Chicago Parent - June 2019 by Chicago Parent

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JUNE 2019

FREE

Flip summer YOUR

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Make it her Best. Day. EVER. AT AMERICAN GIRL PLACE CHICAGO

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Spend a day together that you’ll remember forever! Share conversation over a meal in our café. Step into the salon for a new doll ’do. And explore our cast of characters from throughout history—their stories will inspire who she wants to be. ®

PLAN YOUR VISIT: americangirl.com/chicago 835 Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611

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Batter Up!

Schaumburg Boomers are on deck from May to August. Take advantage of special theme nights like Star Wars, Harry Potter, Game of Thrones and Stranger Things. Fireworks nights Friday & Saturday home games. Extra fun: run the bases after the game! Best of all free parking at Boomers Stadium and throughout all of the Chicago Northwest suburbs. Complete schedule at ChicagoNorthwest.com.

2 June 2019 CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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Spanish Immersion available!

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CHICAGO PA RE NT .COM

TABLE of CONTENTS

MEDIA

EDITOR TAMARA L. O’SHAUGHNESSY MANAGING EDITOR HILLARY BIRD DIGITAL EDITOR KATINA BENIARIS ART DIRECTOR CLAIRE INNES EDITORIAL DESIGNERS JAQUINETE BALDWIN, JAVIER GOVEA IT AND DIGITAL DEVELOPER MIKE RISHER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS MATT BORESI, JERRY DAVICH, CORTNEY FRIES, KELLY JAMES, MARIANNE WALSH DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES ANNETTE COFFEE, CHRISTINE GRIFFITH, LOURDES NICHOLLS, KAREN SKINNER PHOTOGRAPHERS THOMAS KUBIK, JUAN CARLOS PELAYO ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER PHILIP SOELL ADVERTISING DESIGN MANAGER ANDREW MEAD ADVERTISING DESIGN DEBBIE BECKER, MARK MORONEY CIRCULATION MANAGER JILL WAGNER DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR WAKEELAH COCROFT-ALDRIDGE EVENTS COORDINATOR CARMEN RIVERA BUSINESS MANAGER JOYCE MINICH PUBLISHER DAN HALEY FOUNDERS NATALIE GOODMAN, CAROLYN JACOBS HOW TO REACH US 141 S. OAK PARK AVE. OAK PARK, IL 60302 (708) 386-5555 ChicagoParent.com

F E AT UR ES

20 Flip your summer: Fixes

ADVERTISING dhaley@wjinc.com

Chicago Parent is published monthly by Wednesday Journal, Inc. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Chicago Parent, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL, 60302. © 2019 Wednesday Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

Real Life .................... 11

to some of moms’ most common problems.

Failing with Gusto ..... 15

25 Heartbreaking diagnosis:

Viva Daddy ................ 16

How you can help a Chicago dad leave his kids his wisdom.

Explore ...................... 17

10 places loved by families.

Parenting Dilemma.... 64

Calendar .................... 42

28 Finger-licking BBQ: 32 Fairy

tales: Chicago kids become the story in new book.

EDITORS chiparent@chicagoparent.com TO FIND A COPY circulation@chicagoparent.com

LIFE IN CHI

On the Cover:

Online. . . Find some amazing places to explore with your family in our summer Going Places digital magazine.

Brooklynn Dawson, 10, of Chicago

Photographer: Thomas Kubik

Art Director: Claire Innes

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EditoR’s Note

CHICAGO NORTHWEST

FAMILY DAY

Let's Play!

Refreshed and fun

TAMARA L. O’SHAUGHNESSY

How we all get info on raising our kids has changed quite a bit over the years. Have a parenting question? Google has an immediate answer 24/7 without Mom’s judgment. Facebook groups abound where we can post photos of our kids’ strange rashes, questions about our spouse’s bad behaviors and vent about everything that irritates us at all hours of the day.

Many of you have told us in surveys and in person that you even use Chicago Parent differently than in the past. You want things to do in Download your complete guide the city and suburbs. You to this summer’s fairs and want a local magazine festivals for free at that focuses on your life as ChicagoParent.com/festguide. a parent, but doesn’t forget that you are a person, too. You want to know about great eat schools and businesses that can help your life. So, on the heels of being named the best regional parentwith us online—read about our ing magazine of our size in the new Facebook group and more nation, we decided the time is created by Digital Editor Katina right to give Chicago Parent a Beniaris on page 8—and in the little refresh. magazine pages. The idea has us What you are holding is just really excited and I hope you’ll the start of changes that will be feel the same! made over the next year. This Let me know what you think month’s issue debuts a cleaner, of our new look by emailing me more modern feel, thanks to at tamara@chicagoparent.com. Art Director Claire Innes and I can’t wait to hear from you. her talented team. You’ll also Happy June. find a stronger connection to ChicagoParent.com and our vibrant social networks. There are now so many ways for you to get more involved

Summer fun made super easy

Come play at Chicago Northwest Family Day in Grand Court at Woodfield Mall! FREE children’s event, bringing together Chicagoland’s BEST attractions. Children’s activities, impromptu pictures with mascots. Learn about each attraction that’s in your own backyard!

Give yourself an edge at ChicagoNorthwest.com. JUNE 15, 2019 | NOON TO 2PM | WOODFIELD MALL

6 June 2019 CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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Our village

It takes a village Start of something new

At Chicago Parent, we’re always striving to connect families to Chicagoland. Not only have we gotten a new look, but we want to focus more on community in our redesign. Check back every month to read “Our Village” column, where we’ll feature readers like you through photos, polls, and other engaging content.

■ Share your photos with our community hashtag #sharechicagoparent for a chance to be featured!

KATINA BENIARIS

We want to hear from you Let’s be real—raising a kid isn’t easy! It takes a village to maneuver through the exciting journey known as parenthood. The conversation doesn’t stop with our magazine either. We want to stay connected by giving readers a space to connect and to let us know what kind of content they would like to see next from us. Join our Facebook group at ChicagoParent.com/OurVillage.

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Enter to win Splash into summer with these exciting giveaways going on this month. From June 6-12, we’re giving away a 4 pack of tickets to Raging Waves! Need a break from the sun? Keep an eye out for tickets to “The Secret Life of Pets 2” and “Toy Story 4” from Classic Cinemas. Sign up for our giveaways at ChicagoParent. com/Contests.

8 June 2019 CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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Real life | Dad

MORNING STARTER

The dad behind fun-loving Whip

est known to Chicagoland morning radio listeners as Whip from toprated 101.9 The Mix Eric in the Morning with Melissa and Whip, Brian Paruch is a hands-on dad of three who likes to have fun.

How do you describe your parenting style? Being around, being part of everything if possible. I think our kids would probably describe us, especially me primarily, as almost complete pushovers and more like me begging them … to just go along with the program as opposed to ordering them to do anything.

How do you balance the crazy a.m. radio shift and the kids? My parents and Stacy’s dad have always been available to help. Once I get home and have my little nap, I am around and available for them. I manage it because Stacy does a great job figuring out things on the homefront while I am downtown. Do the kids listen to you on the radio? What do they think? Tori has always had the radio on in her room and she’s The Mix’s biggest fan. I’m pretty sure she might wake up to the show. They listen in the car. … I guess they think it’s kind of fun, silly and fun, kind of cool. What’s been the best advice you’ve received as a parent? You can’t prepare yourself for all of it, you just have to live it. I didn’t put an inordinate amount of pressure—it sounds easy for the dads to say this, by the way—on myself before the kids were born. To know that there is so much I have to figure out by experience I didn’t make myself stressed out about being prepared before the fact because I knew that was impossible. CONTINUED ON PAGE 12 PHOTO BY JUAN CARLOS PELAYO

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Real life | Dad

suMmER

CMY

Summer camps and classes at The Little Gym allow kids to exercise their muscles and imaginations! Our flexible camp scheduling allows you to sign up by the week or day!

The Little Gym of Chicago 3216 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60657 TheLittleGym.com/ChicagoIL

Brian Paruch ■ Spouse: Stacy ■ Kids: Tori, 11, Kyle, 7, and Alex, 5 ■ Parenting must-have: An old-fashioned calendar/ datebook. I scribble little things in there to keep

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7667 S. Harlem Avenue, Bridgeview (located in the plaza behind Haunted Trails) Email: snodazetropicalsno@yahoo.com (708) 458-2216

What’s been the biggest surprise for you as a dad? This is going to sound so cheesy. I don’t think that before the kids were born that I understood how much you could love somebody the way you would love your kids. ... I don’t think I really grasped the concept of that until they were there. And then your whole world, it just changes for the better in so many ways. What are your favorite things to do with the kids? Going to the park is just such a simple one, but it is such a good one because they all love going to the park and playing on the playground. With them I’ve played lots of Wiffle ball, so I got to bring Wiffle ball back into my life.

track of things like, pick up so and so here, practice for this one here, softball here. I really like seeing all that laid out in front of me, especially with the three kids. They always all have something.

Pieces of advice I’d like to share: 1. Time REALLY, REALLY DOES go fast with kids, just as the cliche goes. Every school year seems to go by in an absolute snap ... until, the next thing you know, they’re about to go to middle school. 2. Every kid really is different. Just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, something that works for one does NOT necessarily work for the others. 3. When all else fails (especially with babies), sometimes a little ride in the car can do wonders. When ours were babies, I became the master at the art of tooling around the neighborhood, listening to the radio, until they fell asleep.

12 June 2019 CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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FAILING WITH GUSTO

The mom-a-thrope

MARIANNE WALSH

When I was a single person, I spent weekends in my condo recovering from social interaction. Moliere and I would’ve been great friends. We could have sat next to each other and never uttered a word. One thing they don’t warn misanthropes about before having kids? You’re going to chaperone field trips. You’re going to sit with other parents at sporting events.

As someone who wouldn’t necessarily enter the defense codes should an asteroid be hurtling towards Earth, it is this aspect of parenting that leaves me most exhausted. My husband, on the other hand, could make friends with a potato. He is a natural in the world of parenting. People simply love him. I don’t really mind this dynamic. Joe has learned to talk me off my keyboard when I prepare to go scorched earth on the latest person not sharing my standards regarding safety, fair play and group punishment. He keeps me from quoting the student handbook and engaging legal counsel. Whenever a good impression is required, I send in Joe. Recently, my middle son and a table full of boys were accosted by an administrator. Somebody had knocked over a water bottle at the lunch table and didn’t clean it up. Jack was forced to stay after school and write a letter admitting what a huge disappointment he was. Jack hadn’t known the water was there; he was on the other end of the table. The kid who spilled it didn’t receive any punishment

because he left. My righteous indignation kicked in. I was primed for battle. Then Jack talked more about it. He wasn’t mad. He thought it was funny that each boy kept adding more sentences to their letters to exaggerate their moral deficiencies as human beings. It became a game of who could articulate the most shame and regret. I started to laugh. I signed off on Jack’s letter with a certain comfort. He would never be the guy hiding out in his condo. He is part of this world. And he would definitely enter those defense codes. Marianne Walsh, mom of three boys, is married to a Chicago firefighter and lives on the South Side.

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VIVA DADDY

#GetYourDeutschOn! Summerfest Grounds Milwaukee

Every summer day in the life of a Chicago parent is precious. The kids get about 70 days off in the sun, then it’s back to snow shoveling dibs, sub-zero school cancellations, and shivering in endless lines for a pretzel at the Christkindlmarket. We get a max of 1,260 days of summer with the kids before they’re off to college, only MATT BORESI 700 before they’re tweens. A summer to-do list is definitely in order.

Friday July 26 Saturday July 27th and Sunday July 28th th

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Franklyn D. Resort THE ULTIMATE FAMILY EXPERIENCE

Near Dunn’s River Falls, Dolphin Cove & Golf. Only 1 hour from Montego Bay Airport Visit www.fdrholidays.com / 1.800.654.1337 • St. Ann, Jamaica

My wife and I have long kept lists to make sure we attend every street fest, taste of this or that, cross-town baseball dust up, and Lollawhathaveyou that we can. At 7 years old, our daughter Viva should begin to have a hand in choosing our summertime adventures—she is certainly old enough to let us know when we’ve chosen an activity she doesn’t enjoy—so I asked her what she’d like to do before her seventh summer is pushing up autumn leaves. Here was our exchange: “The beach, Dad. Let’s go to the beach… a lot.” Great. Done. “Oh, and pools. Let’s go to pools.” Sure. “And water slides.” We can do that. “Where else can I wear my mermaid tail?” Pretty much just water places. “OK… oh, and let’s go to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium in Florida.” What?! “They have a dolphin named Winter with a robotic tail.” Umm… we have dolphins right here in Chicago if you don’t mind that they aren’t cyborgs.

ILLUSTRATION BY STEPHEN SCHUDLICH

“Dad! This dolphin is special!” Well, it’s too hot in Florida in the summer. Can we wait? “Sure.” Anything else we can do this summer? “Did I say about my mermaid tail?” You did. Anything else at all? “Ummm… what are those big ice cream cones that are like… rainbows.” Rainbow Cones? “Yep! Let’s get those.” So… we’re going to dress like mermaids and eat ice cream? “Perfect! Yay, summer!” So, I guess our list is complete… Although if I eat all that ice cream I’m not going to fit into my mermaid tail. Viva Summer Goals. Viva Viva. Viva Daddy. Viva is 7 years old. Daddy is about 6x that age. They live happily with Mommy in Chicago.

16 June 2019 CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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Around town

E X P L O R E

HYDE PARK ■ Instagram worthy spot: Hyde Park Heart and more peeks of Jenny and her son, Obie Q, on their visit.

PHOTOS BY SPENCER BIGGS PHOTOGRAPHY AND JENNY LEFLORE

The vibe is right in this South Side gem

BY JENNY LEFLORE

e all get caught up in our routines. Before you know it we are in a rut, visiting the same five places any given week. Your family is ready to mix it up. Go somewhere with a different vibe, energy, and spirit than your own neighborhood, explore somewhere new. First stop: Hyde Park Hyde Park is a cultural hub of the city and only seven miles from the Loop. The unofficial slogan of “Deep Roots. New Vibe.” does a spot-on job capturing the combination of old Chicago history and embracing the new businesses. There are landmarks like the Museum of Science and Industry, University of

Chicago’s gorgeous campus and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House. New attractions include Obama’s Chicago home and the hustle and bustle of 53rd Street with award-winning hotels and restaurants. Whether you decide to visit by train, bus or a beautiful ride down Lake Shore Drive, this South Side neighborhood is ready for you to visit.

