KCC_Parent Source_Spring_2021

Parent Source Serving Kane County

Have a picky eater?

Tips to encourage kids to delight in their vegetables

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Spring 2021 Resource Guide For Parents

20+ Family-Friendly locations for summer activities

Plan a 3-day getaway Check out an itinterary for a mini vacation in Elgin

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Growing the Seeds of Learning Children ages 6 weeks to 12 years with specialized classrooms for each age group Every classroom curriculum is designed to stimulate your child’s interest, help develop the skills necessary for their age group and give them countless opportunities to interact with other children in a safe, encouraging environment.

• Quality childcare, at affordable prices • Healthy, organic minded breakfast, lunch and 2 snacks daily • Experienced, qualified staff (exceeding industry standards) • Clean, secure environment • Huge organic veg vegetable get able garden

Large fenced outdoor play space designed for an outdoor classroom divided for age appropriate play.

Stop by for a tour, meet our team of dedicated staff, see our facility, and let the journey begin!

Before and after school clubs & summer camps for kids 6 - 12 years old.

Summer camps offered from Preschool - School age

ELGIN SCHOOL

GENEVA SCHOOL

224-281-4979

630-402-0385

545 Hiawatha Dr.

1400 Hill Rd.

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what’s

INSIDE

ct photo fe r e p e r u t ic Have a p your to share of ndchild child or gra e County? n a K in t u o out and ab m media.co ell@shaw rn o d jc e sh to Send it e it publi ce to hav ource! for a chan re t Pa nt S in our nex

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Empowering Children Through Support and Education

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Veggie-Full Foods for Picky Eaters

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Ready, Set, Summer! Family Activities in and Around the Tri-Cities

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Don’t Stop With the Nursery ...

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Find Something for Everyone in St. Charles Park District

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Strikers Fox Valley

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Trends for Toddlers

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Explore Elgin Area’s Family Getaway

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Elgin Academy Offers Your Summer Solution

ADVERTISER INDEX

IVY ACADEMY ������������������������������������������������������������������2 AUSTIN’S VIOLIN SHOP ��������������������������������������������������8 LEARNING EXPRESS ��������������������������������������������������������9

MY ADVISOR AND PLANNER ���������������������������������������11 ST. CHARLES PARK DISTRICT ���������������������������������������13 STRIKERS FOX VALLEY SOCCER CLUB ����������������������15 PINOTS PALETTE �����������������������������������������������������������17 ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY ������������17 ELGIN ACADEMY �����������������������������������������������������������20

Distributed by

PROJECT MANAGER Jaclyn Cornell jcornell@shawmedia.com

DESIGNER Julie Barichello jbarichello@shawmedia.com

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EMPOWERING Children THROUGH SUPPORT AND EDUCATION

T

HE IVY ACADEMY OF EARLY LEARNING INC. is a non-profit child development center serving Cook, Kane, and DuPage counties with locations in Elgin and Geneva. Their core foundation is built upon the belief that no child should be left behind and that all children deserve access to an exceptional early learning education designed with the highest quality and function in mind.

The Academy’s mission is to provide outstanding early childhood education and related services while striving to empower young children through familyfriendly support and learning.

One of their main goal’s is to help all children reach their optimal development, an accomplishment that is met by providing quality childcare and early learning for ages 6 weeks to 12 years while offering a variety of educational support and referrals to caregivers. Their standards exceed the Department of Children and Family Services minimum requirements and the Elgin location has achieved the highest level of recognition within the Quality Rating System (QRS). Elgin’s location currently holds the “Gold Status” as well

as national accreditation by The National Accreditation Commission for Early Care and Education Programs (NAC). Geneva’s location is on the cusp of achieving these accolades as well.

Ivy Academy of Early Learning Inc. proudly serves as an academic preschool and offers an in-house full day Kindergarten program. The classrooms are specially equipped for each age group of early learners: infant, toddler, preschool, pre-IV & pre-V, kindergarten, and school age children. All classrooms are outfitted for the developmental needs of each peer group. The curriculum is a blend of “Teaching Strategies-Gold”, “Creative Curriculum” and “Learning for life.” Every classroom curriculum is designed to stimulate the child’s interest, help develop the skills necessary for their age group, and give them countless opportunities to interact with other children in a safe, encouraging environment.

full in-person learning. They continue to stay up to date on policy changes to ensure safe care and developmental learning.

