 16

23 27

31

GOOD TO GO

Fun with kids at The James Hotel, Grace’s Sweet Sin, Morton Arboretum and Logan Square THE SELF-AWARE PARENT

Practice bravery TRENDING

Runway looks ks for real moms CRAFT

Pompom turkeys

136 WHY YOU’LL LL

49

LOVE THIS

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

ON THE COVER NOVEMBER 2013 | VOLUME 30 | NO. 11

NOVEMBER 2013 | FREE

FEATURES

42

THE BABY ISSUE Born too soon: A Chicago mother’s journey of loving and losing a child 17 secrets secre to baby care: Chicago NICU NIC nurses share their sh tried and true t tips t Bigger.

B Better.

Tougher?: T Tips Tip from the trenches tren to help transition transit your growing family fa

Double the trouble, double the love: Families of multiples share the joys and challenges To drink or not to drink: New book by Chicago mom and economist challenges thoughts on ‘no alcohol while pregnant’

57

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CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

happenings

The

64

THE HOLIDAY FIX IS IN 8 ways to bridge the generation gap during your holiday gatherings

FOR BEIGNET! 65 YAY New Orleans staple a hot Windy City food trend COOKER 67 SLOW RECIPES FOR

BUSY MOMS Four meals that may save your sanity this month

Baby Issue

Tips & tricks

from the trenches

Slow cooker The Invisible

Pregnancy

saves supper

One mom’s story ChicagoParent.com November 2013 1

Cover kid: Victoria Osborn, 7 months, Forest Park Photography: Liz DeCarlo Design: Sky Hatter

Photos shot at Refind Home, 139 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park. The new business, created by Oak Park natives Anne and Douglas Dowd, is a sustainable and affordable home furnishings store featuring midcentury modern, luxe modern, and eco-friendly furniture and accessories. refindhome.us Victoria is wearing an original headband by Love Eden Keepsakes, a local Chicago business. loveedenkeepsakes.com

Coming this month

GOING PLACES Available beginning Nov. 18.

ChicagoParent.com November 2013 7

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EDITOR’S NOTE

DISCOVER MORE!

MONUMENTAL DISCOVER MAGNIFICENT MASTERPIECES

NEW EXHIBIT OPENS

NOVEMBER 16

301 N. Washington St. | Naperville, IL 60540 | 630 637 8000 | DUPAGECHILDRENSMUSEUM.ORG

Baby bonding When my youngest, Zoe, was born, the hospital was overfilled with newborns and it didn’t have enough security devices to permit her to leave the nursery. So I spent the first few hours after delivery standing outside the nursery window watching her and waiting for someone to find a solution so that I could be with my baby.

TAMARA L. As someone who had seen the best O’SHAUGHNESSY of birthing experiences with my two older kids, I was not a happy mama and hormones fueled the departure from my normally laid-back attitude. The nursing staff, seeing my agitation and refusal to rest, eventually dug up an old security device and I settled into a room to sit down, where Zoe and I spent the night together.

Many of us take “rooming-in” for granted these days.

But in the 1950s, a woman would have a healthy baby only to have it whisked away for 12 hours with only brief visits permitted during that time. Care of the babies fell to the nurses. Moms, dads and certainly extended family weren’t allow to play a role beyond cooing g at the new arrival.

Most of us probably cannot even n imagine such a birth experience.

We have Dr. John Kennell to Check out our weekly thank for the change allowing us Parenting Dilemma private time with our babies right on Facebook every after birth—and all night long if we Friday night. want it—dads in the delivery room, m, and excited siblings visiting the new baby. His 1976 book, MaternalalInfant Bonding, that led to the changes was not without controversy, however, with docrsy however tors arguing too much was being made of the mom-baby connection, adoptive parents saying they were feeling left out and even feminists weighing in that he put the burden of the new baby all on the woman.

Kennell died a few months ago after a lifetime of advocating for moms, babies and the birth experience. I am grateful for his work because I will never forget the feeling of becoming a mom or how I marveled at the little beings who now consume my life.

Those precious hours after each was born are simply priceless.

Our kids are the best reason to be thankful this month.

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www.master-sh-yu.com 8 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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Join us & experience the advantage our Academy brings!

Open House: Thursday, December 5, 5:30pm - 7:00pm Coffee Sessions: Tuesdays, November 12 & December 17, 9:00am - 10:30am Reserve your spot today • 312.243.0977 At the Montessori Academy of Chicago, from birth through 8th grade, our goal is to develop engaged and independent thinkers who embrace community responsibility and leadership. It is with confidence and compassion that Academy students venture forth on their unique journeys to make a difference in the world. We’re counting on their future. Let’s do it together.

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ChicagoParent.com November 2013 9

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CONTRIBUTORS

I am thankful for....

EDITOR Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy SENIOR EDITOR Liz DeCarlo ASSOCIATE EDITOR Elizabeth Diffin DIGITAL EDITOR Graham Johnston DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER Jackie

McGoey

ART DIRECTOR Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNERS Sky Hatter, Mark

Tatara

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Cathy Cassani

My age. Being 42 has allowed me to recognize what is most important in my life, and my years have reminded me to not take anything wonderful for granted.

Cathy Cassani Adams

The little moments that remind you how fortunate you are to have your health, happiness and family.

Megan Murray Elsener

My cat, Eleanor, who doesn’t mind her tail being yanked by a 2-year-old that hasn’t mastered “gentle” yet.

Liz Kozak

While it may sound unoriginal, this year as I watch a dear childhood friend begin her battle with cancer, I am most grateful for every day that my family and I wake up strong and in good health. And for dental insurance after all that candy corn.

Meredith Sinclair Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

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Philip Soell

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Andrew Mead

ADVERTISING DESIGN Maggie Acker,

Debbie Becker

CIRCULATION MANAGER Kathy Hansen DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR

Alan Majeski

Specializing CREDIT MANAGER Debbie Zari in Dentistry for PUBLISHER Dan Haley Diplomates of the Children & VP/OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Specializing American Board Andrew Johnston Adolescents of Pediatric Dentistry COMPTROLLER Ed Panschar inDiplomates Dentistry of for the FOUNDERS Natalie Dennis R. LaMonte, D.D.S., M.S.Goodman, Steven T. Kuhn,Board D.D.S. American Children & Specializing Carolyn Jacobs of Pediatric Dentistry Adolescents in Dentistry for Specializing Dennis R.Exceptional LaMonte, D.D.S., M.S. HOW TO REACH US Steven T. Kuhn, D.D.S. Children & forGeneral & Cosmetic in Dentistry 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Illinois 60302 Adolescents Children & Exceptional Dentistry (708) 386-5555 Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

Our newly expanded Our newly and decorated office expanded Adolescents will allow us T.to Dennis R. LaMonte, D.D.S., M.S. General & Cosmetic Kuhn, see D.D.S. Our andnewly decorated officeSteven for Adults Steven T. Kuhn, D.D.S. Our newly Dentistry Dennis R. LaMonte, D.D.S., M.S. expanded willexpanded allow us of to see more you & your Exceptional Michael Kasper, D.D.S. Nikifor Kasper, D.D.S. Adults Exceptional General & Cosmetic more of office you & office yoursmiles! and decorated Michael Kasper, D.D.S. – now expanded to Niki Kasper, D.D.S. General family’s Same & relaxed & fun atmosphere Cosmetic and decorated Dentistry provide the entire with family’s smiles!

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ChicagoParent.com EDITORS

chiparent@chicagoparent.com CALENDAR

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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. © 2013 Wednesday Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

10 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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BR IGHT E R = F UTURES Inventing the future of medicine, so J’Neé can enjoy endless days in the park.

Just before her first birthday, J’Neé received a life-saving liver transplant at the University of Chicago Medicine Comer Children’s Hospital. A team of the best minds in children’s medicine performed the delicate procedure.

Within just one month, J’Neé was recovering at home and taking her very first steps. She continues to receive post-transplant care from Ruba Azzam, MD, and is doing better than ever. This Fall, J’Neé and her family celebrated another first — her first day of pre-school.

1-888-824-0200 uchicagokidshospital.org

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At the University of Chicago Medicine Comer Children’s Hospital, our medical advances lead to brighter futures for your children.

10/17/13 4:05 PM

10/18/13 11:43 AM

ON THE WEB

Chicago parents in the know

I

f you haven’t discovered the new voices at ChicagoParent.com, you are missing out. You’ll find something every day to devour from the new Chicago go Parent Blogger Network. Here are a few you should meet:

Rebecca Little, a native Chicagoan, writes Pinwheel, a style, service and shoppping blog for Chicago parents. She loves discovering new ways to keep her two very active boys entertained.

Based in Chicago’s Far North Suburbs, James Zahn is a work-at-home dad raising ng young daughters. Known as The Rock Father (recently named “Top Ten Dad Blogs You Should Be Reading” by Philly Kid Thing), he bringss more than two decades of experience in the entertainment industry to the parent blogging landscape.

Kari Wagner Hoban is a stay-athome mom by day, superhero by night. She loves to write about her adventures in life, love and decorating. She lives in the Chicago suburbs with her hubby and two daughters.

Natasha Nicholes is 1/6 of the Nicholes clan who live in the heart of the city. She’s e’s a mom of four. Passionate about being heard, she started blogging when she found out she was having twins. Now shee blogs because she’s addicted.

When she’s not working, Alma Klein enjoys eating out, checking out interesting places in and around Chicagoland and roller skating with Derby Lite. She lives in Oak Park.

Beth Gorden is a homeschooling mom of three. She is the creator and author of 123homeschool4me.com where she shares 150+ free printables, creative homeschool lessons, crafts and other fun ideas.

Amy Bizzarri has long been associated with Chicago Parent. A writer, Chicago public school teacher and mom of two, she lives in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood and also blogs at amywrites312.com.

Lisa Hanneman has spent the last five years in the haze of pregnancy and infancy and somehow her kids have survived without her reading a single parenting book. She also writes about her life at Hannemaniacs.blogspot. com.

>>

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Win in November It’s hard to believe the holiday season is upon us, so this month’s giveaways are here to help get your family in the seasonal spirit.

Win tickets to Joffrey Ballet’s famed Nutcracker or the exclusive Nutcracker Family Dinner, a family pack to watch the winter-themed movie “Frozen” at your local Classic Cinemas, or the chance to see wild-and-crazy basketball antics from the world-renowned Harlem Globetrotters. world-ren Visit Visi it ChicagoParent.com/contests every eve ery Thursday to find out what’s new ne ew or sign up ffor our newsletters to be among the first to know about our new giveaways. g

Baby, it’s so strange

In honor of our Baby Issue, Dr. Smith’s Diaper Rash Ointment is sponsoring a fun photo contest this month just for you. From Nov. 4-18, submit photos of the strangest item in your diaper bag for a chance to win.

ChicagoParent.com November 2013 13

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EVOLUTION.

From preschool through eighth grade, the Catherine Cook School Community offers students personal attention and a collaberative spirit, creating an innovative environment that inspires a culture of curiosity, passion, and achievement. Our students evolve into confident, empowered and ethical young people.

Please visit our Open House on Sunday, November 3rd

CatherineCookSchool.org (312) 266-3381 226 W. Schiller, Chicago

INNOVATION.

Fifth through eighth grade students have a special place at the Catherine Cook School. Here, learning goes beyond challenging academics and innovative technology. Our students become critical thinkers, sophisticated learners, and empowered global citizens. Powerful and meaningful middle school experiences lead our graduates to the best high school opportunities.

Please visit our Open House on Sunday, November 3rd

CatherineCookSchool.org (312) 266-3381 226 W. Schiller, Chicago

14 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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If you go Ja James mees Ho Hote oteel 5 55 5 E. O On nt nta tarriio, Chiiccaagggoo Ch

The James Hotel’s kids program among the best in Chicago

T

he James Hotel, a luxury boutique hotel steps away from Michigan Avenue’s Magnificent Mile, has recently revamped its children’s program, and my entire family agrees it is a smash hit. The program, LIL’ JAMES, keeps kids entertained and feeling special their entire stay with a variety of amenities and activities planned just for them.

Upon arrival, children receive a backpack filled with projects from Kiwi Crate, a creativity company that focuses on hands-on learning through arts, crafts and science kits. Projects from Kiwi Crate come complete with all the materials, instructions and inspiration for children and parents to create

cool projects together. So first on our agenda: assemble lightweight wooden airplanes that my 5-yearolds delighted in zooming at each other’s heads for a good hour.

The room itself was exquisite.

If possible, opt for a loft room with separate living and sleeping areas, along with an actual “media room” with a DVD projector and family-friendly movies available from the concierge.

We all cuddled onto the gigantic media room bed and enjoyed a family movie night.

Other LIL’ JAMES amenities include books for story time before bed and board games for all ages including Sorry!, Chutes and Ladders, Life and Scrabble.

For tech-savvy kids and gamers, there is Wii and pre-loaded iPads and Kindles with kid-friendly

books and apps.

For those families wanting to explore the city as a tourist, the LIL’ JAMES Family Adventurer packages offer all of the amenities of the regular program plus four tickets to Chicago Children’s Museum, milk and cookie turndown service and a jump rope designed specifically for children.

The concierge will arrange and recommend other city attractions and museum tickets upon request. In good weather, families may opt for a complimentary bicycle as the preferred method of transportation.

Bottom line? Don’t let your little one (or even not-so little ones) miss the LIL’ JAMES program for an experience they will not soon forget.

Linda Marsicano

Good to

jjaam meessh hot otel els. s.coom

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GOOD TO GO

Grace’s Sweet Sin

I

like the way Pastry Chef Grace Donaghy of Little Market Brasserie thinks: there’s nothing wrong with a little dessert with Saturday and Sunday breakfast or brunch.

And my 5-year-old twins agreed as our family shared two gigantic orders of that day’s delicacy: freshly made yeast doughnuts with a coffee crème anglaise and blueberry vanilla preserves. Each order came with three generously sized doughnuts sprinkled with sugar and deliciously warm straight from the oven.

The sweet treat changes on Chef Grace’s creative whim.

Features could include skillet cinnamon rolls smothered in vanilla bean icing and banana nutmeg bread pudding with banana-infused caramel

and Chantilly cream.

Grace’s Sweet Sin dishes are $8 each and well worth every penny.

For those not fond of dessert for brunch (c’mon live a little!) there are tons of brunch options, ranging from breakfast staples like a perfectly done French Toast served with berries, syrup and vanilla cream to a sandwich straight from heaven: a grilled cheese with fried egg, cheddar, bacon, avocado and Sriracha sauce.

House specialties include buttermilk biscuits and gravy accompanied by sausage and a fried egg ($12.50) and smoked salmon with crispy

potato hashbrowns, cream cheese, capers, red onion and mixed greens for $14.50.

Another bonus: In this swanky part of town, the people-watching is almost as good as the food.

Linda Marsicano

If you go Little Market Brasserie 10 East Delaware Place, Chicago Brunch Saturday and Sunday 6:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. littlemarketbrasserie.com

16 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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GOOD TO GO

Can’t see the forest for the trees?

These lights just might help

C

hicago and the suburbs are filled with holiday lights experiences to drive through, walk through or just sit and look at. But a new lights show at Morton Arboretum lets visitors sing to trees to light them up, project lights across the lake with a touch of a screen, and hug a tree to make the light colors change.

Illumination, which runs Nov. 22-Jan. 4, is considered more than a lights show by Morton staff—it’s considered a lights experience. Sue Wagner, vice president of education and information at Morton, had previously worked at Adler Planetarium and was used to creating immersive

experiences. With the help of experiential lighting designers, Lightswitch, she worked to create an immersive environment among Morton’s trees.

“What we’re doing is enhancing the shape and structure of the trees and making it so people can see trees in a new way,” Wagner says. “This is another way to help people understand how important trees are to our world, which is our mission.”

Illumination runs through about a mile of the arboretum’s trees, with 10 engagement points and three resting spots offering campfires, s’mores and hot drinks.

“This is great for families with small kids. You can pack a nice fleece blanket and bring the kids in a stroller,” Wagner says. “It’s also a great intergenerational activity that kids could enjoy with their grandparents.”

Illumination starts with projection technology, where visitors can turn a group of 50-foot-tall evergreens along Meadow Lake into a giant screen for moving images. Along the path, there are shadow lanterns

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creating shimmer patterns and the Tinsel Colonnade, where bright strands of colorful light glimmer from the tree’s branches like tinsel.

The Harmony Trees are black walnut trees with lights that respond to the sound of voices.

Visitors are encouraged to sing and call out to the trees to make them brighter. At Personalitrees, guests can move their hands over a sensor to conduct a 30-foothigh display of falling snowflakes, flower petals and leaves.

They also can look into a camera and see their own image in a giant projection on the trees.

Hug A Tree invites guests to hug three different trees. The hugs help shift the lighting of the entire grove by making lights brighter, changing the color, or changing how quickly the light shifts from tree to tree.

If you go Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle Illumination opens each day at 4:30 p.m., with the last entry at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $15, $10 kids 2-17, free kids under 2.

Tickets can be purchased at the arboretum or in advance at mortonarb.org/ illumination.

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www.grins4kids.com ChicagoParent.com November 2013 17

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GOOD TO GO

Ditch the crib at Hyatt Regency

I

f there’s one thing we know about babies, it’s that they all come with a lot of baggage— literally.

That’s why one downtown hotel is offering guests baby products for delivery directly to their rooms.

The Hyatt Regency Chicago, with a prime location just off Michigan Avenue and stunning views of the river and lake, just completed a three-year, $168 million renovation project that transformed the lobby, guestrooms and restaurants. The result is a thoroughly modern spot that serves as an ideal “home base” for tourists or locals looking to enjoy some time shopping on the Mag Mile, visiting the Museum Campus or just soaking up the joy of being “away from home.”

Plus, the new Babies Travel Lite program offers more than 1,000 brandname baby products including diapers, baby food, formula and travel items like infant carriers and Pack N Plays. The items are conveniently “bundled” into different categories, so you can pick and choose if you need items for sleep, play, meals—or all of the above.

There’s even an “Organic

Baby” section for moms and dads who want earthfriendly wipes, rice or soy milk, or naturally preserved baby food.

Best of all, if you don’t use all of that mega-pack of diapers (better safe than sorry!) or the last scoop of formula, Babies Travel Lite offers a “Ship It Home” service that allows families to ship home unused baby products and anything else they don’t have space for or don’t want to re-pack.

The Hyatt Regency Chicago works directly with Babies Travel Lite to make sure the items are waiting when the family checks in.

The cost for the service is the item plus shipping, which factors in weight and destination. Visit HyattFamilyTravel.com and click on the Babies Travel Lite link for more information. The service is available to other hotels, resorts and cruise ships worldwide.

Elizabeth Diffin

18 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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BEST IN CHI

Logan Square

fun for all

Sometimes it’s the quieter months that are the best to get out and rediscover neighborhoods. Taking a walk on a cool fall day is just as fulfilling as in the hot summer months. That’s why this month I checked out Chicago’s quirky and cute Logan Square neighborhood.

Tucked away just west of the Kennedy Expressway, centered on SARA R. FISHER a public square at the three-way intersection of Milwaukee Avenue and Kedzie and Logan boulevards, Logan Square is a hotbed of great food, culture and playspaces for all.

1

Lula Café, 2537 N. Kedzie Blvd.

Locally sourced food, lively communal tables for a big playdate and cheese quesadillas that go beyond Chipotle are a reason to visit Lula Café, a neighborhood staple.

2

Logan Square Theater, 2646 N. Milwaukee Ave. Recently renovated with a new snack and drink bar that’s a parent-andchild’s movie-watching dream, the Logan Square Theater boasts not only a comfortable seating environment but also reruns of everyone’s favorite old movies like “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective.”

3

Wolfbait & B-Girls, 3131 W. Logan n Blvd.

If shopping local is truly your calling, you cannot miss out on Wolfbait & B-Girls, home of the best local and handmade crafts, gifts and more, right on Logan Square.

Square The small shop p caters to moms ca and kids alike.

I was partial to the Chicago onesies in the o window. win

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www.clubztutoring.com ChicagoParent.com November 2013 19

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DITCH THE KIDS

Purses and pals An unusual girls’ night out

T

he moment you glimpse the giant flatscreen at 1154 LILL Studio, you realize: this isn’t your average purse party.

The Chicago-based company takes the concept of “purse parties,” where guests can buy a handbag while noshing with friends, to a whole different level. The three Chicago locations open their doors to visitors who are looking for a little more customization in their accessories.

LILL lets you choose from more than 40 styles of handbags, totes and tech items, select from more than 130 fabrics for the body, the trim and the lining, and then pick up your custom-made item (the production facility is right on the South Side) three to four weeks later.

And although the huge touchscreen lets guests try out different color combos and bags, the real draw is the opportunity to touch and see the fabrics in person. They might not look it from a distance, but the upholstery-grade fabrics are heavy-duty enough to sustain a beating at O’Hare and emerge unscathed (although you should waterproof once you get home).

Store employees are more

than happy to make suggestions and help out the creatively challenged, but the fun comes in bonding with friends as you mix-and-match on the way to creating your dream bag.

Walk-ins are welcome, but the stores also host events and even have catered meals delivered directly there (call ahead to make arrangements). Plus, with the studio’s fun selection of newmommy and bridal items, it’s a great place to host an intimate event like a baby shower or lowkey bachelorette party.

And if you still like the idea of a traditional purse party in your home, visit the website and click on “Host a Handbag Party.”

A LILL representative will bring the studio to you for a fun gettogether. But in that case, the giant flatscreen is on you.

Elizabeth Diffin

1154 LILL Studio 904 W. Armitage, Chicago; (773) 477-5455 900 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago; (312) 344-1825 20530 N. Rand Road, Deer Park; (847) 550-4906 1154lill.com

20 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com SSM10.17.11santaArrivalChiParent.indd 1

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THREE TO SEE

S 1

taying in town for Thanksgiving?

Here are three things to do with kids over the long holiday weekend:

The Lincoln Park Turkey Trot 5K and Plymouth Rock Ramble: Running enthusiasts enjoy a scenic long run before indulging in Thanksgiving Day treats. Youngsters 2-12 can run, walk or jog a loop course from 50 yards to a half-mile, depending on age and ability, that starts and finishes in the middle of the festivities.

2

Zoo Lights: Be among the first to witness the magical atmosphere of Lincoln Park’s Annual Zoo Lights, which opens the Friday of Thanksgiving weekend. Try Sunday night,

when the crowds are thinner than normal as people are traveling and recouperating from the busy long weekend.

3

Instead of cooking a feast yourself and spending more time in the kitchen than with your family, head to the Lockwood Restaurant inside the Palmer House Hilton that puts on a Thanksgiving buffet that earns raves.

Kids under 12 eat free, and they’ll love hopping into a horse-drawn carriage postdessert for a clomping ride around town.

Linda Marsicano

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ChicagoParent.com November 2013 21

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At the Irving & Margaret Houck Family Birthing Centre,

We Treat You Like Family.

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

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West Suburban Medical Center 3 Erie Court, Oak Park, IL 60302 www.westsuburbanmc.com 22 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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$ intestinal esti Practice bravery 8 fortitude titu it ' F $] & K ,_ X 7h W < CATHY CASSANI ADAMS

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I watch my three daughters do new things every day. Walk into a new classroom, talk to a new kid at the park, begin a new sport or activity, ride a bigger bike.

Most of us have done these things, but I don’t know if we recognized our bravery.

I wonder if we recognize our children’s bravery.

Unfortunately our understanding of bravery has gotten lost. Most believe that bravery means not feeling fear, but bravery can’t exist without feeling fear or risk. We can’t be brave if we don’t realize there is something to lose.

Every day children put themselves out there, try new things, walk through new doors. We expect them to do these things, and we often chastise them if they don’t. When a child cries or admits discomfort, we often use guilt or shame to quiet them rather than acknowledge their feelings.

Admitting fear or expressing concern is brave in itself. Asking someone to support you or sharing your deepest thoughts takes a great deal of courage. So instead of believing that our children shouldn’t feel afraid, we need to remember that fear is what inspires bravery.

As adults, we often get into our routines and our groups and we make a decision to stop trying new things or stop putting ourselves out there. We find a no-risk zone so we don’t have to deal with failure or being criticized.

But when our kids step into a new experience, we

find ourselves annoyed or confused by their tears and worries. We find ourselves telling them how to feel or why they are wrong rather than listening to their honest and heartfelt concerns.

When children say they are scared, they are looking for validation and normalizing. They are asking for help, hoping the ones they love most will understand and guide them through it.

The goal is not to talk them out of their fear, but to acknowledge and allow for it. Then you can support them as they navigate their new experience.

And maybe we can share that sometimes we feel afraid, that when we try new things, it’s not easy for us either. Real life involves risk; it involves a willingness to be vulnerable.

Children are expected to take risks all the time. See their experiences through their eyes.

Your ability to acknowledge and listen offers them a sense of normalcy and a determination to keep going. It provides the foundation they need to practice bravery.

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

Need to know

THE SELF-AWARE PARENT

ChicagoParent.com November 2013 23

10/18/13 3:59 PM

MOM OF THE MONTH

The True Life mom Now that I have him, I forget all that we went through to have him.

Jenna Kutska One son, Justin, born July 18; husband, Kurt, a special education teacher in Buffalo Grove and football coach. She is a hair colorist in Glenview.

Wheeling

{M.O.M}

She and Kurt appeared in a recent episode of MTV’s documentary series, True Life: I’m Desperate for a Baby. Cameras followed them as they went through fertility treatment with Dr. Angeline Beltsos of Fertility Centers of Illinois. They became pregnant the first time using IVF as the nation watched.

What was it like watching your story on TV? I was happy with the way it all played out. It was hard to see us go through the struggle and cry. As I am watching it, I am holding him, so it was very surreal. Now that I have him, I forget all that we went through to have him. You try to forget the negative or sad parts of it. The hardest thing was the waiting. Each month it was another letdown. Even though it was only two years of trying to conceive, it’s like every day and every month was a struggle along the way.

How has the journey changed you? I wanted to be a mom so bad. I always wanted to have kids. I never imagined it wouldn’t come so easily. I think it made me appreciate it even more.

>>

What is the craziest thing people have said to you? When we were going through it, we were sitting in the fertility office and there was another younger couple there. ... I remember her looking at me like I was out of my mind for allowing them to film it. (My philosophy was) anything you go through in life, you can help so

many people if you talk about it, whether it is your experience or thoughts. I was trying to stay so positive through the whole thing, I don’t think I thought ‘what if it doesn’t work in the end.’ (The other couple on the episode didn’t get pregnant after many tries.) We’re going to have a baby and this is going to be a good story.

Favorite part about being a mom: The unconditional love. Right away, a connection and a bond that is unexplainable. It is the most unbelievable moment of anyone’s life.

If you had to give a piece of advice to another couple: Never lose hope.

Quash sibling competition My twins play on the same sports teams.

They’re supportive of each other and work well as teammates. But during mid-season player evaluations, players were pulled aside with parents for an evaluation of skills. Later they wanted to know how the other did, who got better scores, etc. I told them not to focus on each other’s evaluations, but rather on improving their own by the end of the season.

By keeping it private, it took the focus off sibling competition and back on to their own game.

Elisa All, founder of 30SecondMom.com, is mom to three incredibly active kids who inspire her to be “in the know while on the go.”

24 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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NEWS YOU CAN USE

After divorce: One question to ask yourself

P

arents owe it to their children to end the domestic war zone after separation and divorce, says Dr. Edward Farber, a clinical psychologist and author of the new book, Raising the Kid You Love with the Ex You Hate.

“Divorce is an epidemic, not just in our country but across the world. And (kids) are casualties from that divorce,” he says. “... We all do piano lessons, sports, we spare no cost in tutoring, then we go and screw them up by hating the other person who is the parent.”

But what if you really, really can’t stand your spouse? Farber asks parents to ask themselves: Do I hate my ex more than I love my child?

“If you answer yes to the question, we’ve got a problem. If you answered no to that question, you’ll do what you need to do to be able to access help for your child,” he says.

That means creating a businesslike relationship with your ex, he says.

“You can go to war over money, about who did what to ruin the marriage. But when it comes to raising the child that you truly love, you both have to be seen as having the t same end goal: You want to get this Y ‘‘product’ to market, tthe most precious product, your child,” p he says. h The key to successful co-parenting, ce Farber advocates in Fa his book, is maxihi mizing kids having mi a rrelationship with both parents, being bot able to do that with abl minimal conflict in a min businesslike relationbus ship and allowing the child to benefit from parenting of both the p parents. pare “I truly believe that one ccan go through the process of divorce and proce maintain a relationstill m ship ssuch that you can help yyour child survive,” says. he say

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26 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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TRENDING

Runway looks for real moms

MEREDITH SINCLAIR

Once the calendar flips ips to November, it’s time to start taking the holidays days seriously—and whatt you’re going to wear. r.

Here are four of this season’s most dramatic atic trends, plus tips on taking them from runway to real mom..

1 Black Leather and Lace If you were to make a list of the least appropri-ate looks for moms, sexy black leather and seethrough lace might be near the top on your queue. ue.

Thankfully, there are lots of options this year that at pair these two over-the-top materials with more traditional cuts and curves, transforming this trend end from sketchy to sophisticated.

THE SPLURGE: Carissima Sheath, $258, Anthropologie (right) THE SAVE: Mossimo women’s V-neck ponte dress ess with faux leather, $28, Target

2 Be jeweled When choosing holiday party dresses, many of us feel safest in the tried-and-true little black dress, and rightly so. Black is slimming, appropriate, easy and predictable. But Holiday 2013 is all about bold colors that look like they belong atop a ring on your finger. Colors like orange, yellow, purple, blue and green, all done a bit

“gemmy.” What’s perfect about these hues is that while they are striking and bright, they’re also rich and classic. And they look great on all skin tones.

It’s time to turn heads when walking into the room, ladies.

3 Poufy buns If you’ve got at least shoulder length locks, the go-to up-do this year is the loose bun, paired with a thin head-banded “pouf.” If your hair is shorter, simply skip the bun and create the pouf with a some teasing and a bedazzled headband. This hair trend is made for moms, because at its core, it’s meant to be a bit messy and done on the fly.