SHOP: Silver Room. An eclectic mix of local and internationally sourced vendors for the entire family. You will often find the door open with music from a live DJ coming from inside.

EAT: Medici on 57th. This restaurant is perfect for family dining. No need to worry about your kiddos writing on the table: It’s encouraged here!

PLAY: Promontory Point. Known to locals as “The Point,” this lawn offers a beautiful view of the skyline and is the perfect place for a picnic.

EXPLORE: Harper’s Court. This shopping center comes alive in the summer with live music and a weekly farmers market that focuses on families the first Thursday of each month. CHICAGOPARENT.COM June 2019 17

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“Build a Birdhouse” KIDS Workshop Team up with your child... and discover the wonders of birding while learning the essentials of ecology. Our workshop is complete with materials and refreshments for both of you. Watch your child’s creative juices soar!

Reserve your space now! 854 E. Northwest Hwy, Mount Prospect 847.873.0409 •www.wildbirdshack.com

18 June 2019 CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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Considering a Considering a urn to the Workforce?

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ost comprehensive, innovative and effective career re-entry resources for o return to work afterhas a career Join thousands who have gained iRelaunch the mostbreak. comprehensive, innovative and effective career re-entry resources for professionals obs from attending the:ready to return to work after a career break. Join thousands who have gained insights, contacts & jobs from attending the:

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Monday, June 17, 2019 8:30 am to 5:30 pm Northwestern University 8:30 am to 5:30 pm - Kellogg School of Management Evanston, Illinois Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management The iRelaunch Return to Work Conference is a day of intensive Evanston, Illinois education and networking that will give you the strategy, tools, confidence and connections to help you return to work.

The iRelaunch Return to Work Conference is a day of intensive Conference is open to the public and meant education and networking that will giveThe you the strategy, tools, for anyone who has the desire to get back confidence and connections to help you return to work. to work regardless of your industry

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Visit our website to sign up for your FREE iRelaunch “Starter Kit” that includes our Relaunch Readiness Assessment, links to career re-entry tools, and an invitation to our private Facebook group - a community of nearly 4,500 supportive and active peers.

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✮F

R✮

S R U U MM O Y E P

Tackle the biggest problems that threaten to derail the best summer days

PHOTO BY THOMAS KUBIK

BY KELLY K. JAMES

ey, parent to parent, let’s have some straight talk. Think about last summer. How was it? Did you embrace some quality time with your kids? Embark on a long-awaited vacation? Take time off to visit somewhere new?

Did you make lots of wonderful memories? Or was your summer more like mine was—an all-too-short blur of working too much, interspersed with driving kids to swim practice, camps of every stripe (basketball, cheerleading, dance), and yelling at them to get off of their ever-present

screens? Join me if you want to “flip the script” and change things up, at least a little, this summer. Our brief quiz will help you figure out what may be missing from your summer plans and give you some ideas about how to make the most of this long-awaited season.

20 June 2019 CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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Getting straight about summer

Think back to last summer. Are you happy with the way you spent your time, overall, last year? A Yes, I am. B Not really. C Nope…it went by way too fast. How much trouble do you have getting your kids off of their screens (smartphones, tablets, TVs, you name it). A None at all! I have to remind them about screen time. (Really? Tell me your secret.) B It’s a challenge sometimes. C They and their screens have become one. Much like the Borg on Star Trek, they have been assimilated. How often do you feel like you’re in a rut when it comes to your summer activities with your kids? A Never. I’m always coming up with great ways for us to spend our time. B Sometimes. I feel like other parents are always doing crazy, fun things and we’re doing the same-old, same-old. C All the time. I want to mix it up but need inspiration!

■ How’d you do? If you answered all As, then you sound like you’ve got it all handled. Congrats! If you answered Bs and Cs, though, fear not. A little bit of planning, creativity and out-of-the-box thinking and you can have a summer to remember.

Problem: Our “fun” budget is limited Solution: Get a museum pass (museumadventure.org). As if your local library wasn’t awesome enough, you can sign up for a Museum Adventure Pass at many. The pass gives you discounts to all kinds of museums, nonprofit organizations and cool places to visit—and your kids needn’t know they might actually learn something, too. Or, avoid spending $50 or more to catch the latest big screen blockbuster. Rent a favorite from the library (while you are picking up your pass), project it onto your garage door and break out the lawn chairs.

traditions: the month-long Invite your neighbors, have evroving Shakespeare in the Parks eryone bring their own popcorn (find the dates and locations at and set up a weekly movie date with your kiddos and neighbors. chicagoshakes.com/parks). This year’s 75-minute play is The How about a factory tour? Comedy of Errors. Bonus: It’s something everyone in the family can enjoy. Check out the Long Grove Confectionery Co. in Long While the big Grove ($2 admission fee) orr museums rarely offer free the Albanese candy tour in days in the summer, you can Merrillville, Ind., where theyy still museum hop. Check out promise you the chance to chicagoparent.com/learn/ “Learn. Explore. Eat candy.”” What’s not to love? museums/museum-free-days. Add a little more educational value and hit up one of Chicago’s favorite free summer mer

Problem: My kids are couch h potatoes Solution: You already know they need to get moving. But to get them going, you have to “up” the fun. Start off slow: Pack up the car for a Route 66 adventure, starting at Buckingham Fountain in downtown Chicago and go as far as the kids can sit. In all, Route 66 in Illinois is 411 miles—that’s a lot of sitting for even the most

advanced couch potato, who’ll be begging to get out of the car to explore. Travel Illinois gurus have created a fun playlist for the fam: Find it at enjoyillinois.com/travel-illinois/ route-66-the-mother-of-all-road-trips. Dancing in the seat encouraged. Or, get a Metra or Amtrak pass and jump on and off at different stops to explore towns you’ve never been to before. When they are ready to really move, check out the outdoor American Ninja Warrior-style course at Summerslake Park in Warrenville (it’s free!) or the Go Ape ropes courses in Western Springs. In the city, hit Park No. 574 in Garfield Park, which features metal and rubber climbing structures, pommel horses and a zip line, plus it is steps from the park’s walking path to get your steps in. CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

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FLIP YOUR SUMMER CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 Problem: We get really sick of the heat quickly Solution: Get counterintuitive and learn to ice skate. It’s a great way to get out of the heat. Try the Southwest Ice Arena in Crestwood. This rink has public skating times and is in a location convenient for those who may be trekking from a little bit farther north. Plus, it has a punch card program for public skating to save you $10 if you plan on visiting often. Or try a different kind of skating. Hit Fleetwood Roller Rink in Summit, which offers skating lessons every Saturday for just $5.

Problem: I still have to work, so I want a few splurges on the weekends

Solution: This year, do a family summer camp in style with a family escape to Great Wolf Lodge in Gurnee, Wo Get even more which is turning summer w “cool ideas” at camp outside-in with its c chicagoparent.com/ Summer Camp-in through S topics/indoor-play Labor Day weekend. L Think pool parties, characTh ter appearances, BBQ camp cuisine, cuisine camp games, campfire

sing-alongs and s’mores. It’s a don’t miss for Hamilton fans, but the new Hamilton: The Exhibition exhibit on Chicago’s Northerly Island will entertain everyone and leave them with a better understanding of American history (recommended for fifth grade and older because of the amount of reading).

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Problem: My older kids only want to play Xbox Solution: Ease them out of their tech habit into a different kind of gaming. Cat & Mouse Games, 1112 W. Madison, Chicago, offers a free monthly First Friday Family Game Night, 5-7 p.m., for families to come together to play something fun from the demo library. Perfect for families with kids 4 and older. Or level up your parenting with a trip to Level 257 in Woodfield Mall, a gamer’s paradise IRL. Same for 1980s arcade gaming at Galloping Ghost in Brookfield. With more than 550 games to play, pay $20 per person at the door, and you and your gamers can play all day, but together. Gather your “007s” for a family mission at EscapeHouse Chicago. You and your junior spies uncover clues, decipher

riddles and crack codes to solve a mystery. EscapeHouse accepts younger agents (8 years and older) during special Family Missions. Play tourist for the day. Let your kids choose a restaurant or attraction to visit. And if your kids still lack enthusiasm, those ever-present screens may be your saving grace. Hand over the smartphone, let them embrace their inner YouTube stars and play “tour guide” for the day.

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PROVIDED

Ned Smith and his family face a tough diagnosis.

SO MANY QUESTIONS

Chicago dad facing down cancer tries to anticipate his kids’ questions after he’s gone

BY EDWARD “NED” SMITH

ne of my favorite things to do is answer my children’s (many, many) questions. With each day, month and year the questions change, so the four conversations I’m immersed in are endless ones. (What is love if not an endless conversation?) I can’t claim to always

have the right answers, but I try, and when it doubt, I fake it. We parents get pretty good at that, don’t we? Everything changed about five months ago. My endless conversations now have an endpoint, and it’s much sooner than I expected. CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

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long before I will have a chance to answer all of my children’s questions: How do I know if a girl/boy likes me? How should I study for this test? What acne medication is See, shortly after the new year I was diagnosed with the best for skin like ours? Does God exist? How do I fix a brain cancer. My specific diagnosis is grade IV glioblastoma leaky faucet? What meal should I make for a second date? multi-forme (GBM). You’ve heard of it, even if it sounds unfamiliar. It took John McCain’s life in the summer of 2018 What does it feel like to fall in love? I’m imagining myself answering these questions to older versions of my children, and Ted Kennedy’s life nine years before that. Kennedy died and I’m smiling from ear to ear. 15 months after diagnosis. McCain passed away 13 months So why am I writing this? I’ve recently started videoing after his diagnosis. GBM is a tricky disease. It spreads myself answering questions that my children have not yet throughout the white matter of the brain very quickly and asked, but surely will. Those of you reading this who have very aggressively. It often doesn’t play nice with radiation or lost a parent have undoubtedly felt, “if only I’d had the time chemotherapy and has evaded all of the most “promising” to ask him/her _____.” Fill in the blank. What do you find experimental therapies developed over the last 10 years. yourself wanting to know? And at what age and stage of Early symptoms of GBM vary as a function of where the your life did you want to know it? tumors are located and on which parts of the brain I plan to make a number of videos. How many they push. For me, it was the right motor cortex, depends on what we (and I do mean we, collecthe part of the brain that controls the left sides tively) can come up with in terms of questions. of our bodies. One day I noticed I was walkAs my four children grow, they will see me I’m imagining ing to the left, bumping into the left side again on video as often as they’d like, of door frames and feeling heavy on myself answering and I’ll do my best to answer the the left side of my body. these questions to older questions that are most likely on “An inner ear infection,” so versions of my children, their minds. I’ll organize the quessaid my primary care doctor. A tions by approximate age they would and I’m smiling from very reasonable conclusion. The averlikely ask them, and hope to gather age age for a GBM diagnosis is mid-60s. ear to ear. and answer questions that will last them I’m 37 and healthy. No chance it’s a brain through the age of 40. After all, it’s unlikely tumor. The next day I noticed I was dragging that I will know what it’s like to be any older than my left foot. Six hours later, I was in an operating that. I have to trust they’ll figure it out for themselves room with a pea-sized hole in my skull for a biopsy. at that point. Luckily, they have each other, along with a Unfortunately given the location of the primary tumor loving, brilliant mother, four wonderful grandparents and a and the fact that my GBM had already spread to multiple team of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who will be there areas of the brain, resection (i.e., surgical removal) was every step of the way. I know they’ll be in good hands. off the table. Three weeks and several rounds of molecular If the mood strikes you, send me an email with the testing later, I had my final diagnosis. questions you think they will have at questionsiwouldAt this point we will try to preserve my quality of life for haveasked@gmail.com. I can’t promise I’ll respond to every as long as possible through a combination of chemotherapy, one, but I’ll do my best. What I’d love to know is this: radiation and various adjunct therapies. The hope is to 1. What are the most important questions you asked your slow the tumors’ growth. The stretch hope is to get them to parents? shrink. 2. What age (approximately) did you ask those questions? Neither outcome is a cure. Being young and (otherwise) 3. If you’ve lost a parent, what are the questions you wish healthy, we hope to get at least as many months as McCain you would have asked, and, again, at what age? and Kennedy, if not more. Our prayer is that a longer term The kindness of strangers is a wonderful thing. If you cure may emerge while I still have time to benefit from it. have a few minutes to spare, then from me, my wife, Erin, At this point, each day is better than the last. My energy and our children, thank you. is increasing after my first six-week round of radiation and Now get back to living, loving and seeing what is beautiful chemotherapy, and I’m feeling more and more like myself, in this unpredictable, wonderful, tragic, forgiving thing we just a bald version. I know that pattern will reverse at some

SO MANY QUESTIONS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

point. But I’ll take it for now, and enjoy every moment. But I’m also a pragmatist. These moments of strength, of feeling normal have an endpoint. And though that’s true for any one of us—tragically, 1,500 Americans between the ages of 15 and 44 will die today from automobile accidents—for me, the abstraction of death is no longer abstract. And I’ve accepted it. What’s harder to accept is that I know death is coming

call life. Edward “Ned” Smith, is a professor at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. He and his wife, Erin, have four children: Finnegan is 11, fiercely loyal to his family and friends and precocious. Beckett is 9 and the classic middle child, the sensitive, selfless peacemaker. Eliza is 6 and strong in all the right ways; in her zest for life (and song), love for others, and sense of right and wrong. Cecily, the curly-haired 3-year-old, is the consummate strategist. Hell or high water, puppy dog eyes or biting, she gets her way.

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10 CHI-TOWN FAVS

Best finger-licking

BBQ

Oak Park, LaGrange, Naperville; q-bbq.com Q-BBQ fast-casual restaurants serve up chicken wings and ribs smoked with tasty rubs, sauce on the side. You’ll find variety on this menu, from sliced turkey breast sandwiches to brisket burnt ends tacos and specialty sides like spicy Brussels sprouts and Southern Fried Potatoes. Kids love the mac and cheese with crumbled Cheez-It crackers um on top.

EAT

It’s BBQ Time

1. Q-BBQ

BY CORTNEY FRIES

BY CORTNEY FRIES ummer is

the time to savor meals cooked low and slow. Instead of slaving away in your own backyard, rely on Chicago-area barbecue restaurants. It’s almost impossible to try all the delectable options Chicago has to offer, but these BBQ joints will definitely have you and your family licking your chops.