Ivy Academy of Early Learning Inc. believes in giving children an exceptional developmental opportunity while maintaining quality and consistency in the classroom. Inquire about their services, learn more about their teaching standards and you’ll be pleased to discover why so many families are proud to include the Academy within their child’s educational journey.

Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, the Academy has worked directly under the guidance of the Governor’s office of Child Development for COVID safety precautions and subsequently was one of the only sites able to remain open with

info@theivyacademy.org | 1400 Hill Road | Geneva IL 60134 (630) 402-0385 | www.theivyacademy.org

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VEGGIE-FULL FOODS FOR PICKY EATERS

(BPT) — It seems like every family has at least one — a child who is somewhat selective about what they’re willing to eat. As a parent, you may despair about making sure your children are getting enough healthy vegetables in their daily diet. But don’t give up just yet. It is possible to use vegetables in creative ways that even your most critical eater will find hard to resist.

Here are just a few ideas to amp up the veggie factor — while also encouraging healthy eating habits.

MAKE VEGGIES MORE FUN

You probably had “ants on a log” when you were a kid — celery stalks filled with peanut butter and dotted with raisin “ants” that kids find irresistible.

Sometimes the presentation makes all the difference.

These strategies may help kids see their veggies in a new way: m Use a fun name for the food. From “ants on a log” to calling zucchini noodles “zoodles,” kids like things that sound funny or pique their imagination. m Turn veggies into art. Turn a plate full of differently shaped veggies like carrot curls, strips of bell peppers, sliced pitted olives, cherry tomato halves or broccoli “trees” into faces or landscapes — or let your kids create art with them before they munch. Add tasty dips for kids to sample.

m Learn about herbivores. Talk about what rabbits or guinea pigs eat, or large animals like elephants and huge dinosaurs! Arrange a salad plate fit for a bunny or a triceratops.

SNEAK VEGGIES INTO FOODS

They’ll never guess! There are plenty of ways to sneak a few — or a little more — veggies into foods your kids will love. m Cauliflower pizza crust. Kids love pizza, and they’ll never know the delicious crust is made from cauliflower. Newman’s Own Cauliflower Crust Thin and Crispy Pizzas, in Cheese or Margherita varieties, will quickly become family favorites.

These great-tasting pizzas are made with wholesome ingredients like real cauliflower and 100% whole milk mozzarella, with no added sugar — and the crust is certified gluten-free. m Ground meat favorites. Meatballs, hamburgers and meatloaf using ground meat or poultry are easy foods to sneak in some finely grated carrot, zucchini, spinach or kale for a nutrition boost. m Eat your veggies for dessert. Veggies like carrots and zucchini make yummy breads, muffins or cake. A little sugar, agave or honey in the recipe is all that’s needed to sweeten the deal, turning your vegetables into dessert — or breakfast! m Smooth it up. Use your blender to make tasty concoctions from any number

of veggies or fruits. Add yogurt and sweeten with honey until it tastes so good nobody can resist. Or just use bananas for sweetness that makes any smoothie taste better. Kids thrown off by green smoothies? Give it a funny name (Swamp Shake?).

INCLUDE KIDS IN THE PROCESS

Grow vegetables at home, let kids choose some at the farmer’s market or learn how to prepare the veggies together. Children are more interested in eating things when they’ve had an active part in the process. m Short on outdoor space? Consider a small indoor herb or veggie garden as a fun family project. m Kids too young to handle knives or heat safely? Let younger children wash veggies or shuck corn.

DISCOVER NEW THINGS

Explore vegetables that come in interesting shapes and colors, like eggplant, Romanesco, colorful bell peppers, watermelon radishes or rainbow carrots. Talk about how they grow — on the ground, under the ground or on a vine? See where you can buy veggies that look just as they do as they grow, like corn in husks or Brussels sprouts on stalks.

NEED MORE MEAL INSPIRATION? Check out NewmansOwn.com for plenty of tasty, betterfor-you recipe ideas.

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, Y D REA

! r e m um

, T SE

S

By Kelley White

THE TRI-CITIES NEVER DISAPPOINTS with the variety of family activities, dinning, shopping and fun it offers. In the next few pages, explore some great ways to make it a memorable summer! We’ve even included a few destinations that will check off a mini road trip on your bucket list. This summer, put away the screens and gear up to have some FUN!

WATER FUN HAROLD HALL QUARRY BEACH 400 S. Water St., Batavia bataviaparks.org Join Batavia Park District for a summer of fun and outdoor activities!