4 Little girl glitter The holidays are the onee time of the year we moms can unabashedly get our sparkle on. Why should the 6-year-olds have all the fun? Plus it’s widely known that glitter holds magical powers within each speck, making it physically impossible to be grumpy or stressed while sprinkled with its goodness. Thankfully there’s glitter for grownups, too.

P-Heaven in Gold Glitter, $39.95, Steve Madden (above) Black Glitter Floral Dress, $54, WallisFashion.com Glitter knit T-shirt, $19.99, shopmango.com (comes in nine colors below)

ChicagoParent.com November 2013 27

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GOOD SENSE EATING

Feeding milestones SANTA’S ARRIVAL & FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8 6PM - 8:30PM

Santa will be available for visits until 8:30PM and children will receive a free pouch of reindeer food, while supplies last.

Write a letter to Santa and be entered to win a ride on the fire truck at Santa’s Arrival. Drop your letter in the children's dept. mailbox at Barnes & Noble between Oct. 28 and Nov. 7.

Winner will be notified by 9AM on Friday, Nov. 8.

For details visit ShopDeerParkTownCenter.com

STEVENSON HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BAND WILL LEAD SANTA'S ARRIVAL

Cathy Derus’s daughter is five months old and still nursing full-time. But the first-time mom is aware her baby soon will begin the transition to solid food.

A recent study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics concluded that parents often are uneducated about important eating CHRISTINE milestones. According to the study, PALUMBO 40 percent of parents give solid food to their babies before they reach four months and 9 percent give solids to babies as early as four weeks.

Readiness and pacing Around six months of age, babies are interested in solids.

“They should also be able to have good head control, reducing tongue thrust, and willingness to lean forward toward foods and sit back when done,” says certified pediatric nutrition specialist Florence DiMarco, MPH, CNSC. Some moms are proud their babies can handle the spoon early. But DiMarco disagrees.

“Starting too soon before six months does not mean that babies are developing better.”

Cup drinking can be encouraged around the same time solids are begun.

At one time, rice cereal was the first solid food, followed by other single grain cereals, then fruit and vegetables, and

finally meat. Now, there is no strict sequence of what should be introduced first.

DiMarco recommends offering one new food a time, then waiting for a couple of days to see if baby shows signs of an allergic reaction.

What hasn’t changed is the use of cow’s milk or its alternatives. They aren’t recommended before age 1.

The path to healthy eating By eight or 10 months, most babies are able to grasp finger foods and start to chew.

Of course, fresh, one-ingredient foods are preferable to prepackaged items with food coloring, preservatives and nitrites/nitrates.

Derus is looking forward to her baby’s next stage.

“While I was pregnant with Monica, we joked we had a foodie baby on our hands.

Now that she’s about to start eating solids, we can’t wait for her to taste the foods she smelled during our cooking and eating.”

Christine M. Palumbo, RD, is a Naperville-based nutritionist. Follow her

20530 N Rand Road Deer Park, IL shopdeerparktowncenter.com | 847.726.7755

on Twitter @PalumboRD, Facebook at Christine Palumbo Nutrition or Chris@ ChristinePalumbo.com.

28 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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NEWS YOU CAN USE

Even Santa has an app for that Tired of waiting in long lines with whining kids to see Santa There’s one place you won’t have to—Water Tower Place in Claus? T downtown Chicago. downt Thanks to QLess, a mobile queuing app, visitors just check T iin via the on-site kiosk or their smartphone. They can then continue shopping until it’s their turn to visit Santa. When they’ve reached the virtual “front of the line,” guests will receive a text message.

Santa is located on Level 4 of Water Tower Place and will be at the mall from Nov. 15-Dec. 24. For more informaw ttion, visit shopwatertower.com.

Lincoln Park Zoo’s on thin ice this winter Li Lincoln Park Zoo L already sets the stage alre for a winter wonderland with iits two million lights transform the zoo each that tr holiday h lid season. Now, in addition to ZooLights, the zoo will have its own ice rink for guests.

Whiz past the goats and cows at the rink in Farm-in-the-Zoo before heading to the Kovler Lion House to see Santa Claus.

ZooLights and the rink open the Friday after Thanksgiving.

Zoo Lights continues until Jan. 5, while ice skating will remain until March 2.

Entrance to the zoo and ZooLights is free. Skating is $5; skate rental is an additional $5. Snacks and warm drinks are available for purchase. For information, visit lpzoo.org or call (312) 742-2000.

Military families have new way to keep in touch It is part of the reality of modern military life—long deployments in far off countries with uncertain dates for return.

Since 2001, more than 2 million American kids have watched their parents deploy to war. Staying connected is always a struggle for military families, but with multiple and lengthy deployments in dangerous areas that struggle can be overwhelming.

KidsCork.com om is a new, free, easy-tosy-touse website that hat allows parents ts to pre-record themselves reading their kids a book.

The family’s page is private and no one else can see their KidsCork family site.

KidsCork also has a special kid-friendly Interactive World Map to help them better visualize the place where their parent is deployed.

Children can learn about the plants, people and animals of the region, as well as learn to say “Hello” in the language of every country. KidsCork’s Photo Booth and Personal Notes posting also help families st stay in touch.

KidsCork is free for Kid military families. It is milit aavailable to civilian ffamilies in three packages that range from $2 to $6 per month.

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lighting the fires of learning ChicagoParent.com November 2013 29

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PLUGGED-IN PARENT

Big TVs, little kids

Q

Our new flatscreen TV is too big for our TV cabinet. With young kids in the house, should I mount it on the wall instead of setting it on our bookshelf?

Many parents worry about the effects of television, but most are concerned about the programing, not the actual TV. But TV placement is important.

In fact, according to the Consumer Protection Safety Commission, one child dies every two weeks when furniture, an appliance or a TV falls on them. Seventy percent of injuries are related to television tip-overs.

Kids 1 to 5 are at highest risk, and most accidents happen in bedrooms. Whether you mount your TV on the wall or use the base, follow these tips SHARON MILLER to prevent injuries.

CINDRICH

A

urniture Anchor away. Use furniture anchors or wall brackets ets approved by the manufacufacturer to properly secure re the TV. Follow manufacturer urer recommendations related ated to wall structure and mounting requirements. ts.

When in doubt, hire out.

If installing or securing ng your television seems ttoo complicated, li t d contact your retailer and ask about installation services.

Consider the climbers. A TV on top of a dresser may not be accessible to kids, but drawers, shelves or other furniture can act as stairs. Rearrange the room, lock drawers and remove shelves to deter climbers.

Find your old set a new place. Older televisions containing cathode ray tubes (CRT) tend to be heavier. Make sure your older television is on a stand appropriate for its weight and positioned so it doesn’t hang over the edge.

Keep track of cords. Electrical cords and NSSD_Nutcracker_lr.pdf

10/14/13

A A NSSD_Nutcracker_lr.pdf

7:33:03 PM

bl connected t d to t televisions t l ii k cables can make pulling down a TV easy. Keep cords out of a child’s reach and check for ways to secure them to furniture or the wall.

Avoid the law of attraction. Many children are enticed to climb and reach for remote controls or video game controllers. Keep these out of sight and away from the reach of young children.

Supervise for safety. Supervising young kids, especially in unfamiliar environments, is critical to keeping kids safe.

For more tips, visit the Consumer Electronics Association’s website at ce.org/safety.

A A

The North Shore School of Dance Presents the 25th Anniversary Production of 10/14/13

7:33:03 PM

The North Shore School of Dance Presents the 25th Anniversary Production of

25 th year Underwritten by:

On exhibit Oct. 1, 2013 - Jan. 6, 2014

C

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2100 Patriot Blvd. Glenview, IL 847-832-6600 | www.kohlchildrensmuseum.org IF YOU GIVE A MOUSE A COOKIE. © 2000 by Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond.

Used by permission of HarperCollins Publishers.© 2012 Minnesota Children’s Museum. All rights reserved. Storyland: A Trip Through Childhood Favorites™ was created by Minnesota Children’s Museum. This project is made possible by a grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services. © 2012 Minnesota Children’s Museum. All rights reserved. Storyland: A Trip Through Childhood Favorites™ was created by Minnesota Children’s Museum.

This project is made possible by a grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Also Opening October 1, 2013

Sheridan’s Books & Crannies

A new permanent exhibit exploring the world of reading!

30 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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Nutcracker ATheNutcrackerA AA AA AA A A The

A A

Saturday, December 7th 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm & Sunday, December 8th 2:00 pm Saturday, December At the Raymond Moore Auditorium, Lake Forest 7th High School, 1:00 and pm 1285 N.pm McKinley Road,4:00 Lake Forest & children, seniors, military Tickets $22.00 adults and $15.00 Order ticketsDecember on line at www.northshoredance.com Sunday, 8th 2:00 pm

10/18/13 11:30 AM

CRAFT

Pompom turkeys

Create goofy gobblers for your Thanksgiving celebration

STORY AND PHOTOS

BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER hen you think of Thanksgiving, you inevitably think about turkey! And what better way to prepare for the holiday than to make your very own puffy pompom turkeys? With a few simple supplies that you might already have at home and the help of your little onesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; hands for the feathers, these fluffy turkeys are a fun way to feel festive together.

W

Plus, these little guys can an sit perfectly on your dinner table or happily ppily on a mantle as decoration.

Directions: 1. Start byy making the pompom. yarn around your flat Wind the ya hand until all your fingers are covered and the yarn is your desired thickness. The more yarn, the puffier your ball.

Carefully pull the yarn Ca off your hand and lay it on top of a long piece of yarn.

2. Place one pipe cleaner across the bundle of yarn going the opposite direction of the piece of yarn. This pipe cleaner will be the base for the turkey

legs. Pull up the piece of yarn from both sides and tie it very tightly together several times. It may help to flip the bundle over and tie tightly a few times.

3. Make the pompom by cutting the loops. Slide the scissors under the loops and cut all the way around. Fluff tthe turkey into a ball once all the loops are cut.

4. To finish the feet, bend tthe long pipe cleaner in the pompom ball in half to th look like legs. Use another pipe cleaner to form the feet by tri-folding it and then twist the leg pipe cleaner around the feet pipe cleaner to attach. Repeat for the second foot.

5. To create the feathers, have your child place their hand on the colored foam and trace around it. Cut out the hand and repeat to make at least three feather hands.

6. Glue the handprints together, while being careful to fan them out slightly to create the look of feathers.

7. Nowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the fun part of bringing the turkey to life with a face. With glue, add the googly eyes to the pompom ball, as well as beak and wattle that you cut out of the colored foam.

8. Bend the legs of the turkey to help him take a seat on your desired surface.

Gobble gobble and enjoy!

Supplies Yarn Orange pipe cleaners Googly eyes Colored foam in fall colors like red, orange and yellow Hot glue gun or craft glue

ChicagoParent.com November 2013 31

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10/18/13 5:14 PM

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chalkpreschool.com 32 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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10/18/13 11:26 AM

FAILING WITH GUSTO

Snack moms now, snack moms forever?

Snack moms are those earnest individuals who play an active role in their children’s sports by putting together carefully designed charts listing every gameday snack assignment. I will never criticize this level of involvement, as I am the parent who paints white lines in the grass like I have been doing tequila shots.

I understand that snacks help reinforce a positive experience when small children are first introduced to organized sports. But now? If a 9-year-old is only motivated by Capri Suns and Cheetos, perhaps sports just aren’t his thing.

One of my mom friends complained how she was sick of the kids coming home not wanting to eat dinner because of all the garbage handed out on the field. When it was her turn to be snack mom, she sliced up carrots and brought along water bottles. The team’s response? No thanks.

She threw up her hands in surrender and packed a case of Coca-Cola and Twinkies for her next at-bat.

Naturally, she was a hit.

With all due deference to snack moms who have organized this for centuries (or rather, since 1990, when anthropologists first documented the shift), I respectfully submit we put an end to the practice. If the kids get thirsty, point them to the water fountain.

If they complain, tell them to suck it up. It’s time to go 1970s tough love on their Twinkied butts.

I tried unsuccessfully to implement my vision when I was handed yet another snack mom assignment this month.

“Aw, c’mon,” I begged.

“Aren’t they getting too old for this nonsense?”

Snack Mom looked at me in disbelief and stunned silence. She then turned and handed the sheet to the next dad who approached.

“Hey dad!” I called out.

“How about it? Want to stand in unison against snacks and injecting our kids with high fructose corn syrup after every game?”

He gave me that

all-too-familiar “Go away, crazy lady” look.

After several more failed attempts to convert parents to my way of thinking, Snack Mom walked over.

“Just so you know, ma’am, my older boys are in HIGH SCHOOL and they ADORE post-game snacks.

It’s just something little we can do to show our love and support.”

I hung my head in shame.

This weekend, my family sat down to watch the Bears when the kids noticed the giant Gatorade container on the sidelines.

My oldest commented: “I wonder who THEIR snack mom is! That is awesome.”

Snack moms, it seems, rule the world.

Marianne Walsh is a Chicago mom of three boys.

Talk back

With three sons firmly entrenched in their respective sports, I am suddenly reminded of Michael Jordan’s famous “For the Love of the Game” clause. In his early professional career, Mr. Jordan wanted to make sure he could play whenever and wherever he desired.

I admire this kind of dedication in MARIANNE athletes. However, I am now finding WALSH that the grammar school crowd has replaced Mr. Jordan’s clause with one of their own, aptly titled “For the Love of Snack Moms.”

ChicagoParent.com November 2013 33

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10/18/13 11:26 AM

READERS’ OPEN MIC

Parenting dilemma

Your mom was screamin’ for her life cuz she was trying to kill the big rat running around the room and I was moaning from the severe headache from all her yelling!

Rafael R

This month’s Q: It’s Friday night, the kids

are in bed. You get a little “alone” time with your spouse. The next morning orning the kids ask, ‘What were those noises oises last night?’ What do you say?

Daddy showed me this

REALLY COOL MAGIC TRICK and I was clapping. cla Anne A

Mommy thought she he won the lottery until the sun came up and I realized I was a number short!

Shamika

2 LITTLE MONKEYS were jumping on the bed, one fell off and bumped b her head.

DADDY D CALLED THE TH DOCTOR and the doctor doct said NO MORE

HOW ‘BOUT YOU QUIET DOWN SO YOUR KIDS DON’T THINK THEY’RE ON THE

SET OF A PORNO??

O??

DT

MOM MONKEYS MOMMY JUMPING ON THE BED! ILLU TER STRATIO N BY SKY HAT

MONSTERS UNDER YOUR BED. Johanna

34 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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Jeff R.

We had this happen except our daughter walked in. We said we were having a NAKED DANCE PARTY.

Wendy If they’re young, it’s best to ask them what they thought they were. They usually fear it was something scary or hurting.

When you tell them there was no hurting, it is often a satisfying enough answer. They just want reassurance that their home is safe.

CN 10/18/13 3:59 PM

REAL PARENTS IN THE TRENCHES

@

Want more? Visit ChicagoParent.com/parentpanel

How do you teach your kids to respond to alternative family structures, such as adoption, same-sex parents and interracial families?

Talk about how we’re all different in some ways but the same in others, and that no matter the difference, everyone deserves to have respect, love and privacy if they so choose.

Gia Lee, Chicago

My kids are asking about these topics a lot lately as they notice it in public and on the news. I try to teach them by responding positively about the laws that have been passed to allow people to do this.

Mona Shah, Glenview

When I look at a family, I see love regardless of family structures. Since I don’t point out differences to my kids, they don’t have to “respond” to anything. They see a family unit and it looks like the same kind of love that we have for each other!

Kerry Quirin, Downers Grove

The good thing about raising a child in the city is that they are exposed to a huge diverse pool of people. My son doesn’t bat an eye regarding today’s “modern families.”

He teaches me as much about acceptance than I could ever teach him.

Ryan Salzwedel, Chicago

starbright dance

I emphasize that each family is different and may not be the same as ours. That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t like them or be around them.

Checking out books from the library on different types of families might help smaller children to understand.

Jackie Sergeant, Richton Park

Set the example yourself. When children see kindness, tolerance and acceptance, they are more likely to emulate it. A preemptive discussion about treating all people properly would probably be a good idea as well.

Lisa Cheruff, Skokie

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w ww .A Fa iryta le B a lle t.c om ChicagoParent.com November 2013 35

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10/18/13 11:23 AM

VOICE: DAVID WALLACH

Lesson 1:

Dash and Grab never works Dad “breaks” baby his first day alone with him

I

f there was a test to become a parent, like there is to drive a car, I would fail.

When it comes to my three kids, I fly by the seat of my pants. I mean, how else would I end up in the triage unit of my pediatrician’s office on my first day alone with our 11-month-old baby?

On the first day! I am terrified to think of what Day 10 is going to look like!

As I’m gripping him in my panicstricken arms and bloodstained shirt, what do I see framed on the walls? An article from Chicago Parent magazine writer Caitlin Giles. Our doctor liked the information so much he framed it and put in on the wall as an example of excellent parenting.

I am the polar opposite. I am the schmuck who let his baby roll off the changing table and smack his face on the floor.

You heard it right. He fell on the floor like a country ham. Splat! Face first.

All because I forgot to refill his diaper bin on the changing table and needed a swim diaper for the pool. Odd because I usually let him swim in a normal diaper. Seriously, how funny is it when the diaper expands so much that the baby looks like a junior member of the Clumps?

But not this time. This time I chose to

use the swim diaper and went for the “dash and grab.” You know it, right?

When you need something that is just out of reach so you take off like The Flash, grab what you need, and fly back to grab the baby before he falls, chokes or smears his foot in poop.

After three kids, if the dash and grab was an Olympic sport, I’d win the gold medal. The diaper was in the closet.

I could see it, I just couldn’t reach it.

Logically, I told the baby, who understands zero of anything yet, “Buddy, lay still, Daddy will be back in four seconds.”

His response, of course, was to start to roll the second I turned my back, because again, babies don’t understand you. If I would have said, “Buddy, the roof is open on the shower and the cat needs a shoe shine in the front yard,” he would have done the exact same thing.

I thought I would make it there and back. I am a marathon runner. I am an Ironman. It was only 12 feet away.

But I failed to reach the finish line.

The result? A bloody, broken baby and a completely freaked out dad feeling like the worst human in the world because I let my son fall to the ground and break his arm.

The doctor tried to calm me down as he put on his cast, saying he has treated thousands of babies who have fallen off

the changing table.

His advice for the future: The dash and grab never works. You are setting yourself up for disaster. Never leave them up there. It’s easier to put them on the floor or carry them with you. It takes a few extra seconds and saves a trip to the ER. It’s at this time that I remember a piece of advice I got from a friend right before our oldest daughter was born.

“Kids are like a brand new piece of glass that has never been touched; they are pure and perfect. We will put our prints all over them and maybe even leave some dents and chips, but the goal is to not shatter them.”

My boy definitely has a “chip,” but he will be better in four to six weeks and the rest of him is still strong.

This experience taught me a great lesson about parenting. We will all make mistakes as parents—big and small—because none of us are perfect.

David Wallach is a featured blogger at ChicagoParent. com and the voice behind the Dad All Day and The Pace of Chicago blogs on ChicagoNow.

Farm field trips just for moms You’re invited to join us as a 2014 Field Mom - moms who go behind the scenes on Illinois farms to see how their food is grown. Learn more and apply at www.WatchUsGrow.org.

36 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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10/18/13 2:26 PM

VOICE: SHEILA QUIRKE

Adoption:

The invisible pregnancy

A

s I walked through the baby aisles of Target, pricing strollers and formula and getting a sense of what had changed in the baby landscape over four years, I couldn’t help but notice the bellies. Big bellies, pregnant bellies, happy bellies. How can you not love a pregnant belly—so much potential, so much promise, so much hope— all hidden under a maternity shirt stretched to capacity?

Bellies.

I was missing a belly (well, a pregnant belly—does a soda belly count?), but still was expecting a baby. My baby was growing in another woman’s belly, our Birth Mother. I capitalize that intentionally, as Birth Moms demand our respect and gratitude. Birth Moms make a wrenching choice out of love to provide for their child the best they can—just like all good parents do, only harder and with less return.

There was an odd sensation browsing in the baby aisles that day. The other expectant moms were carrying

electronic guns, pointing at the things they hoped to have for the little one growing inside them. There would be showers and sonograms and nurseries to set up. There would be none of that for me, as my pregnancy was invisible.

Probably no one noticed me that day.

I might have been the auntie shopping for a new little one, or a colleague dispatched to buy the office gift for an expecting co-worker, or simply invisible.

But I was none of those things, as I, too, was expecting. More accurately, I was hoping. Not an expectant mom, but a hopeful mom.

And as a hopeful mom instead of an expectant mom, I took precautions.

That meant no crib, no stroller, no diaper bag, no big ticket baby items.

Those precautions were for my heart.

If the baby we hoped for would not be ours, the last thing I wanted to do was return to a home full of baby things. I was there at the Target that day shopping for the bare essentials—a few of the tiniest onesies, a burp cloth or two, a blanket in case of chill (plus, it was black and white chevron and demanded to be purchased).

When you adopt, it’s not over ‘til the fate lady sings. Not the fat lady, people, the fate lady. Only time would tell for us. Specifically, only 48 hours after birth would I know if I would be lucky enough to mother another little one.

That is a tense 48 hours, let me tell you.

For me, much of it was spent in the presence of Birth Mom, who so amazingly had asked for me to be with her in the delivery room. And only by grace of good weather and no traffic was I able to travel cross-country and do that, with two hours to spare, after she went into early labor.

When Baby was born, I suddenly knew, in rich and vibrant colors, what it must have been like for my husband at the birth of our two oldest children.

I clasped Birth Mom’s knees, just as my husband had clasped mine. I held Birth Mom’s hand as she pushed, just as my husband had mine. I held the camera that would take the first photo of baby, just as my husband had done.

My hope and awe had never been more potent.

Those two days in the hospital Birth Mom was simply Mom. Doctors and nurses tended to her, asked her questions, requested her signature. I was there, always there, not exactly certain what my role was. I watched Baby in his mother’s arms, such a beautiful baby. My heart did a little flip with every diaper I got to change or bottle I got to offer. I hoped, but didn’t know if this beautiful baby would be mine, if I would be his Mom. Those 48 hours were my labor pains, minus the epidural.

Today, we are home, our family grown by one beautiful new baby boy.

We are blessed beyond measure. My pregnancy was invisible and unacknowledged, spread out over four months between our first contact with Birth Mom and the moment she placed her beautiful son, now ours, in my arms.

There will be no showers, no registry, no diaper cake, but there will be a lifetime of love and joy and sacrifice and hope and support.

Welcome, Baby. May you only know love every day of your life. May you know the love your Birth Mom holds for you and always will. May you know that while you didn’t grow in my belly, I love you just the same. May you know the love that brought you to us. May you only ever know love.

Sheila Quirke is the Chicago mom behind the very popular blog, Mary Tyler Mom.

ChicagoParent.com November 2013 37

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10/18/13 11:22 AM

VOICE: ANNEMARIE HUSSER

Shoot a few, score

some points

Time spent together helps sync mom and son

M

y youngest son and I hadn’t been seeing eye to eye lately. His usual sunny disposition had turned slightly cloudy and occasionally thunderous. For example, if I asked him to hang up his coat or do his homework, he responded with a grumble and an attitude.

I won his respect by delving into his world and listening to his expertise.

As the days wore on, I grew weary and disheartened. I always counted on him to have a smile for me, but for some reason, his grin had disappeared. We historically had a stress-free relationship and I was surprised that things had changed. Where did my happy boy go?

One afternoon after a negative exchange ge with him, I went upstairs wondering what went wrong. Had I been nagging him too much?

Was he hungry or tired? Had he been playing too many video games? As I thought about this, I made my way downstairs to start dinner and noticed he was shooting hoops with his Nerf ball. Remembering that we used to play this game more often when he was younger, I decided to delay meal preparation in lieu of a one-on-one game.

He quickly agreed and we started to play. His eyes lit up as I tried to steal the ball and as I made the basket, he squealed with excitement. Sports are his language and I spoke it. It seemed that he liked being the expert this time and enjoyed giving me a few pointers.

Soon enough, the stormy clouds between us began to clear.

He let me win the game that day, 21-20, but I won more than the game.

I won his respect by delving into his world and willingly listening to his expertise. He showed me how to dunk and do d an “Alley Oop.” In return, he didn’t re flinch flinc when I asked him to set the table aand let the dog out.

He also told me he H would finish his homework after dinner.

Playing hoops with him was definitely worth eating later that night. We were in sync again. I learned that day that a quick game of Nerf basketball may help me score some points with my youngest son if we happen to be on a losing streak.

Annemarie Husser is a freelance writer, family therapist and mom living in Carpentersville.

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38 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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10/18/13 11:22 AM

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NEWS Captain Hook Brando Crawford puts his training in the Arts to Good Use

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Maria Fermi, Direcor of The Language and Music School in Oak Park is proud of her son, Brando Crawford, 17 and a senior at Oak Park River Forest High School. Brando has been cast in the Broadway in Chicago winter show "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer".. In addition, he will also play the title role of young Ernest Hemingway in a movie titled "Runaway Hemingway". It is an adventure and coming of age film that foreshadows the success of one of the best American writers. Instead of watching TV pr playing video games Brando developed his interest and talent through both the music and language programs at LMS

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“This wonderful event gives our clients the unique opportunity to highlight their accomplishments by allowing them to step into the spotlight in front of family and friends,” said Theresa Forthofer, President and (CEO of Easter Seals DuPage and the Fox Valley Region). “We thank the community for celebrating these milestones with us for the 33rd year.” From questions about your child’s development, to the most advanced technology, newborn screenings and therapeutic services, Easter Seals is here for the whole family. If you would like more information or to speak to someone about your child’s development, please visit us online at www.eastersealsdfvr.org or call (630) 620-4433.

Saint Andrew named a National Blue Ribbon School On September 24, U.S. Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan, recognized Saint Andrew School as part of the 2013 cohort of National Blue Ribbon Schools. This is a prestigious honor that represents excellence in education. Saint Andrew is proud of this accomplishment that has become a reality because of the teamwork between students, teachers, parents and administrators. Saint Andrew's Spirit- Study- Service way of life has never been more evident! www.GoSaintAndrew. com

Goldfish Swim School opens 2 new locations Goldfish Swim School is proud to announce the opening of its two newest Chicago-area locations in St. Charles and Naperville. Goldfish provides swim lessons for children ages 4 months through 12 years with highly-trained instructors, small class sizes, 90-degree pools and a state-of-the-art water purification system. Visit goldfishswimschool.com for more information.

Northside Catholic Academy designated a National Blue Ribbon School

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Congratulations to Northside Catholic Academy on being designated as a National Blue Ribbon School, based on their ability to attain and maintain high academic standards.

NCA is an exemplary high performing school, recognized because it is one of the highest performing schools in Illinois. Along with its academic achievements, NCA boasts about its amazing community of teachers, parents and supporters. Visit www.northsidecatholic.org for more information about NCA. A list of the 2013 National Blue Ribbon Schools is available at http://www.ed.gov/nationalblueribbonschools.

CHRISTOPHER GARLINGTON

Full disclosure: I am also an uncle. I am, in fact, the greatest uncle on earth, as is evidenced by my newest niece who loves me so much she puts a picture of me on the table when she eats dinner.

That’s quality uncling, people.

I have four nieces: the scholar, the hippie, the philosopher, and my newest, the diminutive, manipulative, lying, pinky-swear pirate queen. I call her Capt. Hook.

anything.” Not, “I wasn’t It should be noted, Hook hungry.” Not, “you didn’t was apparently designed give me any food, you penniby Disney animators to be less hag.” No. She pushed it cuter and more charming by like a Victor Hugo set piece, an order of magnitude that forming a ghastly scene of could blind a supernova. abject poverty: Hook all It works in her favor and alone, starving, watching the she knows it. Most kids are others feast on chicken legs. hyper and noisy and Mom: “Bull irritating. Hook is hockey. I paid for hyper and noisy your lunch this and delightmorning.” ful. She Capt. Hook: could sing “Fine. I had “99 Bottles chicken and of Beer on tater tots.” the Wall” and Later, I watched I’d listen to JA ILL her kick her sister in every verse. It is DE U ST M RATIO N BY TO the shins for no reason. her superpower.

When she saw me see her, And she uses it for evil. she leaped across the room, Like yesterday, her second pinky extended like a rapier, day of school, her mother and caught her tiny digit having included a lunch around mine, then hung, her check that posted on the body dangling in the air, all Internet about 11:30 in the 32 pounds pulling me down morning, so she knows the until we’re nose-to-nose, kid’s gonna eat. When we whereupon she leans her pick her up, cinema ensues: swashbuckling visage into Mom: “How was lunch, mine and growls: “We pinky puddin’ head?” sweared, you can’t tell.”

Capt. Hook: “I didn’t have Of course, I tell you all any.” this in secrecy. I haven’t Mom: “Why not?” slept in days. I’m worried, Capt. Hook: “I didn’t have man, ‘cause I totally told and any money.” (Noble pause) somewhere, somehow, when “So I watched the other kids I least expect it, that pocketeat.” sized privateer is gonna Besides being a baldcreep up and gank me; heck faced lie, this was cogently she’s probably right behind manipulative, aimed preme even as I write this last cisely at her mother’s guilty lin— bull’s-eye. Not, “I didn’t have

40 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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10/18/13 3:59 PM

Born too soon

A Chicago mother’s journey of loving and losing a child

P

BY JACKIE MCGOEY PHOTOS BY LIZ DECARLO

regnancy sucks.

Any woman making a mad dash for the nearest bathroom after being kicked in the bladder can tell you that.

But, pregnancy is worth it—for the prize at the end; pee-pee pants and all.

The moment your child is born you make a silent vow. You vow to love her, you vow to take care of her, you vow to protect her.

Forever.

But what happens when you can’t protect your baby? What happens when no matter how much you try and cry and pray, your body betrays you and she dies?

Jackie and Jason McGoey keep a box of keepsakes from daughter Tatum, including the imprint of her tiny feet (above).

Below, Jason and Jackie spend some time with daughter Eden.

Incompetent I was 23 weeks pregnant with my daughter, Eden, when I found out I was incompetent.