2. Green Street Smoked Meats West Loop; greenstreetmeats.com Go early to this warehousestyle restaurant with picnic table seating to encounter the fewest crowds. You can catch sight of briskets turning in the smoker as you line up to order specialties like beef short ribs, chicken legs, pork belly and smoked salmon. The ribs and Frito Pie are super popular. Be sure to try the pastrami: its peppery rub and tender, pink texture simply melt in your mouth. Top your tray with an array of savory sides. The elote is rich and creamy, but the nutty, sweet broccoli salad stole sto our hearts. Sink beers make it easy fo for parents to grab some suds and kids go ga-ga over the softserve ice ccream.

3. Bub City River North & Rosemont; bub-city.com Barbecue brunch? Oh yes, and Bub City does it best on Sundays around noon with live country music. The Southern-inspired menu serves up fried chicken and 18-hour brisket. Kids love the waffles and sticky buns while parents are pleased with breakfast tacos, brisket Benedict, fried chicken and a build-your-own bloody mary bar (two stalks of celery counts as a salad, right?). The atmosphere is fun with song requests taken from the stage. Trucker Snacks and hash browns topped with pulled pork and pimento cheese are delightfully different options.

4. Smoque BBQ Old Irving Park & Revival Food Hall; smoquebbq.com Five guys passionate about BBQ banded together to make mouthwatering meats using special rubs and sauces with just right amount of tang. The menu is focused on meticulously crafted meats, such as 14-hour brisket, moist and juicy chicken and St. Louis ribs (which are said to be smokier and juicier than baby backs). The kids’ menu features mini sandwiches and mac and cheese. Don’t leave without ordering the peach cobbler.

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7. Chicago Culinary Kitchen Palatine; chicagoculinarykitchen.com While it may not be considered especially kid-friendly, they have a cult-like following for their BBQ specialties only served up Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. until sold out (typically around 2 p.m.). Go early to get your hands on an El Jefe sandwich with Texas sausage, pulled pork, brisket, pickles and red onions on a Kaiser bun, Back Alley Sticky Ribs, the usual barbecue suspects or one of the gastro burgers or Tex Mex specials they post on Facebook Friday mornings. It can get crowded. The communal tables seat 36 (no high chairs or boosters) and loud metal music will be playing; but if you’re ready to rock out with some incredible food, it is a place to try.

5. Smoke Daddy Wicker Park & Wrigleyville; thesmokedaddy.com Smoke Daddy serves top-rated barbecue along with live music seven nights per week. The Wrigleyville restaurant features an awesome outdoor space with ballpark views that’s incredible in sunny weather. Can’t decide between the spare ribs, baby back ribs and rib tips? Order a Smoke Daddy Rib Sampler and taste them all. Other sampler platters enable you to try the rotisserie chicken, pulled pork, brisket and burnt ends. Sandwiches like the smoked corn beef mix up the typical BBQ offering.

6. Honky Tonk BBQ

Pilsen; honkytonkbbqchicago. com This family-run restaurant serves food and music for your soul. The barbecue is all about applewood smoke and Memphis-style dry rub. Sauce comes on the side. Kids love the smoked chicken, mac & cheese and corn muffins while the desserts and Bacon Candy are highly recommended. All sides are vegetarian or vegan. Wednesday nights are popular for families as swing music plays from 6-8. Big Band plays swing jazz every Sunday, with trumpets, banjo, sax and more. Missing out on Honky Tonk BBQ will have you singing the blues.

8. Blackwood BBQ

Three Loop locations, Schaumburg coming soon; blackwoodbbq.com The downtown locations of Blackwood might not have kids’ menus, but the new Woodfield Gatherings restaurant opening this summer will cater to families. The sliders and mac and cheese are sure to be popular with pint-sized diners. Mom and dad will love the brisket. Vegans will be elated with the smoked jackfruit. “It is a fiber-rich fruit that we rub, smoke and sauce. If you didn’t know any better, you would think that you are eating pulled pork,” says Stephanie Simpson, Blackwood partner.

9. Lillie’s Q Bucktown & United Center; lilliesqrestaurants.com You might recognize the Lillie’s Q logo from sauces, rubs or chips you’ve purchased at the grocery store. Visit the restaurant in Bucktown (now counter-style service) or sink your teeth into some Lillie’s Q deliciousness when cheering on the Bulls or Blackhawks (restaurants in three areas of the United Center). Tri tip, pulled pork, brisket and Nashville chicken are what they are known for. You can also order creamy grits and collard greens or try Kool-Aid Pickles (they’re red and tangy). Top it all off with some banana pudding for dessert and you’ll have a meal Grandma Lillie would be proud of.

10. L. Woods Tap and Pine Lodge Lincolnwood; lwoodsrestaurant.com L. Woods features a lodge atmosphere reminiscent of Northwoods supper clubs. Not only do they serve juicy BBQ, but also a full menu of American classics, including steaks, cheeseburgers, flatbreads and salads. 12-hour Smoked Prime Brisket, Buttermilk Fried Chicken and BBQ ribs bring people in as much as the nightly specials, like the Friday Wisconsin Fish Fry. This is a great place to go with picky eaters since their options are plentiful. CHICAGOPARENT.COM June 2019 29

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FAIRY TALES DO COME TRUE

Author incorporates Chicago’s real treasures into his new book

BY JERRY DAVICH

arry Broutman’s imaginative idea woke him up one unforgettable morning three years ago. “It was like an epiphany, almost as in a dream,” recalls Broutman, who lives in Chicago with his wife, Susan. The award-winning photojournalist had already authored several books, including Chicago Unleashed, Chicago Monumental and Chicago Eternal. For his new book, Broutman’s epiphany came from his earnest belief that Chicago’s truest treasure is its children, who he wanted to somehow highlight as storybook characters.

Chicago Treasure showcases children from the city and suburbs, many with special needs, featured with their favorite nursery rhyme or fairytale character. Many of the children attended preschool at Chicago Lighthouse, the worldrenowned organization serving the blind and visually impaired, where Broutman is a board member. “I would often watch the preschool children playing there, and the idea for the book just came to me,” says Broutman, a dad and grandfather who began the project by photographing the children. “I tend to be whimsical by nature, so I’m really excited how it all turned out.” A whimsical world indeed. Through the blended magic of photography, illustration and computer graphics, the children are allowed to immerse themselves into creative canvases while inhabiting legendary

scenes from other times and places. For example, to stroll down the Yellow Brick Road, to sip a spot of tea in Wonderland and to become Little Miss Muffet who sat on her tuffet. “People tend to forget that children with special needs are first and foremost kids. They just happen to have a special need,” says Don Hubert, of Gurnee, whose 6-year-old daughter Natalie portrays Little Miss Muffet in the book. Hubert co-owns a small shipping store in Chicago, where Broutman has been a longtime customer. “When Natalie was 3, he asked me if she could be in this book,” Hubert recalls. “My wife and I were thrilled. This book has a sense of selflessness for spreading awareness about children like my daughter while teaching qualities such as empathy, patience and compassion.” Natalie, who was born with Down syndrome, is in

Photo illustrations by Larry Broutman, John Rabias and Rich Green

kindergarten this year but she will forever be Little Miss Muffet in this 168-page book, filled with 150 illustrations and countless dreams for other children. “The kids are the story. The book is their adventure,” its creators say. Chicago Treasure is a collaborative effort with Broutman, a former plastics engineer and professor, along with John Rabias, a digital-age magician with post-production imaging, and Rich Green, a computer graphics guru who has illustrated several popular children’s books. “Putting the kids into costumes not only helped complete the look in some of

the illustrations but it brought out joy and energy in the kids who were now really acting out their parts,” Green says. “It was clear how much fun they were having. I would get to see the joy and pride beaming in their faces. Just one look at the smile on Maritza Cervantes, who plays our Cinderella, and you will see what I mean.” Maritza’s mother, Maria Cervantes, says her daughter was delightfully surprised when she first saw herself in the book. “What I enjoyed while working on the illustrations was imagining the looks on the kids’ faces when they got to see themselves,” Green says. “I felt like it was going to be so empowering for them, and

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Chicago Treasure Imprint: Lake Claremont Press: A Chicago Joint readers of the book, to see that they can truly become anything they want to be in life.” Deanna Alfano’s now 10-yearold son, Anthony, portrayed Old King Cole, photographed in costume by Broutman, who discovered Anthony while watching a TV news segment on his elaborate Halloween costumes. Anthony, who has cerebral palsy, is nonverbal and in a wheelchair. “He really enjoys seeing his picture in the book,” says Alfano, of Melrose Park. “He smiled when he first saw it.” Broutman’s challenge was to feature these children without distinguishing them by their special needs. It’s about inclusion, not special needs or special anything. “This message is loud and clear in the book, I believe,” says Broutman, who is donating proceeds to Access Living and The Chicago Lighthouse. Janet Szlyk, Lighthouse’s president and CEO, praised Broutman, who envisioned and created “that perfect world of inclusion and acceptance.” “Every Chicago parent needs to relay Larry’s vision to their child.”

Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and everythinggoesmedia. com, $35

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last-minute camps | sponsored

Make your kid’s summer Camps you should put on their summer bucket list

ith the horrible spring we had, it’s no wonder you put off figuring out summer camp until now. You might be worried that it’s too late to sign up, but we found 10 amazing camps that will keep the kids busy and super happy this summer.

1 Funtopia

Anyone who’s been to Funtopia knows it is an adventurer’s paradise. This year, its fun summer day camps, available in both Naperville and Glenview, build on all that adventure with learning along the way. At this year’s camps, the folks at Funtopia are focused on teaching kids all about the theories of basic science, but don’t expect this to be anything like school. Instead, kids will see how science actually works by putting the lessons into practice using all of the equipment at Funtopia. Perfect for any kid, ages 7-11, who likes to have fun and be active, these camps also are flexible enough to suit everyone’s summer schedule, with full day weekdays, half day and single day options available. funtopiaworld.com/naperville • funtopiaworld.com/glenview

2 Chicago Fire Summer Camps

If you want to develop your child’s love for soccer, there is no better place than at one of the Chicago Fire Soccer Club’s summer camps. With small group sizes lead by professional and international coaching staffs who put an emphasis on fun while learning, the camps cater to all levels, from beginners to more advanced players ages 2-14. The experience has been enhanced and freshened for this year’s campers. New this year is an effort to incorporate a high-level e-gaming experience into camp during off-field times. Flexibility is key to Chicago Fire’s camps, more than 150 locations spread throughout the suburbs and city.

3 Camp Ben Frankel

Next to the amazing Shawnee National Forest sits a camp celebrating its 70th summer of helping kids enjoy a magical and fun experience in a Jewish setting. Camp Ben Frankel, in Carbondale, is an intimate, affordable sleepaway camp open to children from any Jewish background. While there, campers ages 7-16 get the same top-quality programming and real-life experiences of the national and larger Jewish summer camps while getting individualized attention due to the high ratio of counselors to campers. But fun is at the center of everything with more than 70 activities, including every sport, rock band and other performing arts, horseback riding, rock climbing and aquatic activities. The camp’s executive director, Aaron Hadley, grew up at the camp and knows every camper by name. campbenfrankel.org

An added bonus: Every player gets a cool jersey, player evaluation with positive encouragement and a ticket to a Chicago Fire game at SeatGeek Stadium for camp graduation day. chicago-fire.com/sitc/summercamps

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last-minute camps | sponsored

4 Noggin Builders Got a curious kid? Noggin Builders’ hands-on, interactive summer camps in Northbrook have lots of the answers. Each week has a different theme kids in grades PreK-8 will love, including Lego engineering, roller coaster science, cool chemistry and science in the kitchen. If you hurry, there might even be a spot available in the robotics week, the most popular camp for kids in grades 5-8, where campers get to build an actual robot. But the science is just the gravy, says owner Amy Torf. What makes Noggin Builders’ camps really unique is that they help kids become creative problem solvers while also learning life skills such as critical thinking, communication and collaboration, critical thinking and perseverance. nogginbuilders.com/summercamps

5 Camp Nicolet Looking to add a sense of adventure to your summer? Girls of all ages will find what they are looking for at Camp Nicolet in Eagle River, Wis. This overnight camp is celebrating 75 years of bringing girls together from all over the globe into its diverse camp family. It is a no-device atmosphere where girls, ages 7-17, get a traditional camp experience choosing one to eight weeks in a beautiful natural setting with a spring-fed lake and sand beach. Girls leave with a sense of independence, self-confidence, and friendships that last forever.

Water activities are popular at the camp, as is horseback riding and all land sports. campnicolet.com

6 Codeverse Nowhere else can kids let their imaginations loose to create and develop a story into a real live video game than at the Codeverse summer camps. And it’s not just gamers who will love the experience; the camps appeal to artsy kids, sporty kids, music kids and every other kind of kid, ages 6-13, who are encouraged to work together to bring their interests and experiences to life on the big screen. While also learning to be creators instead of just consumers of technology, the camps include field trips to tech savvy businesses to learn about careers as well as area parks to enjoy the sunshine. The camps, which include a healthy lunch, also offer early and late pickup. codeverse.com/camps

7 “Z” Frank Apachi Day Camp On the North Shore, a lot of camps offer a summer full of sports and fun. What makes “Z” Frank Apachi Day Camp different is that everything is focused on values, lessons from across generations and learning independence, says Director Terri Blenner. Plus, the camps build the kids’ confidence, helping them stand tall throughout the school year, she says. The majority of campers are Jewish, but the JCC camp is inclusive and benefits all

kids ages 4-12. Activities include robotics, cooking, musical theater, swimming twice a day, arts and crafts studio, sports, boating, climbing wall and adventure tree, a new ninja obstacle course, golf and music. Each day has a special event. daycamp.jccchicago.org

8 enerGEEwhizz Known for offering fitness and fun activities, enerGEEwhizz kids fitness summer camps challenge and empower kids to be their best self – and might even unearth a new interest in a topic they never imagined enjoying. Each camp day starts off with individualized workouts that are tracked throughout the week to show kids their progress. Then campers move into the day’s themed activities, such as yoga, nutrition, cooking, coding, theater, comedy, water sports, nature and mental health. Each day is different and gives kids the opportunity to learn the world has to offer them while having fun. Camps are best for kids who are potty trained through early tweens, with half days and full days available. energeewhizz.com

9 Camp Towanda

things without being judged. Get dirty during a nature walk? Yes. Make different friends from their friends at home? Yes. Learn a new sport? Yes. All while learning life skills and healthy choices. The seven-week program is best for kids ages 6-17. Mitch Reiter, owner/director, says campers return year after year because they feel part of this one big family. camptowanda.com

10 New Traditions Riding Academy Horse lovers will love the New Traditions Riding Academy fourday summer camps this year. Filled with lots of opportunity to ride and care for horses, the camp also teaches compassion, responsibility and confidence as campers get to know each other, the horses and other farm animals, including a sheep, pig and llama.