Hall Quarry Beach opens May 29 and is a perfect beach getaway with plenty of thrills for the family including: a drop slide, sand volleyball court, swimming, picnic area and more! Check out their online fun guide for more information and a comprehensive collection of potential summer adventures.

OTTER COVE AQUATIC PARK 3615 Campton Hills Road, St. Charles www.ottercove.org Plan a local waterpark getaway at Otter Cove Aquatic Park! Relax and float on the Turtle Creek Lazy River, win the day on the Racer Slide, enjoy time with your toddlers at the Dragonfly Den and much, much more! Make sure to check the website for updates before scheduling a

trip and plan to leave the park with sunshine on your shoulders and a smile on your face.

PHILLIPS PARK FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER AND SPLASH COUNTRY 828 Montgomery Rd., Aurora www.phillipsparkaquatics.info What’s summer without days spent at a water park? Pack up the kids and pull into Phillips Park Family Aquatic Center and Splash Country for classic summer fun in the sun! Plan a birthday party or participate in any of their special event or themed days including Father’s Day, Christmas in July, Glow Swim, Dive-in Movie and more!

SUNSET POOL GENEVA PARK DISTRICT 710 Western Ave., Geneva www.genevaparks.org/facilities/ sunset-pool Bring your family to Sunset Pool this summer at the Geneva Park District!

This splashy community recreational spot features an eight-lane lap pool, rock climbing wall, body slides, a

water playground and more! Check out their website for details regarding the 2021 season!

PARKS TO EXPLORE MT. ST. MARY PARK - ST. CHARLES Prairie Street, east of Route 31 www.stcparks.org/location/ mt-st-mary-park A 30.2 acre community park with 1.69 miles of trails and access to the Fox River Trails. Amenities include: fishing, tennis courts, a boat launch, picnic tables, water access, picnic shelter, playground and a skate park.

RIVER BEND COMMUNITY PARK ST. CHARLES Courier Avenue and Geneva Avenue www.stcparks.org/location/ river-bend-community-park A 43.4 acre park with 2.08 miles of trails and access to the Fox River Trail and the Illinois Prairie Path. This community park features a skate park, fishing, a playground and a dog park.

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WHEELER PARK - GENEVA 822 N. 1st St., Geneva www.genevaparks.org A community park with nearby mini golf and disc golf courses, two pavilions and a playground, soccer fields and plenty of trails to traverse.

ISLAND PARK - GENEVA Island Park, 2 IL-25, Geneva www.genevaparks.org A community park featuring a treehouse playground, picturesque views of the Fox River, a pavilion, and picnic area.

HAWKS HOLLOW NATURE PLAYGROUND – PECK FARM - GENEVA 4038 Kaneville Rd., Geneva www.genevaparks.org An award-winning community park that focuses on nature and hands on learning with eight stations promoting water, mud and musical interaction.

DISCOVER NATURE COMMUNITY GARDENS AT PRAIRIE GREEN – GENEVA PARK DISTRICT Peck Road and Bricher Road www.genevaparks.org If you are looking for a fun and creative new way to spend time with your family this summer, consider cultivating your own garden plot in the Community Gardens at Prairie Green.

Garden plots are open from dawn until dusk between April and October. Each plot is 20x30 and they are allocated on a first come first serve basis.

ILLINOIS BEACH STATE PARK 1 Lake Front Dr., Zion www2.illinois.gov/dnr/parks/pages/ adelinejaygeo-karisillinoisbeach.aspx Boasting 6.5 miles of shoreline on Lake Michigan and home to an impressive array of animals and plant life, this 4,160-acre park is a haven for outdoor-loving families. Bring your fishing rods and swim trunks,

boats and picnic baskets, or go on a hike and camp under the stars-this beach getaway has something for everyone!

STARVED ROCK STATE PARK p 2678 E. 875th Rd., Oglesby www.starvedrocklodge.com/ starved-rock-state-park A 2,630-acre park along the southern bank of the Illinois State River with over 13 miles of trails and abundant wildlife and vegetation, Starved Rock is an ideal landscape for a family day full of hiking, boating, camping and fishing.

INDOOR FUN FUNWAY 1335 S. River St., Batavia funway.com Located in Batavia, Funway is “Illinois’ largest entertainment center.” Bring the kids and choose from all the classic pastimes including: bowling, arcade games, laser tag, bumper cars, black light mini golf and roller skating. The fun doesn’t stop there! Funway is also home to go-karts, bumper boats, batting cages and mini golf. Funway has something for everyone!