Well, not me exactly, but my cervix; a complication that occurs in about 2-3 percent of all pregnancies in the U.S. I had lost my mucous plug, which seals the cervix shut during pregnancy, and after a trip to my doctor I found out my cervix was dilating prematurely and I was in danger of giving birth.

It was a hot June day but I shivered, from anxiety and fear, as an ambulance rushed me to the nearest hospital with a high-risk neonatal intensive care unit.

This was my first pregnancy and until this point everything had been going smoothly. I never expected to have complications.

I learned more about my incompetent cervix, or cervical insufficiency, at the hospital. As Eden grew and got heavier, my cervix was too weak to withstand the pressure, and unbeknownst to me, it began to open—four months too early.

Doctors gave me magnesium sulfate to try to stop my contractions and corticosteroid shots to help Eden’s lungs mature sooner, but being that less than 25 percent of infants born earlier than 24 weeks gestation survive, the odds were against her.

All I could do was wait and pray.

Thankfully, my cervix stopped dilating at three centimeters—nowhere close to the 10 centimeters needed to deliver a baby, yet still concerning with 16 weeks

left in my pregnancy. pregnancy I left the hospital a week later under strict orders to begin bed rest at home.

My husband, Jason, ever the optimist, figured bed rest would be easy.

Hardly.

It was, physically and mentally, the hardest obstacle I’d faced up to that point.

Day and night, the fear of going into labor consumed my thoughts. Normal pregnancy symptoms like back pain, abdominal achiness and pressure sent my mind reeling. “Are these contractions? Is this labor?”

Finally, on Sept. 9, 2011, after I’d spent 3 ½ months on bed rest, Eden was born at 37 weeks and 2 days. She was

perfectly healthy. perfectl ly healthy She is 2 now and is the smartest, funniest, most beautiful little girl in the world.

A day hasn’t passed since she was born that I don’t look at her and think how proud I am to say she’s mine.

Positive Jason and I were surprised when we found out we were expecting a second child. I’d given birth to Eden only nine months before.

I hadn’t experienced any signs of being pregnant. Then one day I felt familiar little flutters in my belly—the baby’s first movements. It’s a feeling I’d never forget.

I took a home test. It was a Friday.

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After feeling those tiny somersaults, I made a point to focus on my excitement and pushed the memories of my difficult first pregnancy deep into the back of my mind.

Déjà vu I scheduled a prenatal appointment for the following Tuesday. When I was pregnant with Eden, Jason came to every one of my doctor’s appointments. But because of work he couldn’t make this one, so I went alone.

A nurse took care of all the medical paperwork, then sent me to get an ultrasound.

Tatum’s ashes (above), and the bracelet Jackie wears.

I found out we were having another girl!

I had secretly hoped for a girl; another little princess to be Eden’s best friend.

I already was picturing the three of us ganging up on Jason. Poor guy.

Caught up in my blissful daydreaming, I didn’t give a second thought to the ultrasound tech when she told me to go see the nurse again.

“They’re expecting you,” she said.

The nurse led me to an exam room.

She told me the doctors were sending me to labor and delivery. The ultrasound had shown my cervix was dilating again.

I was barely 21 weeks along.

Flashbacks of relentless paranoia, bed rest and weekly doctor visits flooded my mind and I started to sob.

It was June again, and for the second time in a little more than a year, I found myself in labor and delivery, facing the reality that my daughter might not survive.

Jason met me at the hospital. A physical exam confirmed the ultrasound results and revealed a more dire situation than I’d faced during my first pregnancy. The baby and I were at risk for an infection—one of the leading causes of pregnancy-related deaths in the U.S.—because my bag of water was exposed and bulging through my cervix.

Everything was happening so quickly.

I hardly moved in my bed that entire night. I lay on one side desperately squeezing my legs together as if that would hold off the impending doom.

I was still pregnant come Wednesday morning.

With doctors telling me I would likely deliver within a couple of days at the most, and the age of viability— the earliest age at which life-saving measures would be used—still tthree weeks away, I spent the rrest of my morning trying to cconvince the hospital to let me go home. m The reality was my baby was going to be born too w ssoon and I wanted to be at home, with Jason and Eden, h tto try to come to grips with tthat.

Over the next few hours I

was pumped full of antibiotics to ward off infections and then released with a warning to return immediately upon any sign of labor.

On the ride home Jason and I decided on a name for our daughter: Tatum Gabrielle.

Thursday My contractions began around midnight on Thursday, less than a week after I felt Tatum’s first movements.

Jason and I packed a small bag for the hospital. But unlike the bag we packed for Eden’s birth, this time there was no tiny outfit for our baby to come home in.

At the hospital I sat in a daze, holding on to my last few hours of being pregnant.

Jason wasn’t allowed in the room when I received my epidural, so I cried into my nurse Valerie’s shoulder instead.

“You’re gonna have to deal with things you might not be ready for afterward, but you’ll get through it,” she said referring to the decision of what to do with Tatum’s remains.

Twelve hours after my contractions began, I knew I had reached 10 centimeters dilated by the stabbing pain I felt, even through the epidural. As my doctor told me to try a small push, I squeezed my eyes closed, shutting out the pain, shutting out the guilt and shutting out the reality I didn’t want to face.

Tatum was born at 12:30 p.m. on June 14, 2012.

“Don’t look Jace!” I told Jason through my tears. Thinking she wouldn’t live more than a couple of minutes, I thought it would be easier to say goodbye if we didn’t see her. And honestly, I was scared of what she might look like.

Valerie gently tried to convince me to hold her.

“She’s still alive,” she said. “She can hear your voice.”

I knew the thought of my baby dying alone would haunt me more than seeing her premature body would, so I allowed the nurse to place Tatum in my arms.

She had Jason’s nose and my chin.

And long, full eyelashes, just like her big sister, though not yet pigmented. She was beautiful.

But she was small. Less than one pound. Perfect in every other way, but just too small.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 44

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BORN TOO SOON

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Jackie fixes Eden’s hair while Jason gets started on breakfast.

We kissed her tiny face and hands and wrapped her tightly so she stayed warm. We told her how much we loved her and asked her to look over her sister.

And then I sang to her, just like I do when I put Eden to sleep.

Two hours later, Tatum passed away peacefully in her daddy’s arms.

Recovering Tatum was baptized at the hospital and we decided to have her cremated. My empty arms physically ached leaving the hospital without her.

I cried, thinking of Jason, who was trying so hard to stay strong for me. Tatum died three days before his first Father’s Day. I thought of my family, who wouldn’t get to know another granddaughter and niece.

I thought of Eden, who would never have the chance to meet her little sister.

Jason and I do want more children someday, but we know

it won’t be easy.

My past history of cervical insufficiency and preterm labor makes it highly likely that I’ll face the same complications again.

Bed rest or a surgical procedure called a cerclage, to sew my cervix shut, are options we will consider when the time comes. I’m willing to do whatever it takes to have another healthy, full-term baby.

It’s been over a year now since Tatum’s been gone, but I still think about her every day. And while the heavy feeling of grief and guilt has faded somewhat, it leaves behind an emptiness that never will be filled.

Tatum’s life, although brief, has forever changed me. For me, pregnancy does suck. But it gave me my girls: a sweet and silly little princess and the most beautiful angel in heaven.

Jackie McGoey is digital content manager at Chicago Parent. She is a Chicago mom and small business co-owner of Love Eden Keepsakes.

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17

secrets to baby care

T

BY LIZ KOZAK

he car seat is locked and loaded. You’ve packed up all your supplies from the hospital, including that big stack of disposable granny panties. (And just wait until you find out what a peri-bottle’s for!) That adorable “going home” outfit fits your new baby perfectly.

Now what?

If you’re in need of some Baby Basic Training, we’ve enlisted the experts to help you out: NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) nurses specialize in caring for the most delicate newborns.

Here are 17 of their best-kept baby care secrets.

Feeding & Burping Take it off: “A warm, snuggly baby may be too cozy to wake up and eat.

Removing a layer can perk a baby up just enough to get her going.”

Kim Ladd, NICU nurse, Prentice Women’s Hospital Reflux relief: “If they’re spitting up a lot, we recommend holding those babies upright or in a bouncy seat for about 30 minutes after a feeding before you put them back down.”

Tawney Brady, ISCU nurse, NorthShore Evanston Hospital Get groovy, baby: “If you can’t get a burp out, just lay your baby flat for a few second and then try again.

Babies are like lava lamps.

When you lay them down, the air goes up!”

Christina Vasquez, NICU nurse, Prentice Women’s Hospital

Diapering Double down on diapers: “Put the clean diaper underneath the old diaper first, so when you take the wet or poopy diaper out, you already have a clean one right there! Prevents splatter and accidents!”

Tawney Brady Proceed with caution: “If your baby has a bad diaper rash, the number one thing that every parent can do is leave the baby open to air... so the bottom is exposed to air.”

Patty Roumeliotis, NICU Nurse, Edward Hospital A Non-Stick Tush!: “Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly on baby’s bottom when you do a diaper change, and that sticky newborn poop will wipe right off next time.”

Kim Ladd

Bathing & Grooming Lather less: “Babies don’t need baths every day. We encourage new moms to do it twice a week. You don’t want to dry out their skin.

And don’t spend your money on expensive lotions and powders. They normally don’t need anything.”

Patty Roumeliotis

Dressing Zip it: “Dressing your baby can get frustrating if you are dealing with 14 snaps on the front of the outfit that no matter what you do just don’t seem to fit together. I seem to always find one snap left over and have to struggle to redo them carefully to match them up correctly. So, if you find this to be the case for you, too, look for outfits with zippers!

No snaps to worry about! Just zip it up, and you’re done!”

Sarah Testa, RNC-NIC, NICU discharge planner, Rush University Medical Center

Stay shiver-free: “Wash their bodies first, dry them off, then wrap them up in a nice warm towel and wash the hair last. They stay warmer and more DRESS calm that way.”

FOR SUCCESS: Christina Vasquez “Roll up the extremi-

ties like panty hose and

Start a then pop the arms and legs rubdown rouright through! I’ve saved a tine: “When lot of trouble with you massage that one.” your baby, Christina that’s when Vasquez you can really look at her and see if there’s anything new or different. And use a little baby oil.”

Towauna Williams, NICU nurse, Prentice Women’s Hospital Take your mitts off of me: “Don’t put mitts Manicure-ious? “When babies are done with their on their hands. If their feeding and a little ‘milk hands are covered, they drunk,’ you can file their can only receive touch, nails or peel them off. You not give. You’re blockdon’t want to cut them the ing their neuropathfirst month, because they’re ways. It’s important for not very hard.” brain development!”

Tawney Brady Kim Ladd

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Chicago Chicago NICU NICU nurses nurses share share their their tried and tried and true true tips tips

*

Safety

*

Be car seat savvy: “Please read the instructions, and do not throw them away!

Review them. Or check YouTube. They have nice demonstrations!”

Towauna Williams

Sleeping Your moment of zen: “Contrary to what most people think, it does not need to be silent for your baby to sleep. Try a television or radio with talk shows as background noise. If this helps your baby sleep, you can gradually reduce the volume over time until it’s off.”

Sarah Testa

ILLUSTRATION BY TOM DEJA

A toasty tip: “Babies like warm blankets. Put one in the dryer to warm it up. Then, swaddle the baby and hold him. That helps them calm down and go to sleep.”

Tawney Brady

Trust your instincts: “As parents, you get to know what is normal for your baby and you know them best, so if you feel something isn’t quite right, don’t hesitate to call your pediatrician. With a newborn, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.”

Sarah Testa

Liz Kozak is a Chicago mom, freelance writer and former TV producer. She blogs about parenting at poseypieproductions.com.

ChicagoParent.com November 2013 47

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Double the trouble,

double the love

F

BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER

inding out that you are expecting multiples can be both joyful and overwhelming.

From double duty on diapers to bottles to night feedings, getting ready for twins (or more) requires some extra preparations and planning. And although it’s twice the work, it’s also twice the fun when it comes to the rewards of two beautiful babies.

Here are five moms of multiples sharing what they’ve learned from their real-life experiences of raising twin babies.

Krystin McGahan, Geneva Kids: Sawyer and Jaxon, 20 months What are the challenges of having multiples? With twins, no sooner do you figure out a solution to a challenge and then something changes and a new challenge presents itself. I figured out how to get both babies down our fourstory walk-up and out to our detached garage and then they outgrew the infant carriers and I was back to square one.

Prepare to think outside the box. There are countless things that are harder with twins, but I have yet to come across a situation that I couldn’t figure out with a little ingenuity and creativity.

What are your best tips for moms expecting twins? Being a mom of twins can be demanding and downright overwhelming at times. Don’t be CONTINUED ON PAGE 50

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afraid to go out and do things with the babies. Get used to running errands, going for walks and going about your daily business with the babies in tow. Avoiding these things will only make it more intimidating down the road. Getting out with the babies early on will build your confidence and make you braver.

What’s been most surprising?

It’s true that you are never given more than you can handle and having twins was no exception for my husband and me. Although it can be tricky, somehow you always find a way and you never cease to amaze yourself in the process. With every challenge is the rewarding feeling that comes with finding a solution.

It is a journey of a lifetime and a roller coaster ride, but you’ll never want to get off.

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Brittney Campbell, Evanston Kids: Olivia and Amelia, 8 months What are the challenges of having multiples? Time management has been the biggest challenge for me. The days go by so quickly and every day you get less and less done than you wanted to accomplish.

I am also very independent and had to learn that you need and should ask for help. Those long nights will catch up to you and it’s OK to ask for help, even just help putting one of the twins into a swing at the park.

What are your best tips for moms expecting twins? When you are expecting multiples, breathe and brace yourself because it’s an amazing and sacred experience, but it’s also a lot of work. It’s important to try and have them on the same schedule so they eat, sleep and get changed at the same time if you can.

What’s been most surprising? I’ve been surprised by their amazing connection to each other already. When they are

separated from each other, they know it immediately and want to be back in each other’s eyesight. I’ve had a hard time making sure that each child gets the same amount of attention, affection and time. And one of my girls is more

attention-seeking than the other, so it’s been important to try to pay equal attention to both.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 52

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Kids: Audrey and Grace, 5, Jack, 4, Ellie and Andy, 20 months What are the challenges of having multiples?

Challenges seem to start even before the twins are born, whether it’s bed rest, having them prematurely or having one or both not come home with you from the hospital. We’ve been extremely lucky to have two sets of healthy twins.

One of my biggest challenges was milestones and not comparing them to one another or other kids their age.

What are your best tips for moms expecting twins?

Divide and conquer! I have a very hands-on husband, so we’ve really worked together to tackle all the joys and scares that come with having multiples. My biggest tip is that naptime is going to be insane. With my first set of twins, I napped them in the same room and it was near impossible to get them to nap

at the same time. So with the second set of twins, we quickly split them up for naptime and it was a savior.

Also, when you have twins you need to just remember to always have a great deal of patience to get through the day!

What’s been most surprising? I’d have to say the most surprising thing was having twins and then having a second set of twins. Also, I would say how different and unique they are from each other, yet they are so alike. There is a never a boring moment.

Your days might be crazy and chaotic, but they will be full of fun memories that can never be replaced.

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Nora Powers, Oak Park Kids: Riley and Caitlin, 12 weeks What are the challenges of having multiples? Everything takes forever to accomplish and I am always in a hurry to get something done between their feedings.

I used to always be early and now I’m late all the time because something always slows me down when I am trying to leave the house. It’s definitely a challenge to run errands or go to lunch with a friend with two babies in tow because it often seems like the world is built for moms with one baby.

What are your best tips for moms expecting twins? It’s been helpful for me to create systems for things and avoid time-wasters, such as having a stocked changing station on each floor and measuring the water and formula ahead of time for night feedings. It’s been important to get sleep some nights too, whether it’s alternating nights with my partner or hiring night help.

What’s been most surprising?

Everything can be a challenge, but you have to get used to having a baby that’s not always happy because you can’t make everyone happy at one time. But

it’s crazy how much you love them from the second they are born. It’s the best nine month investment ever.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 54

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Sieglinde Lim-Seiwert, Chicago Kids: Armand and Tristan, 3, Cassian, 11 months What are the challenges of having multiples? In the hustle and bustle of managing two little ones, it’s easy to put your own relationship with your spouse on the back burner. I found that making a point to regularly schedule a date night was a meaningful way to feel connected and recharged.

What are your best tips for moms expecting twins? Always plan ahead!

Try to get things done way before the expected due date because pregnancies with multiples are often shorter in length and sometimes require bed rest. I think it’s great to join a mom of multiples group because they are a wealth of practical information and provide a unique opportunity to meet other multiple moms.

What’s been most surprising? The pregnancy itself. Specifically, the high risk of delivering prematurely and the potential complications for the children. I felt pretty unprepared for what I experienced with preterm contractions and three months of bed rest. But obviously it was well worth it in the end!

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Bigger. Better. Tougher?

Tips from the trenches to help transition your growing family

W

BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER hether you are moving to “man-on-man” parenting with two kids or entering a “zone defense” with three or more kids, parenting can be tricky to navigate as your family grows.

“As you add to your family, parenting definitely changes because each child is unique and parenting styles need to be slightly tweaked to meet the needs of each child,” says Abbie Kelly, a child and family psychotherapist at Individual and Family Connection in Chicago. “Overall the tools in your tool box just need to be more versatile with more children.”

Here are some tips from real parents in the trenches who’ve made the transition as their families expanded.

Jamie Olson, Deerfield Three kids: Lily, 4, Max, 2, and Iyla, 3 months What’s been the hardest part about adding a new baby to the family? The hardest part was breaking routine for my older two when the new baby arrived. We’d gotten into a groove where they were on the same napping schedule and were used to being out and about all morning. But I wish I knew how resilient the kids would be. I spent too much time worrying about the logistics and how having a third was going to affect their lives.

But they’ve been great.

Gina Gooden, Winnetka

Two kids: Stella, 2, and Graham, 5 months What’s been the hardest part about adding a new baby to the family?

Realizing that it’s OK not to be “supermom.” Before my son was born, my daughter had never had McDonald’s and didn’t know who Dora the Explorer was. But between nursing and being on the go for my daughter’s activities, it’s pushed me to be more flexible and not to sweat the small stuff.

How has the family transitioned with its newest member? The biggest change in dynamics has been between my husband and me. We need to make more time for one another. You forget about sleep deprivation, teething and dirty diapers once you are past them. But dealing with those baby tasks and a spirited 2-year-old is enough to make anyone feel like they need a vacation!

What’s your best advice for parents going from one to two kids? I had mastered the day-today tasks of being a stay-at-home mom of one. So I thought throwing another child into the mix surely

couldn’t be that hard, right? Wrong.

So if family or friends offer to bring you a meal, babysit or grocery shop for you, take them up on it and know that it’s OK to ask for help.

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Erin Leahy, Downers Grove Four kids: Luke, 8, Quinn, 6, Jude, 2, and Cate, 8 months What’s been the hardest part about adding a new baby to the family? In going from three to four kids, there wasn’t much that surprised me. But parenting so many different stages of childhood and meeting everyone’s needs has been a challenge. Tending to a newborn and toddler was a challenge we’d experienced before, but not while also taking care of older boys. You have to be more on the go for school and other activities that don’t always fit well into the baby’s schedule.

How has the family transitioned with its newest member? The biggest adjustment was really for us as parents because we are just that much busier now with four. But as our family grew, our kids gained consideration, independence and patience. Their best playmates are each other as the older ones look out for the younger ones.

The younger ones look up to the older ones and follow their lead. It’s been a How has the family transitioned with its newest member?

The adjustment from two to three has been a lot easier than one to two was. I had been expecting the worst with listening to everyone’s stories about “man-on-man defense vs. zone defense.” But we’ve been able to give the same amount of attention to all three kids and we just divide and conquer differently with three than we did with two.

What’s your best advice for parents going from two to three kids? Don’t be scared.

Like I told my husband when we found out I was pregnant with number three, we’re just adding chaos on top of chaos and we’ll be fine! And we are.

It’s been a really great experience and we were surprised how easy the transition has been. Enjoy the moments you have with just the two kids, but don’t be scared of what’s to come once the third arrives.

Your life will only get better.

Shelly Jamison, Oak Park

Five kids: Kamryn, 12, Rhyan, 3, Charli, 2, Cruz, 1, and Gray, 1 month What’s been the hardest part about adding a new baby to the family? We manage quite the schedule and at times my husband and I get lost in the mix and forget to take time for the two of us.

Sometimes it’s easy to get so caught up in trying to prove we have full control over our big family that it can be overwhelming.

We’ve had to learn that it’s OK to feel a bit crazy at times.

How has the family transitioned with its newest member? Just when the idea of being a family with four children seemed manageable, we found out about number five.

The transition from three

beautiful thing to watch.

What’s your best advice for parents going from three to four kids? Minimize commitments, get help, carpool with other parents, and hire that cleaning lady! Communicate well with your spouse so you can be an effective team. Above all, allow yourself and your family time to adjust to the new baby without being pulled by too many other things. See what you can handle as you go because four kids is a big job.

to four, and now five, really didn’t hit us as hard because we were already insanely busy and at this point we have learned to take it one day at a time.

What’s your best advice for parents going from four to five kids? Prepare the best

way you know how, but realize that most of that preparation will end up needing to be tweaked. Understand that crazy moments are going to take place, and the current level of insanity will reach new heights, but so will the love in your home.

ChicagoParent.com November 2013 57

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To drink or not to drink New book by Chicago mom and economist challenges thoughts on ‘no alcohol while pregnant’

A

BY KRISTY MACKABEN mug of Guinness was irresistible during Angela Breton’s first pregnancy. Red wine smelled delicious during her second pregnancy, and caffeine was necessary to get through the day with her third pregnancy. Artificial sweeteners and sushi were off-limits, but sometimes lunch meat was OK.

The Chicago mom’s approach to pregnancy was to listen to her body.

“You know your body better than anyone else. Just use your head and make the best decisions,” Breton says.

Another Chicago mom, Elizabeth Greene, followed the advice of doctors and pregnancy books “to a T.” She swore off sword fish and Ahi tuna—her favorite foods. During her pregnancy she didn’t drink a sip of alcohol, but allowed herself two cups of tea a day.

Though the two Chicago women had different pregnancy experiences, they both gave birth to healthy babies and they agree that women should feel comfortable making their own decisions while pregnant—an attitude author Emily Oster hopes more women adopt after reading her new book Expecting Better: Why the Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom is Wrong and What You Really Need to Know. Since its release, the book has been getting a lot of buzz.

“People contact me a lot. Like every day,” says Oster. “Honestly I expected it to generate some discussion, but I didn’t expect it to generate to this level of fervor.”

Oster, an economist at the University of Chicago, wrote the book hoping to dispel myths by evaluating risks versus benefits of decisions women face during pregnancy—everything from weight gain, bed rest and prenatal testing to hair dye, deli meats and nausea.

She researched ched and analyzed like an economist, nomist, scouring studies and d research journals, compiling iling the data, and reaching ng conclusions.

“It’s OK to think about these decisions ions on your own,” says Oster, who was pregnant ant with her now 2-year-old r-old daughter Penelope pe while she wrote the book. “One very important tant thing to remember er is everyone is approaching roaching these things gs differently. You’re re always thinking about bout the risks and benefits.” enefits.”

By researching rching and evaluating information, Oster, who lives in Chicago’ss Hyde Park neighborborhood, madee her own decisions. ons.

She drank one to two glassess of wine a week and d five or more cups of coffee a day. She gained a little more re weight than the amount mount suggested by her doctors, ate deli meat at and opted not to get an epidural.

“A lot of this is just driven by wanting g to get concrete numbers to o put on risks, and use these to make ake my own decisions,” Oster says.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 60

ChicagoParent.com November 2013 59

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DRINKING WHILE PREGNANT In Chapter 4, the m most controversial in the book, Oster aargues that one to two alcoholic dr drinks a week will not harm the baby, baby which is contrary to the stance trar of the U.S. Surgeon General and the Ge American Congress Am of Obstetricians and Gynecologists that Gy no n alcohol is safe during pregnancy. d “We know that alcohol use during pregnancy is the p leading cause of le e mental retardation me children,” says Dr. in ch Jeanne Conry, president American College of of the Am Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

“There are po potentially life-long we cannot predict impacts and w what level of alcohol exposure with what result for will end up w which woma woman. Until science unequivocally answer that can unequiv then the safest course question, th for a woman is to avoid alcohol for her nine alco

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 59

months of pregnancy.”

Oster wasn’t satisfied with this rigid restriction, and when she researched studies about pregnancy and alcohol, she found many were flawed, and most results varied.

In the end, she concluded, there was no evidence to indicate one or two glasses of wine a week was harmful.

Medical professionals differ on their views of this issue.

Some tend to stick closely to the guidelines set by the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, while others give their patients a little leeway to make their own decisions.

Dr. Javier Fajardo, a Chicago-based obstetrician and assistant professor at the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University, says he usually insists women stay away from alcohol during pregnancy.

“There is no formal data that says a glass of wine here and there wouldn’t cause any harm. The recommendation is to have women not drink any amount of alcohol because we don’t know how much is too much,” Fajardo says. “That’s the one thing I try not to negotiate with my patients.”

Another Chicago-based obstetrician, Julie Levitt, has a different tactic. With her patients she focuses on moderation with most

issues. A glass of wine every week is OK, as well as a little caffeine every day and sushi from reputable restaurants.

“I don’t want patients to feel like the answer is no, no and no. I want to say ‘Yes. You can have these things.’ There are ways to enjoy a variety of things you used to love in pregnancy. You don’t have to stop just because you’re pregnant,” Levitt says. “I love anything that challenges the establishment and all of the myths. I think the difficulty is it’s really hard as a patient to know which sources to trust.”

Both Fajardo and Levitt agree it’s important to discuss issues with patients and explain the risks so they can make healthy decisions. This way of thinking was the gist of Oster’s book.

“Pregnancy and childbirth (and child rearing) are among the most important and meaningful experiences most of us will ever have; probably the most important. Yet we are often not given the opportunity to think critically about the decisions we make.

Instead, we are expected to follow a largely arbitrary script without question. It’s time to take control,” Oster wrote in her book.

Kristy MacKaben is a freelance writer and mom living in Lake Zurich.

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When a box of Dr. Smith’s Diaper Ointment arrived in the office, we put it to the test and liked what we found, not only to treat diaper rash but as a daily preventative, too. It goes on more smoothly than other national brands we’ve used in the past and washes off easily without scrubbing baby’s tender butt. We also like the variety of the packaging, from a regular tub to handy little tubes for on-the-go. Now available at Walgreens. drsmiths.com

Know the signs of PPD

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our friend just had a baby, but seems sad and out of sorts. You start to wonder: Is this a case of the baby blues or postpartum depression?

As a social worker, I’m often asked about the difference.

The short answer is that the baby blues are less intense, less painful and shorter. About 70 to 80 percent of new mothers experience some negative feelings or mood swings. Postpartum depression occurs in 10 to 20 percent of new moms and feelings of despair and anxiety loom large. Too often, women suffer in silence.

Know the signs: Altered sleep patterns Change in appetite Extreme concern/worry about the baby or a lack of interest or feelings for the baby Constant worry Fear of harming your baby Irritability Sadness/excessive crying Difficulty with memory and staying on task Feelings of doubt, helplessness, hopelessness Mood swings marked by exaggerated highs and lows Aviva Cohen Co-founder of The Blossom Method in Chicago, which specializes in helping women with PPD

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Sunday, december 8, 2013 | The STandard club With creative activities for kids of all ages, a family-style dinner, grown-up treats, and a performance of Robert Joffrey’s The Nutcracker, the Nutcracker Family Dinner is Chicago’s magical holiday tradition that is not to be missed.

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The holiday fix is in!

8 ways to bridge the generation gap during your holiday gatherings

D

BY MEREDITH SINCLAIR uring these next few months we call the “holiday season,” from Thanksgiving to Christmas and Hanukkah and right on through New Year’s, our homes will be filled with family and friends. It’s a perfect opportunity for kids to get to know their elders and vice versa.

But how do we get the generations intermingling and avoid the adults huddling in the kitchen while the kids are off on a screen or dismantling the house? Simple, with a bit of purposeful play.

Here are eight ideas to get you started.

1

Do anywhere, DIY photo booth

This is a case of “if you build it, they will come.” I used readymade photo props from Paper Source, hung two lengths of festive gift wrap side by side down a section of wall in my foyer, provided an instant camera and good lighting, and said next to nothing. NO ONE can resist a photo booth opp. Unless they’re a Grinch. (And the photos you end up with at the end of the day are priceless).

2

Reverse Charades

This game takes the traditional game of pantomime and turns it on its head. Instead of one person trying to get their teammates to guess their word, one person guesses, while the rest of the team works together to act out a bigger concept. Team work + ridiculousness=family bonding awesomeness.

most favorites. He bought an old typewriter and paper on eBay, set it up, and typed the first sentence of a “story.” He asked guests to take turns going over throughout the day and adding one sentence at a time to the story. At the end of the evening we read the story out loud and laughed until our sides hurt. And it was fun trying to identify who had written which lines.

all over the that 3 Draw 5 Name table tune Forego your fancy tablecloth for a roll of butcher or chalkboard paper. Cover the table, add pretty containers of crayons and washable markers, and have your guests decorate the space in front of their seat, draw funny pictures, and write special notes to each other.

4

Typewriter tales

My husband came up with this activity during a recent family gathering and it’s now one of our

I discovered this silly, songbased game last year at the New York Toy Fair and it’s brilliantly fun. The game, Spontuneous, has all players trying to be the first to sing the correct lyrics to a song containing a specific word like fire, sky or friends.

You find out quickly what random songs everyone has dancing in their heads.

with 6 Words Family Head outside on the lawn with giant poster board letter tiles and instead of playing Words with (fake) Friends on your iPhone, play Words with Family with, well, your real

friends and family.

It’s basically Scrabble, people.

that 7 Guess guest A couple weeks before your gathering, have your guests send you several photos of themselves at different ages.