For 97 years, kids from all over the country travel to the 400 acres of rolling countryside in Honesdale, Pa., to Camp Towanda for an amazing traditional camp experience.

The classic horsemanship facility caters to all levels ages 7 and up, from those who have never been on a horse to kids who are riding and showing their horses frequently. The two-week pony camp caters to kids 4-8.

What makes this camp special is that kids are allowed to be who they are while trying new

The goal is to fuel a love for horses for the rest of their lives. ntridingacademy.com CHICAGOPARENT.COM June 2019 35

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June 22-23

NEIU J - Building Dance Studios

7 - 12 years

$100 / 8 classes or $15 per class

CHILDREN'S SUMMER SPANISH DANCE CAMP

FOLKLORE Amanda Saucedo

FLAMENCO Nalanie Molina

CLASSICAL Tasiana Villalobos

CANTE

Patricia Ortega

Visit EnsembleEspanol.org or contact Julia@ensembleespanol.org / (773) 442-5918

SCHEDULE

SATURDAY 22 & SUNDAY 23

9:30 - 10:30 AM Beginner Folklore Intermediate Clasico 10:40 - 11:40 AM Beginner Clasico Intermediate Folklore

www.ourjoyinfantcare.com

Your best choice for Night Nurse, Night Nannies, and Nannies

FOR SINGLES AND MULTIPLES Our Joy Infant Care has over the years become the recommended and trusted source for finding quality baby nurse and nannies as a reliable referral agency. Our night nurses and night nannies have been professionally trained to care for newborns and educate new and seasonal mothers.

12:00 - 1:00 PM Beginner Flamenco Intermediate Flamenco 1:00 - 2:00 PM All Levels: Cante SUNDAY 23 2:00 - 3:00 PM Student / Family Showcase in Studio

Call: 312-502-0214

ourjoyinfantcare@gmail.com

36 June 2019 CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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summer fun listings Arlington Heights Frontier Days Festival July 3rd - 7th 500 E. Miner St Arlington Heights (847) 577-8572

FrontierDays.org FREE entertainment, family activities, carnival, food, beer and wine!

Avery Coonley School Summer Program

Black River Farm and Ranch

Eye Level Learning Center

Croswell, MI 48422

Summer Programs (224) 424-0144

BlackRiverFarmandRanch.com An overnight Summer Horse Camp for Girls since 1962.

BRICK SAFARI May 11 – September 29

Brookfield Zoo

Brookfieldzoo.org Over 40 life size animal sculptures, LEGOS!

Chicago Northwest

Downers Grove

FAMILY DAY! Free Event June 15, 2019 Noon – 2 pm

(630) 969-0800 ext. 122

WoodField Mall

The Biggest Baby Shower Ever Chicago!

DuPage Children’s Museum

June 12, 2019 , 4:30pm – 9:00pm

301 N. Washington St Naperville (630) 637-8000

1400 W. Maple Ave., averycoonley.org/

Revel Fulton Market 1215 West Fulton Market, Chicago bigcitymoms.com

Billy Boy’s Blueberry Barn 650 Freyer Rd Michigan City

(219) 872-7477

Billyboysblueberrybarn.com (check website or call for hours)

myeyelevel.com Enroll your children to enhance their thinking

A Fairytale Ballet & Academy Lakeview, Bucktown, Evanston (773) 477-4488 (LV & EV) (773) 606-0318 (BT) AFairytaleBallet.com Ballet with stories, costumes, props & fun! Ages 2-16

Franklyn D Resort

Grizzly Jacks Grand Bear Resort

Runaway Bay, Jamaica (800) 654-1337

2643 IL Route 178, Utica, IL (866) 399-3866

fdrholidays.com Your all-inclusive vacation will be a most memorable family experience!

grizzlyjacksresort.com Code “PARENT” gets you 15% off! Across from Starved Rock Park!

Elk Grove Park District

German International School Chicago

HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN

Pirates Cove Children’s Theme Park

1726 W Berteau Ave

30 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston

901 Leicester Rd

+1(773) 880-8812

ChicagoNorthwest.com

Plan Your Perfect Play!

DuPagechildrens.org

Rainbow Falls Waterpark 200 Rev. Morrison Blvd

(847) 228-2860 Elkgroveparks.org

Emerald City Theatre Summer Camps 2019 July 3 – August 16

Lakeview – Lincoln Park – Lincoln Square (773) 529-2690

EmeraldCityTheatre.com

Ensemble Espanol Children’s Summer Spanish Dance Camp

Northeastern Illinois University 5500 N. St. Louis Chicago

(773) 442-5918

EnsembleEspanol.org

Chicago, IL 60613 germanschoolchicago.com Understand the World. Prepare for the Possibilities

German Fest – A Milwaukee Tradition

Ethel M. Barber Theater (847) 491-7282 wirtz.northwestern.edu A new musical about the boy who would grow up to become the “Father of the Modern Fairy Tale.”

Holistic Riding Equestrian Therapy

germanfest.com

Lemont, IL (630) 878-8096

July 26-28. One of the largest German festivals in North America!

holisticridingtherapy.org Riding/farm experiences serving all abilities and backgrounds, veterans, and more.

Golf Mill Shopping Center Sat, June 8, 11 am – 1 pm

239 Golf Mill Center Niles

(847) 699-1070

GolfMill.com Golf Mill Shopping Center MAGIC DAY! Magic Show, Face Painting, Crafts Giveaways CHICAGOPARENT.COM June 2019 37

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summer fun listings Kohl Children’s Museum 2100 Patriot Blvd, Glenview (847) 832-6600

kcmgc.org Nature Cat: Backyard and Beyond new exhibit opens July 30!

The Little Gym of Chicago 3216 North Lincoln Avenue (773) 525-5750 TheLittleGym.com/ChicagoIL Offering programs that develop the happy, confident kid you love.

iRelaunch Kellogg School of Management 2211 Campus Drive Evanston, IL 60208 irelaunch.com/ viewconference/2763

+1 844.iRelaunch

On a career break? Relaunch your career at iRelaunch’s Return to Work conference!

Kidwatch Plus 3330 N. Lockwood Ave., Chicago (773) 993-0536

Kidwatchplus.com Join us for a cultural adventure as Kidwatch Travels Around the World this summer!

MCGAW YMCA 1000 Grove Street, Evanston, IL 60201 (847) 475-7400

mcgawymca.org Limited spots still available. Day and overnight camp for 1st – 8th grade.

Music Theater Works Summer Workshop 516 4th Street, Wilmette (847) 920-5360 MusicTheaterWorks.com /summer Age 8-13, every child is guaranteed a part!

PLAY at Yorktown Center Lombard (630) 629-7330

Pump It Up Party Orland Park (708) 479-2220 Chicago (312) 664-PUMP

Rainforest Café Downtown Chicago (312) 787-1501 Woodfield Mall

(847) 619-1900 Gurnee Mills

(847) 855-7800

Rainforestcafe.com A Wild Place to Shop and Eat

Reed’s Canoe Trips Kankakee, IL (815) 932-2663 ReedsCanoeTrips.com Offering exciting and memorable trips seven days a week.

River Forest Community Center 8020 Madison Street , River Forest (708) 771-6159

rfcc.info Full & Part Time Summer Camp Programs ages 3-12

Schaumburg Boomers Free Kids Zone Boomersbaseball.com

Family Sundays – Fireworks Fri & Sat Home Games

The Second City Training Center 230 W North Ave. (312) 664-3959

secondcity.com/tc Summer Comedy Camps IMPROV • SKETCH • MUSICAL IMPROV

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

Sno Daze Tropical Sno 7667 S. Harlem Avenue, Bridgeview, Il 60455 (708) 458-2216

tropicalsnodaze.com We specialize in private parties, Girl Scout and corporate events!

Vertical Endeavors 246 Windy Point Drive Glendale Heights

(630 )784-9000

verticalendeavors.com Reach New Heights with VE summer camps!

The Wild Bird Shack 854 E Northwest Hwy, Mount Prospect (847) 873-0409 wildbirdshack.com For All Your Wild Bird and Backyard Needs.

Kids Run bases after game - $1 Hot Dog Tuesdays

Yorktowncenter.com 2,000 sq. ft. area combines art, technology, and a playground

Chicago Parent needs a few good moms and dads. We are looking for friendly, outgoing readers to staff Chicago Parent booths at events throughout the city and suburbs. Must have a car and flexible schedule. Events are mainly on weekends. Email Lori Smerz at lori@chicagoparent.com with your resume and a cover letter about yourself. 38 June 2019 CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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SKOKIE SPORTS PARK Adventure Golf Batting Cages & Party Room

Golf Range PGA Pro Group & Private Lessons

Fairytale Ballet Camps Ballet Fairytales Costumes Props Mini-Camps Mom & Me to 6 years

Classes

1.5 to 18 yrs

. Academy Workshops 6-18 yrs

18 holes of around-the-world golfing adventure 3459 Oakton Street • Skokie (847) 674-1500 ext. 3100 • SkokieParks.org

A Fairytale Ballet

Lakeview

Bucktown

AFairytaleBallet.com

Evanston

773-477-4488

#SummerAtMcGaw Limited spots still available for 1st Grade to 8th Grade, from June 16 to August 9.

Come camp with us! OVERNIGHT CAMP 3RD–12TH GRADE

DAY CAMP K–6TH GRADE

METAMEDIA

EMPLOYMENT

6TH–8TH GRADE

17+ YEARS

FAMILY CAMP ALL AGES

Explore camp options at www.mcgawymca.org CHICAGOPARENT.COM June 2019 39

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What’s in your purse? The results are pretty fun

BY MICHELLE ELFVIN

e gave these five cool, Instagram-loving Chicagoland mamas a moment’s notice to show us what they have their purse. From hand sanitizers to hair extensions, these mamas reveal all.

Well, first of all, we moved yesterday. That explains the bra and underwear (or does it?), random toys and lone toddler shoe. My Clonazepam ... because motherhood. A checkbook, because my therapist thinks it’s 1994. My hair extensions ... well, we ALL carry those around, right? Right?!? Anyone ... ? Andrea Rappaport @andreadoesntgiveaduck

Kids are germy so hey, I gotta have wipes AND gel sanitizer. I can’t go without my lipstick! This is a fun pop of color that goes with any look! Dr. Kiarra King @ drkiarraking

I’m not going to lie, the depths of my purse are known throughout my neighborhood. It even has a nickname—“Hermione’s Bag.” Yes, it does give me a sore neck and shoulder, but I avoid meltdowns and parental panic attacks on the daily: Baseball cap so I can look put together even if my hair is a mess; Paint By Sticker activity book; lollipops and popcorn because bribery is a strong suit of mine; ear buds for when I need a moment of Zen; hand sanitizer and Band-Aids because boys are both rough and gross; monster trucks; fun earrings and a bright red lipstick. Amanda Simkin @queenofthelandoftwigsnberries

Between T-ball and Jujitsu I need to keep snacks on hand, and wet wipes within close reach! Plus, antibacterial Wet Ones, Herban Essentials Cleansing Towelettes (Lavender), Rx Bar, Goldfish, Ray Ban Folding Wayfarers, Supergoop Setting Mist SPF 50, Colore Science Sunforgettable Powder Sunscreen, NYX Butter Gloss (Tiramisu and Angel Food Cake), Rosebud Salve, Shu Umera Eyelash Curler, Lodis Wallet. Kasey Krull @kckrull

Having two boys there are always snacks, candy (to bribe them), and they are obsessed with these Beyblades. I always have a pair of sunglasses and a massive extra phone charger. To be honest, my bag is usually a hot mess with everything thrown in with a few chip crumbs on the bottom. Don’t be surprised if I have an extra dress stuffed in. Jen Worman @redsolesandredwine

40 June 2019 CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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UNdErstaNd thE world.

An IB World School

Prepare for the Possibilities.

german international school Chicago al, International

Offering a Bilingu

Education

Now ENrolliNg

Pre-K through Grade 8 Sign up for an Open House or schedule your Private Tour today!

â&#x153;&#x2020; 773-880-8812

www.germanschoolchicago.com

1726 w Berteau ave | Chicago, il 60613

PLAY

STAY CONNECTED.

every day every way

Day Camp

*Late Summer Camps

June 24 - August 2

August 5-16

(varies by park) *offered at select parks

Online Registration Begins

Monday, April 22 (for parks WEST of California Ave.) Tuesday, April 23 (for parks EAST of California Ave.)

In-Person Registration

Begins Saturday, April 27 for most parks Some parks begin on Monday, April 29 Help send a kid to camp! Donate to the camp scholarship fund at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/donate

Financial assistance is available for eligible Chicago residents. Learn more at: www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/day-camp/

City of Chicago LORI LIGHTFOOT Chicago Park District Board of Commissioners Michael P. Kelly, General Superintendent & CEO

For more information about your Chicago Park District visit www.ChicagoParkDistrict.com or call 312.742.7529 or 312.747.2001 (TTY)

CHICAGOPARENT.COM June 2019 41

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Calendar

JUNE

25 family-friendly events you can’t miss

Homewood Art Fest

Fairytale Princess Ball. The ball in Naperville includes dancing, performances, a ceremony, treats and photo ops with the princesses. June 2.

Frontier Park Kite Fest LaGrange Pet Parade

LaGrange Pet Parade. Kids showcase their pets in the annual parade. June 1.

Lincoln Park Greek Fest. Authentic music,

Physical Festival. Mayfest. Music, festival

Milk Days. Milk drinking contests, cow chip lotto, carnival rides, a petting zoo and more in the Harvard celebration. June 1-2.

Hamilton: The Exhibition. Multimedia tour of Alexander Hamilton’s life on Northerly Island. June 1-30.

57th Street Art Fair. Art from more than 200 artists with hands-on activities for kids and Buddy Guy’s Legends live music. June 1-2.

Cirque du Soleil: Volta. A captivating voyage of discovery that showcases never-beforeseen under the Big Top acrobatics in a visually striking world at Soldier Field. June 1-30.

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40 life-size animal sculptures at will be swimming, stampeding and flying in Lego form at Brookfield Zoo. June 1-30.

Frontier Park Kite Fly Festival. Kite

dance, food and culture are celebrated. June 1-2.

favorites, local vendors, and interactive games and entertainment in Chicago’s Lincoln Square. June 1-2.

Brick Safari. More than

Features four shows at Stage 773 from around the world, a hometown show, master classes with international guest artists, and a Scratch Night featuring new short works from local performers. June 1-8.