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PLAYROOM CAFÉ TWO 2075 Calamos Ct., Naperville playroomcafetwo.net/home Step up your playdates and visit Playroom Café Two in Naperville, a magical place that ingeniously combines scrumptious coffee and imaginative play areas for your littles to explore. Kids will enjoy the ball pit and pretend play area for hours featuring natural wooden toys, while babies can socialize safely in a separate play space. When the family gets hungry, choose a delicious snack from their healthy and nutritious menu.

BUMBLEBEE PLAY CAFÉ 1015 N. Randall Rd., Elgin bumblebeeplaycafe.com Bring your “big bees” and “little bees” to this adorable play café in Elgin.

Let your littles pretend the day away in the “mini town,” burn off some energy on the jump pad, or practice their agility skills on the climb wall.

Don’t forget to try their signature “Bumbleccino”!

LAZERMAXX FAMILY FUN CENTER 941 S McLean Blvd., Elgin www.lazermaxx.com LazerMaxx Family Fun Center is a 5,000 square foot, two story Laser Tag adventure facility that utilizes special effects like fog, glowing scenery and black lighting to excite and delight laser tag fans. Try out their hurricane simulator or spend hours in their expansive video arcade! At the end of the day, collect some prizes from their massive prize center and leave with a smile on everyone’s face.

FAMILY FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS & SHOPS APPLE VILLA 1961 W. Wilson St., Batavia www.applevillapancakes.com Feeling like brunch? Stop by for the delicious goodness pancakes and freshly squeezed juice will bring to your family!

CELEBRATING

40 40 YEARS

VIOLINS, VIOLAS, CELLOS AND BASSES MADE, REPAIRED AND SOLD Fine Instruments For Purchase Complete Restorations & Appraisals

By Experienced Luthiers Superior Quality Rentals Private Lessons Music And Accessories

SHOP

ONLIONUR STORE E !

Courier Service

316 Wheeler Road • Sugar Grove, IL 60554 • e-mail: info@austinsviolinshop.com

630.466.7562 • www.austinsviolinshop.com

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AURELIO’S PIZZA 330 W. State St., Geneva www.aureliospizza.com/ location/geneva Family friendly pizzeria serving perfected Italian cuisine in a warm setting, located in Geneva.

NOSH 22 N. Third St., Geneva experiencenosh.com Perfect setting for breakfast, brunch, or lunch for the whole family! A beautiful location and a deliciously crafted menu serve summer the kind of food it deserves.

GRAHAM’S FINE CHOCOLATES AND ICE CREAM 302 S. 3rd St., Geneva www.grahamschocolate.com Homemade candies and chocolates and hand dipped ice cream! Drop by the quaint chocolate and ice cream shop for an all-American taste of summer!

HARVEY’S TALES 216 James St., Geneva harveystales.com This wonderful local bookstore invites you on an adventure of your choosing, to pick out the perfect book! Instill a love of stories and help your children escape within their imagination. While you’re there, make sure to find a treasure of your own to dive into!

LEARNING EXPRESS 1420 Commons Dr., Geneva learningexpress.com/geneva A locally owned “neighborhood toy store” that revels in personifying imagination and kindness. Their “toy experts” are ready to help find intriguing and creative alternatives to screen time by providing game and wholesome toy ideas for kids of all ages!

PINOT’S PALETTE 3823 E. Main St., St. Charles www.pinotspalette.com/stcharles Let the little ones express their creativity at their very own “Little Brushes Paint Party.” Kids are invited to get creative while making their very own masterpiece! At the end of the party, everyone goes home with their creation as a keepsake to remember how much fun they had! Call and inquire about booking a date!

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY 1308 Commons Dr., Geneva www.rmcf.com A locally owned and operated chocolate confectionary with fresh sweets made daily and perfect gifts sure to please for any occasion!

RRR

Enjoy %

The Great Outdoors!

PS21

OFF

Any one item in stock!

Or 20% off your entire purchase.

May not be combined with any other offer, discount or fundraiser.

Cannot be used to purchase Gift Cards and excludes prior purchases.

Valid in store only at Geneva location. Expires 7/31/21

Stock up on fidgets! Great for travel!