Copy photos and shrink down to a 2-by-5 inch size and place in inexpensive frames from the Dollar Store. Place the photos around the table or on the mantle or coffee table and watch as everyone tries to guess who’s who while stories of what’s happening in the pictures unfold.

loves a 8 Everyone parade We begin every Thanksgiving Day with the parade on State Street. We bring blankets to sit on, hot chocolate in thermoses and muffins to munch on. It’s become a beloved tradition and we bring whatever guests happen to be visiting. It’s over early enough that we are back home by noon and ready to nestle in for the long day of cooking and football games.

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Yay for beignet! New Orleans staple a hot Windy City food trend

I

BY KATHY WOODS f doughnuts could be searched on Ancestry.com, their family lineage would include a sweet French relative known as the beignet (pronounced ben-YAY). The original beignet—a fried pastry sometimes filled with fruit—was brought to Louisiana in the 18th century by French colonists.

It proved to be immensely popular, even becoming the Pelican State’s official doughnut in 1986.

Despite its fancy name, the beignet is basically a square piece of dough, deep-fried and dusted with powdered sugar. Eat one and you’ll want another, which is probably why they are traditionally served in threes.

And beignets are huge in Chicago right now.

Check out these area restaurants for a taste of traditional square beignets: Jimmy’s Pizza Café, 5159 N. Lincoln Ave. (fresh and available all day every day) Big Jones, 5347 N. Clark St. (Saturday and Sunday brunch only) Grand Lux Café, 600 N. Michigan Ave. (served as dessert with chocolate, vanilla and raspberry dipping sauces; takes 30 minutes from time of order)

Apple beignets Beignets today are usually made without fruit, although batter-dipped apple beignets are delicious and a nice way to use fall’s orchard bounty. Hot from the fryer, sprinkled with powdered sugar or cinnamon, they make a delectable addition to breakfast, or served with dipping sauces they become a unique dinner dessert.

Ingredients 2 eggs ¼ cup oil ²/³ cup Shock Top Honeycrisp Apple Wheat Ale (or other beer/sparkling cider of your choice) 2 tsp. brown sugar 1 tsp. cardamom Pinch of salt 1 cup flour Apples, cored and thinly sliced (Jazz, Golden Delicious and Honeycrisp work well) Vegetable oil for frying

Directions Beat eggs. Add oil, beer, brown sugar, cardamom and salt. Whisk lightly. Add flour and mix well. Heat several inches of oil in a heavy frying pan or sauce pan until a drop of water sizzles.

Dip apple slices in batter and fry, turning once, until both sides are a deep golden brown. Remove from pan with tongs and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar and serve immediately with raspberry jam, caramel sauce, lemon curd or yogurt for dipping.

Kathy Woods is a freelance writer and mom living Oak Park.

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Circus show celebrates differences Theater program brings together able bodied and disabled actors

W

hat makes a superhero? That was the question middle-schoolers in the Tellin’ Tales Theatre program had to answer as they wrote the script for their upcoming play “Six Stories Up, Up & Away.”

Their answers will surprise the audience, and part of that may be due to the playwriters’ unique perspectives on life.

That’s because this theater program matches able-bodied and disabled mentors and apprentices to write and perform in the show.

“Usually we pair someone with a disability, either an adult or apprentice, with someone without a disability,” says Tekki Lomnicki, artistic director of the theater. “That does a lot of teaching. And for the first time this year, I paired two people who

have two different kinds of disabilities.”

This year’s show is about superheroes, but with a circus approach. Lomnicki, who has dwarfism and also performs in the show, has an able-bodied girl, Nadia Stodder, as her apprentice. Nadia, who plays the lead in the show, wants to be a circus performer, so a superhero circus became the setting for the show, co-written by all the adult-student teams.

“So each team, they are like strongmen or lion tamers, but what was so beautiful is they came up with a super power

that was very heartfelt,” says Lomnicki. “Like helping people find their potential or treating others like you treat yourself.”

The theater program brings benefits for both the disabled and able-bodied members.

“I’ve seen tremendous growth with the kids and the mentors,” says Lomnicki.

And she’s seen many of the apprentices use the skills they learned in the theater. “Our first kids are 27 or 28 and in the world working, and it’s so beautiful to hear what they’ve taken from our program and built into their lives.”

For more information about the program, which is in Chicago, email tellintalestheatre@gmail.com or visit tellintalestheatre.org.

Liz DeCarlo

If you go Six Stories Up, Up & Away Athenaeum Theatre 2936 N. Southport Ave., Chicago Admission: $22, $17 students Dates: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 8-9, 15-16; 2 p.m. Nov. 10 and 17

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Slow cooker recipes for busy moms Four meals that may save your sanity this month

I

BY VANESSA DRUCKMAN f my slow cooker were a man, I would marry it. When I walk in from the cold, surrounded by hungry kids, and this cheap and simple appliance greets me with the aroma of a ready-made dinner, I have been known to bend down and kiss it. My slow cooker is my right hand, my secret weapon in the daily fight to get family together around the dinner table.

Without it, we might starve.

I don’t believe in just dumping ingredients into a slow cooker. Taking an extra 5 to 10 minutes to sear meat and vegetables before turning on the slow cooker will improve the flavor of your dishes dramatically. A few years ago, I purchased a multi-function slow

cooker that allows me to sear food before setting it to slow cook. Pure genius. Everything stays in one pot and there’s less to clean, but the same results can be achieved if you have a traditional slow cooker and a frying pan. You’ll just have an extra pot to clean.

From the moment the kids

get out of school, life is a whirlwind of activities. Let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting by cooking while you run around. Whether you’re craving a bowl of golden vegetable soup or a hearty pumpkin chili, your slow cooker can deliver a delicious dinner on even the busiest nights.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 68

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SLOW COOKING

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 67

Vegetarian Butternut Squash Soup NOTE: Roasting the butternut squash in the oven is what makes this recipe so incredibly good. The squash caramelizes and everyone licks the bowl clean. Yes, this is an extra step, but it’s well worth it.

My advice? Caramelize a few trays of butternut squash and freeze a bunch in bags.

Then you can throw them in pasta, serve them as a side, and use them for this soup.

Ingredients: 2 butternut squash, peeled and chopped into 2-inch pieces 4 cups vegetable stock 4 carrots, diced coarsely, or ¾ cups mini carrots 1 small onion, diced coarsely 2 celery stalks, diced coarsely 2 apples, peeled and cut into coarse chunks ½ cup olive oil ½ cup maple syrup 1 Tbsp. salted butter 1 tsp. cinnamon salt and pepper to taste

Directions: 1) Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

2) Peel and cut the butternut squash into large chunks, leaving out any seeds.

Put pieces into a gallon Ziploc bag. Pour in olive oil and maple syrup and rub well to cover each piece with the liquids.

Open the bag and pour onto either two Pyrex dishes or a cookie sheet covered with aluminum foil.

3) Roast for 45 minutes to an hour, until squash is soft when pierced with a fork.

4) In a frying pan, melt the butter.

Add diced carrots, onions and celery and cook over medium to low heat until soft, about 8 minutes.

5) Cut and peel apples into chunks.

6) Place the squash, apples and sauteed vegetables into the slow cooker. Add cinnamon and a pinch of salt. Cover with vegetable stock.

7) Set the slow cooker to high and cook for at least two hours, and up to six.

8) Puree soup with hand mixer or in a blender. This keeps in the fridge for up to five days. It’s a great diet dish on its own, but divine with a dollop of sour cream.

Sweet Potato and Sausage Stew S Ingredients: 3 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced 1 onion, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cups of vegetable stock 2 kielbasa sausages or 4 chicken sausages 1 can of roasted tomatoes with chiles 1 tsp. cumin 1 tsp. cinnamon ½ tsp. ancho chili powder ssalt and pepper to taste 1 Tbsp. olive oil

Directions: 1) Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into large, equal p dice of 1 inch. Mince the d garlic and onion. g 2) Set a frying pan over medium heat and pour in m olive oil, garlic and onion. o Saute until translucent and S ssoft, about 5 minutes. Add tthe spices and saute for aanother minute, filling the

house with warm enticing smells.

3) To keep things simple, I use pre-cooked kielbasa for this recipe. Cut the sausage into 1-inch rounds. If using sausage that was not pre-cooked, such as chicken sausage, cook it thoroughly in a separate pan.

4) Place the pan-fried vegetables in the slow cooker.

Add the sweet potatoes and the canned tomatoes. Stir well. Add the sausage and stir again. Add the vegetable stock and stir again. Set the slow cooker to high and cook for at least two hours until the sweet potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.

5) Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.

This soup should be served hot and will keep in the fridge for two to three days.

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Pumpkin Turkey Chili Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds lean turkey meat 1 ½ onions, chopped finely 1 clove of garlic, chopped finely 4 carrots, diced 2 Tbsp. butter 2 tsp. cinnamon (or substitute ancho chili powder) 2 cans chopped tomatoes 1 can stewed tomatoes 2 cans red beans 1 can great northern beans 1 can corn 1 can pumpkin salt and pepper

until cooked through. Season with cinnamon.

3) Add the canned pumpkin and mix thoroughly.

4) Transfer to a slow cooker.

5) Add the canned tomatoes and stir to break up tomatoes.

6) Drain and rinse canned beans. Add to the pot. Stir and season with salt and pepper.

7) Cook on high for two hours.

8) Add canned corn and cook for five minutes.

9) Serve with cream cheese.

Directions: 1) In a large frying pan, melt butter. Add onions and garlic. Saute until soft and translucent. Add the carrots and saute for two minutes.

2) Add the turkey, crumbling into tiny pieces. Saute

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Sweet and Sour Chicken NOTE: Don’t be daunted by the prep; this is the dish that made me fall in love with my husband.

Ingredients: 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces ¾ cups white wine 2 Vidalia onions, finely diced 1 garlic clove, minced 4 carrots, peeled and finely diced 2 green peppers, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces 1 16-ounce bottle Russian Dressing 1 large jar (18 ounce) apricot jam 1 tsp. ancho chili powder Salt and pepper to taste 1 Tbsp. olive oil

Directions: 1) In a large frying pan, heat olive oil. Place as much of the chicken in the pan as you can to cover the bottom. Brown the chicken on both sides, about four minutes each. Repeat for any additional pieces of chicken. Set aside.

2) Dice the onion and garlic, add ancho chili powder and saute in the chicken juices until translucent and soft.

3) Pour white wine in the pan. With a wooden spoon, get all the caramelized bits of chicken and onion off the pan.

Bring wine to a boil and reduce by half, about 3 minutes.

4) Add carrots and green pepper and saute for a minute.

5) Pour all the contents of the frying pan into the slow cooker. Add the chicken, pour the Russian Dressing and apricot jam on top. Stir well.

6) Cover the slow cooker and set on high. Cook for at least three to four hours.

You can serve the dish immediately or reheat with some rice or couscous.

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Bookamania is made possible by a generous grant from Target Corporation through the Chicago Public Library Foundation.

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ChicagoParent.com November 2013 69

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By TRICIA DESPRES

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er day begins with a classroom of eager faces staring at her.

A classroom full of students ready and prepared to spend their day studying and memorizing and manipulating the subjects put out in front of them. Yet, for this teacher and the thousands of others who take on this role, the way in which these students will learn is as different as the clothes on their backs or the hair on their head.

Therefore, the art of blending traditional and somewhat non-traditional teaching styles is a pre-requisite for every teacher these days, no matter where he or she teaches or who he or she teaches to.

“Traditional is a tricky concept, because Ancona is

photo courtesy of the ancona school

based on the principles of progressive and Montessori education, both of which have been around for more than

100 years and both of which put the child at the center of the educational process,” says Bonnie L. Wishne, The Ancona

School’s head of school. “We strive to make learning as authentic and experiential as possible, and the children have a say in the direction that any given study will take.”

In fact, it is certainly the children who seem to take a crucial part in determining the direction of today’s classroom. “Classes can take the form of a reading, writing or math workshop; a science investigation or humanities research, but in every case, the teacher’s goal is to get the children engaged in inquiry and working independently on their individual or small group projects,” says Wishne.

“In this way, different students can be working at different levels of skill and achievement simultaneously.”

continued on page 72

Tour the school, meet teachers and students, and discover why the Woodlands Academy experience is so unique!

Don’t miss our Open House Tuesday, November 12th, 2013 at 6:30pm.

ChicagoParent.com November 2013 71

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i  Traditional learning continued from page 71 Working differently than what we may refer to as the traditional way of functioning within the classroom is something most parents of independent school students are seeking for their children.

“Most families choose Ancona for their children because they are looking for an education that focuses on the 21st Century skills of collaboration, communication, creativity and critical thinking, and they are excited to see the ways in which their children are learning to think and the confidence they are developing,” says Wishne, whose school recently revamped its science curriculum to include design/ engineering units along with implementing a constructivist math program across the grades.

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As Head of School for the brand new Beacon Academy opening in Evanston next year, Jeff Bell knows firsthand that while supporting an education based on 21st Century skills is its ultimate goal, there is never any set formula when it comes to teaching today’s students. “Our school is based on the unique combination of Montessori principles and the International Baccalaureate program, a marriage which sets us apart from many of our counterparts,” he says.

“We have established partnerships with some of the area’s most notable arts and cultural institutions through which our students have the opportunity to pursue a wide range of curricular programs.

We used great intentionality in terms of our desire to have our students mesh into the community rather than sequester them within the walls of the school. All in all, our curriculum brings togeth-

er the challenge and interdisciplinary nature of the IB program and an attention to the development of the student as a citizen of the community and the world.”

Indeed, in a world that seems to change dramatically each and every day, Bell says the new school will offer students new and innovative ways to take control of both their learning and their school day. “For example, the idea of students moving from class to class every 45 minutes seems very insufficient for learning,” says Bell. “Therefore, we will offer longer class times with more time in between classes.

This will let the students become more of an architect of their education.”

“In our Montessori classrooms, teachers are guides for the students’ development,” says Erica Lane, Brickton Montessori School’s educational director. “Our goals are to help children to become

independent learners and thinkers. Our teachers are reflexive of learning process for individual children, as well as the community at large.”

And as with everything else, accomplishing this feat of blending traditional and non-traditional educational methods takes an ongoing partnership between teachers, school administration and parents. “When parents and teachers work together to set goals and find best practices, the student has the benefit of a united team working to support his/her progress,” says Lane, whose students play an important role via their attendance at all parent-teacher conferences beginning at grade 4. “Self-advocacy is a value we have for our students, and their understanding of themselves as learners is something we encourage them to share.”

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i Opening the world to students opens many doors www.lmais.org // special advertising section //

By TRICIA DESPRES

W

ith family roots embedded deep within the soil of India, Sunil Agnani is much like any other all-American dad.

He wants the best for his two young children.

Born in the United States and raised in a multilingual household, Agnani is constantly looking for ways to expand on the bilingual learning his children receive within the classrooms of Lycée Français de Chicago. To achieve this sort of no-boundaries learning, the Agnani family can often be found with a suitcase by their side and a passport in their hands.

“These children certainly don’t get fazed by much… and they certainly don’t experience culture shock

PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVINCI ACADEMY

very often,” chuckles Agnani during a recent interview with Chicago Parent. “We spend much time travelling around the country, so the multilingual education that Lycée provides was definitely something we found appeal-

ing. It was a natural fit for us and supported our desire to expose our children to many different cultures and languages.”

Following a cradle to career spectrum of education, Lycée

Français de Chicago staff work hard to create lifelong learners not only through a diverse academic community made up of 40 different cultures within the student body, but also through an academic arena that offers multiple opportunities to flourish.

“There is nothing like exposing students to other cultures and expanding their learning far beyond the textbook,” says Delphine Lenoir, Lycée Français de Chicago’s admissions director. “Our Study Abroad program is a wonderful example of this, offering students ways to experience people and places all throughout the world. I once asked a student where home was for him, and he told me it was the world. That’s the atmosphere we love to support.”

continued on page 74

Teaching young learners to soar

Discover the simple power of learning by doing Understand how the learning process at Chiaravalle Montessori is designed to connect how and what children learn.

Call today to RSVP for a Prospective Parent Tour.

425 Dempster, Evanston, IL 847.864.2190 www.chiaravalle.org

Now enrolling grades Pre-K through 8 Apply online at anconaschool.org SCAN WITH YOUR SMARTPHONE

4770 South Dorchester Avenue • Chicago, Illinois 60615 • 773.924.2356 • anconaschool.org

ChicagoParent.com November 2013 73

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i  Open world continued from page 73 This desire to help foster well-rounded children is a goal both parents and educators share these days. Indeed, the world today’s students will enter requires a multitude of abilities for a multitude of possible career and life changes. “No longer is it true that individuals who acquire a college degree will remain on one set professional path and be successful with a limited number of job skills for the duration of their career,” says Scott Etters, Head of School at Da Vinci Academy. “Add to that the information age which has enhanced the connectivity of global businesses, markets, and communities.

Things are changing so rapidly these days, that people who are knowledgeable, flexible, and adaptable will benefit the most. Nurturing well-rounded

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students helps foster this ability and sets them up to be successful in an ever-changing world.”

Etters says that today’s well-rounded student is not only knowledgeable in a multitude of areas, but flexible and adaptable to unique situations and various scenarios.

“This is a student who has been exposed to a variety of learning opportunities, stepping out of his/her comfort zone while exploring different subject areas and sharing information and experiences in distinct ways,” he says.

This exposure to an ever changing world can come through in a number of different enriching opportunities.

For example, older students at Chicago Waldorf School are currently studying Capoeira, a program incorporating movement and music within martial arts and acrobatics.

“Studies have shown that music is an integral part

of raising a child who will develop moral empathy and succeed academically,” says Colleen Everhart, a longtime teacher at Chicago Waldorf School. “A program such as this also helps immensely in terms of exposing students to other cultures and developing a moral compass that they can take out into the world with them once their time at Waldorf is through.”

Sometimes, all it takes to expose students to more in this world is in fact allowing them the time to do so.

Roycemore School Upper School Head Fraser Coffeen says that the school’s January Short Term projects do exactly that. Each year, the Upper School is closed for a total of three weeks during the month of January in order to allow students the time to explore people and places of their own interest.

“I have seen the work of a student who created a photo

essay book about Chicago wherein they went into the city and interviewed a number of residents and told their stories, while I know of other students who have traveled to Africa to work with animals,” says Coffeen. “The time and process in itself definitely reinvigorates the students and offers them the opportunity to bring so much back into the classroom, whether it’s a book or a painting or simply a story of their experiences.”

Indeed, every enriching opportunity offered to a student now will undoubtedly help them as they move forward into their future. “When these kids finish school, they will be competing for jobs with the rest of the world,” says Lenoir. “Exposing them now to a number of different cultures will undoubtedly help them in the future. Plus they end up having loads of fun and creating friendships that will last for a lifetime.”

Challenging curriculum and individualized attention make Da Vinci Academy the place for gifted and talented students in PreK-8th grade. We develop well-rounded and socially responsible students to succeed in a globally-connected world by fostering curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication.

Inquire here:

Wed., November 13th 6:30 PM DA VINCI ACADEMY is an independent school serving gifted and academically talented students in PK-8th grade.

DA VINCI ACADEMY 37W080 Hopps Road, Elgin, IL www.dvacademy.org (847) 841-7532

74 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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i  How technology spurs creative conversations for students www.lmais.org // special advertising section //

By TRICIA DESPRES

I

t’s Parent’s Night at Catherine Cook School, and much like every year, families are joining together for an evening of socializing and sharing.

As they walk towards their child’s classroom, moms and dads and grandparents can’t help but notice the bulletin board on the wall. They look forward to searching out their child’s work, whether it’s a handwritten essay or a recently drawn picture.

Oh, but this is no ordinary bulletin board.

Because, thanks to the use of QR codes, these bulletin boards hold much more than a handful of paperwork.

Instead, QR codes connect attendees to videos of their children acting out stories and audio recorded descriptions of their artwork, and

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once again, we are reminded just how much has changed in the All-American classroom.

“Technology such as this offers us a richer look at what the children are doing on a daily basis here in the classroom,” says Brian Puerling, Catherine Cook School’s chief of education technology. “Take for example a third grader who takes the time to interview their kindergarten buddies. Not only do they write the narrative down, but can also illustrate those conversations using their drawing pad or adding QR codes to the bulletin board where their written narratives are displayed.”

From document cameras to iPads to Promethean Boards, the possibilities which technology now offers us are endless, and for the children in our lives, extend from the

classroom to the hallways of the school to ultimately the home they return to every afternoon. “I’m always delighted when I see students walking with their iPads in their hands in the hallway,” says Christina De La Peña, technology director at Sacred Heart Schools. “Not only is it wonderful to see what they can create these days, but the ease in which they can create.

They are amazingly comfortable with everything, no matter the device.”

In fact, De La Peña says that while the typical classroom was once a place of teacherdirected learning, it is the children who have taken a bit more of a leading role.

“I’ve seen many a student approach a teacher where the student has been thinking ahead about a project and how it could be done differently,” she says.

“I often see students searching for the best resources and then enthusiastically sharing that information with each other as they find it,” says Kyle Schmitt, who coordinates educational technology and curriculum development (as well as being webmaster) at Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart. “It’s a daily occurrence to witness students gathering in the media center in groups talking and showing and sharing and investigating and motivating others to explore other possibilities.”

Indeed, school administrators say that with the explosion of applications, students can become more organized, more collaborative in their thinking, and certainly more creative.

“Through the Book Creator

continued on page 76

The Heart of the Matter Find out why Sacred Heart is ranked among the top schools in Chicago.

We are an independent school, K through 8th grade, rooted in the Catholic tradition.

Our student-teacher ratio is 9:1.

We offer the best of both worlds: single-gender classrooms on a co-ed campus.

ADMISSIONS COFFEES: Wednesday, Nov. 6, Dec. 11, Jan. 15 & Feb. 5 9:30-11 am To register call 773.681.8418

We have an outstanding curriculum, extensive athletics, and a rich extracurricular program.

We welcome families from many different backgrounds and religions.

Twenty percent of our students receive need-based scholarships.

6250 North Sheridan Road Chicago, Illinois 60660

shschicago.org

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i  Technology continued from page 75 app, students create their own stories and have the ability to digitize them,” says Talia Blivaiss, third grade teacher at North Park Elementary School. “Students love it because they can illustrate their stories and help make them come to life. Teachers love it because they see students’ imaginations run rampant over excitement about using the technology. The final product is more polished and professional. They can share it with friends and family and can be proud of their accomplishment.”

Finding a central place where students can come together to explore all that technology offers has been a goal for many independent school administrators. The Media Commons area at Lake Forest Academy provides stu-

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dents with an interactive and engaging technological space that sparks both innovation and creativity. Intended to be used as a digital playground for 21st century learners, the multimedia center offers space for video and audio recording, web design, computer programming and journalism.

“In terms of this ‘digital playground for 21st century learners’, and yes, we have always felt that play was a good word in education,” says Grier Carson, Lake Forest Academy’s chief of academic technology, “We wanted to create a tech focused, interactive space that would be in stark contrast to the traditional computer lab of yesteryear. We have filled the space with everything from high end touch screen PCs to recording equipment to digital signage areas where students can share their work with one another.”

Quest Academy has also created its own Innovation Lab, a space that includes new computer workstations, a 3D printer, a vinyl cutter, a laser cutter, new furniture to better serve the diverse set of student heights (from 4 years old through 8th grade) and various electronic components.

“It’s really a transformation and a complete rebranding of the space and a time for us to formally reintroduce the goals we have for that space,” says Vinnie Vrotny, Quest’s head of academic technology.

Of course, keeping children safe within this ever changing digital world remains of utmost importance. Parents at North Park Elementary School, in fact, are required to sign a technology user agreement, which reviews in detail the technology curriculum, expectations, uses and consequences for inappropriate use.

“Through our Parent

Portal, teachers can upload assignments and documents for parents,” says Blivaiss of North Park Elementary School. “Parents can see what students are learning in class and documents cannot be lost between school and home.

Weekly blogs also allow teachers a place to summarize the lessons learned during the week, show pictures and suggest specific questions they can ask their children to elicit a more enriching conversation.”

“We constantly offer our families advice regarding how to promote the ethical use of technology within the home,” says Puerling from Catherine Cook School. “We spend a lot of time, for example, addressing places such as Facebook and how students must always think about the choices they make there. We teach that choices have consequences and feelings can get hurt.

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2013-14 Open House Schedule

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A LIFETIME LOVE OF LEARNING STARTS HERE. • Children ages 2-14, Toddler through Middle School • Enriched curriculum - Spanish, drama, art, music and phys ed • Quiet study areas and outdoor class space • Before and after school programs available Please call Julie Einstein at 773-271-1700 to learn more.

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

Wed., Nov. 13, 2013 & Thur., Jan. 30, 2014 Lower School Open House (Grades K – 5) 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.

Wed., Nov. 13, 2013 & Thur., Jan. 30, 2014 Middle School Information Night (Grades 6 – 8)* 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Saturdays, April 12, 2014 & May 17, 2014 Preschool and Pre-K Play Date (Ages 3 - 4)* 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. * Reservations required for these events.

Apply Today for 2014/15 Contact Director of Admission, Leslie Kovich at leslie.kovich@questacademy.org or call 847.202.8035, ext. 438 today. questacademy.org 500 North Benton, Palatine, IL 60067

established in 1966

www.rpmschool.org | 1800 W. Balmoral Ave. Chicago

Lake Forest Acade my 1500 West Kennedy Road Lake Forest, IL 60045 (847) 615-3267 • www.lfanet.org

Lake Forest Academy offers:

• Students in grades 9-12 • 50% boarding and 50% day students • Students from 39 countries and 15 states • 100% of seniors matriculate to college • Average class size of 12 • 27 varsity sports • 20 Advanced Placement courses • A wide variety of fine arts options • Service learning • Over 80% of the Faculty live on campus • Financial aid is available Please join us for our Autumn Open House and see why Lake Forest Academy might be your perfect high school November 10, 2013 • 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Register Online: www.lfanet.org/openhouse

ChicagoParent.com November 2013 77

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i  // special advertising section // www.lmais.org Open to the arts, students learn about their worlds

By TRICIA DESPRES

T

he imagination expressed within the All-American classroom of today has never been more vibrant. The past boundaries of textbooks and chalkboards have given way to an academic world where, indeed, the world is at one’s fingertips. However, nowhere has this imagination been on display better than within today’s constantly evolving arts education.

Make no mistake -- independent schools throughout the country have long been known for not only appreciating the arts, but knowing full well how a vibrant arts education can transform a student in every single one of their academic subjects. From music classes to movement to band to visual arts, the arts

offer a wonderful opportunity for educators to coordinate and integrate their classroom curriculum into the form of projects and presentations, as well as a medium for understanding concepts.

“Many of our art projects connect to social studies units for example,” says Brenda Friedman, Lower School art teacher at Latin School of Chicago. “When our first graders study Mexico, they learn about Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, and the Aztecs. They make calendar stones out of clay and look at the frescoes of both ancient and modern Mexico. It cannot be underestimated how essential the arts are in the growth of a child. Although it is difficult to quantify by testing, the intellectual and emotional development of a student is enormous when engaged with

the arts.”

“Arts programs contribute to a child’s whole education by including a crucial element of human experience and culture,” says Jeff Westbrook, drama teacher at The Avery Coonley School in Downers Grove. “Artistic expression has been a vital part of human society since the beginning of our civilizations, and a child’s education cannot really be considered complete unless there is sufficient exposure to the arts and their impact on our lives and cultures.”

Indeed, Westbrook says that an increasing number of professionals and educators have proposed that four fundamental skills will be indispensable for the success of our students in the 21st century, including creativity and innovation, communi-

cation, collaboration, and critical thinking and problem solving. “No subjects develop these skills in quite the same comprehensive and pragmatic ways as the arts do. Thus, the study of and creation in the arts should be considered necessary for any educational program that hopes to prepare children for success in any field in the coming decades,” says Westbrook, who has taught at the school for over 15 years.

The growth of the majority of independent school’s arts programs has been dramatic in recent years, with expansion in technology leading the way. Yet, it’s the transformation that educators have seen in their students within extensive arts programs that remains the most impressive. “The most rewarding part is watching a child who

312.582.6000 |

Academic Excellence in Chicago since 1888 PreK-12 INFO SESSIONS October through January 78 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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www.lmais.org // special advertising section //

Photo by G. Yoshioka

undoubtedly benefits from a rich and formal art education,” says Liz Shanahan, art teacher at Rogers Park Montessori School. “A particular child might not do well in math, but they might be able to understand geometry, for example, when taught within the context of an art assignment. All subjects click with students in different ways.

Chances are that this particular child will be able to build a model, for example, that fits perfectly within what is being taught to him in the classroom. In essence, the art class is just giving him another way of succeeding within the set curriculum.”

Indeed, art programs offer students the chance to do everything from presenting a piece to a classroom of people to giving an honest opinion about someone else’s work to expanding their vocabulary.

The sharing portion is often the key, and the aspect the

students seem to love the best.

“Children’s artwork is prominently displayed on bulletin boards and classrooms throughout the school and also in the permanent tile mosaic installations our students have created with Artists in Residence over the years,” says Kimeri Beck, director of Teaching in Learning at Baker Demonstration School in Wilmette. “Last year, the drama rotation offered our entire middle school the opportunity to produce a show with the assistance of theater artists with specialties in costume design, stage fighting, media production, sound engineering, and stage craft. The six-week intensive

i 

feedback regarding one’s arts programs is a constant aspect of any successful program, and goes far in communicating the treasure it will remain in a student’s life for years to come. “Students often relate that the drama experiences changes the way they understand the world, especially how photo courtesy of baker demonstration school other characters unit taught students practical feel and live,” says skills such as stage manageBeck. “Exploring art forms will ment, acting and creating always remain an incredible musical scores, set design, vid- way for students to undereography and photography, stand topics from a variety of promotions and marketing, viewpoints. I believe that parand teamwork. Students also ents, teachers, and students deeply explored the concepts realize the importance of embedded in the production exploring and experimenting such as power, friendship, with the arts as another way belonging, and finding one’s to understand and interact voice.” meaningfully with the world.”

Gathering suggestions and

Redefining Smart.

At Brickton Montessori School we measure our students’ abilities to THINK critically, MAKE responsible decisions, and SOLVE problems creatively.