Nature Connects: Art with Lego bricks by Sean Kenney. Marvel at 13 larger-than-life displays created from nearly half a million Lego bricks at Morton Aboretum. June 1-30.

demonstrations, stunts and hands-on activities in Naperville. June 2.

Homewood Artisan Street Fair. Art, vendors, live music, science activities and chalk drawings. June 7.

Princess Ball. Dancing, horse drawn carriage rides, science activities and a princess appearance at the Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn.

{ } Long Grove Strawberry Fest

5/15/19 11:11 AM

Calendar Chicago Tribune Printers Row Lit Fest. Children’s

Long Grove Strawberry Fest. Three days committed to all things strawberry. June 21-23.

programming at Downtown Printer’s Row includes storytelling, performances, sing-alongs and special activities. June 8-9.

Hans My Hedgehog Puppet Show. This enchant-

Nickelodeon SlimeFest. Meet

ing fairytale is told through the arts of shadow puppetry with the aid of music in Northbrook. June 22.

Nickelodeon stars and see music performances at Huntington Bank Pavillion on Northerly Island. June 8-9.

Ancient Game Day. Play the favorite games of ancient Egypt, Nubia, Mesopotamia, and Persia outdoors in front of the Oriental Institute. June 8.

BOING Festival. Indoor and outdoor party fun at Chicago Children’s Theatre. June 9.

Fairies & Gnomes Tea Party. Children will learn etiquette, manners and kindness in a fun environment. A craft follows the meal at Cantigny Park. June 10.

Pride in the Park Chicago. Celebrate

BOING Festival

gay pride and the LGBT community with national and local music acts, food and other vendors. June 29.

Evan Barr

Digging with Dad. Listen to a story and check out veggie plants in the edibles garden at Chalet Nursery in Wilmette. June 15.

Shedd Family Festival. Meet a live animal, engage in hands-on science activities and make a craft to take home. June 16.

Barrel of Monkeys’ Celebration of Authors. Audience members get the opportunity to meet the authors, the teachers and the principals from the schools Barrel of Monkeys has worked with during the school year. June 13.

Sesame gang visits

CHICAGO A

s Sesame Street gears up for its 50th anniversary this fall, the residents of 123 Sesame Street will spend the summer traversing the country. Elmo, Abby and friends will visit Chicago on June 29 as part of a first-of-its-kind road trip that begins in New York City on June 1 and ends in Los Angeles on Aug. 3. Museum of Science and Industry Park is set to host a free family festival and stage show that includes a giant maze, a treasure dig, photo opportunities, sweepstakes, a cookies-and-milk snack station and more. While in town, the Sesame Street production crew will film characters at local landmarks and produce segments with kids showing what they love about their communities. The new segments will begin airing in November as part of Sesame Street’s 50th season. Hillary Bird

Sesame Street Road Trip When: June 29 Where: Museum of Science & Industry Park Cost: Free, attendees will be admitted first-come, first-served.

Chicago Tribune Printers Row Lit Fest Physical Festival

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Calendar

Millennium Park Summer Film Series

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHOOSE CHICAGO/ABEL ARCINIEGA

1 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

Spring Zing. Learn about bike maintenance and safety, and there’s a magician. 1-3 p.m. Lincoln Central Park. lincolncentral. org.

Story Time With Theatre Y. Favorite children’s books read aloud and performed by actors. Recommended for ages 6 and under. 10 a.m. The Ready, Chicago. (845) 649-1707, theatre-y.com. SUBURBS

Family Day/Open House. Big Run Wolf Ranch will host an open house for families to see the ranch’s wolves, Siberian tiger, black bear, cougar, skunk and porcupines. $7. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Big Run Wolf Ranch, Lockport. (815) 588-0044, bigrunwolfranch.org.

Girls on the Run 5K North. 5K noncompetitive race celebrates health,

confidence and strength. Check website for cost. 8 a.m. College of Lake County, Grayslake. (773) 3421250, gotrchicago.org.

North Shore Pride Fest. This family friendly and all-ages day-long event kicks off Pride Month, with a Pride Family Picnic and Taste the Rainbow Pub Crawl to support the LGBTQ community. Noon-3 p.m. picnic; 5 p.m.-close, pub crawl. Everts Park, Highwood. celebratehighwood.org.

Star Wars Day. Dress in Star Wars costume, see a parade, watch light saber demonstrations and duels. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., see website for schedule. Joliet Public Library Main Branch, Joliet. jolietlibrary.org. LaGrange Pet Parade.

Featuring marching bands, kids showcasing their pets (participate and have a chance to win one of the many prizes), floats and clowns. Visit website for participation registration. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Celebration of Authors LaGrange. lagrange BETH BULLOCK PHOTOGRAPHY petparade.org.

2 | SUNDAY CHICAGO

PorchFest Lakeview. Stroll the neighborhood and listen to local artists performing on residents’ front porches. 1-5 p.m. Lakeview neighborhood, Chicago. lakeviewchamber.com.

Secret Agent Storytime. Sing, dance, read books, and make crafts with Agent Zach and friends, parents, and siblings. 11 a.m.-noon. The Wicker Park Secret Agent Supply Co., Chicago. (646) 239-9625, secretagentsupply.com. SUBURBS

Can You Canoe? After a basic instructional course on canoeing safety and skills, paddle your own canoe around the pond and participate in a fun game. $11, $9 residents. 10 a.m.-noon, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Emily Oaks Nature Center, Skokie. (847) 677-7001, skokieparks.org.

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Calendar

About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the July issue is May 27. All events are subject to change. Please confirm before you go. Events taking place on four or more dates during the month are listed in Ongoing Events, beginning on page 56.

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar Frontier Park Kite Festival. Kite demonstrations, stunts and hands-on activities. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Frontier Park, Naperville. napervilleparks.org.

Summer Concert Series. Variety of musical acts for every taste play at Circle Park. Today’s act: Encore Concert Band. 6-8 p.m. Klein Park, Evergreen Park. evergreenpark-ill.com.

Mid-American Canoe and Kayak Race. Paddle the scenic Fox River; rental boats available.

Prices vary, registration required, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Mount St. Mary Park, St. Charles. (630) 859-8606, foxvalleyparkdistrict.org.

Fairytale Princess Ball. Includes a royal dance, vocal performances by the princesses, a princess crowning ceremony and dancing with the royal court. Princess attire is encouraged for guests. $12-$50. 4-5:45 p.m. Noah’s of Naperville, Naperville. eventbrite.com.

Sensory Friendly Sundays. Families with children who are 18

months to 10 years old who have sensory needs experience a less crowded Children’s Garden with minimal noise. Free with arboretum admission; registration required; 8:45-9:30 a.m. The Morton Arboretum, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

Pride in the Park Chicago

4 | TUESDAY Millennium Park Summer Film Series. Catch a movie on the big, big, big screen. Today’s movie: Black Panther. 6:30 p.m. Millennium Park, Chicago. choosechicago.com.

5 | WEDNESDAY Block to Block Party. Enjoy live music at the City Centre Plaza Fountain and the North York Plaza. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Elmhurst City Centre, Elmhurst. (630) 993-1600, elmhurstcitycentre.com.

Stroller Tours. Caregivers discover the MCA’s exhibitions with a docent, exploring galleries without concern that their baby or stroller

will disrupt the tour. Free with admission, 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago. mcachicago.org.

6 | THURSDAY Rockin’ In the Park. Outdoor concert series with cover bands. Today’s act: One of These Nights. 7-10 p.m. Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District, Rosemont. rosemont.com.

Nurturing the Potential Within Each Child

2019

ER SUMM

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

OPS H S K R WO

Ages 8 to 13 Annie • July 8-13

Develop your child’s potential • Ages 15 months through Elementary • Beautiful, bright new building • Regular informational tours • Now enrolling Accredited through age 12 by the by Association Montessori Internationale (AMI)

Fiddler on the Roof • July 15-20 Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat • July 22-27 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang • July 29-Aug. 3 42nd Street • August 5-10

For teens

How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying youth production June 13-29 (audition required)

MusicTheaterWorks.com/summer • (847) 920-5360

Gateway Montessori 4041 N. Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60641 www.GatewayMontessoriSchool.org 773.539.3025 • info@gatewaymontessorischool.org CHICAGOPARENT.COM June 2019 45

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Calendar 7 | FRIDAY

performances. The festival will feature immersive one-of-a-kind experiences, appearances by Nickelodeon stars, Grammy-winning performers and plenty of slime. $49.50, free 2 and under. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Huntington Bank Pavilion. nickslimefest.com.

Movie in the Park: Cantigny. Enjoy a family movie night under the stars. Today’s feature: Ralph Breaks the Internet. Free with $5 parking, 8:30 p.m. Cantigny Park, Wheaton. cantigny.org.

A Night at the Movies. Watch a movie under the stars. Today’s feature: Christopher Robin. 8:30 p.m. Rotary Hill, Naperville. napervilleparks.org.

Drop-In Small Wonders Art for Kids. On the first Friday of each month, artists ages 4-12 will take part in a variety of creative visual and performing arts activities. Drop off can begin at 4:10 p.m., and artists should wear appropriate painting clothes. $5 donation. 4:15-6:15 p.m. Side Street Studio Arts, Elgin. sidestreetstudioarts. org.

Minecraft Party. A social night for kids to play and meet other fans of Mindcraft. $25, 5:30-8 p.m. Power Up Tech Academy. (773) 382-0778, powerupta.com. SUBURBS

Princess Ball. Dancing, horsedrawn carriage rides, science activities and a princess appearance sponsored by Oak Lawn Children’s Museum. $100-$120 per father/daughter pair. 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Double Tree Hotel, Alsip. cmoaklawn.org.

8 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

Glenview Summer Fest

Ancient Game Day. Play the favorite games of ancient Egypt, Nubia, Mesopotamia and Persia outdoors in front of the Oriental Institute. $5 donation recommendation for adults. 1-4 p.m. Oriental Institute Museum. oi.uchicago.edu.

Nickelodeon SlimeFest. Meet Nickelodeon stars and see music

Specıal Parent CHICAGO

A Chicago Parent EMPOWERMENT GUIDE

Chicago’s only local magazine and resource guide to life for families who have children with special needs.

Specıal Parent CHICAGO

WINTER 2019

AN EMPOWERMENT GUIDE FROM

Time out time: The discipline debate

Camps and resources you need

For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com

Elena’s way CSPdigital_0319_CV1.indd 1

2019 digital edition now available!

2/28/19 12:40 PM

46 June 2019 CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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SUMMER CAMP 2019

The Avery Coonley School

Summer Program An exciting and educational summer program for children ages 4-14. Three (3) sessions available: June 17-28 / July 1-12 / July 15-26 View 2019 Summer Program information online: www.averycoonley.org/summerprogram 1400 Maple Avenue, Downers Grove, IL, 630-969-0800

ONLY $ 1 • WEDNESDAYS

DOORS OPEN AT 9AM • SHOWS AT 10AM

June 5

June 12

June 19

June 26

July 3

July 10

July 17

July 24

July 31

Aug 7

“What at AMAZING two weeks my daughter had! She wished it would never end.” – Summer Camp Parent

June 3 – August 16, 2019

Lakeview | Lincoln Park | Lincoln Square

Ages 3.5 – 15

Enroll at EmeraldCityTheatre.com or call 773.529.2690

JULY 13 - 28

Ethel M. Barber Theater 30 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston

Tickets: $12 - $20 Box Office: (847) 491-7282 WIRTZ.NORTHWESTERN.EDU

Entertainment before the shows • classiccinemas.com/wmms

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Calendar Dairy Breakfast and Stock Show. Enjoy breakfast, then farm

Morton Mort Arboretum, Lisl (630) 968Lisle. 00 0074, mortonarb. o org.

tours, demonstrations, hay rides, and hands-on activities. $10 kids 11-adult, $5 kids 2-10, free kids under 2. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Historic Wagner Farm, Glenview. glenviewparks.org.

9 | SUNDAY BOING Festival

BOING BO Festival. Fes Indoor

Island Rendezvous. Archery, French crafts, stories, live music and skillet tossing. 11 a.m.3 p.m. Isle a la Cache Museum, Romeoville. reconnectwithnature. org.

Global Slime Con. Meet, greet and buy slime from your favorite slimers, enjoy Q&A with VIPs, compete in slime competitions, check out a DIY Slime Area, trade slime, and enjoy games, activities and raffles. $10-$50. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention Center, Schaumburg. eventbrite.com/e/global-slime -con-tickets-59505309984.

St. Norbert Annual Block Party. Live music, beer garden, food and kids’ corner with games,

CHICAGO

inflatables, fface painting i i and d entertainment. $5, $10 after 7 p.m. 3-11 p.m. Northbrook. (847) 2727090, stnorbertblockparty.org.

Galaxy Donuts. Kids 2-5, with adult, learn how to make mesmerizing galaxy glaze treats. $30 parent/ child pair. 9-10 a.m. Taste Buds Kitchen, Bannockburn. (847) 2300330, tastebudskitchen.com.

and o outdoor party fun to kkick off summer features ae aerial circus arts, black ligh light dance party, airbrush tattoos an and performanc4 p.m. Chicago es. $10 $10. 12 p.m.-4 Children’s Theatre. (312) 374-8835, chicagochildrenstheatre.org.

Girls on the Run 5K Chicago. 5K non-competitive race celebrates health, confidence and strength. Check website for entrance information. 8 a.m. Grant Park. (773) 342-1250, gotrchicago.org.

Centre Elite Dancers, the concert will include all forms of dance, from ballet to ballroom. $18, $16 in advance. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Holy Trinity High School (708) 771-9500, legeredancecentre.com.

Nickelodeon SlimeFest. See June 8. SUBURBS

Family Concert: Super Stolie. This act’s high-energy style and blend of kid-friendly pop-rock songs and audience participation encourages everyone to be silly and have a good time with music. Free with $10 parking. 11 a.m. Cantigny Park, Wheaton. cantigny.org.

Summer Concert Series. See June 2. Today’s act: Southwest Community Band.

10 | MONDAY

Family Twilight Adventures.

Legere Dance Centre: Dance the Dream. Featuring the Trinity

Fairies & Gnomes Tea Party.

See which animals come out when people go home. $19. 7-9 p.m. The

Irish Dancers, ballroom professionals and the Légere Dance

Children will learn etiquette, manners and kindness in a fun

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Calendar environment. A craft follows the meal. $39; preregistration required. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Cantigny Park, Wheaton. (630) 260-8162, cantigny.org.