1420 Commons Drive • Geneva • (630) 232-8697 SM-CL1878685

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DON’T STOP

With the Nursery...

WITH THOMAS MCCARTNEY

eing a young, expecting parent is such an exciting time! There are so many things to prepare for and they seem to all be additional demands on top of an already busy life. Thinking back at that stage of life I laugh at the incredible focus we put on the preparation of the room our newborn would be coming home to. Partially driven by hormones, partially by the excitement of it all, that room became a bit of an obsession.

As is often the case, focusing on a tangible task can be much easier than an intangible one even if the intangible is much more important. As important as the nursery is, of greater importance is getting your financial house in order as you prepare for the responsibilities of bringing a new, precious life into the world. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

INSURING A STABLE FUTURE FOR YOUR FAMILY HEALTH INSURANCE

Start thinking about health insurance long before the baby arrives. Find out about copays, deductibles, and premiums before you start going to doctor’s appointments and having diagnostic tests done. You’ll also need to determine how much of the delivery costs are covered as well as the baby’s coverage after it’s born.

Babies are usually covered under their mother’s insurance for a period of time following the birth, but make sure you add the baby within 30 days, or else you may have to wait until the next open enrollment period.

LIFE INSURANCE

Now that you have a child depending on you, you’ll need insurance to provide for your family if your income is lost. You should also take out a life insurance policy for your spouse even

if he or she stays at home to care for the child—take into account the value of a stay-at-home parent’s services and how much it would cost to pay someone else to do it.

Consult your financial advisor to help determine both the amount of insurance your family will need as well as the type you should purchase. There are pros and cons to both term and permanent insurance and for many a combination of the two is the best fit.

DISABILITY INSURANCE

During your prime income earning years, you’re much more likely to suffer a debilitating accident or disease than you are to die. This makes disability insurance equally important to ensure your family’s financial well-being. Your employee benefits may provide some disability protection but often not at the level you would actually need necessitating supplemental coverage.

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INVESTMENT CONSIDERATIONS

If you are like I was, the realization that another life depends on you financially can be overwhelming. Your goals and investing strategy will probably need to change when you become a parent, but not necessarily in the ways you’re expecting.

BE REALISTIC

It may not be possible to continue to invest as much while budgeting for the new expenses that come with being a new parent so it is important to be realistic. Try not to focus all of your money and attention on baby spending, and don’t ignore your long-term savings goals completely. Your first priority will have to be day-to-day spending and budgeting, followed by your retirement savings. When these two goals are being met, you can add your child’s college education as a third priority.

EDUCATIONAL SAVINGS

It’s tempting to put your child’s education fund first.

There’s nothing wrong with putting your children first, but abandoning your investing goals in favor of a child’s education is actually not putting the child first — if you retire with nothing, your child will be left supporting aging parents, which can be much more difficult than funding a four-year degree.

That said, investing in your child’s education early in life is a good idea if you can afford it. Compound interest can be just as magical for your child’s college savings as for your retirement account. Consult your financial advisor to review options and to develop a strategy.

BECAUSE THE UNEXPECTED HAPPENS…

Despite careful preparation we found ourselves scrambling when our kids were born. Due to complications neither was carried to term with Mary arriving at 4lbs. 10 oz.and Jack at only 1lb. 8oz. Thankfully we were able to focus on their care without distraction as we had our financial house in order and both have grown up to be fine adults. Hoping that the ideas shared here are helpful as you travel down the exciting road of parenthood and we welcome your call if we can be of service.

This material is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or tax advice and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified attorney, tax advisor or plan provider.

n Tom McCartney is the Founding Principal of My Advisor & Planner and a registered representative and investment advisory representative with M Securities. Investments in securities involve risks, including the possible loss of principal. My Advisor & Planner is independently owned and operated. McCartney and his team can be reached at info@mapyourfuture.net or 630-457-4068.

Photo by Indre Cantero

Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through M Holdings Securities, Inc. (Member FINRA/SIPC).

My Advisor & Planner is independently owned and operated.

File #0709-2018

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FIND SOMETHING FOR

EVERYONE

IN ST. CHARLES PARK DISTRICT

Where can you enjoy a putt putt course along a beautiful riverbank, walk in a shady outdoor arboretum to view unique magnificent sculptures, explore a premiere wetland with native plantings or cruise the Fox River on a paddlewheel riverboat?

St. Charles Park District – that’s where!