Call 773.714.0646 today or visit www.brickton.org.

Redefining Smart.

Open House on Sunday, November 10th, 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

At Brickton Montessori School we measure our students’ abilities to THINK critically, MAKE Located just South of I-90 responsible decisions, and SOLVE problems between Cumberland and East River Road creatively. Call 773.714.0646 today or visit 8622 West Catalpa Avenue www.brickton.org. in Chicago

Located just South of I-90 between Cumberland and East River Road

t need to be toilet trained) Ages 2-14 (Toddlers do not need to be toilet trained) 8622 West Catalpa Avenue dependent Schools Association Fully accredited by the Independent Schools Association the American Montessori Society. in Chicago of the Central States and the American Montessori Society.

Good Thinking ChicagoParent.com November 2013 79

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i  Lake Michigan Area Independent Schools Open House Information

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Baker: The Progressive School 201 Sheridan Rd., Wilmette (847) 425-5800 bakerdemschool.org Family Fall Open House Saturday, November 16 from 2-4pm

Beacon Academy

 

622 Davis St., Evanston (847) 302-4726 beaconacademychicago.org Our open house date is November 16 1:00-4:00pm.

Brickton Montessori School The Ancona School Coed, 3 Years- 8th Grade 4770 S. Dorchester Ave., Chicago (773) 924-2356 Admissions anconaschool.org

Good thinking!

PreK (2-3yr.Old)-8th grade 8622 W. Catalpa, Chicago (773) 714-0646 brickton.org Join us for our Fall Open House: Sun., Nov. 10 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30p.m.

Open House dates: 10/2/13, 10/9/13, 10/16/13, 10/23/13, 10/30/13, 11/6/13, 11/13/13, 11/20/13, 11/27/13

The Catherine Cook School

Avery Coonley School

226 W. Shiller Ave., Chicago

Pre-K - 8th, gifted 1400 Maple Ave., Downers Grove (630) 969-0800 averycoonley.org Accelerated curriculum; comprehensive technology and arts program. Open Houses: Oct. 16, Nov. 6, and Dec. 4.

Coed, Preschool – 8th Grade (312) 266-3381 catherinecookschool.org Open House: For Grades 1-4 is Oct. 2 from 6pm-7pm

Chiaravalle Montessori 425 Dempster St., Evanston (847) 864-2190 chiaravalle.org Tour dates:

Nov 5 (Elementary & Middle School) November 7, 14, 19 December 3, 12 All tours are 9-11 am, adults only, rsvp to the Director of Admission required

Chicago Waldorf School Pre-K thru 12th grade 1300 W. Loyola Ave., Chicago (773) 465-2371 chicagowaldorf.org School Tours and Orientations: On Nov. 14th, Dec. 12th, Jan. 9th, Mar. 13th and May 8th Each tour starts at 8:30 a.m. and runs thru 10:30 a.m.

Please RSVP to (773) 465-2371 to reserve a seat.

Da Vinci Academy Grades PreK – 8th 37W080 Hopps Rd., Elgin (847) 841-7532 dvacademy.org Open House: Wednesday, November 13th 6:30 – 8:00 PM

Francis W. Parker School Expanding Learning for JK-12th grade students since 1901 330 W. Webster Ave., Chicago (773) 797-5107 fwparker.org Upper School Open House (9th – 12th Grades), Nov. 23rd at 10a.m.

Register online at fwparker.org/openhouse

Lake Forest Academy 1500 W. Kennedy Rd., Lake Forest (847) 615-3267 lfanet.org Our Open House is Sunday, November 10 from 1:00- 3:30pm.

Latin School of Chicago (312) 582-6000 (312) 582-6060 Admissions latinschool.org Open House, grades 5-12 Sunday, October 27 12:30 p.m. - 3 p.m. (doors open at noon)

Lycée Français de Chicago French curriculum & Baccalaureate with an English program Pre-k through 12th grade 613 W. Bittersweet place, Chicago (773) 665-0066 lyceechicago.org Open House, Saturday, Nov. 16th - 10am - 12pm

North Park Elementary School (NPES) 2017 W. Montrose Ave., Chicago (773) 327-3144 NPES_info@npeschool.org www.npeschool.org Preschool open play Saturday - November 2, 2013 - 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Elementary school open house Tuesday - November 12, 2013 - 9:30 11:30 a.m.

Join us for our FAMILY OPEN HOUSE Saturday, November 16 2:00 - 4:00 pm RSVP admissions@bakerdemschool.org

Be a doer.

Rather than learn passively from behind a desk, Baker students actively apply what they have learned in small group discussions, book talks and debates - strongly advocating for what they think and believe, fearlessly asking The Big Question in class, thoughtfully planning a community service initiative thereby becoming young men and women who are doers and more often leaders in high school, college and beyond.

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www.lmais.org // special advertising section // Thursday - November 14, 2013 - 9:30 11:30 a.m.

Quest Academy Independent day school, gifted and talented students prechool-8th 500 N. Benton, Palatine (847) 202-8035 questacademy.org Preschool and Prekindergarten Play Dates: registration required Saturday, April 12th, 2014 9 - 10:30 a.m. and Saturday, May 17th, 2014 9 - 10:30 a.m.. Lower School Open House: no reservations needed: Wednesday, November 13, 2013 5:30 - 7 p.m.

Thursday, January 30, 2014 5:30 - 7 p.m.

Middle School Information Night: registration required: Wednesday, November 13, 2013 6 - 8 p.m., Thursday, January 30, 2014 6 - 8 p.m.

Rogers Park Montessori 1800 W. Balmoral, Chicago (773) 271-1700 rpmschool.org Children ages 2-14, Toddler through Middle School Please call Julie Einstein at 773-271-1700 to schedule a tour and to learn more.

Roycemore School Age 3-12th Grade 1200 Davis Street, Evanston (847) 866-6055 roycemoreschool.org

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8:30-10 a.m., Tues. Dec 10 - 8:30-10 a.m., Sun. Feb 16 - 1-2:30 p.m., Tues. March 11 8:30-10 a.m., Tues. Apr 15 - 8:30-10 a.m.

Or contact Amanda Avery at aavery@ roycemoreschool.org to schedule a personal tour.

Sacred Heart Schools The Academy for Girls and Hardey Preparatory School for Boys Kindergarten through 8th Grade 6250 N. Sheridan Rd. Chicago (773) 262-4446 shschicago.org Join us for Admissions Coffees (9:30am-11am) November 6, December 11, January 15 , February 5, April 9, May 7

Science & Arts Academy Differentiated Education for Gifted and Talented Students Since 1992 3 yr. PreK - 8th grade 1825 Miner St., Des Plaines (847) 827-7880 www.scienceandartsacademy.org Please call to schedule a tour or classroom visit.

Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart 760 E. Westleigh Rd., Lake Forest (847) 234-4300 woodlandsacademy.org Our annual open house takes place at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12.

2013-2014 Open Houses: Tues. Oct 8 - 8:30-10 a.m., Tues. Nov 12 -

Accepting Applications for 2014-2015 In 2014, Beacon Academy will bring together the challenge of an International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum with the independence, freedom, and studentcentered methods of Montessori. The school’s first ninth and tenth graders will enter a learning community that inspires self-motivation and personal challenge and celebrates intellectual, cultural, and socioeconomic diversity.

Based in Evanston, but using the entirety of Chicago as a classroom, Beacon Academy will grow to welcome 250-plus students in grades 9-12.

Come visit us at Beacon!

Open House Saturday, November 16th 1:00-4:00pm beaconacademychicago.org | 622 Davis St., Evanston, IL 60201

Discover your child’s…

POTENTIAL At Roycemore, we focus on the growth of the whole child.

Our teachers use differentiation in the classroom to provide enrichment as well as support. They strive every day to help children develop self-esteem and lifelong learning skills in a nurturing and diverse community.

Call Amanda at 847-866-6055 for a personal tour of the school, or visit roycemoreschool.org for information about our next open house.

1200 Davis Street in Evanston

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i  // special advertising section // www.independentschools.net A closer look at Independent Schools Baker: The Progressive School 201 Sheridan Rd., Wilmette (847) 425-5800 bakerdemschool.org Baker Demonstration School is an independent coeducational school, for children early childhood through eighth grade, dedicated to creating well-rounded students through the principles of progressive education.

Less formally, Baker is a school where children learn by doing. Love to learn, cherish the journey, serve the world.

Family Fall Open House Saturday, November 16 from 2-4pm

Beacon Academy 622 Davis St., Evanston (847) 302-4726 beaconacademychicago.org Beacon Academy is an independent school that will merge the challenge of the International Baccalaureate program with Montessori principles to form an interdisciplinary curriculum that emphasizes self-directed learning, strong writing skills, creativity and ethical development, and an entrepreneurial mindset. Beacon will open in September 2014 for 9th and 10th grades.

Our open house date is November 16 1:00-4:00pm.

learn but how they learn. Come tour our school to see why we are in the fastest growing educational movement in the world.

Da Vinci Academy Located 1 hour Northwest of Chicago in the Fox River Valley 37w080 Hopps Rd., Elgin (847) 841-7532 dvacademy.org Many private schools offer small class sizes but Da Vinci Academy affords families much more. Gifted and talented students in Pre-K through 8th grade experience an enriched, accelerated curriculum that prepares them for high school and beyond. A diverse and experienced faculty focuses on the development of the whole child, while encouraging students to become creative thinkers and problem solvers.

10 from 1:00- 3:30pm.

Rogers Park Montessori

Lycée Français de Chicago

1800 W. Balmoral, Chicago (773) 271-1700 rpmschool.org

613 W. Bittersweet Pl., Chicago (773) 665-0066 www.lyceechicago.org With 660 students representing 40 nationalities, the Lycée Français de Chicago (LFC) provides a rich, multicultural, language immersion experience for our community of learners. Serving Pre-K – 12th grade, we offer a rigorous, dual-language curriculum in French and English, and a pre-International Baccalaureate program starting in 9th grade. We are accredited by the French Ministry of Education and ISACS. With a third language starting in middle school, our students are trilingual by graduation, and go on to attend some of the best universities in the world. In fall 2015, we will move to a state-of-the art new campus in Lincoln Square.

Toddler (age 2) through 8th Grade 8622 W. Catalpa, Chicago (773) 714-0646 brickton.org

photo courtesy of lake forest academy

Francis W. Parker School Serving Junior Kindergarten through 12 Grade (773) 797-5107 fwparker.org

In the true spirit of Montessori, Chiaravalle has been inspiring children’s sense of discovery and creativity since 1965. We ignite empathetic, self-directed and effective thinkers by offering an education as unique as each child. Our children range in age from 6 months to 14 years, with full and partial-day options for young children.

Parker is a school where inspired teachers, dynamic curriculum and a diverse community of learners thrive.

At Parker, enduring values and new ideas benefit individual and collective growth. Parker students are provided with an exceptional educational opportunity in an inclusive community, where diversity in every form provides a global perspective. Register to for a Group Tour at fwparker.org/tours.

Upper School Open House for 9th– 12th grades is scheduled for Saturday November 23rd at 10 am. Register online at fwparker.org/openhouse.

Chicago Waldorf School

Lake Forest Academy

Chiaravalle Montessori 425 Dempster St., Evanston (847) 864-2190 chiaravalle.org

1300 W. Loyola Ave., Chicago (773) 465-2371 chicagowaldorf.org Creative imagination is a cornerstone of learning. Chicago Waldorf School offers a progressive curriculum that actively integrates creative arts with academics. This vigorous education creates in students a genuine enthusiasm for learning. Our unique approach corresponds to the various stages of human development by focusing not only on what children

Roycemore School Age 3-12th Grade 1200 Davis Street, Evanston (847) 866-6055 roycemoreschool.org At the heart of our mission is the expectation that from age 3 through Grade 12, each Roycemore student will be known personally and valued by the entire school community as an individual with unique talents and abilities. We are committed to inspiring academic excellence in a challenging but non-competitive environment. We call upon our students to think both critically and creatively as they prepare for each level of their education, and ultimately, for college.

Or contact Amanda Avery at aavery@ roycemoreschool.org to schedule a personal tour.

Brickton Montessori School

Fully accredited by AMS and ISACS. At Brickton Montessori School we measure our students’ abilities to THINK critically, MAKE responsible decisions, and SOLVE problems creatively.

Partial week available for 2 & 3 yr.olds.

Toddlers do not need to be potty trained. Organic hot lunch program.

RPMS believes that all of its students carry within them the adults they will become; our mission is to create an environment where all children are inspired to reach their highest potential, as individuals and learners, following the Montessori philosophy of education; which at its core is to produce vital members of the global community. Guiding all our practices is the education and promotion of peace within self, in relationships and within the world.

1500 W. Kennedy Rd., Lake Forest (847) 615-3267 lfanet.org Lake Forest Academy is an independent, co-educational, 9-12 college-preparatory school for 430 boarding and day students located on 150 acres on Chicago’s North Shore. LFA enrolls students from around Chicago as well as 20 states and 35 countries. The school offers over $4.4 million in financial aid to students annually.

Our Open House is Sunday, November

North Park Elementary School (NPES) 2017 W. Montrose Ave., Chicago (773) 327-3144 NPES_info@npeschool.org www.npeschool.org NPES offers an academically challenging curriculum integrating the best elements of traditional instruction, experiential learning and state-of the-art technology. As a private, non-sectarian school for children in Pre-K-8 grade, NPES has a proven record of excellence. With one class per grade and an average of 20 students per class, every student receives individual attention from classroom teachers.

Quest Academy 500 N. Benton St., Palatine (847) 202-8035 questacademy.org Quest Academy is an independent day school for gifted and talented students in preschool through eighth grade.

Quest offers a traditional liberal arts education with equal emphasis in the sciences, humanities, and fine arts and a strong focus on character development. In class, work revolves around hands-on, interdisciplinary projects designed to allow students to delve into subjects. Our stellar faculty creates an atmosphere dedicated to joy in learning which fosters confidence, initiative, responsibility and leadership.

Sacred Heart Schools The Academy for Girls and Hardey Preparatory School for Boys 6250 N. Sheridan Rd. Chicago (773) 262-4446 shschicago.org Independent, Catholic, K-8. Educating Chicago children since 1876.

A Chicago landmark on Lake Michigan, Sacred Heart Schools enroll 700 day students and are part of a Network of 140 Sacred Heart Schools in 30 countries. Kindergarten is coeducational. In Grades 1-8, Sacred Heart offers single gender classes in a co-ed environment.

In addition to a rigorous academic curriculum, Sacred Heart Schools is dedicated to a values-based program concerned with the education of the whole child.

Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart 760 E. Westleigh Rd., Lake Forest (847) 234-4300 woodlandsacademy.org Woodlands Academy is an independent, Catholic day and boarding college preparatory school for young women grades 9-12. A member of the worldwide Sacred Heart Schools Network, Woodlands promotes academic, artistic and athletic excellence, global awareness, social responsibility, and strong faith. Curriculum includes AP, honors courses, service opportunities and ESL.

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2013

CH O S OL S P O T

PHOTOS COURTESY OF (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT): GUERIN COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL, SOLOMON SCHECHTER DAY SCHOOL, NAZARETH ACADEMY, DETOUR 2 DISCOVERY DAY SCHOOL

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Making connections. It’s how we learn best

By TRICIA DESPRES

U

rban Prairie Waldorf School teacher Mat Riendeau’s classroom was alive with the sounds of singing and dancing on a day that his students simply thought they were learning what could have been a dull Greek history lesson. Instead, over the course of a year, children learned a handful of beautiful Greek folk dances, recited the opening to The Iliad by heart in ancient Greek, sang Greek songs, and painted maps of the city states of ancient Greece.

But it didn’t end there.

“They were learning the biography of Pythagoras and working through the Pythagorean Theorem in math class and in their gym and movement class, they spent

photo courtesy of chicago grammar school

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the whole year preparing to compete in a pentathlon,” says Riendeau of his former fifth grade class. “In the spring of that year, they travelled out to Wisconsin and spent three days with other Waldorf schools from across the Midwest running, wrestling, throwing the javelin, throwing the discus, and long jumping.

It all tied into a very beautiful, efficient, and magical way for the students to learn.”

Indeed, today’s schools are finding ways to go beyond the textbook, and offer curriculum deep in enrichment opportunities for their students. “At Urban Prairie, we are dedicated to educating the whole child, and by that I mean the head, the heart, and the hands,” says Riendeau, who now serves as the second grade teacher and faculty chair at the Little Italy

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special advertising section school. “We strive to bring a curriculum that helps the children to develop and blossom intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physiologically. The enrichment that many schools usually refer to, i.e. music and art, are so intertwined and integrated at Urban Prairie within the intellectual aspects of the curriculum that it is very difficult to separate them. In fact, I do not think that we could separate them and still call it a full and living curriculum.

Each day our children sing in math class, sculpt in language arts, and paint the stories and biographies they hear.”

In doing so, students not only come to school excited to learn, but take in much more than they might realize. Indeed, today’s changing world requires more and more schools to teach students the everyday skills they will need to eventually succeed out in the world in a creative and innovative way.

“Teaching practical life skills such as dressing, serving and cleaning from an early age has always been something that we have felt is important,” says Tracy Armstrong, the owner and director of Montessori of Lincoln Park.

“There is nothing better than providing a place where the child can act independently in a safe atmosphere and feel good about the skills that they are acquiring.”

Of course, the learning taught within the walls of the classroom is then meant to expand into the home.

“We always encourage that the skills taught in school are also taught in the home, whether that means making choices about what they are going to wear or working with initial sounds while driving around with their parents,” says Armstrong. “We suggest never just working out of a workbook, but always suggest more active ways to learn. In

terms of teaching at home, a little is always better. Saying or showing them too much is not the best way to teach them.”

Indeed, educators often grapple with the right ways of teaching within the complexity of the 21st century.

“I think everything evolves, and what worked for a five year old back five or 10 years ago would never work with the media and tech savvy five year olds of today,” says Cheryl Rogers, the director of Lakefront Children’s Academy. “Education has to keep up and keep moving forward with the times. Kids today are much more visually stimulated, for example than ever before, so everything has to be eye catching and visually appealing.”

And while much of today’s enrichment within the classroom is technology driven, some opportunities harken back to the basics.”At the most basic of levels, music offers amazing training to all students,” says Rogers, whose school offers private piano lessons to their students 4 years old and older. “Not only does it help with their fine motor development and math skills, but it also allows them to express themselves in a different way.”

Another example of looking at the basics in a whole new way is via the work being done by the students and educators at Chicago Grammar School, whose Latin curriculum has allowed the student body to look at the English language is a completely new way. “Teaching Latin in conjunction with English has had a profound impact on reading comprehension for example,” says Phillip Jackson, executive director at Chicago Grammar School. “Understanding the structure of any language is invaluable, and will be something that will stick with them for years to come.”

Top Schools

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Making content meaningful for students’ everyday lives

By TRICIA DESPRES

S

he was a gorgeous little girl who loved ballet. She would spend many an hour after her school day practicing her techniques and preparing for perhaps a future as a dancer.

And while she had never considered how ballet could fit into her Montessori education, one simple question made her realize how much she could learn both inside and outside of the classroom.

“She went on to ask her teacher about her guess as to what angle she would need to pitch her foot in order to achieve the perfect rotation,” says Lisa Kambich, director of schools at Deerfield, Riverwoods and Glenview Montessori Schools. “Of course, the teacher knew this question could open up a

photo courtesy of Deerfield, Riverwoods and Glenview Montessori Schools

number of ideas based firmly in physics and mathematics, and immediately helped direct the child toward practical tools that would help her form her own hypothesis.”

And not only does this sweet story remind us of how you connect one’s life with one’s educational life, but it

also reminds Kambich why she loves the many aspects of Montessori education as a whole and why making content meaningful in a student’s everyday life is so crucial.

“It gives every child what they need, just when they need it,” says Kambich, who attended Montessori schools

herself as a child. “We set up our studies in a way in which it essentially mimics what the real world looks like and how they are going to live in this world. It’s not just memorizing a set of facts. It’s about learning to apply those facts, which often requires individualized student research.”

“Montessori classrooms provide a prepared environment where children follow their natural tendency to work toward their curriculum,” says Rod Shaw, campus manager of Intercultural Montessori Language School, with locations both in Oak Park and Chicago’s West Loop.

“The Montessori method of education teaches children through the presentation of specially designed materials which go from simple to complex.”

continued on page 88

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

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Content continued from page 87 This philosophy especially lends itself beautifully to second language acquisition, as the teachers at the dual-language school are able to present these materials to the student in one of their target languages. “We currently run programs in English/Spanish, English/Chinese-Mandarin, and English/Japanese,” says Shaw. “Learning a second language has innumerable benefits. It enhances many cognitive abilities. This includes areas of creativity such as art, music and writing. It also enhances mathematical problem solving skills. The student develops an advantage in grasping and formulating concepts. These skills contribute profoundly to a child’s self-esteem and their sense of values. Best of all, it prepares a child for life in the multicultural, multilingual world of the 21st century.”

And while language mastery follows the old adage of the earlier the better, so does Intercultural Montessori Language School. For example, the Preschool Program devotes the first part of the school day to immersion in the second language. The English speaking program is conducted during the second part of the school day. “Our aim is to prepare children for their future education in both languages,” says Shaw.

“The only difference between the morning session and the afternoon session is the language used to teach the content of the Montessori curriculum. When the children enter our elementary program, they are fully capable of handling the full Montessori curriculum in two languages, a skill that they will take with them throughout their lives.”

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Top Schools

Thinking outside the traditional educational model to teach all students

by Tricia Despres

W

ithin the walls of this Carbondale school is classroom after classroom after classroom of brilliant students. Yet, due to the affects of neurologically based Learning Disabilities/ Attention Deficit Disorder and Language Based Processing issues, the students within these lines of classrooms could easily get lost in the shuffle at any other school… but not here at Brehm Preparatory School.

You see, at this school and at this time when more and more schools can see and understand the benefits of looking far beyond the traditional educational model of learning, it is these students,

photo courtesy of brehm preparatory school

with the help of their dedicated teachers and families, will undoubtedly find a way to succeed.

“We individualize our

expectations of students and provide the level of support that the student needs in their content area,” explains Richard Collins PhD., Director

of the Brehm Institute for Cognitive and Curricular Research. “The level of support may be untimed tests, tutors, aids, or training in the assistive software we have in our one to one laptop program. We also remediate the areas of weakness and teach students how to apply their strengths in each content area and what strategies to use in combination to demonstrate mastery and success.”

“No two students are alike, even if the data they present to us is alike,” adds Marjorie Hill, Principal at St. Stanislaus Kostka School. “Every student has his/her strengths and every student has an area in which they can grow. It is important to recognize

continued on page 90

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Educational models continued from page 89 that we teach students, not content. We can’t simply approach the teaching and learning process as a checklist of facts to learn. We have to teach a student HOW to think…that is how you can reach a class full of students.”

And while individualized academic placement is often a tricky proposition, some schools have found great success with various programs of study that offer personalized attention to a student’s strengths and needs. “We recently underwent the accreditation process through AdvancedEd,” tells Karen Booth, Principal at Guerin College Preparatory High School. “After an extensive review of our practices, their team determined that Guerin Prep High School offers a strong framework for student success by ensuring that the faculty and staff implement holistic support structures to help students grow and prepare them for the next level of achievement.”

Some schools have found that the multi-age classroom gives them the best shot at success with the wide range of students that they are met with each and every school year. It was a concept that came rather unknowingly to the staff at Akiba-Schechter Jewish Day School years ago, when Principal Miriam Schiller she combined grades as a way of creating larger social groups for students for the small school. Little did she know it would be a concept that would still nearly 25 years later. “I never have to explain the multi-age classroom to families that are here,” says Schiller. “They see how successful it is. Only when I talk to prospective

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CHICAGO

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PHOTO COURTESY OF GUERIN COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL

families do I remember what ‘normal’ is. Why would I ever go back to ‘normal’?”

Perhaps one of the many intriguing examples of traditional learning that goes far beyond the norm is online school at CHALK Preschool, which combines hands on learning with online possibilities. “At preschool age, tactile learning is so important for development of motor skills as well as being able to touch

and hold something gives them a greater understanding,” explains Angela Johnson, Executive Director of CHALK Preschool. “What we have created with the online program is tens of hundreds of “How to videos” for a child. For example, a child will watch a video about counting, and then at the end of the video encourages the student and the parent to apply what was

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continued on page 92

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Educational models continued from page 91 learned, by let’s say going on a walk and counting flowers. This not only gets a child practicing their counting but it doesn’t lock them into an electronic device and it encourages the parent to give the greatest gift to their child which is their time.”

And when a parent is unable to work alongside their child, sometimes it is their classmates that create an undeniable bridge for learning in these nontraditional environments.

“It’s kind of a revamped “one room schoolhouse” approach around here,” explains Kate Fabiszak, Director/Teacher at Lovebugs Preschool. “Here at Lovebugs, we allow our children to learn from each other. We have always felt that peer learning is a fun

and affective way of learning.

Our older students have the opportunity to teach and help the younger children learn about the ABCs and 123s.”

Of course, despite the technology and the plethora of ways to learn these days, perhaps nothing is as important as the role of the actual teacher to the success of any given student. “We are extremely proud of our low teacher to student ratio,” explains Fosca Shackleton White, Head of School at Montessori Academy of Chicago. “I look inside some of our classrooms, and it’s almost as if it’s a private tutoring situation.

We have co-teachers in every classroom, and in our three to six program, the afternoon lesson allows children the time to break into two different rooms and work together in groups that work best for them and their learning styles.”

Lastly, many schools remain tied, and with great success, to the fundamentals of an arts component to education, making the traditional look rather non-traditional right before their photo courtesy of montessori academy of chicago very eyes. evolving proposition. “The Rainforest Learning Center, process of consistently evalufor example, routinely use a ating and developing program diverse range of media like improvements has created the sculpture, pottery, painting, culture, which blends the trapiano, dance, yoga, and theditional and non-traditional ater to “encourage academic, models,” concludes Dr. Collins. personal and social growth”.

“We depend on research both And as with life itself, the internally and externally genmagic formula of thinking out- erated to consistently push side the traditional education- the envelope of innovation in al model of ‘how it’s always providing services for our stubeen done’ is a constantly dents. We are still evolving.”

AARevolution Revolutionin inEducation Education The Theinspiring, inspiring,vigorous, vigorous,artart-integrated integratededucation education that thatyou youhave havebeen beenlooking lookingfor. for.

P r o g r a ms : P r o g r a ms : Parent ParentChild Child(Ages (Ages00––3) 3) Early EarlyChildhood Childhood(Ages (Ages3-6)* 3-6)* Grades Grades1-6 1-6(expanding (expandingto to8) 8)

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G G r r a a d d e eS S c c h h o o o o l l C C l l a a s s s s O O b b s s e e r r v v a a t t i i o o n n s s Nov Nov20, 20,Dec Dec18, 18,Jan Jan15 15 RSVP RSVPto toadmissions@urbanprairie.org admissions@urbanprairie.org

1220 1220W. W.Lexington LexingtonStreet, Street, Chicago.

Chicago. 312.733.5337 312.733.5337 Urban UrbanPrairie Prairie1220 1220W. W.Lexington LexingtonSt., St.,Chicago Chicago

*Provided *Providedthrough throughour oursister sisterschool, school, City CityGarden Garden312.421.3050 312.421.3050

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special advertising section

Top Schools

White boards, iPads and tinker-toys.

The full range of teaching technology

By TRICIA DESPRES

W

hile it may be hard to remember, there was indeed a time when technology within the classroom was simply a luxury.

“When I started in educational technology 16 years ago, the only time a student touched a keyboard was in my room, which was essentially the computer lab,” says Debbie Harris, director of educational technology at Solomon Schechter Day School of Metropolitan Chicago. “Now, starting in our youngest grades, technology is everywhere -- in the classroom, in the halls, in the computer labs, and in the learning center. Our students

are surrounded by technology everywhere they go in school, whether it’s an interactive whiteboard in the front of the classroom, the cart of iPads or laptops waiting for them when they enter the room, the iPods with audio books on them in the learning center, or the teacher holding her iPad ready to wirelessly play a video or slide presentation to illustrate a lesson.”

Certainly, what started with an iPad here and there has exploded into technology opportunities literally around every corner of today’s educational institutions. “Recently we have invested heavily in providing enough iPads for each grade to have a set of 20 iPads so that every child has access to them during a lesson,” says Rick Smith, head

of primary PE and curriculum development leader at the British School of Chicago.

“One grade in particular recently used their iPads to create their own eyewitness report of an important news event as part of their class topic Young and Old. The children had to create a script for the interviewer to use, plan the shots they wanted to film, record the video into iMovie before editing all the clips together. All of which was done directly on the iPads.”

Even the idea of ‘homework’ has evolved based on the technological advances we see emerge with every passing day. A web based environment not only assures that students will never again be able to use the old excuse about the dog eating one’s

homework, but also greatly changes the ground rules at home once the final school bell rings. “Not only do programs such as Edmodo and Google Drive make it easy for students to access their work at home as well as at school, it’s also an environmentallyfriendly way to turn homework in and get it back with their teachers’ comments,” says Harris, whose school also offers an after school digital art class and CodeClub, a cutting edge club designed to teach Solomon Schechter students the fundamentals of computer programming. “And, of course, we’re starting to see more and more textbooks available electronically, so backpacks will get lighter and lighter!”

continued on page 94

PROSPECTIVE PARENTS, PLEASE JOIN US FOR AN

Open House PRESCHOOL Wednesday, 11/6, 9:30 - 11:00 a.m.

KINDERGARTEN RSVP to Yelena Spector, Director of Admissions (773) 493-8880 • admissions@akibaschechter.org 5235 S. Cornell Avenue • Chicago, IL 60615 www.akibaschechter.org

INSPIRE. CHALLENGE. NURTURE.

Thursday, 11/14 Tours: 6:45 p.m., Program: 7:30 p.m.

1ST/2ND GRADE Thursday, 11/21, 7:30 p.m.