Kiddie Drive-In Movie. Use craft supplies to turn a box into a car, which a child, 2-6, can hop into the driver’s seat, grab a snack and watch a short cartoon. Registration recommended. 10 a.m. Evergreen Park Public Library, Evergreen Park, evergreenparklibrary.librarymarket. com. 11 | TUESDAY Millennium Park Summer Film Series. See June 4. Today’s feature: Frida.

Trekking Out Tuesdays– Butterflies. This busy class will introduce kids 2-5 to the amazing world of butterflies as they play and create. $10-$14. 10-11 a.m. & 6-8 p.m. Robert W. Rolek Community Center, Round Lake. rlpd.org.

12 | WEDNESDAY Kids Rock Band. A live, musical, interactive, life-sized puppet performance. 6:30 p.m. 50-Acre Park, Evergreen Park. evergreenpark-ill.com. Block to Block Party. See June 5.

Autism Helping Hands Support Group. Parent support group to talk about life transitions, get help & advice, and hear & share stories. 5:30-7 p.m. Higgins Education Center, Hoffman Estates. adc.d211.org/Domain/13.

Super Stolie at Cantigny

Island Rendezvous

13 | THURSDAY Barrel of Monkeys’ Celebration of Authors. Audience members get the opportunity to meet the authors, the teachers and the principals from the schools Barrel of Monkeys has worked with during the school year. Registration required. 6:30 p.m. pre-show activities; 7 p.m. curtain. Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, Chicago. (773) 506-7140, barrelofmonkeys.org.

Rockin’ In the Park. See June 6. Today’s act: 52nd Street.

Open Play for Children with Special Needs. A quieter time before the mu museum opens for kids with sspecial needs. $5 per p person. 9-10 a.m. W Wonder Works Chi Children’s Museum, Oa Oak Park. (708) 3 383-4815, wonderw works.org.

14 | FRIDAY Food Truck F F Festival. Food tru trucks, music and a mo movie in the park. Free w with $5 parking. 5-9 p.m. Cantigny Park, Wheaton. ca cantigny.org.

Kiddieland Celebration. Honor the 10th anniversary of the closing of Kiddieland with guest speakers, memorabilia, tattoos, food and raffle prizes. 5-9 p.m. Melrose Park Public Library, Melrose Park. mpplibrary.org.

15 | SATURDAY

Brickworld Chicago. Interactive activities with Lego and Duplo bricks, fighting robots and appearances. $14, free kids 3 and under. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. June 15, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. June 16. Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention Center, Schaumburg. (317) 5725346, brickworld.com.

Wizard’s Weekend Day.

CHICAGO

Navy Pier Quinceañera. Navy Pier has teamed up with the National Museum of Mexican Art to host a photoshoot for 15-yearold birthday girls at the Wave Wall on the South Dock, against the backdrop of the iconic Centennial Wheel and beautiful Lake Michigan. Preregistration required. 2 p.m. Navy Pier. navypier.org.

Celebrate all things of a magical nature with a school of magic, night of magical fun and costume contest. Fees for some activities. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Village of Antioch Parks and Recreation. (847) 3952233, antiochchamber.org.

16 | SUNDAY CHICAGO

Shedd Family Festival. Meet a live animal, engage in hands-on science activities and make a craft to take home; recommended for ages 5-12. $25, $20 members. 10 a.m.-noon. Shedd Aquarium. sheddaquarium.org.

SUBURBS

Mexican Folkloric Festival. Celebrate the traditions, food, dance, music and fine arts of Mexico. Free with $10 parking. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Cantigny Park, Wheaton. cantigny.org.

Rock & Roll for Kids. The Rock

Digging with Dad. Listen to a story and check out veggie plants in Chalet’s edibles garden. $10. 1-2 p.m. Chalet Nursery, Wilmette. (847) 256-0561, chaletnursery.com.

and Roll Playhouse uses music to educate children and explore their creativity. Today’s artist: The Music of The Grateful Dead for Kids. $15. 11 a.m. Thalia Hall. therockandrollplayhouse.com.

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Calendar SUBURBS

Open Swim. Open Swim is a great opportunity for additional practice outside of swim lessons or to simply have fun in the pool. $10, RSVP recommended. 3-5 p.m. British Swim School, Skokie. (708) 613-5179, bsschicago.com.

Special Needs Night at Centennial Beach. Individuals with special needs can enjoy a relaxing evening. $3, members may use passes. 6:30-8 p.m. Centennial Beach, Naperville. centennialbeach.org.

Viking Midsummer Festival. Scandinavian song and dance, Swedish food, Viking encampment, children’s activities, Maypole raising, food and carnival games that celebrate all things Vikingrelated. $5, free kids 12 and under. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. June 16. Good Templar Park, Geneva. (847) 8452640, goodtemplarpark.org.

{ } Movies in the Park at Cantigny

Father’s Day Pizza Party. Kids ages 2-8 and dads will build a mini pizza with homemade dough, tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese and basil. $30 per child with caregiver. 11 a.m.-noon. Taste Buds Kitchen, Bannockburn. tastebudskitchen.com

Brickworld Chicago. See June

Handmade Pizza. Bakers ages 9

15. Today’s schedule: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

and older will learn the secret tricks behind working with pizza dough.

$45, registration is required. 5-7 p.m. Taste Buds Kitchen, Bannockburn. tastebudskitchen. com.

17 | MONDAY Museum Maker Monday. Kids and caregivers can explore the museum on a traditionally-closed day, play games, complete a craft

EXERCISE PREGNANCY STUDY

REEDSCANOETRIPS.COM

and picnic on the grounds weather permitting. 1-4 p.m. Elmhurst History Museum, Elmhurst. (630) 833-1457, elmhursthistory.org.

18 | TUESDAY Millennium Park Summer Film Series. See June 4. Today’s feature: Love, Simon.

Squatch Watch. Hunt for clues to Big Foot’s new home, maybe even get a glimpse of this urban legend. 6-7 p.m. Prairie Grass Nature Museum, Round Lake. rlapd. org. 19 | WEDNESDAY Block to Block Party. See June 5.

20 | THURSDAY New Music Chicago Presents New Music. Chicago members will play a contemporary concert. Noon-12:45 p.m. Chicago Cultural Center, Chicago. newmusic chicago.org.

ESTUDIO SOBRE EL EJERCICIO DURANTE EL EMBARAZO

The University of Minnesota is seeking women who are currently less than 20 weeks pregnant to participate in a research study examining the effect of exercise and wellness on mood following childbirth.

La Universidad de Minnesota está buscando mujeres con menos de 20 semanas de embarazo para participar en el estudio de investigación que examina los efectos del ejercicio y la salud del estado de ánimo posterior al parto

• Program delivered to you via the mail and phone • Must be 18 years of age or older • Must not currently exercise regularly • Must not take antidepressants • You will receive $100 & a FitBit for your time (you will be allowed to keep the FitBit after the study is over) • Program can be delivered in English or Spanish • Must be considered low-income, defined as: -Enrollment in any government assisted program (e.g., WIC, SNAP) AND/OR -Annual income that is considered low (less than $45,510 for a family of four, less than $30,044 for a family of two, and less than

• Programa ejecutado vía correo o teléfono • Debe ser mayor o igual a 18 años de edad • No debe hacer ejercicio regularmente • No debe tomar antidepresivos • Debe considerarse de bajos ingresos, lo cual se define como: -Inscripta en cualquier programa asistencial del gobierno (por ejemplo, WIC, SNAP) y / o - Ingresos anuales considerados como bajos (menos de $ 45,510 para una familia de cuatro, menos de $ 30,044 para una familia de dos y menos de $ 22,311 si es soltera). • Usted recibirá $100 y un FitBit por su tiempo (será permitido quedarse con el FitBit después de la culminación del estudio)

To see if you qualify for this research study: English Speaking: Call or TEXT to 612-345-0325 or mompro@umn.edu.

Llama al 612-237-1004, envía la palabra “TEXTO” al 612-237-1004, o un email mompro@umn.edu para ver si califica para éste estudio

Offering exciting and memorable trips from a few hours to an entire day in length, on the clean and beautiful Kankakee Riversome of the best fishing and canoeing waters in Illinois! Trips available seven days a week.

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CHICAGOFourth PARENT Church Day School CHICAGO PARENT Nurturing children and families through play since 1968

CHICAGOPARENT.COM

JUNE 2019

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• Enrolling for Fall 2019 • Morning and afternoon classes for children 3 to 5 years • NEW! Morning class for children 21/2 to 31/2 years • Extended-day option for children 4 to 5 years Call 312.640.2579 for more information and to schedule a tour

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Calendar 23 | SUNDAY

Rockin’ In the Park. See June 6. Today’s act: Rush Tribute Project. 21 | FRIDAY

Family Fun Night: Touch a Truck. Touch a Truck and other fun activities for families, including movie at 8:30 p.m. Free with $5 parking. 5:30 p.m. Cantigny Park, Wheaton. cantigny.org.

Make Music Chicago. Participatory music festival throughout Chicago’s public spaces, including Maggie Daley Park, Riverwalk, Lincoln Park Zoo, Gallagher Way, and more than 20 Chicago Park District sites. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Chicago. (312) 6706888, makemusicchicago.org.

22 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

Dragon Boat Race for Literacy. Teams compete in a race on the Chicago River. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Ping Tom Memorial Park. (312) 326-5320, chicagochinatown. org.

r Camps e m m u xciti g Ex erie e S An E

Registration Begins March 4th Part-Time (2-4 hrs.) Breakfast Club (15 mos. – 2 yrs) Parent and Tot Camp M,W : 9:00–10:00 am Three For All (3 yrs. by 9-1-19) M,W: 10:15 am–12:15 pm T,Th : 9:30–11:30 am Little Explorers (4 & 5 yrs) M-Th: 9:00-11:30 am Summer Scene (K – 7th grade) M-F: 12:00 – 4:00 pm Extended Care: 7:00 am-10:00 am & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm

Full-Time (6-11 hrs.) st

Young Voyagers (3 yrs. - 1 gr.) M-F: 10:00 am– 4:00 pm Extended Care: 7:00 am-10:00 am & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm Adventure Camp (2nd – 4th gr.) M-F: 10:00 am-4:00 pm Extended Care: 7:00 am-10:00 am & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm Urban Safari (5th – 8th gr.) M-F: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm Extended Care: 7:00 am-10:00 am & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm

Unforgettable Adventures from June 10th – August 23rd Arts & Crafts, Games, Sports, Swimming Field Trips, Special Events, and More!

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

CHICAGO

Low-Sensory Early Exploration. Guests can explore featured exhibits in a less crowded and more sensory-friendly environment. Preregistration required. 8:30-9:30 a.m. Museum of Science and Industry. msichicago.org. SUBURBS

Everyone at Play. Inclusive access at Kohl Children Museum for children with special needs. $12, free children under 12 months; registration required. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Kohl Children’s Museum, Glenview. (847) 8326600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org. Air National Guard Band of the Midwest. Performing a diverse musical repertoire, the musicians of the Band of the Midwest instill patriotism, national pride and esprit de corps. Free with $10 parking. 3 p.m. Cantigny Park, Wheaton. cantigny.org.

24 | MONDAY

SUBURBS

Family Day/Open House. See June 1.

Family Night Out. An evening of play and learning for kids with special needs and their families. Registration required. 5:30-8 p.m. DuPage Children’s Museum, Naperville. dupagechildrens.org.

Fun and Fit Family Day. Fun and fit activities for the whole family. $25, $100 for a family of five. 9 a.m.-noon. Lambs Farm, Libertyville. lambsfarm.org.

Hans My Hedgehog Puppet Show. This enchanting fairytale is told through the arts of shadow puppetry with the aid of music. $8. 10-10:45 a.m. Northbrook Theater, Northbrook. (847) 897-6157, nbparks.org.

Ice Cream Cone Cupcakes. Kids 2-5 with an adult will whip up delicious batter from scratch and learn to make a cupcake. $30 parent/child pair. 9-10 a.m. Taste Buds Kitchen, Bannockburn. (847) 230-0330, tastebudskitchen.com.

Navy Pier ‘Water Flicks’ Summer Film Series. Superhero movies presented at Navy Pier. Today’s feature: Black Panther. Navy Pier, Chicago. navypier.org.

25 | TUESDAY Millennium Park Summer Film Series. See June 4. Today’s feature: Wonder Woman.

26 | WEDNESDAY Block to Block Party. See June 5.

A Night at the Movies. See June 7. Today’s feature: Incredibles 2.

27 | THURSDAY Chicago SummerDance. Dance lessons, followed by live music and dancing. Visit website for schedule. Grant Park, Chicago. (312) 742-4007, chicagosummerdance.org.

Rockin’ In the Park. See June 6. Today’s act: Live The Who.

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Calendar 28 | FRIDAY Movie in the Park: Cantigny. Enjoy a family movie night under the stars. Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s feature: A Dogâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Way Home. Cantigny Park, Wheaton. cantigny. org.

Family Twilight Adventures. See June 8.

29 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

Pride in the Park Chicago. Celebrate gay pride and the LGBT community with national and local music acts, food and other vendors. $50-$100. 1-10 p.m. Grant Park. prideintheparkchicago.com.

Navy Pier Pride. This family-friendly event is the largest Pride celebration in Chicago outside of the Lakeview neighborhood. Noon-5 p.m. Navy Pier. (312) 595-7437, navypier.org.

SUBURBS

Day in the Park. Face painting, pony rides, a petting zoo, a family craft area and a rock climbing wall highlight the kids activities. 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Evergreen Park Community Center, Evergreen Park. evergreenpark-ill.com. Glenview SummerFest. Showcases regional businesses and civic organizations. 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Lehigh Avenue and Jackman Park, Glenview. (847) 724-0900. glenviewchamber.com.

The Captivating Chemistry Show. The Discovery Center Museum is bringing its dynamite science demonstrations and experiments that can turn liquids into solids and gasses that combine to create chemical changes that look just like magic. 2-3 p.m. Morton Grove Public Library, Morton Grove. (847) 9295102, mgpl.org.

30 | SUNDAY CHICAGO

South Side Story Time. A monthly gathering that curates readings for attendees ages 6 and younger along with the chance for their parents to socialize. 10-11 a.m. Green Line Performing Arts Center. arts.uchicago.edu. SUBURBS

Family Concert: Mr. Singer & The Sharp Cookies. This energetic band with a family focus includes clever, original songs augmented by some punky favorites amplified by a bigger-than-life performer and his mates. Free with $10 parking. 11 a.m. Cantigny Park, Wheaton. cantigny.org.