From shooting hoops at Pottawatomie Community Center, Haines Gymnasium or a local park to splashing and swimming at Otter Cove Aquatic Park or Swanson Pool and playing soccer at Sportsplex or tennis at Norris Recreation Center, St. Charles Park District provides an abundance of recreation programs, facilities and services for all ages, abilities and interests.

Your park district is all over your community. Take youth programs, for example: there’s many options in multiple locations. From summer camps in downtown Pottawatomie Park to nature activities at Hickory Knolls Discovery Center or sports at

East Side Sports Complex or James O. Breen Community Park, there’s something for numerous ages and various pursuits.

Whether you’ve got a family of four, you’re empty nesters looking for something fun to do or you just want to spend quality time with someone, St. Charles Park District provides parks and amenities for everyone.

Hit the links at Pottawatomie Golf Course for 9 holes of challenging fun or try disc golf. Help feed the animals at Primrose Farm drop-in programs. Whatever you like to do, do it with the St. Charles Park District. n Visit stcparks.org

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BOOSTING YOUTH SOCCER SKILLS AND THE COMMUNITY s summer and the new school year approaches, parents seek out fun activities to keep their children engaged and their energy levels sustained. If you are considering soccer as an option, Strikers Fox Valley Soccer Club can help develop your child’s love for the sport both on and off the field. The organization is proud of the positive transformation they developed throughout 2020; if you are considering soccer in your child’s future, you’ll definitely want to become part of their movement.

A

Strikers has been serving the community for over 30 years and offers a massive 50,000 square foot club house and indoor training facility. Their dedicated staff help facilitate 53 teams from U-8 to U-23. Strikers Fox Valley Soccer Club President Pat Feulner explains their philosophy “One Community, One Club” starts with the basics; taking a player from the beginning stages of their development on the field all the way through their high school or college play. Club programs are fluidly designed to focus on the growth of each player to help them succeed each step of the way.

Beyond the field, the club has dedicated themselves to the betterment of the community by focusing on giving back. Feulner recalls how in 2020 they launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise money to help “deliver meals and necessities to first responders, nursing homes and shelters all over the Tri-Cities area.” Strikers is committed to connecting their players to service projects within the community to promote character growth and lasting interpersonal skills that will truly help develop each club member beyond the field.

Contact

If an injury should occur, parents can take comfort knowing Strikers has developed a valued partnership with Fox Valley Orthopedics. FVO provides a head team physician and a list of other sports doctors for patients to choose from at their facility.

New this fall, the Recreational Development League is a perfect way to introduce the sport to your child. The league is open to children ages 4-9, will last for eight weeks, and will run from September 7 through the end of October. Each week, the league will have one training session and one game on Saturday; a perfect option for busy families.

As your children begin to show interest in sports and extracurricular activities this coming year, consider introducing them to a program that is designed to lift them up, make it possible to forge lasting friendships, and help instill a healthy competitive nature in athletics.

1000 S. Kirk Rd. | Geneva, IL 60134 strikersfoxvalley@gmail.com | (630) 262-0071 | strikersfoxvalley.com

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SM-CL1880201

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TRENDS FOR TODDLERS

Q

&A with Sylvia Torres,

owner of Little Barn Baby in Geneva

By Jonathan Bilyk n Photos provided by Little Barn Baby

ome things never change, even during a pandemic. Take, for instance, the warm glow of happiness that arrives with little bundles of joy, as families welcome them into their lives, into their homes.

Other traditions, however, can change dramatically — even surrounding the arrival of a new little one. Visits with grandparents and other family have been sparse, if any. Birthing centers have been walled off to visitors. And baby showers? Almost completely shelved.

But through it all, family and friends have still sought to shower the new arrivals and their parents with thoughtful gifts to share in the big moment.

Sylvia Torres, owner of Little Barn Baby boutiques in Geneva and Naperville, has helped make those special moments possible for local families. The offspring of Torres’ downtown Geneva home decor shop, Little Red Barn Door, Little Barn Baby has continued to build a loyal clientele of parents, grandparents and

n o

n

others seeking a little something more for the babies and toddlers in their lives.

This interview has been edited slightly for length.

Shaw Media: Tell me about Little Barn Baby. What can parents and others find in your shop?