ChicagoParent.com November 2013 93

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special advertising section

Intercultur a l Montessori Language School

Technology continued from page 93

“Teachers are realizing that learning experiences do not have to end after their 50 minute gathering, but rather that it can be Dual Language extended beyond the conTwo Locations: Montessori Programs PHOTO COURTESY OF fines of ‘class’ and ‘school’,” SOLOMON SCHECHTER DAY SCHOOL says Anthony Gonzalez of • Chinese/English experiences, teach safe techOak Park Nazareth Academy’s social nology practices and expec(708) 848-6626 studies department. “We are • Spanish/English tations, and create learning now able to create public bro- opportunities that may not • Japanese/English chures, newspapers and preotherwise be present in their Chicago-West Loop sentations via Google Sites, day.”

• Ages 3-12 years old (312) 265-1514 hold discussions and Q&A There are those schools, without being in the same however, that can still see room, get information to stuthe benefits of technology, dents with ease and without but perhaps not yet in the standing by a copy machine classrooms of the youngest for most of our morning and students.

“Sure, our program lastly, we can collaborate, is technologically savvy,” which is the greatest thing says Jennifer Heim, an early E-mail: admissions@interculturalmontessori.org that technology has brought childhood specialist and Visit: www.interculturalmontessori.org teachers. My students are program founder at Detour 2 faith based education emphasizing a sense of community andseeing a challenging college-prepatory slowly the benefits of Discovery Day School, which NEW! After School language programs new we ways of doing things curriculum that develops excellence in mind, body andthe spirit. offer strong core academis well known for its artist and are adjusting to the new in Spanish and Chinese ics based on classical course sequences as well as honorsways andwell, advanced placement courses for program. “Yet, in residence while enjoying the as for our students ages 8 our high achievers. opportunity to always have weeks to 6 years old, we feel more information at their finwe are their oasis in this ger-tips to make life easier.” techno-rich world. Instead Technology has also given of filling our classroom with parents an eye into the daily batteries and keyboards and goings on of their child’s glowing screens, we instead classroom, whether via surround them with lots and tweets on Twitter or posts on lots of wooden blocks, tinkerthe school’s Facebook page. toys and manipulatives galore Teachers and staff at The -- hands-on art, real life storyGardner School of Naperville t Exceptional Catholic, co-ed student telling, text in print, dancing, JOIN US even use their own Pinterest community and academics program singing and cooperative play.”

AT OUR page to find and share new t Robust college preparation and guidance No matter what side of the ideas.

OPEN HOUSES: t Interactive technology: SMART classrooms spectrum might feel right for “The world our children and laptops for each student you and your child, it is a conSunday, October 20 are living in is largely ruled t 12/1 student to faculty ratio stantly evolving discussion 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. by technology,” says Kerry t Dynamic extracurricular offerings for both parents and teachFinnegan, The Gardner School ing staff to keep up with the from athletics to more than 30 clubs Monday, November 25 of Naperville’s executive and organizations speed of today’s world. “We 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. director. “The most exciting t Award-winning visual and performing are constantly working with aspect of technology is its arts programs Shadow a Guerin Prep teachers and evaluating tools versatility. It can enhance student any Friday! t 23-acre campus with a weight room, two that they need to accomlearning, bridge communicafull-sized gyms, a wrestling room, a 1,250 plish their goals within the tion gaps, and connect people classroom and determining seat auditorium and ample green space Call Mr. Pecoraro at and resources worldwide. By t Easily accessible by public transit (CTA) which tool is going to make 708.437.4732 exposing our students to it in the biggest impact,” says Alex or email a purposeful way, we prepare Treyger, the facilitator of edutpecorar@guerinprep.org them to go out and succeed in cational technology and Idea a competitive world. We also Connector at Chicago Jewish are able to help children have Day School. guerinprep.org | 8001 West Belmont | River Grove | 708.453.6233 positive and fun learning

ENROLL NOW!

Discover Your Best Self

94 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section Akiba-Schechter Jewish Day School PreK-8th Grade 5235 S. Cornell (773) 493-8880 akibaschechter.org Akiba-Schechter Jewish Day School welcomes you to join us for one of three open houses. Preschool: November 6, 9:30 -11:00 a.m. Kindergarten: November 14. Tours at 6:45 p.m., Program at 7:30 p.m. Grades ½: November 21. 7:30 p.m.

All events will be held at the school.

RSVP to Yelena Spector, Director of Admissions, at admissions@akibaschechter.org or 773-493-8880.

Brehm Preparatory School 1245 E. Grand Ave., Carbondale (618) 457-0371 brehm.org Brehm School is a coed family-style boarding school for students, grades 6-12, with complex learning disabilities. Brehm offers a unique holistic program that addresses each student’s academic, emotional and social needs.

The curriculum is college-preparatory with emphasis placed on becoming independent learners and developing self-advocacy skills.

British School of Chicago PreK – 12th Grade 814 W. Eastman, Chicago (773) 506-2097 britishschoolofchicago.org admissionsbsc@wclschools.org

The British School of Chicago offers an internationally-respected, learning focused curriculum that is used all around the world. Contact the admissions office to schedule your small group tour for the Early Years Program.

Open Houses: Early Years, Sunday, November 3rd, 9am-12pm and High School Information Evening, Thursday, November 21, 6pm

Chalk Preschool Lakeview: 2840 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 935-7300 Clybourn: 1425 N. Dayton (312) 867-7100 Lakeshore East: 360 E. South Water St. (312) 565-7300 chalkpreschool.com Safe and inspirational preschools, where play becomes learning. Our approach is based on traditional standards taught with hands on activities and arts integration. Year round, open enrollment, request start date and days of attendance. Includes Organic Lunch. 2, 3 and 5 days/week options for 2-6 year olds. Lakeview: 7:305:30 (drop off between 7:30-9:15- pick up at any time. Clybourn: Morning 8:3012:30, Afternoon 1:30-4:30 Lakeshore East: 7:30- 5:30(drop off between 7:309:15-pick up at any time).

Chicago Grammar School Pre-K – 8th grade 900 N. Franklin, Chicago (312) 944-5600

chicagogrammar.org Chicago Grammar School provides a rigorous classical curriculum fully integrated with the arts for the 21st century.

Information Nights: Oct. 24, Nov. 12, and Dec. 11 or call for a private tour.

Chicago Jewish Day School 5959 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago (773) 271-2700 chicagojewishdayschool.org CJDS is a multi-denominational community school committed to celebrating the diversity of Jewish customs, philosophy and practice. We educate children to think clearly and deeply, to gain knowledge, acquire judgment, and respect diversity. We are committed to developing critical thinking and socially engaged intelligence that enables each child to understand and participate effectively in the affairs of their community, country, and the world at large in a collaborative effort to achieve a common good.

Deerfield, Riverwoods and Glenview Montessori Schools 3140 Riverwoods Rd., Riverwoods 760 North Ave., Deerfield 1500 Wilmot Rd., Deerfield 305 Waukegan Rd., Northfield (847) 945-8661 www.montessori-schools.com A leader in Montessori education

Top Schools

since 1966, among a select few schools nationally accredited by the American Montessori Society at the highest level of excellence, offering outstanding Montessori educational experiences for infants through sixth graders in four beautiful, natural settings. Half, school, full day and individualized programs available school year, summer camp or year round.”

Detour 2 Discovery Day School 2001 South Wabash Ave., Chicago (312) 949-CARE (2273) detour2discovery.com Loving & creative programming for children ages eight weeks through six years old. Detour 2 Discovery has been at the forefront of Early Childhood Education for more than twenty-one years. We are best known for our progressive philosophy, appreciation for cultural differences and having the lowest child-to-staff ratios in the Midwest. Call today to schedule a tour!

The Gardner School Warrenville: (630) 657-5029 Chicago-West Loop: 1301 Madison St., Suite 100 (312) 229-4299 Coming Soon!

Glenview Bucktown (630) 639-1008 Academically focused and award win-

"Within the child lies the fate of the future" - Maria Montessori

• Half-Day Preschool Programs for ages 2 yrs – 5yrs

• Mommy and Me Classes starting at 12 months old

• Call Today to Schedule a tour!

• Lunch and Fun/ Afternoon Enrichment

Open Enrollment!

Now enrolling children 2½-6

1327 N. Larrabee - Chicago, IL 60610

312.255.0885

www.lovebugschicago.com

programs offered; morning, extended day, all day, organic hot lunch

1501 W Fullerton | 773-348-7340 www.MontessoriLincolnPark.com ChicagoParent.com November 2013 95

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Top Schools

special advertising section

ning preschool for ages from 6 weeks to 5 years old. At The Gardner School we are committed to providing a nurturing environment for learning readiness where your child can prepare for academic achievement and lifelong success.

Gateway Montessori School 3748 West Monroe, Chicago (773) 539-3025 gatewaymontessorischool.org Gateway Montessori is a nonprofit education center for young children, dedicated to quality education based on the principles of Dr. Maria Montessori.

Montessori education is a non-traditional and holistic approach to working with young children. More than just academics, Montessori education aids the natural development of children, beginning from birth. Gateway offers The Parent-Infant Program, ages 3 months to 18 months; The Community, ages 15 months to 3 years; Children’s House, 3-6 years; and Elementary, ages 6-9 years.

GEMS World AcademyChicago K – 12; Now enrolling K – 5 for September 2014 333 E. Benton Place, Suite 205 Chicago gemsworldacademy-chicago.com

of the future. Our innovative teaching, technology-rich learning environment, dedicated parent engagement programs, and challenging International Baccalaureate curriculum, successfully prepares students for both higher education and career. As a part of the GEMS Education network of international schools, GEMS World Academy-Chicago students collaborate with their GEMS peers across four continents.

Guerin Prep 8001 W. Belmont, River Grove (708) 453-6233 guerinprep.org Catholic co-ed community of 450 students and families. Exceptional student environment and academics encourage students to discover their best selves. Award-winning arts and athletics. Attentive faculty provides personal attention to students. Convenient location in northwest suburbs.

Intercultural Montessori Language School 301 S. Ridgeland, Oak Park (708) 838-6626 114 S. Racine, Chicago (312) 265-1514

dren with the skills required for citizenship within a global society.

Kiddie Academy Batavia (630) 761-4500 (630) 679-9400 Bolingbrook Carpentersville (847) 844-8600 Crystal Lake (815) 893-0924 (815) 609-0900 Plainfield Streamwood (630) 497-0200 kiddieacademy.com A warm, nurturing atmosphere for ages 6 weeks- 12 years. Before and after school age program and preschool enrichment program. Our primary goals are to prepare your children for a life of learning and to instill in them self-confidence and self-esteem, utilizing a stateof- the-art, age-appropriate, education-based ‘life essentials’ curriculum

Lakefront Children’s Academy Ages 2-6 years old through pre-k and Kindergarten 400 E. Randolph St. Ste. 6B Chicago (312) 819-1760 lakefrontchildrensacademy.com

A dual language school that nurtures Open House: Friday, 10/25/13 at 5:30pm learning in an environment that celLakefront Children’s Academy’s is a ebrates cultural differences. We aim modern, downtown preschool offerto educate children ages 3 to 12 years ing scenic views of Lake Michigan to become bilingual and bi-literate by At GEMS World Academy-Chicago, stuand features cozy classrooms and offering programs in Spanish/English, dents develop character, values, talents unlimited outdoor space for nature Japanese/ English and Chinese/ and personal skills to achieve their full SSKS-ChiPrntHalfPgAd-10'13-4_SSKS-TimeOutChicago 10/10/13 2:47 PMwalks/playground Page 1 activities.

We English. Our curriculum equips chilpotential as global citizens and leaders offer Reading, Language Arts, Math,

Science, Spanish, Art, Music/Private Piano Lessons, Computer and Physical Education classes. Call 312-819-1760 to schedule a tour.

Lovebugs Preschool Ages 2 to 5 1327 N Larrabbee, Chicago (312) 255-0885 lovebugschicago.com Here at Lovebugs we have personally designed our environment to provide a loving, safe, and stimulating setting.

Our teaching will continue to inspire creativity, independence, friendship, fun and play. Our goal is to mold our programs to the children, providing developmentally appropriate play_ based curriculum. With our great 6:1 student ratio, we are allowed to assess each child, placing them in the best setting according to readiness and view them a unique individuals with different patterns of growth and learning abilities.

Montessori Academy of Chicago Birth – 8th Grade 1335 W. Randolph St., Chicago (312) 243-0977 montessoriacademychicago.org.

The Academy is committed to academic excellence and offers Montessoriinspired, independent, creative, intellectually based-curriculum programs from Birth–8th Grade.

Join us and experience the advantage our Academy brings! Coffee Sessions:

Ready to take on the world

St. Stan’s will provide your child with a rich and rewarding education combining a challenging academic enviroment, and an educational philosophy grounded in achieving one’s personal best.

1255 North Noble Street, Chicago

|

Our Programs Include: • The Leader In Me Program based on Steven Covey’s 7 Habits • The Reading & Writing Project of Columbia University • The University of Chicago’s Everyday Math

773.278.4560

|

StStansChicago.org

St. Stan's Open Houses: November 13, 2013 January 26, 2014 February 10, 2014 April 8, 2014 Schedule an appointment to tour the school!

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special advertising section 11/12 or 12/17, 9:00-10:30AM. Open House: 12/5, 5:30-7:00PM.

(312) 913-9793 rainforestschool.com

Montessori of Lincoln Park

Rainforest’s use of the arts to encourage academic, personal and social growth has become our defining feature. Through our wide-ranging programs, children develop a strong sense of artistic engagement and cultural awareness that offers developmental, intellectual and emotional benefits to each child.

1501 W. Fullerton, Chicago (773) 348-7340 montessorilincolnpark.com A primary program for children ages three to six, as well as Spanish, Grace & Courtesy, Field Trips and Special Events.

Based on Maria Montessori’s approach to education, our environment operates on the principle of freedom within limits, respect for one’s self, for others and for the environment.

Nazareth Academy 1209 W. Ogden, La Grange Park (708) 354-0061 nazarethacademy.com Experience Nazareth Academy at Open House Nazareth Academy invites middle school students and their families to Experience Nazareth at Open House. Visit us Sunday, November 10, presentations at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. or Thursday, December 5, presentation at 7 p.m. Attending Open House provides you with an opportunity to learn about the Scholarship, Service, Spirit and Unity of Nazareth Academy.

Rainforest Rainforest Learning Center 6 weeks – 6 years old Environmental School for the Arts 1325 S. State St., Chicago

Rainforest Learning Center 2 6 weeks – 6 years old Environmental School for the Arts 2545 W. Diversey, Chicago (773) 384-4466 rainforestschool.com Rainforest’s use of the arts to encourage academic, personal and social growth has become our defining feature. Our programs go beyond traditional finger-painting and crayons (through we have this, too) and include work with a diverse range of media like sculpture, pottery, painting, piano, dance, yoga, and theater. Our programs nurture each student’s creative vision.

Solomon Schechter Day School of Metropolitan Chicago Solomon Schechter Early Childhood Center with the Marvel D. and Stanley J. z”l Ginsburg PreK Program

4500 Dempster St., Skokie (847) 674-3206 Sager Solomon Schechter Day School (K-8) 3210 Dundee Rd., Northbrook (847) 412-5654 schechter.org At Solomon Schechter Day School, children flourish in our 21st century learning environment and nurturing Jewish community. Every day, gifted educators ignite our students’ Jewish souls, educate them to their highest potential, and empower them to use their knowledge, creativity, and skills to enrich our world. Call today to schedule a tour! 847.412.5654.

St. Stanislaus Kostka School PreK 3 to 8th grade 1255 N. Noble St., Chicago (773) 278-4560 StStansChicago.org St. Stanislaus Kostka School is dedicated to preparing young people for lives of excellence. Students’ curiosities are met with innovative and challenging academics, from the Leader In Me program to the University of Chicago’s Everyday Math program. St. Stan’s students distinguish themselves as leaders ready to take on the world.

Trinity Christian College Adult Studies Programs Main Campus: Palos Heights Off-site locations for education program:

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Addison & Chicago (708) 239-4768 adultstudies.trnty.edu Trinity Christian College offers accelerated degree-completion programs.

With classes meeting only one night per week, the Adult Studies program is a convenient alternative for working adults who want to complete their education without sacrificing time on the job or with their families. Students apply their existing college credit and finish their education or business degree in two years. Trinity’s affordable tuition, accelerated classes, and evening format are a good fit for most adult students.

Urban Prairie Waldorf School PreK to 8th Grade 1220 W. Lexington, Chicago (312) 733-5337 urbanprairie.org Urban Prairie is a vibrant community that embraces the unique Waldorf curriculum. Our children enjoy rigorous academics infused with music, art, and movement plus Spanish and Mandarin instruction beginning in 1st grade. Our curriculum fosters social connectedness plus a strong affinity and stewardship for our environment. Contact admissions@urbanprairie.org for information.

Everything Everything MOM WANTS. CHILDREN LOVE.

Life Essentials® Life Essentials ® is Kiddie Academy’s proprietary curriculum, supporting programs, methods, activities and techniques that help better prepare children for school and for life.

NOW ENROLLING! Batavia 630.761.4500 BolingBrook 630.679.9400 Carpentersville 847.844.8600

Crystal lake 815.893.0924 streamwood 630.497.0200 plainfield 815.609.0900

FREE REGISTRATION! Offer expires 12/31/13.

New customers only. Not redeemable for cash. One offer per child.

Call academy for details.

kiddieacademy.com

INFANTS • TODDLERS • BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL • PRESCHOOL CS130848 Chicago COOP 2013 Fall Color Ad 7.4x4.625.indd 1

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10/18/13 12:45 PM

Natures Creatures Animal Show

JODI KOPLIN'S

JODIKOPLIN'S KOPLIN'S JODI LI OP

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

N'S

I Kfor "a musicfest children"" "amusicfest musicfest forchildren" children" "a O D for J

hi or c f t s cfe Funtastic Interactive Concerts usi m "a

ldre

n

Just Jodi or with The Jigglejam Band!

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

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

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Face Painting by Amanda Birthdays Picnics Parties Festivals All Events!

amanda@amandapaint.com

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

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

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

North Cook and Lake 224-676-1635

Chicago 773-227-3345

Western Suburbs 630-393-3322

98 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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KIDZMAGIC

Introducing the Magical “Monster Max”

by Andrew

Magical Entertainment for all occasions!

Award-winning magician with over 30 years experience!

All Birthday Shows include balloon animals and live rabbits!

Also offering Face Painting!

As seen on WGN, WTTW, Don’t miss our newest magic trick, and “BirthDAy ChilD levitAteS” NBC Local!

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Magic & Juggling Shows Balloon Animals and Puppets

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Mention “give thanks” When Booking for $10 off offer expires 11/30/13

Providing Fun & Adventure for over 30 years.

You come to us or we come to you!

Taylor Made Productions • Mobile Dj • Magicians • Jugglers • Costumed Characters • Moonwalks • Mobile Rock Climbing • Clowns State-Licensed Agency

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The Bus of Fun will come to your home for your child’s next Birthday Party.

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Carol Weston

Traveling Players presents

CE JUMP SING DANIG AND W GLE

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Call to learn about Fall/ Halloween Programs for October!

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T is theSeason with Mrs. Klaus

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Mrs. N Traveling

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Mrs. Newberry's Traveling Tea Party

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Kids +CAC =

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NOVEMBER

calendar

1

If you’ve got kids who never stop asking questions, here’s your chance to get to the bottom of at least one of their queries. At Why Are Blue Jeans Blue?, kids 6 and up with an adult will learn the story of blue jeans—paging Levi Strauss!—and then get a chance to tie-dye a bandana in an indigo pot. Bring kitchen gloves, a plastic shopping bag ... and a curious mind. Free. 2-4 p.m. Nov. 16. The Lurie Garden in Millennium Park, Columbus Drive and Monroe Street, Chicago. (312) 742-1762, luriegarden.org.

2

The average American eats almost three pounds of turkey at the Thanksgiving table, which translates to … a lot of calories (and that’s not factoring in the yams!). So squeeze in some exercise and some valuable family time on Black Friday with the Turkey Trot Hike.

Families hike along the scenic trails surrounding the Trailside Museum of Natural History, learning some fun facts from a naturalist along the way. Don’t forget your pedometer! Registration required. Free. 1-2:30 p.m. Nov. 29. 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

3

We’re strong believers in waiting until the tryptophan has worn off to welcome the holiday season, which is why The Signature Room’s Holiday Kickoff Party is pretty perfectly timed. Families can toast the season with kid-friendly mocktails, decorate some yummy holiday cookies and have a face-to-face meeting with Santa Claus himself—with a view that rivals any sleigh’s.

Elves will be standing by to help assemble wish lists—as if your kids needed any assistance. $32, $15 kids. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 30. Signature Room at the 95th, 875 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago.

(312) 787-9596, signatureroom.com.

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CALENDAR OAKBROOK TERRACE PARK DISTRICT HAS LOTS OF FUN FOR EVERYONE! FALL OPEN HOUSE AT THE LAKE VIEW NATURE CENTER

Does your child snore?

Does your child have multiple ear or sinus infections?

Saturday, November 23 Noon - 4 PM

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Saturday, December 7 9 am $15 R/$20 NR

WINTER BREAK CAMP December 23, 26 & 27 - $80 R/$90 NR December 30, January 2 & 3 - $80 R/$90 NR 7 am-6 pm Grades: K-8th Please register now as space is limited!

Pediatric Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists Visit us at any of our locations!

In the city: 1460 N. Halsted St. Suite 506 In the suburbs:

1 S 325 Ardmore Avenue Villa Park, IL (630) 627-6100 www.obtpd.org

The deadline for submitting listings for the December issue is Oct. 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 120.

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar

GINGERBREAD HOUSE WORKSHOP Friday, December 20 11 am-11:30 am Age: 2-3 with parent 3:45 pm-4:15 pm Age: 3-4 4:30 pm-5 pm Age: 5-7 $15 R/$20 NR

About the calendar

Niles, Skokie, Park Ridge, Libertyville, Glenview & Highland Park

Skeleb Skel Sk eleb el ebra r ti tion on Seee ppaagee 1199

1 | FRIDAY FAMILY DAYS AT THE SMART.

chicago parent’s annual gift guide

Katherine K. Hamming, M.D.

Jingle Bell, Jingle Buy

Robert P. Miller, M.D.

A drop-in program of hands-on art activities and tours that encourage kids 4-12 and their parents to engage in creativity. Art-making supplies and other materials are provided.

Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. 1-4 p.m.

Smart Museum of Art, University of Chicago, 5550 S. Greenwood Ave., Chicago. (773) 702-0200, smart museum.uchicago.edu.

SAIGE’S CELEBRATION. Girls 8 and

David L. Walner, M.D.

Coming in December HOLIDAY ON A BUDGET Make or bake your gifts

December 2012

Real Happy Families

A

228 ways to celebrate the season

Big givers

Lurie Children’s Hospital Rush University Medical Center Lutheran General Children’s Hospital

A CH NE IC W C A L om G O O O K m ing PA on n R F O th ex E N R t T

Four who inspire

On Staff at:

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

To make an appt.

Call 847-674-5585 www.pediatricentchicago.com

up learn about the new contemporary character, make crafts and enjoy a meal. Includes an American Girl

book to take home. Reservations required. $30 per person. 7:30 p.m. American Girl Place, 835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (877) 2475223, americangirl.com.

HALLOWEEN COSTUME CONTEST. Halloween-goers of

all ages can participate. The first place winners receive a party for eight guests; second place winners receive a party for four guests and third place winners receive a $25 Pinstripes gift certificate. At all three Chicagoland locations.

8 p.m. Pinstripes, 1150 Willow Road, Northbrook. (847) 480-2323, pinstripes.com.

About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the December issue is Oct. 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 120.

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar

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CALENDAR NATURE WALKS. Join a naturalist for a light hike around the grounds of Irons Oaks. Each hike has a different focus. Pre-register two days before hike. 9-10 a.m.

Irons Oaks, 20000 S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields. (708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

JUST THE GUYS OVERNIGHT.

Dads and sons listen to nighttime creatures on a hike to Lake Marmo, then relax with s’mores around the campfire. Enjoy a light breakfast before a bird hike the next morning. $51, $40 members. 7 p.m.-9 a.m.

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

MOTHER/DAUGHTER SLEEPOVER.

Girls 3-7 enjoy a night of pampering, crafting and fun. Come dressed in jammies and play games, paint nails and have lots of sleepover fun.

A pizza dinner is provided. $36 per pair, $24 per resident pair; sibling rate available. 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Springbrook Golf Course Range Room, 2220 W. 83rd St., Naperville.

(630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

STORYBOOK COOKS: JAMBERRY.

Stories come to life for kids 4-5 through the recipes featured in both old and new beloved tales. All recipes are provided. Bring an apron. $29, $19 resident. Noon-2 p.m. 95th Street Center Culinary Arts, 2244 W. 95th St., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

2 | SATURDAY SUBURBS DANCE SLAM 2013. The largest

dance competition in the country, Dance Slam is an exciting, facepaced dance-off that features a wide variety of styles from hip-hop, ballet, tap and jazz to contemporary and more. Call for cost. 8 p.m. Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport Ave. (773) 327-5252, dancechicago.com.

ONCE UPON A SYMPHONY STONE SOUP. Designed for children ages

3-5, “Stone Soup” incorporates a performance by a small ensemble of CSO musicians and a storyteller with video projections, costumes and props that give young children a playful introduction to music.

Preconcert activities begin 45 minutes before each concert. $16. 10 and 11:45 a.m. Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 294-3000, cso.org.

DOLL ’DOS AND HOW-TOS. Doll Hair

Salon stylists show lots of ways to style a doll’s hair using the Bright Highlights Set, vibrant clip-in hair colors made just for My American Girl dolls. $28. 8:15 a.m. American Girl Place, 835 N. Michigan Ave. (877) 247-5223, americangirl.com.

SUBURBS CHESS MATES. Play chess with an expert from CheckMatesUSA. All ages and skill levels are welcome but a basic understanding is required.

Materials provided. 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Des Plaines Public Library, 1501 Ellinwood St., Des Plaines. (847) 376-2839, dppl.org.

NATIVE AMERICAN DAY.

Families with kids 5 and up play traditional Native American games and listen to stories in a reproduction wigwam. View atlatl throwing and fire-making demonstrations. $3 to create a beaded necklace and a cornhusk doll. 1-4 p.m. Elk Grove Historical Museum, 399 Biesterfield Road, Elk Grove Village. (847) 4393994, elkgroveparks.org/museum campus.asp.

FULL MOON WALK. An evening of

folklore and stories under the light

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CHICAGO

World Citizens. World Families. World Academy.

GEMS World Academy-Chicago. Architect’s rendering.

OPENING SEPTEMBER 2014 • NOW ENROLLING K– 5 Attend an Open House.

To make a reservation, please call (312) 300-6658.

GEMS World Academy-Chicago is the first K–12 school in the U.S. from award-winning educator GEMS Education. www.gemsworldacademy-chicago.com

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CALENDAR of a full moon. Program ends with marshmallows around the campfire.

Pre-registration required. $6, $4 resident. 7-8:30 p.m. Irons Oaks, 20000 S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields.

(708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

prizes, for kids 6 and up. $17, $15 resident. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Community Center, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville.

(630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

WILDERNESS SKILLS 101. Families

WIMPY KID BOOK RELEASE PARTY. Play games and Wimpy

Jeopardy, have snacks and raffles to celebrate Book #8’s release.

Registration is required. 2-4 p.m.

Homewood Public Library, 17917 Dixie Highway, Homewood. (708) 798-0121 ext. 222, homewood library.org.

AMERICAN LEGION PANCAKE BREAKFAST. Feast on pancakes, sau-

sage, eggs, and biscuits and gravy. $6 in advance, $7 at door; $2 kids 4 and under. 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.

(630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

GRANDPARENT/GRANDCHILD BINGO & PIZZA. Includes 12 games of Bingo,

a snack, pizza and a drink, and

with kids 8 and up get some hands-on practice at essential skills like navigating the woods, finding and collecting water, building a shelter, and starting a fire, with instruction from experts from REI. $17, $10 member. 1-2:30 p.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

3 | SUNDAY CHICAGO AMERICAN GIRL AT WICKED. An afternoon of live musical theater followed by dinner. Go from American Girl Place to the Oriental Theatre for a matinee performance of Wicked, then back to the American Girl Cafe for a meal. Round-trip transportation

Chrriis Ch sttk kiiind nd ndlm dlm mar a ke et

provided. $110. 1 p.m. American Girl Place, 835 N. Michigan Ave. (877) 247-5223, americangirl.com.

SUBURBS THE NON-SPORT CARD ANNEX & COLLECTORS GATHERING. Expo

of nonsport entertainment trading cards, comic books, toys and movie

items. Check website for schedule. $4. 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Oremus Community Center, 7900 S. Oketo Ave., Bridgeview. (708) 430-8107, chicagolandexpo.com.

SMASHING PUMPKINS. Bring a used pumpkin, create your own catapult, and learn how to lob. Free with admission. 1-4 p.m. Discovery Center

advertising // Maternity Listings Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago Offering the best pediatric care, with the latest technology and research

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The Area’s Largest Selection of Youth Furniture

In-Studio and Off-Site Sessions Available

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Dr. Smith’s Diaper Rash Ointment

Kohl Children’s Museum

Parent’s go-to choice to soothe and treat irritated baby bottoms fast.

Locations in Northeastern Illinois and Wisconsin (877) 358-0833 aurorahealthcare.org

Available at Walgreens locations doctorsmiths.com

Be By Baby

Ages 6 wks – 5 yrs

Extensive selection of nursing and maternity bras (cups A-K), chic maternity and nursing apparel, organic stretch oils, support belts, birth and prenatal classes, in the heart of Lakeview.

1654 W Roscoe St., Chicago (773) 404-BABY info@BeByBaby.com BeByBaby.com

The Gardner School of Chicago West Loop Campus 1301 West Madison Street, Suite 100, Chicago (312) 229-4299 TheGardnerSchool.com

The Gardner School of Naperville Ages 6 wks – 5 yrs

28W611 Ferry Rd., Warrenville (630) 657-5029 TheGardnerSchool.com

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

Mabel’s Labels Personalized Mabel’s Labels are perfect for identifying all lookalike baby gear!