International Mud Day. Fun and Fit Family Day

a.m.-2 p.m. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, Rockford. (815) 9878858, calendarwiz.com.

Muddy activities, games, educational experiences and more. 11

Special Needs Night at Centennial Beach. See June 16.

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FAirS & FestS 57th Street Art Fair. Music and art by more than 200 artists. Free. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. June 1, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 2. 57th Street & South Kimbark Avenue, Chicago. 57thstreetartfair.org. Do Division Street Fest. Family fun fest includes pony and train rides, and more. $10 donation noon-10 p.m. June 1-2. 2000 W. Division St., Chicago. do-divisionstreetfest.com. Gold Coast Art Fair at Grant Park. Interactive mural, art scavenger hunt, live music and food. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. June 1-2. Grant Park, Chicago. (847) 926-4300, amdurproductions.com/ gold-coast-art-fair-2019.

Lincoln Park Greek Fest. Authentic music, dance and culture are celebrated. $5. Noon-11 p.m. June 1; noon-10 p.m. June 2. St. George Greek Orthodox Church, Chicago. lincolnparkgreekfest.com

Mayfest. Music, festival favorites, local vendors and interactive games and entertainment. Visit website for schedule, June 1-June 2. Lincoln & Leland Avenue, Chicago. mayfestchicago.com. Milk Days. Milk drinking contests, cow chip lotto, carnival rides, a food court, a petting zoo and more. Fees for some activities. 8 a.m.-10 p.m. June 1, noon-10 p.m. June 2. Downtown Harvard. milkdays.com.

Chicago Gospel Music Festival. Showcases the best in local, national and international gospel music performers.

Do Division Street Fest Street Fest 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. June 1. Chicago Cultural Center and Millennium Park, Chicago. (312) 744-3316, chicagogospelmusicfestival.us.

Pivot Arts Festival. Live music, theater, dance, puppets, children’s performances, a parade and more. Free-$25. June 1-9, check website for schedule. Various locations, 7, Chicago. (773) 340-9637, pivotarts.org.

Andersonville Midsommarfest Festival. Features food, entertainment on five stages and family activities including face painting, games and a pet parade. $10 donation. 5-10 p.m. June 7, noon-10 p.m. June 8-9. Andersonville, Chicago. andersonville.org.

Taste of Mexico. o. Cultural extravaganza with cooking demonstrations, music and cultural stages, carnival rides and arts & crafts. Noon-10 p.m. June 1-2. 26th & California, Chicago. chicagoevents.com.

Pivots Arts

SARAH CRAIG

Gilberts Community Days. Live entertainment, Kid’s Zone with crafts and projects, petting zoo, car show, food and vendor booths with beer/wine tent, business expo, rides and games. 1-10 p.m. June 1, 1-8 p.m. June 2. Town Square Park, Gilberts. (847) 428-2861, gilberts community Chicago Tribune Printers Row Lit Fest days.com.

Pilsen Food Truck Social. Neighborhood food and music smorgasbord, plus family activiti ties and live music. $5 donation. N Noon-10 p.m. June 8-9. 18th S Street between Racine & Throop, C Chicago. pilsenfoodtrucksocial. ccom.

Hinsdale Fine Arts Festival. F Art, kids’ activities and m more. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 8-9. B Burlington Park, Hinsdale. (630) 3 323-3952, hinsdalechamber.com.

Chicago Tribune Printers Row Lit Fest. Children’s proR

Taste of ors, Wheaton. Food vendors, carnival rides, children’s games ss info. and marketplace business Fees for some activities. 9 a.m.-11 ne 2 p.m. June 1, 1-8 p.m. June 2. Wheaton. wheatonparkdistrict.com/taste.

Chicago Blues Festival. Listen to Blues music from worldrenowned artists. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. June 7-9, visit website for schedule. Millennium Park, Chicago. (312) 744-3315, chicagobluesfestival.us.

Spring Awakening. Stunning stage productions, interactive art installations, carnival rides and more. $18.62+, June 7-9, check website for schedule. Douglas Park, Chicago. springawakeningfestival.com. Homewood Artisan Street Fair. Art, vendors, live music, science activities and chalk drawings. 4-9 p.m. June 7, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. June 8. Downtown Homewood. homesweethomewood.com.

g gramming includes storytelling, p performances, sing-alongs and speccial activities. June 8-9, visit website fo for schedule. Historic Printers Row, C Chicago. (312) 222-3986, printers rowlitfest.org.

Old Town Art Fair. A music stage, activities at the Children’s Corner, garden walk, food court and vendors. $10 donation, free kids 12 and under. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. June 8, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. June 9. Old Town Triangle District, Chicago. (312) 3371938, oldtownartfair.org. Promenade of Art Arlington Heights. Kids’ activities, food, live music and a graffiti wall. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 8-9. Arlington Heights. amdur productions.com.

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FairS & FestS Wells Street Art Festival. Live music, kids’ activity area and local food. $8 donation benefits Old Town Merchants and Residents Association. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. June 8; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. June 9. Wells Street from North Avenue to Division, Chicago. wellsstreetartfest.us.

Grant Park Music Festival. A series of summer concerts showcasing classical music. Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays beginning June 12; visit website for schedule. Grant Park, Chicago. grantparkmusicfestival.com.

North Shore Chamber Music Festival. The annual summer

{ } Andersonville Midsommarfest Festival

Old Settlers Days. Festival fea-

music festival features both leading and emerging classical artists of the highest caliber in intimate concerts. $30-$50. June 12, 14-15; visit website for schedule. Village Presbyterian Church, Northbrook. nscmf.org.

tures parade, music, carnival rides, Trading Post, food and fireworks. $6 in advance; $10 at event. June 13-16, visit website for schedule. Settlers Park, Rockton. (815) 2068525, oldsettlersdays.com.

Libertyville Days Festival.

Food from local restaurants, live entertainment on two stages and a family area with free activities including a rock climbing wall, gaming truck and more. 5-11 p.m. June 14, 12-11 p.m. June 16. Des Plaines Train Station. (773) 868-3010, desplaines.org.

Children’s party on Friday, carnival rides, entertainment, food and more. Visit website for admission. 6-10:30 p.m. June 13, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. June 14, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. June 15, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. June 16. Downtown Libertyville. libciviccenter.org.

Lockport Old Canal Days. Parade, carnival, music, family activities and horses. 2-11:30 p.m. June 13, 10 a.m.-midnight June 14-15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 16. Downtown Lockport. oldcanaldays. com.

Taste of Des Plaines.

Highland Games & Scottish Festival. Music, cultural exhibits, bagpipe demonstration, dog show, crafts and dancing. Check website for prices. 1-10 p.m. June 14; 8 a.m.-10 p.m. June 15. Hamilton Lakes, Itasca. scottishfestival chicago.org.

LatiNxt. Features local, national and international Latin music artists. June 14-15. Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 595-7437, navypier. org. Ribfest Chicago. Eat ribs and have fun in Kids Square. Free, donation of $10, $20 per family requested. 5-10 p.m. June 14, noon-10 p.m. June 15-16. Northcenter neighborhood, Chicago. (773) 525-3609, ribfest-chicago.com. Villa Park Summerfest. Kids’ attractions, craft show, bands and kids’ entertainment stage. Free, $10 wristbands. 6-11 p.m. June 14; 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. June 15. Downtown Villa Park. villaparksummerfest.com. Custer Fair. Art festival that features green vendors, kids’ park and folk and Native American music. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. June 15-16. 600 Main St., Evanston. custerfair.com. A festival featuring American and Swedish food, face painting, a carnival and kids’ events. Fees for some activities and carnival. June 18-23. Downtown Geneva. geneva chamber.com/swedish_days.php

KELLY VANDERPLOEG PHOTOGRAPHY

Long Grove Strawberry Fest. Includes a classic carnival, multiple stages of live music and the Kids’ Zone featuring water balloon toss, flower crown arts and junior knight training. Also, strawberries. $5; free kids 12 and under. June 21-23. Long Grove. (847) 6340888, longgrove.org.

Chi-Soul Fest. An intergenerational musical conversation of Chicago soul music. June 21-22. Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 595-7437, navypier.org. Old St. Pat’s World’s Largest Block Party. Chicago’s ultimate

Swedish Days Festival.

Geneva Swedish Days

Gold Coast Greek Fest. Features live music and dancing, tours of the Cathedral, authentic Greek food and pastries, beer, wine and more. 5-11 p.m. June 21; noon-11 p.m. June 22-23. Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Chicago. (312) 6645485, annunciation cathedralchicago.org.

summer party with fun for kids and families. Visit website for pricing. June 21-22. Old St. Patrick’s Church, Chicago. worldslargestblockparty. com.

Fountain Square Artisan Summerfest. The oldest fine arts fair on Chicago’s North Shore includes kids’ art activities, food and jazz-centric music lineup. $5 donation. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. June 22-23. Church & Sherman, Evanston. chicagoevents.com.

The Art Center’s Festival of Fine Craft. Showcases original art and offers family activities. $5 suggested donation. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 22-23. Central & Sheridan avenues, Highland Park. (847) 9264300, festivaloffineartshp.com.

SJC Fest. Features carnival rides, midway games, food and more. Food and rides cost extra. June 20-23. St. John of the Cross, Western Springs. (708) 246-4404, sjcfest.com.

Logan Square Arts Festival.

Taste of Joliet. Features music, carnival, food and a kid zone. Performers include Foreigner, Cole Swindell, Scotty McCreery and more. Visit website for admission prices. June 21-23. ATI Field at Joliet Memorial Stadium, Joliet. (815) 741-7275, tasteofjoliet.com.

BeachFest. Families can enjoy live entertainment, a petting zoo, trackless train, food vendors and more. 3-11 p.m. June 28, 1-11 p.m. June 29 (with fireworks), 1-8 p.m. June 30. Round Lake Beach Cultural and Civic Center, Round Lake Beach. villageofroundlakebeach.com.

Features art, music, food and family fun. $5 donation. June 28-30. Illinois Centennial Monument, Chicago. (847) 6752580, logansquareartsfestival.org.

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ONGOING EXHIBITS

Amplified Chicago Blues. Immerse yourself in the history of Chicago blues of the 1960s through pictures and experience the blues by playing guitar, designing an album cover, writing lyrics, and singing karaoke. Free with admission, free 18 and under Illinois residents. Chicago History Museum, Chicago. (312) 642-4600, chicagohistory.org.

Animal House. Meet the newest tree-dwelling additions to Peggy Notebaert’s Animal House: Corazon, the Philippine sailfin dragon, and Opal, the Virginia opossum. Free with admission. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, Chicago. (773) 755-5100, naturemuseum.org. Art on theMart. Curated digital art installation across 2.5 acres of theMART’s river façade. About 7-9 p.m. WednesdaysSundays. The Merchandise Mart, Chicago. artonthemart.com. Bronzeville Echoes: Faces and Places of Chicago’s African American Music. Explore Chicago’s music legacy through ragtime, jazz and blues. Chicago Cultural Center, Chicago. (312) 744-6630, chicagoculturalcenter.org.

Build It! Exhibit puts an innovative spin on classic building blocks by letting children explore and interact with varieties of blocks in a single space. Free with museum admission. 9:30 a.m.-noon Mondays; 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays; noon-5 p.m. Sundays. Kohl Children’s Museum, Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kcmgc.org.

Imagine the Moon Sky Show

Brick Safari. More than 40 life-size animal sculptures will be swimming, stampeding and flying into Brookfield Zoo. Created from millions of individual Lego bricks, the never-before-seen-in-North America sculptures will amaze kids and adult fans. $5, $3 children 3-11, free 2 and under. Zoo admission separate. Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield. (708) 688-8000, czs.org. Hamilton: The Exhibition. Featuring an audio tour narrated by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Hamilton: The Exhibition is designed to take visitors deeper into the life and times of Alexan Alexander Hamilton, while at the same ttime chronicling the American Revolution and the cre creation of the United State States of America. $25$39 $39.50 timed ticket. No Northerly Island, C Chicago. (312) 7452 2910, hamilton e exhibition.com.

Imagine the Moon Im Sky Sk Show. The Nature Connects

pla planetarium’s sky show takes a closer look at hum humanity’s relationship with Earth’s nearest neighbor. Ad Adler Planetarium,

Chicago. (312) 922-STAR (7827), adlerplanetarium.org.

Infinite Possibilities. Featuring Moon by UK artist Luke Jerram, this installation shines a light on humanity’s fascination with the Moon throughout history and the mysteries it still holds. Free with museum admission. Adler Planetarium, Chicago. (312) 922-STAR (7827), adlerplanetarium.org.

Live on the Lake. Live, family-friendly music and performances at the Miller Lite Beer Garden at Navy Pier. Weekend performances vary, select Saturdays & Sundays. Navy Pier, Chicago. navypier.org. Nature Connects: Art with Lego bricks by Sean Kenney. Marvel at 13 larger-than-life displays created from nearly half a million Lego bricks. Walk the arboretum’s tree-lined grounds on the east side to find nature-themed sculptures crafted by Lego artist Sean Kenney, including a monarch butterfly boasting an 8-foot wingspan and an enormous hummingbird sipping nectar from a colorful trumpet flower. Free with admission. 7 a.m.sunset. Morton Arboretum, Lisle. mortonarb.org.

Navy Pier Fireworks. Fireworks on Navy Pier can be seen from the dock and the lake. 9:30 p.m. Wednesdays, 10:15 p.m. Saturdays. Navy Pier, Chicago. navypier.org.

Purchased Lives: The American Slave Trade from 1808 to 1865. Curated by The Historic New Orleans Collection, the exhibition reveals slavery’s machinations and widespread persistence in America, long after the importation of slaves was made illegal in 1808. The exhibition conveys the inhumanity of slavery through original artifacts, personal stories and interactive displays. Free with museum admission. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Illinois Holocaust Museum, Skokie. (847) 967-4800, ilholocaustmuseum.org.

Remembering Dr. King: 19291968. The exhibit features more than 25 photographs depicting key moments in Dr. King’s work and the Civil Rights movement, with a special focus on his time in Chicago. Chicago History Museum, Chicago. (312) 642-4600, chicagohistory.org.

Roxie! In conjunction with Chicago’s Year of Chicago Theater, “Roxie!” explores the portrayal

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OnGoing of Jazz Age Chicago written by former Chicago Tribune reporter Maurine Watkins. Chicago Cultural Center, Chicago. (312) 744-6630, chicagoculturalcenter.org.

Sound Playground. Children and adults can explore the interactive nature of sound, and all the surprising ways that it can be created. Free with museum admission. Chicago Children’s Museum at Navy Pier, Chicago. chicagochildrensmuseum.org.