Sylvia Torres: Little Barn Baby is a modern baby and children’s boutique with two locations, one in downtown Geneva on Third Street and the other in the heart of downtown Naperville on Washington Street. Parents can find anything from organic clothing, to wooden toys and teethers, to decor for their nursery. We source and carry only our favorite brands and offer clothing up to 5T. SM: What makes Little Barn Baby different from other shops offering baby and toddler items?

ST: You can find everything you need for gift giving for new parents, baby showers, siblings, mom or grandma, and more. Our curated items make gift giving

easy since everything we carry are items that parents have requested and love.

We wrap each order in our signature charcoal gift bag with tissue paper and a ribbon so that items are ready to gift. We also carry a range of cards, perfect for new parents or grandparents. We even offer gift registry in-store and online.

We also love to partner with local makers to always have unique or customized options for gifting.

SM: Has the pandemic affected demand for baby supplies?

ST: The pandemic has affected how people shop for baby gifts. We are so excited for the time when people will be able to gather again to welcome a new baby!

During the pandemic, and even now, we have done a lot of local deliveries and shipping, along with curbside pickup to make shopping easier. We have found that working with local makers has made it easier to fulfill our orders, and we love supporting them.

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SM: What kind of trends are you seeing in baby clothing and accessories?

ST: Moms especially are in love with fun prints on pajamas and clothing. We carry Posh Peanut and they have matching mommy and baby/child options and come in a wide range of patterns. The fabric is amazing, made of super soft organic bamboo, and they launch a new pattern every couple of months, so there is always something fresh and new instore.

Another fun trend is silicone teethers, with matching keychains for Mom. We love offering It’s a Star Baby in-store, which was started by a local mom in Naperville, and has been so popular with our customers.

Silicone flexible bibs with fun sayings are also very popular and is a new trend that started in the last year or two. They are a go-to gift for babies and kids.

Another new trend is teething mitts — they are made by Itzy Ritzy, another company located in Naperville, and moms love them! You can slip the mitt on your baby’s hand and not worry that they are going to drop it. And they come in some fun patterns.

SM: Fashion for teens and adults tends to be cyclical. How has “baby fashion” changed, and how has it remained the same?

ST: We have noticed the same! We have seen a lot of muted colors for baby clothing, along with styles that are very versatile. Before, the majority of options for baby clothing was mainly yellow, blue or pink. Now, the colors and options are so much wider to accommodate the new trends loved by the modern mom.

SM: What are some up and coming items and trends people should be watching for?

ST: One of our popular lines for baby and children has a spring collection for 2021 that is very ’70s feeling, and we love it.

SM: What’s next on the horizon for Little Barn Baby?

ST: This spring we are launching a baby surprise box and an online and in-store gift registry. We also have some new clothing lines and products that are new to the shops this spring.

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1308 Commons Dr • Geneva • 630.208.1484 RMCFGeneva.com PARENT SOURCE | SPRING 2021 | 17

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EXPLORE y a w a t e G By the Elgin Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

S

ummer is a great time to escape with the family. Elgin area businesses and attractions have continued to implement strong health and safety standards to ensure the peace of mind for you and your family. And we have already done the planning for you!

Day 1 Start your trip with the basics: checking in to where you’ll be staying. Hotel deals can be found at www.

ExploreElginArea.com.

After checking in, head to South Elgin for the afternoon. Epic Air Trampoline Park is a great way to burn off some energy. But if fresh air and time outside is what you’re looking for, stop by SEBA Park. This park is outfitted with equipment for picnicking and play. The Fox River Trail runs directly through it, so you can hop on the trail and do some natural sightseeing all the way into Elgin! The Fox

River Trolley Museum is located nearby for an outdoor museum experience.

DAY 2

the playground! This park is also used as an event venue, notably for the Elgin Parks & Recreation’s Movies in the Park series.

DAY 3

Get the day rolling by heading to Elgin for an exhibit!

There are many museums in the Elgin area like the Elgin History Museum or the Elgin Public Museum that feature interactive exhibits that are great for kids. Near the Elgin Public Museum, you will find Lords Park. Lords Park is a scenic park known for its beautiful pavilion and zoo where you can visit the bison! Another great museum is Elgin Fire Barn No. 5 — this was the last fire barn to be decommissioned.

Built in 1903, this historically recognized landmark now houses the city’s fire-related collection of memorabilia!

After checking out, head over to Santa’s Village Azoosment and Water Park: This Christmas-themed amusement park is home to thrill rides, a zoo and Santa Springs, its water park! For more outdoor adventure, you can stop by Randall Oaks Zoo, a barnyard zoo home to a variety of kid-friendly farm animals for viewing and feeding. Come visit the mini horses, emus, reptiles, fox and great horned owls!