RPO Dundurn, PO Box 33561 Hamilton, ON Canada L8P 4X4 (866) 306-2235 mabelslabels.com

Northwest Community Healthcare Family centered maternity care-state of the art medical facilities

800 W. Central Rd., Arlington Heights (847) 618-1000 nch.org

Rooms 4 Kids Furniture Outlet Conversion cribs, beds & much more

629 W. Cermak Rd., Chicago (312) 226-6666 Open weekends or by apt. rooms4kids.com

University of Chicago Medical Center Women’s Health Care and Maternity

5815 S. Maryland Ave., Chicago (773) 702-1000 uchospitals.edu/programs/ maternity-tour

West Suburban Medical Center The Irvin & Margaret Family Birthplace

Portrait Innovations

3 Erie Court, Oak Park (708) 383-6200 westsuburbanmc.com

Beautiful Portraits. Beautiful Gifts

Multiple locations portraitinnovations.com

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CALENDAR 8 | FRIDAY FAMILY OWL PROWL. Learn about

owls, dissect owl pellets, enjoy a hike, and end with some hot chocolate. Dress for the weather and be prepared to walk through snowy or wet trails. $18 household, $12 resident household. 6:30-8 p.m.

Irons Oaks, 20000 S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields. (708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

AN EVENING AT TRAILSIDE MUSEUM. Sample a variety of pro-

grams and nature crafts, chat with naturalists and view the collection of mammal furs and skulls. A rare behind-the-scenes program shows how food is prepared for the animals.

Refreshments will be served. 5-8 p.m.

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest.

(708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

Onc ce c e Up po on A Sy ymp mpho hony ny Sto one So on Sou up p

ART MUSEUM BOOK PARTY!

SSeee N Noov. v. 2

Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford.

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

FROM HOG HOUSE TO SMOKEHOUSE.

See how 19th century farm families preserved meat and other food for the long winter. Features demonstrations, craft activities, wagon rides and refreshments. $2 person, $8 family. Noon-4 p.m. Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm, 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. (847) 985-2100, parkfun.com.

TOY SOLDIER SHOW. Toy sol-

dier enthusiasts display collections of small-scale soldiers and armaments. $5 parking. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.

(630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

4 | MONDAY THE BULLY SHOW. Join Professor

McBumble and his group of rag tag actors as they present three fairy

tales with an anti-bullying message.

Updated adaptions of Little Red Ridinghood, The Ugly Duckling and Three Billy Goats Gruff are performed in this musical. Recommended for families with kids 4-9. $6-$8. 10:30 a.m. AlphaBet Soup Productions, Lincoln Way North High School, 19900 S. Harlem Ave., Frankfort. (630) 9321555, absproductions.com.

GRANDPARENT/GRANDCHILD BINGO BONANZA. Includes bingo, pizza, bev-

erages and prizes. $10, free parking.

5:30-7:30 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 6685161, cantigny.org.

5 | TUESDAY THE BULLY SHOW. Frankfort. See

Nov. 4.

FALL INTO ART. Falling seeds, colorful leaves and sleepy animals are the inspiration for this art-based program. Kids 3-5, with adult, create artwork using seasonal changes and

natural materials. $25, $18 member.

9:30-11 a.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle.

(630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

6 | WEDNESDAY ART IN AUTUMN. This sense-based

program for kids 18-35 months with adult, draws upon the changing season’s themes and fall shapes and colors. Crunchy leaves, tree seeds and a color hunt will be the inspiration for art to take home. $22, $15 member. 9:30-10:45 a.m.

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

7 | THURSDAY NATURE STORY TIME. Natureinspired stories, crafts and activities for kids 3-5 with adult. $1 per child.

10:30-11:15 a.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

Kids in grades 4-6 read From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg ahead of time and enjoy trivia, games and crafts focusing on art in museums. 6:30 p.m. Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S. Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 834-0202, elmhurstartmuseum.org.

OLD FASHIONED CAMPFIRE. Take a

short hike with a naturalist along the trails, play games, and enjoy marshmallows roasted over the campfire. $8, free kids 2 and under. 5:30-7 p.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

9 | SATURDAY CHICAGO SECOND SATURDAYS. Explore the

city’s stories through interactive activities, make-and-take crafts, music, performances and more. Musician and educator Lenny Marsh helps visitors explore Chicago’s rich musical past with interactive activities.

Free with admission; free kids 12 and under. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St. (312) 642-4600, chicagohistory.org.

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CALENDAR reptiles and dinosaurs and the proper way to handle the animals. 2-3 p.m.

Morton Grove Public Library, 6140 Lincoln Ave., Morton Grove. (847) 929-5102, webrary.org.

KIDS FARE: BRASSTACULAR! The

From Fr m Ho og g House ou o us se e to o Sm moke mo keho hous use Seee Nov. Noov.

N v. 3

SUBURBS STARRY STARRY NIGHT. Kids 7 and

up step inside the Starlab portable planetarium and take a tour of the night sky. Learn to identify constellations and discover stories told about them for centuries, then head outside to practice identifying skills.

Kids must be accompanied by an adult. $8. 5-6:30 p.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernature center.org.

SUPER SCIENCE SATURDAYS.

Kids 3-7 explore, discover and create through hands-on science activities.

Parents are encouraged to attend.

Today’s theme is “Hot and Cold.”

10-10:30 a.m. West Chicago Public Library, 118 W. Washington St., West Chicago. (630) 231-1552, west chicago.lib.il.us.

COLD BLOODED CREATURES.

Kids see and touch live alligators, snakes, lizards and a tortoise, plus learn about the relationship between

Brass Ensemble showcases the brass family of instruments in an interactive program. Kids Fare concerts are one-hour programs appropriate for kids 3-8. Each interactive program engages children’s understanding of music through song, guided listening experiences and creative movement. $6, $4 kids. 10:30 a.m. Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music, 50 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. (847) 467-4000, pickstaiger.org.

FAMILY GEOCACHING ADVENTURE.

Learn how to use a GPS unit to find geocaches and uncover clues that help you solve a nature-based mystery. GPS units will be provided, but feel free to bring your own.

Pre-registration required. $18, $12

resident household. 10 a.m.-noon.

Irons Oaks, 20000 S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields. (708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

MUSEUM DISCOVERY DAYS: GIVE THANKS TO NATURE. A variety

of nature-related art projects and selfguided activities suitable for the whole family. 1-4 p.m. Irons Oaks, 20000 S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields. (708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

STARS OF DANCE CHICAGO. This

showcase features all dance forms.

Call for cost and time. Ramsey Auditorium, Fermilab, 900 S. Kirk Road, Batavia. (773) 327-5252, dancechicago.com.

10 | SUNDAY CHICAGO TROUT FISHING IN AMERICA. Kids’

concert. $12, $11 members. 3 p.m.

Old Town School of Folk Music, 4545 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 728-6000, oldtownschool.org.

advertising // Holiday Dance Showcase A Fairytale Ballet Where imagination and dance live happily ever after.

5 pm Sunday, December 15, 2 pm

The Nutcracker presented by North Shore School of Dance

(847) 673-6300 saltcreekballet.org

Chicago/Lakeview, Chicago/ Bucktown, Evanston AFairytaleBallet.com

Schaumburg Prairie Center for the Arts

Ballet Legere

The Nutcracker Friday, Saturday and Sundays December 6, 7, 8, 13, 14 & 15 (call or visit website for times)

The Nutcracker Dominican University River Forest

Saturday, December 14, 2 pm and 7 pm Sunday, December 15, 2 pm Backstage Tour: December 14 ($6 per person) Fieldtrip Opportunities: December 12, 13, 16 (773) 237-1874 balletlegere.org

Joffrey Ballet The Nutcracker Dec. 6-28th; Performances at the Auditorium Theatre 50 East Congress Parkway, Chicago (800) 982-2787 (ARTS) joffrey.org/performances joffrey.org/performances/tickets

(847) 895-3600 prairiecenter.org

A Winter Celebration: The 25th Anniversary Production of The Nutcracker North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie Salt Creek Ballet’s The Nutcracker 9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie

December 14 & 15, Sat 1pm & 5pm, Sun 2pm (847) 673-6300 www.NorthShoreCenter.org

Salt Creek Ballet The Nutcracker Hinsdale Central Auditorium

Saturday, Sunday, November 30 and December 1 - 1 pm (with Sugar Plum Party) (630) 769-1199 The Center For Performing Arts, University Park

Saturday, December 7, 1pm and 5pm (708) 235-2222 North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, Skokie

Saturday, December 7th at 1:00 & 4:00p.m., and on Sunday, December 8th at 2:00p.m.

Raymond Moore Auditorium at Lake Forest High School 1285 North McKinley Road , Lake Forest .

North Shore School of Dance (847) 432-2060 www.northshoredance.com

Saturday, December 14, 1 pm and ChicagoParent.com November 2013 109

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CALENDAR JUNIOR ARCHAEOLOGISTS. Kids 5-12, with adult, learn how archaeologists work in the field and discover artifacts, then take part in excavating a simulated dig in the Oriental Institute’s Kipper Family Archaeology Discovery Center. $9, $5 museum members. 2-4 p.m. Oriental Institute Museum, 1155 E. 58th St. (773) 702-9514, oi.uchicago.edu.

SUBURBS

ON THE TRAIL OF THE WHITETAILED DEER. Explore the history

of this native animal and touch real deer artifacts. 1-2 p.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

WILDERNESS SKILLS 101. Lisle. See

Nov. 2.

11 | MONDAY

EVANSTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA.

SKY SEARCH. Kids 7-10 visit the

Evanston 150 celebration opens with a brass fanfare and closes with two pieces that highlight individual members of the orchestra. In between, the Carnival of the Animals features narration of the Ogden Nash verses. $30, $25 seniors, free kids 12 and under; $35 at the door, $30 seniors at the door; $5 students with ID. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music, 50 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. (847) 4674000, pickstaiger.org.

indoor Starlab portable planetarium to discover the night sky in the middle of the day, then make a star chart to continue exploring the stars from home. $12. 1-3 p.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

ART IN AUTUMN. Lisle. See Nov. 6.

13 | WEDNESDAY FALL INTO ART. Lisle. See Nov. 5.

Lap La piidary da d arry y Acttiiv Ac viitty y Day ay Seee N Noov. v. 16

14 | THURSDAY

FALL INTO ART. Lisle. See Nov. 5.

15 | FRIDAY

BAKERS IN TRAINING. Kids in grades 2-4 take a tour of the Panera Bread Bakery in Wheaton, score a French baguette, and decorate a cookie to take home. 4:30-5:30 p.m.

West Chicago Public Library, 118 W. Washington St., West Chicago. (630) 231-1552, westchicago.lib.il.us.

MOTHER-DAUGHTER COOKIE NIGHT.

Girls 4-8 enjoy an evening together with their moms and Kelly from the Café, who is also a pastry chef.

Participants will decorate cookies and bake specialty items. Plus, play

Now Open!

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CALENDAR

Now opeN at Discovery ceNter MuseuM Creativity will flow in the Build It! Make It! exhibit now open at Discovery Center and running through January 5. Visitors will design, create and construct whatever they can imagine in our 5,000 sq ft traveling exhibit hall with all kinds of building items. Play with ideas, explore materials and tinker with tools! To learn more about the exhibit, check out www.discoverycenter museum.org/exhibits/special.asp

McD Mc cDo Don na ald d’s s Th T ha an n nk ksgiv ks viing g Pa P a ara rad ra rade de e SSeee N Noov. 28

baking games and enjoy refreshments. Check website for cost. 6:30-8 p.m. Sachs Recreation Center, 455 Lake Cook Road, Deerfield. (847) 945-0650, dfpd.org.

JUST MOM AND ME. Girls 8 and up

enjoy a special meal, make a paper family tree, and sign a “motherdaughter promise” to keep creating memories. Includes a keepsake photo and frame, plus an American Girl book to take home. Reservations required. $43 per person. 7:30 p.m.

American Girl Place, 835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (877) 247-5223, americangirl.com.

CINDERELLA’S BALL. Come dressed

in a princess gown to sing and dance with Cinderella and all her princess friends. Includes music and activities led by a DJ, royal crafts and dancing with the princesses. A buffet dinner will be served. To receive the sibling discount, register in person or over the phone. $49 couple, $34 resident couple, $14 sibling. 6:30-7:45 p.m.

Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 8485000, napervilleparks.org.

16 | SATURDAY CHICAGO ANCIENT GAME NIGHT. Families

can learn the games that people

have been playing for thousands of years and play them inside the galleries. Small coloring and craft activities available for young kids. $3, free members and kids under 8.

6-8 p.m. Oriental Institute Museum, 1155 E. 58th St. (773) 702-9514, oi.uchicago.edu.

Discovery Center Museum 711 N. Main Street Rockford, IL 61103 815-963-6769 DiscoveryCenterMuseum.org

ARTISTS AND AUTHORS: HERPETOLOGY. Explore the world of

herpetology, the study of amphibians and reptiles. Meet with Field Museum scientists to see herpetology specimens up-close, then mold and sculpt a clay reptile in the PlayLab art studio or practice the art of scientific illustration and draw a reptile to take home. Free with admission. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive. (312) 922-9410, fieldmuseum.org.

DANCE CHICAGO FUTURE STARS.

A look at the next wave of Chicago dance talent with performances from young choreographers, companies and dancers. Call for cost. 8 p.m.

Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport Ave. (773) 327-5252, dancechicago.com.

Taught by an experienced staff of native speakers, ChinaFriends has been offering MANDARIN CLASSES since 2005 and engages students with a fun, highly interactive approach using age-appropriate activities and the support of an internationally-acclaimed curriculum.

Classes are offered seven days a week. Come join us!

FAMILY MATINEE SERIES MOTHER GOOSE AND MORE. Members of

the CSO and conductor Alastair Willis bring classic children’s stories and songs to life in this program, including scenes from Ravel’s Mother

formerly ChinaKids INFO@CHINAFRIENDS.ORG | CHINAFRIENDS.ORG 800 W. BUENA | CHICAGO | 773·525· 6000

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CALENDAR

ZooL Zo ZooL o ig ght hts s S e Ho Se Holiliiddaay Ev E ennttss

Goose Suite, as well as folk songs and lullabies. Families can arrive one hour before for activities, including performances by community music schools, composition activities with musicians from the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, an Instrument Petting Zoo and visual art activities presented by the Art Institute of Chicago. $6-$57.

11 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 294-3000, cso.org.

DOLL ’DOS AND HOW-TOS. See Nov. 2.

SUBURBS CINDERELLA’S BALL. Naperville. See Nov. 15. Today’s times are 11 a.m.12:15 p.m.

LAPIDARY ACTIVITY DAY. See demonstrations by artists from the West Suburban Lapidary Club including: beading, silversmithing, cabochon cutting, wire wrapping and faceting. Includes free hands-on

activities and jewelry cleaning. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, 220 Cottage Hill Ave. (in Wilder Park), Elmhurst. (630) 833-1616, lizzadromuseum.org.

OWL PROWL. Discover the native

owls that call Lincoln n Marsh home.

Learn owling techniques, ques, hit the trails in search h of the nocturnal predators, and end around d a campfire with hot chocolate. Kids must be accompanied by a registered adult. $12, 2, $9 resident. 6-7:30 p.m. Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Harrison on and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. (630) 871-2810, -2810, lincolnmarsh.org.

MAKE YOUR OWN NATURE ATURE ORNAMENTS. Createe

ornaments and mementos mentos out of natural materials to decorate your home and garden. Outdoor

photos of families can be incorporated. $17, $10 member. 1-2:30 p.m.

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

17 | SUNDAY CHICAGO CH GET IN, GET ART GE DAYS. Today’s theme

is “Get “Ge Cooked” and features featu the art of cooking and recipes, coo and a look at how food and cooking are foo a delectable part of the arts. 2-4 p.m. th Beverly Arts Center, B 22407 W. 111th St. (773) 445-3838, (7 bbeverlyartcenter.org.

LITTLE MISS ANN LI AND AN MR. DAVE.

Children’s concert.

Ch $10, $9 members. 11

a.m. Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 7286000, oldtownschool.org.

21 | THURSDAY COOL SCIENCE: CANDY SCIENCE.

Kids 6-11 learn about the science of sugar as they make chewing gum, fudge, lollipops and more. $54, $36 resident. 5-7 p.m. 95th Street Center, 2244 W. 95th St., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

FAMILY READING NIGHT.

Celebrate a statewide event that encourages families to spend time reading together. Enjoy a lively presentation of stories told by costumed characters from favorite books, light refreshments and a craft. 6:30-7:30 p.m. West Chicago Public Library, 118 W. Washington St., West Chicago. (630) 231-1552, westchicago.lib.il.us.

NATURE STORY TIME. River Forest.

See Nov. 7.

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November 22, 2013 t o January 4, 2014* 4:30 p.m. with last entry at 8:30 p.m.

Come to The Morton Arboretum this holiday season to see trees in a different light.

Illumination is an interactive light experience that will engage your senses with dazzling projections, trees that respond to your touch and sound, and vivid, electric colors throughout.

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CALENDAR 22 | FRIDAY WILLY WONKA JUNIOR. Follow candy manufacturer Willy Wonka as he stages a contest by hiding five golden tickets in five of his scrumptious candy bars. $11, $6 kids 2-13, free kids under 2. 7 p.m.

Community Recreation Center, 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg.

(847) 490-7020, parkfun.com.

PARENT/CHILD CARNIVAL FAVORITES. Kids 7-12, with adult,

make corn dogs, funnel cakes and sweet potato fries with dipping sauce. Recipes provided. $44, $29 resident; free adults. 7-9 p.m. 95th Street Center Culinary Arts, 2244 W. 95th St., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

Rudo R dolp lp ph th the the Re ed d--Nose No ose sed d Re Rein ein nd de eerr Gal eer ala ala

STORYBOOK COOKS: THE NIGHT BEFORE THANKSGIVING. Stories are

brought to life for kids 4-5 through the recipes featured in old and new beloved tales. All recipes are provided.

Bring an apron. $29, $19 resident.

Noon-2 p.m. Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville.

(630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

WINTER LIGHTS HOLIDAY WALK. Features the arrival of

Santa and Mrs. Claus, Miss Merry Christmas and Jack Frost, music, lights, refreshments and the lighting of Aurora’s official tree. 5-8 p.m.

Downtown Water Street Mall, 44 E. Downer Place, Aurora. (630) 8966666, auroradowntown.org.

23 | SATURDAY CHICAGO ONCE UPON A SYMPHONY STONE SOUP. See Nov. 2.

PUERTO RICAN ARTS ALLIANCE: LOIZA IN CHICAGO. Features

AfriCaribe, a local ensemble, for a show filled with percussion-driven music and dance forms rooted in African traditions and accompanied by vibrant masks and costumes.

Recommended for families with kids 4-9. Call for cost and time. Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph Drive, in Millennium

See Nov. 24

Park. (312) 334-7777, harristheaterchicago.org.

SOUNDS OF THE SEASON. Stop by the museum to hear the seasonal sounds of period-dressed carolers on the mansion’s front porch. Outdoor event. 2-4 p.m. Driehaus Museum, 40 E. Erie St. (312) 482-8933, driehaus museum.org.

THE BMO HARRIS BANK MAGNIFICENT MILE LIGHTS FESTIVAL. Grand marshals Mickey

Mouse and Minnie Mouse lead a parade of more than 40 floats, balloons, marching bands and musical performers as they illuminate more than one million lights along The Magnificent Mile. Event concludes with fireworks over the Chicago River. Events and performers 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Lighting Procession at 5:30 p.m. North Michigan Avenue, from Oak Street to Wacker Drive.

(312) 409-5560, themagnificentmile. com/events/lights-festival.

THE FRESH BEAT BAND LIVE IN CONCERT TOUR. The live concert

comes to downtown Chicago for two performances. 1:30 and 5:30 p.m.

$30-$40. Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St. (312) 462-6350, (312) 9021500, thechicagotheatre.com.

BABY LOVES DISCO. PJ Party featuring DJs, MCs, dancers, music, crafts, food, unlimited drink boxes, cash bar for parents, and lots of dancing. $15 walking humans, $55 for four.

1:30-4 p.m. Lincoln Hall, 2424 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 525-2501, lincolnhallchicago.com.

SUBURBS WILLY WONKA JUNIOR. Schaumburg.

See Nov. 22.

FAMILY FUN SATURDAY.

Program may include stories, movies, games, music, and arts and crafts. 1-3 p.m. West Chicago Public Library, 118 W. Washington St., West Chicago. (630) 231-1552, westchicago.lib.il.us.

24 | SUNDAY CHICAGO JOSH WECKESSER SPECTACULAR.

An emceed evening directed to the

inexperienced dancegoer. From high-concept dance to lowbrow movement jokes, this show is a fun evening. Call for cost. 3 p.m. Dance Chicago, Athenaeum Theatre (Studio Two), 2936 N. Southport Ave. (773) 327-5252, dancechicago.com.

SHIMMER AND SHINE SNOWFLAKE CELEBRATION. Create a snowflake

craft and dine together at American Girl. Includes a meal, a special memory book, and an American Girl quiz book to take home. $43. 5:30 p.m. Nov. 24. American Girl Place, 835 N. Michigan Ave. (877) 2475223, americangirl.com.

RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER GALA. Enjoy a private

performance of Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer: The Musical at The Broadway Playhouse, followed by a gala luncheon in the Ritz-Carlton Chicago Ballroom that includes the chance to meet characters from the show, dancing, crafts and activities and exclusive auction items. $150; $450 family of four. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

The Ritz-Carlton Chicago, 160 E. Pearson St. (312) 266-1000, fourseasons.com/chicagorc.

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CALENDAR SUBURBS WILLY WONKA JUNIOR. Schaumburg.

See Nov. 22. Today’s time is 2 p.m.

SETTLERS’ DAY. Visit with costumed living history demonstrators representing American history from French fur trading days, pioneer times, and the Revolutionary and Civil War periods. Activities include joining an imaginary wagon train, taking guided history hikes, trying a two-person buck saw, and making a craft. Donations of money or food accepted. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sand Ridge Nature Center, 15891 Paxton Ave., South Holland. (708) 868-0606, fpdcc.com.

SKULL DETECTIVES. Examine

real skulls to figure out which animal stole the missing lunch. 1-2:30 p.m.

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest.

(708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

MAKE YOUR OWN NATURE ORNAMENTS. Lisle. See Nov. 16.

25 | MONDAY FRENCH STORYTIME AT SCHAUMBURG TOWNSHIP DISTRICT LIBRARY. Native speakers from

Language Stars provide a 30-minute interactive FunImmersion program with books, songs and activities conducted entirely in their language.

11-11:30 a.m. Schaumburg Township District Library, 130 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. languagestars.com.

HARVEST HAPPENINGS. Learn about

Native Americans and settlers while playing games, making toys, and telling stories. Bring a lunch and snack, and spend two days exploring.

Pre-registration required. $83, $66 residents. 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Northside Park, 1417 N. West St., Wheaton. 630) 665-4710, wheatonparkdistrict.com.

TALKIN’ TURKEY PARENT-CHILD ACTIVITY. Kids 3-5, with adult,

celebrate the star of Thanksgiving Day, the wild turkey. Learn about the birds, listen to stories, sing songs and make some turkey crafts. $10; free parking. 10-11 a.m. Cantigny Park,

Wre Wr ea ath t in ing g of tth he L Liions ons See No Se Nov. 29

1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.

(630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

26 | TUESDAY CITY OF CHICAGO 100TH ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY.

Watch the Daley Plaza tree light, along with live performances and holiday music. Visit website for time.

Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago. (312) 744-3315, cityof chicago.org/dcase.

HARVEST HAPPENINGS. Wheaton.

See Nov. 25.

WEEKDAY NATURE WALK.

Explore the local trails with a naturalist. No strollers. 1-2:15 p.m.

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest.

(708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

27 | WEDNESDAY PARENT/CHILD BEYOND PUMPKIN PIE. Kids 4-12 work with parents to

create delicious dishes sure to please any crowd. Each pair will bring home a few creations to share with the family. Recipes provided. $36, $24 resident. 9:30-11 a.m. (ages 4-7); 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. (ages 7-12).

95th Street Center Culinary Arts, 2244 W. 95th St., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

28 | THURSDAY MCDONALD’S THANKSGIVING PARADE. Character balloons, march-

ing bands, floats, cultural groups, theatrical performances, equestrian groups and celebrity guests march through the Loop in the 80th anniversary parade. 8-11 a.m. State Street (starts on Congress and moves north to Randolph), Chicago. chicagofestivals.org.

29 | FRIDAY UNCANNY SCIENCE. Includes science

demos and seasonal arts and crafts.

Free with admission. 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 9636769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

day, ice carving, craft activities and musical performances. Visit website for schedule. Downtown Joliet. jolietdowntown.com.

30 | SATURDAY CHICAGO ARKANSAW BEAR. An engaging play with a simple, strong message explores how children cope with loss. Recommended for families with kids 8 and up. $15. 6 p.m. Nov. 30.

Gorilla Tango Bucktown, 1919 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago. (773) 5984549, gorillatango.com.

SUBURBS UNCANNY SCIENCE. Rockford. See

Nov. 29.

WREATHING OF THE LIONS. The

traditional ceremony of wreathing the Art Institute’s lions takes place on the steps. After the ceremony, visit a drop-in workshop. Includes music, complimentary hot chocolate, and an appearance by Artie the Lion. Regular admission for inside activities. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 443-3600, artic.edu.

LIGHT UP THE HOLIDAYS FESTIVAL. Family activities at several

locations including a tree lighting ceremony, parade, museum free

DAY OF ACTIVITIES. A full day of free family activities. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S. Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 834-0202, elmhurstartmuseum.org.

THE NUTCRACKER. Meet the young

Clara and her hero, the Nutcracker, as you are transported on a magical journey. Recommended for families with kids 3 and up. 1 p.m. $15-$31.

Hinsdale Central High School, 5500 S. Grant St., Hinsdale. (630) 7691199, saltcreekballet.org.

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other

5

November holidays

1 Halloween

The spooky celebration continues with Skelebration, an event presented by Redmoon Theater. For two hours, families can perform in shadow shows, build masks, experience DJs on mobile contraptions and play in an indoor park. $20, $12 kids, free kids 2 and under. 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; 2-4 p.m.; 5-7 p.m.

Nov. 2-3. 2120 S. Jefferson St., Chicago. (312) 850-8440 ext.

111, redmoon.org.

2 King Tut Day For a slightly kooky holiday, head to the Oriental Institute Museum for Little Scribe, a program that’s Egyptian to the core.

Kids 9-14 can try their hand at

the ancient scripts of Egypt and Mesopotamia, and witness the evolution of writing through the artifacts in the museum’s galleries. Free. 2-4 p.m. Nov. 3.

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

3 Int’l Drum Month Are your noise-loving kids obsessed with drums? Then this performance in the Global Rhythms concert series— Argentina’s Che Malambo!—is a great fit. The music is accompanied by foot stomping and two types of percussion: “bombos” and “boleadoras.” $15-$47. 8-10 p.m. Nov. 8. Chicago Human Rhythm Project, 410 S. Michigan Ave., Suite 464, Chicago. (773) 281-1825, chicagotap.org.

4 Diwali

The Hindu festival of light begins on Nov. 3 and you can take part, thanks to the Art Institute’s Family Festival: Celebrate Diwali. Families create a work of art inspired by Indian traditions, visit the galleries of Southeast Asian art with a family self-guide and participate in a dance workshop. Free with admission. 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Nov. 9. 159 E. Monroe, Chicago.

(312) 443-3600, artinstituteof chicago.org.

5 Veterans Day

Stop by the Des Plaines Public Library for Veterans Day Letter Writing, the chance to write an encouraging letter to a veteran or current member of the armed forces. Letters will be sent to the local VFW post to be mailed along with care packages for the holidays. Free. 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Nov. 11. 1501 Ellinwood St., Des Plaines. (847) 827-5551, Youth Services: (847) 376-2839, dppl.org.

Elizabeth Diffin

SHE SNORES MOREMORE SHE SNORES THAN THAN I DO, BUT I DO,I STILL BUT I STILL LOVE MY LOVEHUMAN. MY HUMAN. — BANDIT — BANDIT adopted 11-26-09 adopted 11-26-09

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ONGOING EVENTS AQUATIC EXPERIENCE - CHICAGO.

Consumers, retailers and families can take part in educational seminars, hear from aquatic ecologist Zeb Hogan and other speakers, enter a Kid’s Aquarium Contest and enjoy a show floor filled with displays of exotic fish and product raffles, hobbyists and equipment experts. $10; $25 family. Noon-6 p.m. Nov. 15; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Nov. 16; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 17. Renaissance Schaumberg Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg. aquaticexperience.org.

CHICAGO TOY & GAME FAIR. Preview new toys and games, compete in tournaments, meet toy and game inventors and shop for the holidays. $10, $5 kids 3-13. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Nov. 23-24. Navy Pier, Festival Hall B, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. (847) 677-8277, chitag.com.

BEGINNER’S ART STUDIO. Kids and

adults can explore their creative sides. Materials change daily and

Aqua Aq uati ua tiic Ex tic Expe p riien pe nce e – Chi hica cag ago go

trained facilitators assist with the artistic process. Free with admission.

10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays-Saturdays; 12:30-4:30 p.m. Sundays. Wonder Works, 6445

W. North Ave., Oak Park. (708) 3834815, wonder-works.org.

INTERACTIVE MUSIC SHOW. Get up and dance to live music with a

children’s concert every week. Kids can dance, play instruments or just listen and sing along to classic and new children’s songs. Free with admission. 11:15-11:45 a.m. Mondays

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ONGOING EVENTS and Thursdays. Wonder Works, 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park. (708) 3834815, wonder-works.org.

TODDLER TUESDAYS. Legoland

opens early on the second floor for toddlers and their parents. Enjoy programming specially designed to engage the youngest Lego enthusiasts, including Duplo play with earthquake tables, Lego soft brick builds, Lego city construction site play zone, and 4D movies. No session Nov. 26. $7. 10 a.m.-noon.

Legoland Discovery Center, The Streets of Woodfield (next to Woodfield Mall), 601 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg. (847) 5929700, legolanddiscoverycenter.com/ chicago.

ARBOR READING ADVENTURES. Kids 2-6, with adult, enjoy interactive story time and crafts indoors before heading out on the grounds for an adventure walk. Themes change each week. No program Nov. 29. $5, $4 members. 11-11:45 a.m. Wednesdays

ory

Open Op enin i g th in he Va Vaul ults ts Seee Exxhi Se hibi bits ts

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

WEEKEND FAMILY CLASSES. Explore cool things about nature and plants with your family. Classes include

a variety of hands-on activities and projects for kids 4-10, accompanied by an adult. $22 kids, free

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By Appointment Days Evenings Saturdays

Ned L. Savide, D.D.S., Ltd. PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY Practice Limited to Children & Adolescents

Christopher J. Morin, DDS

Diplomate American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

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708-633-8700 • www.kidsdds.net

12001 South Harlem Ave. Palos Heights, IL 60463 Tel. (708) 448-6700 24 Hours

811 W. Wellington Chicago, IL 60657

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Evenings and Saturdays available.

Practice limited to infants, children and adolescents.

ChicagoParent.com November 2013 121

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ONGOING EVENTS adults. 9:30-11 a.m. or 1-2:30 p.m.

Saturdays and Sundays. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

ART ON THE RUN. Fun and educational arts project for kids.

Projects change bi-weekly. Free with admission. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays.

Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S. Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. mhurst.

(630) 834-0202, elmhurstart mhurstart museum.org.

EXHIBITS ILLUMINATION: TREE LIGHTS. Starts Nov. 22. An interactive, artistic light experience among the trees. Guests explore a path about a mile long and see trees washed in stunning light, plus manipulate and interact with the lighting elements. Nightly, family-friendly entertainment including warm beverages, fire pits and a s’mores. Free with admission.

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

ch for GNOME HUNT. Search gnomes in the Children’s dren’s Garden using “I Spy” skills.

Checklist provided.

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

BUILD IT! MAKE IT! Features a B

variety of building materials for kids v aand families to play with ideas, eexplore materials and tinker with tools. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 963-6769, discoverycenter museum.org.

O OPENING THE VAULTS: WONDERS OF THE 1893 WORLD’S FAIR. O

80 at 80 0 S e Ex Se E hi hibi bits bi tss

Travel back to 1893 and see large T

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ONGOING EVENTS taxidermied animals, fully articulated animal skeletons, and ancient fish from Wyoming’s Green River fossil bed. Included in Discovery and All Access passes. Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 922-9410, fieldmuseum.org.

SHERIDAN’S BOOKS AND CRANNIES.

Features a reading loft, reading nooks, and a changing array of children’s books and periodicals. Also includes activities to promote literacy.

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

STORYLAND: A TRIP THROUGH CHILDHOOD FAVORITES. The exhibit

transforms seven award-winning picture books—“The Tale of Peter Rabbit,” “The Snowy Day,” “Where’s Spot?” “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie,” “Chicka Chicka Boom Boom,” “Abuela,” and “Tuesday”— into three-dimensional, bilingual play and learning environments.

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

80 AT 80. Special exhibit showcases 8 80 8 rarely displayed artifacts from the t museum’s extensive collection in i honor of the museum’s 80th anniversary.

Free with admission. a Museum of Science and Industry, M 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago.

5 (773) 684-1414, msichicago.org. ( FUTURE ENERGY CHICAGO. Guests F

gget a fresh and dynamic look at our eenergy choices and steps we can take tto create a more sustainable and envvironmentally friendly energy future.

ory

At the Future Energy Chicago cago simulation, guests compete ete in teams to reinvent Chicago’s transportansportation and power generation on systems. Museum of Science nce and Industry, 5700 S. Lake ke Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 73) 684-1414, msichicago.org. g.

TREASURES OF THE WALT DISNEY ARCHIVES.

Features artifacts not widely seen by the public, including drawings, props, costumes, artwork from classic Disney animation, theme park attractions, TV shows and live action films, ms, plus items from contemporary orary Disney milestones. Guestss can try record-ing sound effects and learn to draw some of their favorite Disney characterss in the Animation Academy. $9, $7 kids 3-11, plus admission. Museum seum of Science and Industry, 5700 00 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 73) 6841414, msichicago.org.

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HOLIDAY EVENTS LONG GROVE HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES.

between Randolph and Monroe streets, Chicago. (312) 744-3316, millenniumpark.org.

Starts Nov. 9. Features horse-drawn carriage rides, visits with Santa and entertainment. Check website for cost and schedule. Routes 83 and 53, just north of Lake Cook Road, Long Grove. (847) 634-0888, longgrove online.com.

ZOOLIGHTS. Starts Nov. 29. The zoo becomes a winter wonderland illuminated by more than 2 million lights, including new 3D displays.

Watch live ice carving, do family crafts, and enjoy the animal exhibits.

Plus, ice skating at the rink in Farmin-the-Zoo. 5-9 p.m. Fridays-Sundays Nov. 29-Dec. 13. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago.

(312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD AND HOLIDAYS OF LIGHT. Starts Nov.

14. The museum’s 45-foot Grand Tree takes center stage, surrounded by more than 50 smaller trees decorated by volunteers from Chicago’s ethnic communities to represent their various cultures and holiday traditions.

Stroll through the trees, enjoy falling “snow” and savor performances on the stage. Free with admission.

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

(773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

A HOLIDAY FANTASEA. Starts Nov.

SEASON OF WONDER. Starts Nov. 15.

Features a sky show that explores the spectacular sights of the winter night sky, seasonal programming, special holiday events, and a one-ofa-kind immersive experience in The World’s Largest Snow Globe. Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 922-STAR, adlerplanetarium.org.

DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS.

Starts Nov. 22. Lighted holiday parade takes place at 6 p.m. Nov. 22 in downtown Wheaton along Front Street. Carriage rides and visits with Santa continue every Saturday. The Wheaton French Market opens 8 a.m.-2 p.m. every Saturday. Cost for some activities. Check website for schedule. 129 W. Front St., Wheaton.

(630) 682-0633, downtownwheaton. com.

FESTIVAL OF TREES. Weeklong

holiday fest features display of holiday trees, wreaths and decorations and numerous special events such as concerts, holiday classic films, performance of the Nutcracker and the Teddy Bear Tea. Visit the website for schedule. $7, $5 kids and seniors, free kids 2 and under. Nov. 25-Dec. 1.

Closed on Thanksgiving. Rialto Square Theatre, 15 E. Van Buren St., Joliet.

(815) 726-7171, rialtosquare.com.

Wond Wo nde nde errla and nd Exp Ex prre es ss

CHRISTKINDLMARKET CHICAGO. Starts Nov. 26. Experience

a traditional German holiday market in downtown Chicago, featuring vendors from around the world.

Find unique holiday gifts, indulge in traditional German foods, sweets and beverages, and enjoy live music and entertainment. Highlight of the market is Chicago’s own Christkind and Kinder Korner activities. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays.

Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago. (312) 494-2175, christkindl market.com.

DALEY PLAZA SANTA HOUSE.

Experience a traditional mid-19th century Christmas. Discover the simple joys of homemade decorations, including pine boughs and a tabletop Christmas tree, which adorned the 1850s Chicago home.

Learn about gifts exchanged by families like the Clarkes and pick up a period recipe to try. Free with admission. 1827 S. Indiana Ave., Chicago. (312) 745-0041, clarke housemuseum.org.

29. Multispecies holiday aquatic show features dolphins, beluga whales and a sea lion, accompanied by multicultural holiday music. The Oceanarium will be transformed with snow covered trees, rocks and twinkling lights. Special holiday costumed characters, including Santa, make an appearance. Check website for cost and times. John G. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 939-2438, shedd aquarium.org.

WONDERLAND EXPRESS. Starts Nov.

29. Enjoy indoor and outdoor lighted displays, designer wreaths and trees, and garden-scale trains that wind their way over bridges and through tunnels, and around more than 80 miniature versions of Chicago landmarks and a Stanley Cup replica, all handcrafted with natural materials.

Call or visit the website for cost and times. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 8355440, chicagobotanic.org.

AURORA FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS.

Starts Nov. 29. A drive-through of more than one mile of lighted displays, many of which are animated, illuminated by tens of thousands of bulbs. Donations accepted. 5-9 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays; 5-10 p.m.

Fridays-Saturdays. Phillips Park, 615 S. Smith Blvd., Aurora. aurora festivaloflights.com.

Starts Nov. 27. Visit Santa in his house through Christmas Eve. 6-8 p.m. Nov. 27; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 28; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Fridays-Sundays Nov. 29-Dec. 20. Visit website to confirm dates and times. Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago. (312) 7443315, explorechicago.org/dcase.

CAROLING AT CLOUD GATEMILLENNIUM PARK. Starts Nov. 29.

HISTORIC HOLIDAYS AT CLARKE HOUSE MUSEUM. Starts Nov. 27.

Hear a variety of choral groups and join them in a holiday sing-along.

6 p.m. Fridays. Michigan Avenue,

BROOKFIELD ZOO ANNUAL HOLIDAY MAGIC. Starts Nov. 30. Features more

than one million twinkling lights illuminating the zoo’s walkways. Enjoy animated light displays, laser light shows, ice-carving demonstrations, live musical and dance performances, costumed characters, animal Zoo Chats with keepers and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Free with admission. 4-9 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays Nov. 30-Dec. 22. Brookfield Zoo, First Avenue and 31st Street, Brookfield. (800) 201-0784, brookfieldzoo.org.

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PERFORMANCES CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S FILM FESTIVAL.

Through Nov. 3. Showcases the best in new cinema for children. Hands-on filmmaking workshops with postscreening Q&A’s with dozens of filmmakers and celebrities. Visit website for details. Facets Multi-Media, 1517 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago. (773) 281-9075, cicff.org.

LEGEND OF SLEEPY HOLLOW.

Through Nov. 3. 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays; 1 p.m. Sundays; 7:30 p.m. Nov. 1-2. $15, $10 kids 16 and under. Steel Beam Children’s Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. (630) 587-8521, steelbeamtheatre.com.

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MILEEP AND THE ATTACK OF THE JELLYBEAN PEOPLE. Opens Nov. 9.

The story of an imaginative boy named Mileep and his futuristic, magical and musical journey through the universe and beyond. Recommended for families with kids 4 and up. 11 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays. $10, $5 kids 13 and under. Corn Productions, Cornservatory, 4210 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773)

AT Trric cky ky Tre ea att

650-1331, cornservatory.com.

A’MUSING MYTHS: FALL YOUTH CIRCUS. Prometheus recounts the

origins of some of his favorite characters from mythic Greece. The Actors Gymnasium’s Fall Youth Ensemble combines skills in circus, dance,

clowning and ensemble. Nov. 9-10 and 16-17. $15, $12.50 kids. The Actors Gymnasium, Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes St., Evanston. (847)

A World Premiere

Nov. 29 – Dec. 29, 2013

Citadel Theatre

300 S Waukegan Rd, Lake Forest IL

Tickets

$37.50 Fridays & Saturdays $35.00 Thursdays & Sundays $32.50/$30.00 Seniors $15.00 Students/Children

Mention code CP1113 for ticket discount!

Call 847.735.8554 for discount or visit us online at www.CitadelTheatre.org

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JOY

LET THE

BEgIN! BE

Hurry, LIMITEd TICKETS STArT AT juST $25!

CHARLES DICKENS’

| DIRECTED BY HENRY WISHCAMPER NOVEMBER 16 – DECEMBER 28, 2013

ADAPTED BY TOM CREAMER

312.443.3800 | GoodmanTheatre.org

GrOuP SALES (15+): 312.443.3820 or GoodmanTheatre.org/Groups

KIMPTON CHICAGO HOTELS Preferred Hotel Major Corporate Sponsor

Official Beverage Sponsor

Corporate Sponsor Partners

Exclusive Airline of Goodman Theatre

MELTING POT Promotional Partner

126 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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PERFORMANCES

is part of your favorite social networks

Great Opera, Made Affordable!

Presents Gian Carlo Menotti’s

Don’t miss this treasured Chicago holiday tradition, perfect for all ages!

Directed by Francis Menotti, son of Gian Carlo, based on his father’s original 1951 production Sung in English with a full orchestra and featuring dancers from Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater along with singers from a children’s chorus.

Saturday, December 14, 2013 & Sunday, December 15, 3:00pm Harold Washington Library Center, Cindy Pritzker Auditorium 400 South State Street, Chicago, IL Find us on Facebook

Th T he Bu Bulllly Sh how ow

Join the Twitter party!

Follow us @ChicagoParent On Pinterest pinterest.com/chiparent

328-2795, actorsgymnasium.com.

THE OLD MAN AND THE OLD MOON. Through Nov. 10. A blend

of storytelling, indie-folk music and puppetry creates an epic new mythology, centered on a man whose job is to collect light to refill the leaking moon. $35-$70. Writers Theatre, 325 Tudor Court, Glencoe. (847) 2426000, writerstheatre.org.

HANSEL AND GRETEL. Through

Nov. 16. Many events will be held in conjunction with this production including an ice cream social, community partner days, post-show discussion and autograph sessions. The Nov. 9 performance features a live audio description for patrons who are blind or have low vision, as well as a pre-performance touch tour. 10 a.m.

Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays; 2 p.m. Saturdays. $10. Chicago Playworks at DePaul University, Merle Reskin Theatre at DePaul University, 60 E. Balbo Drive, Chicago. (312) 922-1999, theatreschool.depaul.edu.

PINKALICIOUS THE MUSICAL.

Through Nov. 23. Despite warnings from her parents, a girl named

Pinkalicious can’t stop eating pink cupcakes and she develops Pinkititis, turning pink from head to toe. The sweet story features tap-dancing doctors, Broadway-style ballads and a little brother singing the blues.

Recommended for families with kids 4 and up. 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Saturdays. $12; $10 at box office on Fridays. Northbrook Theatre for Young Audiences, 3323 Walters Ave., Northbrook. (847) 291-2367, northbrooktheatre.org.

GENERAL ADMISSION SEATING: Adults: $25 • Seniors (65+) and Students: $20 Children: $10, 12 and under

TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW! (312) 951-7944 www.chamberoperachicago.org

A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD.

Through Nov. 24. Based on the Frog and Toad book series and recommended for families with kids 4 and older. $25-$38. Chicago Children’s Theatre, The Ruth Page Center for Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn St., Chicago.

(872) 222-9555, chicagochildrens theatre.org.

CLICK, CLACK, BOO! A TRICKY TREAT. Through Nov. 24. It’s

Halloween and Duck, Pig, Cow and Hen can’t wait to throw a party, complete with apple-bobbing, bottomless candy bowls and a costume contest.

11 a.m. and 1 p.m. $15. Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave.,

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PERFORMANCES Chicago. (773) 761-4477, lifeline theatre.com.

PINOCCHIO. Through Nov. 27. Meet Gepetto and the rest of Pinocchio’s friends as he learns to be honest, unselfish and brave. Recommended for families with kids 2-12. 10:30 a.m. weekdays; 1 p.m. Nov. 23. $12. Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St., Chicago. (773) 445-3838, chicagokidscompany.com.

RAPUNZEL. Based on the original Grimm Fairy Tale, this story tells the tale of a young girl with a beautiful singing voice who is locked away in a tower. Recommended for families with kids 2-12. 10:30 a.m. and noon weekdays; 1 p.m. Nov. 9. $12.

Stahl Family Theater, Saint Patrick Performing Arts Center, 5900 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. (773) 2868470, chicagokidscompany.com.

Th T The he Te edd dy Bearrs’ Be s’ Pic icni niic

—is smart, fiery and misunderstood.

The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. Check website for cost and times. Oriental Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St., Chicago. (800)

WICKED. Long before that girl from

Kansas arrives in Munchkinland, two girls meet in the land of Oz. One—born with emerald green skin

775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com.

LLAMA, LLAMA... Spend a whole day

with Llama Llama and Mama Llama as they encounter the daily fun and

foibles of llama life. Recommended for families with kids 3-6. $16, $13 kids. Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 935-6100,

Chicago Playworks for Families & Young Audiences Presents:

Hansel and Gretel

by Moses Goldberg directed by Ann Wakefield

OCT 12 NOV 16, 2013

Number the Stars

Jackie and Me

by Dr. Douglas W. Larche with Susan Elliott Larche based on the novel by Lois Lowry directed by Ernie Nolan

by Steven Dietz directed by John Jenkins

JAN 18 – FEB 22, 2014

APRIL 8– MAY 10, 2014

at DePaul’s historic Merle Reskin Theatre 60 E Balbo Dr, Chicago | 312 922 1999 | theatre.depaul.edu

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PERFORMANCES

Piinocchi cc chi ho

THE TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC. Emerald

City Theatre’s first production for ages 0-4. The performance includes gentle sound and lighting effects that create a full sensory experience, building a simple story with the audience through repetition and participation, a shoe-free experience for parents and kids.

The show lasts 45 minutes. $14, $7 kids under 1. Emerald City’s Little Theatre, 2933 N. Southport Ave., Chicago. (773) 529-2690 ext. 810, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

THE BULLY SHOW. Join Professor

McBumble and his group of rag tag

RAPUNZEL. Get tangled up in this musical fairy tale treat. Princes, princesses, and even evil witches find their happy endings in this story of growing hair and growing up.

Recommended for families with kids 3-10. $16, $13 kids. Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 935-6100, emeraldcity theatre.com.

©2013 Feld Entertainment

MARY POPPINS. 1 and 8 p.m.

Wednesdays; 8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays; 4:30 and 8 p.m. Saturdays, 1 and 5 p.m. Sundays. $40-$48, extra for dinner packages. Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. (847) 634-0200, marriotttheatre.com.

actors as they present three fairy tales with an anti-bullying message.

Recommended for families with kids 4-10. Check website for dates and times. $7-$10, depending on venue.

AlphaBet Soup Productions, P.O. Box 85, Lombard. (630) 932-1555, absproductions.com.

THE CHICAGO TAP DANCE SUPER SHOW. Features the Tapmen and

the Condescending Heroes in a family-friendly show with costumes and music. 7:30 p.m. Mondays. $15.

Gorilla Tango Bucktown, 1919 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago. (773) 5984549, gorillatango.com.

JUICEBOX. Performances are on

alternate Fridays at Chicago Cultural Center and alternate Saturdays at Garfield Park Conservatory. Young kids can enjoy Chicago’s best music, dance and theater, sitting on the floor, walking around, meeting the artists and sometimes playing with instruments and puppets. Parents are welcome to bring snacks and juiceboxes. 10 a.m. (312) 744-6630, chicagoculturalcenter.org.

SAVE 50% ON KIDS’ TICKETS to Select Performances!* *SAVE 50% on the face price of ticket, excluding fees. Ages 2-12. Excludes VIP, Front Row and Circus CelebritySM seats.

No double discounts. Limit of four (4) kids’ tickets with the purchase of one full-price adult ticket.

NOV. 1 – 11

NOV. 20 – DEC. 1

FREE PARKING+

In all official arena parking lots. Visit arena websites for details. Additional fees may apply.

+

Buy tickets at Ringling.com, Retail Locations, Arena Box Offices or call 1-800-745-3000

244899

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Regular Ticket Prices: $15 • $20 • $25 • $40 VIP • $50 Front Row (Weekday) $60 Front Row (Weekend) • $90 Circus Celebrity Additional fee may apply.

#RinglingBros

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HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES IF SCROOGE WAS A BROTHER. It’s all about Scrooge in this hilarious and heartwarming reconstruction of the classic Christmas ghost tale. Spirited jokes and holiday music chronicle a journey from self-hatred to love. Call for cost. eta Creative Arts Foundation, 7558 S. South Chicago Ave., Chicago.

(773) 752-3955, etacreativearts.org.

NUTCRACKER. Opens Nov. 8. 10 a.m.

Tuesdays-Saturdays; certain performances at 12:30 p.m. $15. Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. (847) 634-0200, marriotttheatre.com.

RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER. Opens Nov. 14. Broadway

in Chicago, Emerald City Theatre and First Stage perform this classic.

Call for cost. Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago. (800) 775-2000, broad wayinchicago.com.

A Chri rist istma stma st mas s Ca Caro roll at ro a Good Go odma man Th T ea eatr tre tr e

A CHRISTMAS CAROL: THE MUSICAL. Opens Nov. 14. The

A CHRISTMAS MEMORY AND THE THANKSGIVING VISITOR. Opens Nov.

Charles Dickens holiday classic with music the whole family will enjoy.

2 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays; 2:30 and 4 p.m.

Saturdays; 8 p.m. Sundays. $38-$42.

Theatre at the Center, The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Ind. (219) 8363255, theatreatthecenter.com.

20. Thanksgiving and Christmas mean something different to everyone, but for 7-year-old Buddy, they mean a new home and a new family. Call for cost.

Provision Theater Company, 1001 W. Roosevelt Road, Chicago. (866) 8114111, provisiontheater.org.

THE SNOW QUEEN, OR WHEN CHRISTMAS FREEZES OVER! Opens Nov. 15. Piccolo presents its holiday Panto, a topsy-turvy re-telling of the fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen.

The show features original music, lyrics, choreography and magic.

Previews are Nov. 8-10. 7:30 p.m.

Fridays; 3 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays; 3 p.m. Sundays. $25, $22 seniors, $15 students, $10 kids 10 and under.

Piccolo Theatre, 600 Main St., Evanston. (847) 424-0089, piccolo theatre.com.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Opens Nov.

16. The Goodman presents its annual production of the Dickens Christmas classic. Tickets can be purchased at the box office, by phone or on the website. $25-$87. Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. (312) 443-3800, goodmantheatre.org.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Opens Nov.

21. Families can have breakfast with Santa Claus on select performance dates, with a festive buffet-style menu complete with seasonal favorites. 10 a.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays; 1 p.m.

Sundays. $15 and up. Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 530-0111, drurylaneoakbrook.com.

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: THE RADIO PLAY. Opens Nov. 22. Frank

Capra’s story is performed as a 1940s radio play, complete with Foley sound effects and commercial breaks.

Call for cost.

American Theater Company, 1909 W. Byron St., Chicago.

(773) 409-4125, atcweb.org.

NUNCRACKERS. Opens Nov. 23. It’s the annual Christmas program put on by the nuns of Mount Saint Helen’s, and what will go wrong this year?

With audience participation and sing-along, this is a hilarious show for the entire family, with a heartwarming message on the real meaning of Christmas. Call for cost. Steel Beam Children’s Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. (630) 587-8521, steelbeamtheatre.com.

ELF THE MUSICAL. Opens Nov. 26.

The tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas.

Call for cost.

Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago.

(312) 977-1700, broadwayin chicago.com.

THE CHRISTMAS SCHOONER. Opens

Nov. 27. A heart-warming story of the first Christmas tree ship and the family who risked their lives to fill Chicago with the Christmas spirit. $20-$55. Mercury Theater, 3745 N. Southport, Chicago. (773) 325-1700, mercurytheaterchicago.com.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Opens Nov.

29. The story of grumpy Mr. Scrooge and his employee Bob Cratchit, all told from the perspective of the Cratchit family. Scrooge is visited by three spirits on Christmas Eve who remind him what the Christmas season is all about. $30, $15.50 kids 12 and under. Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. (847) 577-2121, metropolisarts.com.

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE.

Opens Nov. 29. The saga of George Bailey, whose dreams of escape and adventure have been squashed by family obligations and civic duty, and whose guardian angel has to descend on Christmas Eve to remind him that he has had a wonderful life. $14, $12. Overshadowed Theatrical Productions, 210 S. Walnut St., Itasca. (630) 250-7518, overshadowedproductions.com.

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Enormous exhibit

Y

ou probably don’t need to look any farther than your vacation photos to realize that monuments play an important role in our lives. Whether it’s Mt. Rushmore, the Lincoln Memorial or the Eiffel Tower, these architectural wonders have a significance that’s hard to escape.

That’s why DuPage Children’s Museum is launching a new exhibit— Monumental!—that examines how monuments and architecture impact children.

“Architecture is an important melding of art, math, science,” says Marcia MacRae, public programs manager for the museum.

“And there are certain places that have emotional impact that are common to all cultures.”

The museum partnered with the National Hellenic Museum and the National Museum of Mexican

December 2012

HOLIDAY ON A BUDGET Make or bake your gifts

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A CH NE IC W C A L om G O O O K m ing PA on n R F O th ex E N R t T

Four who inspire

Art, both in Chicago, to concentrate on two main cultures: Mayan and Greek.

The exhibit focuses on the pyramids at Chichen Itza and the Acropolis of Athens, allowing children to consider the similarities and differences between the iconic types of architecture and then experiment with building their own.

MacRae says a highlight will be a reproduction of Athena’s foot, based on the 40-foot statue of the goddess that used to stand in the Parthenon.

Other highlights for kids

COURTESY MICHAEL VESIA

include pretend play with elaborate costumes, shadow tables that explore how the sun travels over buildings, building projects and inserting themselves into the ancient friezes on the Parthenon.

Along with the exhibit, which is original to DuPage Children’s Museum, the museum will present programming. The Tiny Great Performance series showcases Greek dance on Dec. 7, Aztec and Mayan dance on Feb. 22 and a hybrid performance

by Perceptual Motion Dance on

Monumental!

Opens Nov. 16

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

Jan. 11.

According to MacRae, it all adds up to “a monumental experience.”

Elizabeth Diffin

chicago parent’s annual gift guide

Jingle Bell, Jingle Buy Coming in December For more information, call (708) 386-5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com ChicagoParent.com November 2013 131

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SPECIAL NEEDS NIGHT OF STARS. A fun-filled social event that gives individuals with autism spectrum disorder an opportunity to celebrate their progress, talents, and abilities. Includes entertainment by illusionist “The Spellbinder” and “Those Funny Little People” from America’s Got Talent. $50, $30 kids 17 and under and all with ASD. 6-11 p.m. Nov. 2. Hilton Oak Lawn Conference Center, 9333 S. Cicero Ave., Oak Lawn. (773) 3290375, chicagoautism.org.

HOLLYDAYS. A night of celebration of

children with Down syndrome, with an expanded presence for the I Am Who I Am organization started by Beverly mom Holly Simon to honor all children who are different in some way. Shopping from dozens of artisans, martini station, cash bar and music. A portion of the money raised benefits the National Association for Down Syndrome. $20 donation at the door will provide two special I Am Who I Am baby blankets for babies born with special needs at local hospitals. All ages. 6-10 p.m., Nov. 2. The

Spanish

French

Beverly Art Center, 2407 W. 111th St., Chicago. iam-whoiam.com.

JUMP SESSIONS. Once a month,

Sky High Sports turns off the music and dials down the distractions for special jumpers. One court remains especially quiet for kids with sensory disorders who need an extra peaceful environment. Even children with physical disabilities can join the fun. $5 special jumpers and siblings; free parent or therapist. 3-6 p.m. Nov. 5. Sky High Sports, 2244 Corporate Lane, Naperville; 6424 Howard St., Niles; Nil.JumpSkyHigh.com and Nap.JumpSkyHigh.com.

SENSORY FRIENDLY MOVIE NIGHT. Come in pajamas and bring

a sleeping bag, pillow, stuffed animal and a snack. 7 p.m. Nov. 6. Autism Family Center, 560 Green Bay Road, Suite 10, Winnetka. (847) 814-1096, autismfamilycenter.com.

PLAY FOR ALL. The museum opens

early for registered kids and families with disabilities to experience CCM’s

Mandarin

German

multisensory exhibits and activities.

For registration and accommodation requests, call (312) 321-6551. Free with paid admission. 9-10 a.m. Nov. 9. Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago.

(312) 527-1000, chicagochildrens museum.org.

RAINBOW TIME. Rainbow Time provides parents or caregivers the opportunity to drop off their child with autism to interact with specially trained dogs from Rainbow Animal Assisted Therapy. 11 a.m.-noon Nov. 16. Des Plaines Public Library, 1501 Ellinwood St., Des Plaines. (847) 8275551, dppl.org.

TIC TOGETHER COMMUNITY GROUP. Support group for all those

touched by Tourette Syndrome. 6:30 p.m. Nov. 20. River Heights Business Center, 5375 Highway 34, Suite 4, Oswego.

THIRD THURSDAY. A special night for families of kids with autism spectrum disorder, visual, and

Hollyd Ho lllyd yday ays mobility impairments to play.

Specially trained staff members assist with art activities, and resource tables provide information on issues and services. Free with museum admission, free members. 5-7 p.m. Nov. 21. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 637-8000, dupagechildrensmuseum. org.

SPECIAL NEEDS FAMILY NIGHT.

Kids with special needs get their own night to explore the museum and its hands-on exhibits. 6-8 p.m. Nov. 27. KidsWork Children’s Museum, 11 S. White St. (inside the trolley barn in downtown Frankfort), Frankfort.

(815) 469-1199, kidsworkchildrens museum.org.

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132 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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ChicagoParent.com November 2013 135

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CALENDAR WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS

About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the December issue is Oct. 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 120.

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar

If you go:

11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Lights Festival Lane, Pioneer Court, 401 N. Michigan Ave. Includes music, activities, Santa and treats.

5:30-7 p.m.

Parade on North Michigan Avenue from Oak Street to Wacker Drive.

6:55 p.m.

Fireworks at North Michigan Avenue and the Chicago River.

Seeing the light, downtown Chicago

For more info: themagnificent mile.com

L

ast November we packed up two vans, 14 family members and some extra sweatshirts to head downtown for the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival.

We’d been down there before, and as native Chicagoans, we should have realized some of

the headaches we’d run into, but unfortunately this day we decided to wing it.

If you’re planning to head to the festival on Nov. 23, here are a few tips we should have remembered.

Dress for very cold weather—even if it’s not cold when you start out from home.

1

2

4

3

5

If you want a front row seat, get there early. The people in the front rows with the best views were there four or more hours ahead of time.

Try to get a location near an open store or something like Starbucks to warm up, use the bathroom and get hot cocoa.

Stay for the fireworks! Hearing the percussive sounds echoing off buildings and the brilliant lights reflecting throughout downtown was the best part of the day.

Park far away, if possible. It was worth the walk to get on the road home quickly.

Liz DeCarlo

136 November 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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