And if your family loves animals, Enjoy Pioneer Farm offers the opportunity to hold and interact with baby farm animals in the spring and summer months.

Spend the afternoon getting some fresh air at one of Elgin’s over 70 parks and open spaces. Festival Park is located right along the Fox River and is a great fishing spot. The kids can cool off in the splash pad, enjoy some of the local public art and explore

A great way to end your weekend getaway is to take a step back in time at the Underground Retrocade.

Enjoy numerous cabinets of arcade games! And you can forget the quarters — for $15, you get a wristband for unlimited plays!

CHECK OUT TRIP IDEAS AND WEEKLY EXPLORE ELGIN BLOGS FOR INSPIRATION. Visiting www.ExploreElginArea or any of the @ExploreElgin social media accounts is the first step to a relaxing time with your loved ones.

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FAMILY IN FOCUS 18 | SPRING MAY2021 2021 | PARENT SOURCE

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ELGIN ACADEMY OFFERS YOUR

Summer Solution

It’s the same question every year. What to do with the kids over summer break?

Elgin Academy has the answer with our full schedule of summer programs beginning June 14th.

Elgin Academy’s Summer Program provides opportunities for active learning by offering a variety of enrichment, athletic, academic, and creative programs for students in preschool through grade twelve. Participants can choose from a diverse selection of programs allowing them to follow their own interests and to personalize their summer experience.

In EA’s Summer Program, students develop self-confidence, try new pursuits, assume leadership roles, and take risks with innovative concepts in a supportive environment.

Students in preschool through 12th grade can take part in a variety of summer programs including Adventure Camps and STEAM classes: 3D printing, engineering, improv, music production, ceramics, and Lego robotics. We also offer athletic programs: volleyball, tennis and fencing and academic courses in Honors Geometry (for class credit), Japanese, ACT/SAT prep and Sci-Phi. For students who fell behind this year or others who want to get ahead, we offer tutoring in a variety of subjects.

We also offer before and aftercare from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. for younger students.

Registration is underway now at www.elginacademy.org/2021-summerprogram where you will find a complete description of each class. We welcome all students. Enrollment as an Elgin Academy student is not required.

Flexible payment options are available.

Summer programs may not be all you’re considering this time of year. After this year of remote learning, hybrid classes and quarantines, you may also be looking for new educational opportunities for your child. Elgin Academy is a small, independent school with a 180-year plus history of providing the highest level of education for students preschool through 12th grade. At EA we are uniquely positioned to help our students realize and fulfill their potential by offering an educational experience where kids are inspired to become creative, courageous and compassionate. We know our approach works because

we’ve seen it in the hundreds of alumni who have left the Hilltop to do amazing things. We are currently accepting applications for the 2021/22 academic year with space available in most grades.

Schedule a tour and ask about our Personalized Tuition program. We have traditionally regarded tuition as a mission-driven investment in the future of our students. With Personalized Tuition we are taking that mindset to the next level by providing a tuition approach that is personal and equitable for all families. To reach an equitable level of tuition, it is important for us to get to know your family and understand the best financial fit as you prioritize your child’s education.

This personal approach ensures the availability of EA’s differentiated experience for all students regardless of ability to pay in full.

Contact our Admissions office at 847-695-0303 or visit our website at elginacademy.org to schedule a tour.

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Still enrolling for the 2021/22 academic year!

To take a tour, contact Elgin Academy Admissions at 847-695-0303 or visit elginacademy.org/learn-more.

Ask about our flexible tuition plans.

Grades ps-12

. Lego Robotics . Japanese . Improv & Art . Academic Tutoring . Athletics . 3D Printing . SAT/ACT Prep & Much More!

Elgin Academy’s Summer Program provides opportunities for active learning by offering a variety of enrichment, athletic, academic, and creative programs for students in preschool through grade twelve. In EA’s Summer Program, students develop self-confidence, try out new pursuits, assume leadership roles, and take risks with innovative new concepts in a supportive environment.

. Open to Non-Elgin Academy Students . Extended Care Available

. Early Registration Discounts Apply Through May 15

. Flexible Payment Options

Visit our website for a complete listing of all Elgin Academy Summer Program offerings.

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350 Park Street, Elgin 847-695-0303 elginacademy.org

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