Treehouses. In this hands-on exhibition, children roam from tree to tree to discover the many habitats trees provide for animals. Features special viewfinders, natural artifacts and sound to immerse young explorers into a forest environment. Included with admission, $9 for adults, $7 for students and seniors, $6 for children 3-12. Thursdays are free for Illinois residents. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday through June 2. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, Chicago. (773) 755-5100, naturemuseum.org.

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required; $12, $9 ages 3-11, $6 members. Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago. (773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

Worlds of Wonder: Remembering Chicagoland’s Amusement Parks. This new exhibit celebrates Chicago’s favorite destinations for fun and thrills, from early trolley parks and suburban attractions like Kiddieland, Santa’s Village and Dispensa’s Kiddie Kingdom. 1-5 p.m. TuesdaysFridays & Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays. Elmhurst History Museum, Elmhurst. (630) 833-1457, elmhursthistory.org.

Hamilton: The Exhibition

Troll Hunt. The 15- to 20-foottall trolls invite visitors to interact with them, while elements of the exhibition encourage visitors to consider their personal responsibility as stewards of our environment. Free with arboretum admission. Morton Arboretum, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org. Wave Wall Wax. Listen to house music weekly at Navy Pier. 4-6 p.m. See website for calendar

of appearances. 4-6 p.m. Saturdays. Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 595-7437, navypier.org.

Wired to Wear. The first-ever exhibit dedicated to wearable technology—smart clothing and devices designed to extend the human body’s capabilities and make us healthier, stronger and safer. The future of wearable technology is here to explore now. Recommended for ages 6 and older. Timed ticket

OTHER EVENTS

DAILY Story Time. Listen to a story selected for the littlest visitors, and then keep the fun going with games and activities. Free with admission. 11 a.m. daily. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, Chicago. (773) 755-5100, naturemuseum.org.

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ONGOING SUNDAY Family Build: Sculptures. Join experts in the studio for themed stations to introduce you to architecture basics, a design challenge and a take-home project. Family Build is great for families with children ages 3 and up. $12, free members. 10 a.m.

Shadow Puppet Story Time.

Chicago Architecture Center, Chicago. architecture.org.

Fiddleheads. Join the conservatory each weekend for activities and projects that get kids and families wondering about the plants and the natural world. Each week will be a different sciencebased activity. Noon-4 p.m. Garfield Park Conservatory, Chicago. (773) 638-1766, garfieldconservatory.org. MONDAY Morning Glories. Children and their caregivers can explore different areas of the Children’s Garden. Educators provide story time, imaginative play and sensory activities. Recommended for 5 and younger. Free, donation requested. 10 a.m.-noon. Garfield Park Conservatory, Chicago. (773) 638-1766, garfieldconservatory. org. Wired to Wear

An exciting adventure with Bill, the museum’s story time expert, and his trusty sidekick who puts on shadowy performance. Free with museum admission. 11:30 a.m. Wonder Works, Oak Park. (708) 383-4815, wonder-works.org.

Baby & Me. A chance for parents of infants to meet others adjusting to parenthood, ask questions and make friends. A nurse representative from Advocate Lutheran General Hospital will answer questions and facilitate discussions about early childhood development. Free with admission. 9:30-11 a.m. Kohl Children’s Museum, Glenview. (847) 8326600, kcmgc.org.

The Get Together. Share experiences, ideas and concerns with others and staff whose skills are in family and child development. The Get Together is a weekly group for parents, grandparents, caregivers and children ages newborn-5 years to meet others with young children. $25 per family. 1:30-3 p.m. Virginia Frank Child

Development Center, Chicago. (773) 765-3100, jcfs.org/events/ get-together.

TUESDAY Kido Books Storytime. The story time specializes in books that feature multicultural characters and encourage empathy and inclusivity. 10:30-11 a.m. KIDO, Chicago. kidochicago.com.

WEDNESDAY Read and Build. Join a story time reading, then the family can build together. Recommended for ages 3-6. $12, free for members. 10-11:30 a.m. & 1-2:30 p.m. Chicago Architecture Center, Chicago. architecture.org.

Wild Wednesdays. Whether inside or out, kids can explore nature, get their hands dirty, and discover new things about plants, animals and nature. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 4-7 p.m. Garfield Park Conservatory, Chicago. (773) 638-1766, garfield conservatory.org.

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OnGoing

THURSDAY Slot Car Free Play. Enjoy

racing slot cars, hot chocolate, a coloring station, a game room with foosball, ping pong, air hockey and more. C HI CA GO PA R ENT.C OM 5-9 p.m. ThursdaysFridays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays. Fieldhouse Jones, Chicago. field housejones.com.

CP CP

Play Late Thursdays. s. On the

Brick Safari

first Thursday of each month, kids take center stage with programs including open mic nights with FRIDAY guest MCs to run the show, themed Juicebox. A music and perdance parties for the whole family, kid-friendly and kid-starring perforformance series for the stroller set. mances and more. The rest of the Performances are on the first and month on Thursdays, entrance late third Friday at the Chicago Cultural in the day is $14.95 for up to four Center and first and third Saturday people, $5 each additional person. at Garfield Park Conservatory. C HI C A GO PA R ENT.C OM 4-8 p.m. Chicago Children’s Parents and young children can Museum at Navy Pier, Chicago. enjoy Chicago’s best music, dance (312) 527-1000. chicago and theater in a kid-friendly setting. childrensmuseum.org. Parents are welcome to bring snacks

and juiceboxes. 11-11:45 a.m. city cityofchicago.org/specialevents.

Writers Museum, 2nd Floor, Chicago. (312) 374-8790, americanwritersmuseum.org.

Shadow Puppet Story Time. S

S.T.E.A.M. Saturdays. Each week,

See Monday. S

Slot Car Free Play. See Thursday.

SATURDAY Kids Pokémon League. Th Cat & Mouse Games Kids’ The Po Pokemon League brings together kid kids 6-12 who are serious about lea learning how to play the game. Pa Participants need to understand the official rules and be able to play independently. For those who need to learn, there is a drop-in group instructional session 10-10:30 a.m. Must have a deck of 60 cards. 10:30 a.m.-noon Saturdays. Cat & Mouse Games, Chicago. cat-n-mouse.com.

Little Squirrels Storytime. Stories and songs celebrating classic literature for preschoolage kids. Free with admission. 10:30-11:30 a.m. American

kids get a chance to learn more through play, mostly focusing on chemistry, geometry and physics. Parents will get some great ideas to try with little ones at home. Free with museum admission. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Wonder Works, Oak Park. (708) 383-4815, wonder-works.org.

Family Fishing. This 2 1/2-hour class for fishermen ages 8 and older includes in-class instruction and on-the-water fishing (weather permitting). Professional instruction is provided by the Chicago Park District Chicago’s Fish`N Kids fishing instructors. Fishing equipment and bait provided. $5. 8-10:30 a.m. Northerly Island, Chicago. (312) 745-2910, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

Slot Car Free Play. See Thursday.

Juicebox. See Friday. Fiddleheads. See Sunday.

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708-633-8700 • www.kidsdds.net CHICAGOPARENT.COM June 2019 59

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Calendar

Imagine if....

Bixbee Imagination Station pop-up opens in Chicago this month

rom the Space Room with pizzaeating dinos to the funtastical room of doughnuts, purple cows and hot pink kitties, kids can let their imaginations run wild in the newest family-friendly Chicago pop-up.

Each room of Imagination Station, opening June 15, is inspired by what happens when a kid puts on a Bixbee backpack and pretends, says Luis Garcia, CEO and chief creative of Bixbee. Not only will each room be amazing backdrops for that perfect Instagram moment, but will offer teachable moments between parent and child for awareness and self-expression, he says. In the ocean room, for instance, where the floor will feel like walking on the sea floor, kids are asked to imagine if our oceans were free of plastic, he says. Bixbee is known for its mission, One Here, One There, where for every backpack purchased, it donates a schoolbag of supplies for a child in need. The company is working with a children’s nonprofit to benefit Chicago kids as part of this pop-up event. The pop-up includes a retail shop for some early back-toschool shopping. Garcia says parents will also get their first looks at the new Bixbee products, including bedding and a comfy sleep mat. The Imagination Station also has a Party Hive, a 1,000-squarefoot room available to rent for parties.

The Imagination Station ■ 915 W. North Ave., Chicago ■ June 15-September ■ $23 kids 3-11, $30 adults, free 2 and under m, ■ Advance tickets at BixbeeImaginationStation.com, limited tickets at the door. Tickets not needed to visit the retail shop.

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Performances August Rush. The musical tells the story of Evan Taylor, an 11-yearold orphan who believes in music like some believe in fairytales. Evan has not given up hope as he relentlessly searches for the parents he knows need him. $36-$69. Wednesdays-Saturdays, times vary through June 4. Paramount Arts Centre and Theatre, Aurora. (630) 896-6666, paramountaurora.com. Chicago Kids Company presents Princess and the Pea. Meet Princess Penelope and her crazy friends. Recommended for ages 2-10. $14-$18. 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays-Fridays. Beverly Arts Center, Chicago. (773) 445-3838, beverlyartcenter.org.

Chicago Kids Company presents Sleeping Beauty. Will the Princess sleep for 100 years? Or can her true love save her with a kiss? Show is recommended for ages 2-10. $14-$18. 10:30 a.m. Thursdays-Fridays beginning June 6. Stahl Family Theatre, Chicago. (773) 205-9600, chicagokidscompany.com.

during the show that mixes music, rhythm and African and Western traditions. $39-$69. 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays, 8 p.m. Saturdays & 2 p.m. Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays through June 2. Apollo Theater Chicago. (773) 935-6100, apollochicago.com.

Falsettos. Falsettos revolves around the life of a charming, intelligent, neurotic gay man named Marvin, his wife, lover, about-to-be-Bar-Mitzvahed son, their psychiatrist, and the lesbians next door. It’s a hilarious and achingly poignant look at the infinite possibilities that make up a modern family… and a beautiful reminder that love can tell a million stories. Due to adult themes, recommended for 12 and older. $23+. Tuesdays-Sundays through June 9. James M. Nederlander Theatre, Chicago. (800) 775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com.

Get Happy: Angela Ingersoll sings Judy Garland. Angela Ingersoll delivers a powerful virtuoso performance with her tremendous voice, compassionate storytelling aand humor. $50. 8 p.m. June 8, 2 p.m p.m. June 9. Marriott Theatre, Lin Lincolnshire. artistslou artistsloungelive.com.

Matilda the Musical. Mati

Falsettos

C Cirque du S Soleil: Volta. Energetic, urban and contemporary, Volta is a captivating voyage of discovery that showcases never-before-seen under the Big Top acrobatics in a visually striking world. $70+. Tuesdays-Sundays through June 23. Soldier Field Stadium and Field, Chicago. (312) 235-7000, cirquedusoleil.com.

Djembe! The Show. Every audience member receives a djembe to play along with the world-class African and international musicians

The story of an extraordin dinary girl who, armed wi with a vivid imagination an and a sharp mind, dares to change her own de destiny. Based on the no novel by Roald Dahl. We Wednesdays-Sundays thro through June 23. Drury Lane Theater Oakbrook Terrace Terrace, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 530530-0111, drurylaneoakbrook.com. drurylaneoak

The Music M Man. The story of charismatic con man Harold Hill, who stumbles upon River City, Iowa, with the grand promise of a marching band, but a lack of musicality. $25+. 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays & Sundays; 8 p.m. Saturdays, 2 p.m. Thursdays & Sundays beginning June 29. Goodman Theatre, Chicago. goodmantheatre.org.

Physical Festival. An annual contemporary, visual and physical theater festival that presents new forms of theater being performed around the world. It features four

shows from around the world, a hometown show, master classes with international guest artists and a Scratch Night featuring new short works from local performers. $15-$20 per show; $50-$65 for festival pass. Stage 773, Chicago. (773) 327-5252, physicalfestival.com.

Get Happy: Angela Ingersoll sings Judy Garland AMY BOYLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Six. Divorced, beheaded, died; divorced, beheaded, survived. On the heels of its UK debut and wildly popular West End run, Chicago Shakespeare stages the North American premiere of SIX. The ex-wives of Henry VIII join forces for an electrifying pop-concert spectacle—shining a spotlight on these six women as never before. Recommended for ages 12 and older. $32-$48. 7:45 p.m. TuesdaysFridays, 8:30 p.m. Saturdays, 3 p.m. Sundays through June 30. Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Navy Pier. chicagoshakes.com.

That’s Weird, Grandma: Fantastic Beasts and the Stories About Them. Meet the strange and wonderful creatures created by students, from talking animals to intergalactic lifeforms.

Performers bring these beings to life through song, dance and ridiculous costumes. $5-$20. 8 p.m. Mondays beginning June 24. Neo-Futurist Theater, Chicago. barrelofmonkeys.org.

The Selfish Giant. Based on Oscar Wilde’s short story, The Selfish Giant illustrates the perils of isolation and the negative consequences of selfishness while teaching that it is never too late for redemption and love. $10 adults, $5 12 and under. 1 p.m. Saturdays, 11 a.m. Sundays, beginning June 8. Otherworld Theatre, Chicago. (773) 377-5342, ghostlightensemble.

{ } DJEMBE! The Show

PHOTO BY LIZ LAUREN

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L ast word

PARENTING

Dilemma

brought my 6-year-old son into the ladies room with me at the mall and was totally told off by another woman who said he’s too old to be there. I’m not comfortable leaving him outside alone. How old is too old?

“

Take him in as long as you need to. The stalls have doors, everything is private, do what you CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES feel is right to keep him safe! Susan B.

I did the same thing with my son at that age. I did not allow him to go to the men’s restroom until like 8 or 9. Before he stepped into the men’s restroom I would tell him you have 2 minutes. If he doesn’t come out of the men’s restroom, I am going in. At the end of the day your child’s safety is your responsibility. Valerie V.

If their dad is not out with us, I take them in the washroom with me. Don’t worry about what people think.

■

I will take my kid with me any time I feel it is unsafe not to. Yes I have gone into the men’s room as well. I would have told that woman it was for the safety of my child from crazy people like her. Maureen C.

“

■

My son was still coming in with me at 10. I just recently in the last year or so started letting him wait for me outside the restroom. Too many whackadoos! Tara R.

■

My son is 9 and he still comes in with me if my husband isn’t around. There are too many “odd” ones in the world for me to put him into that type of position. Lynette M. ■

If he can used it at school by himself then he can use it in public. Just remind him to wash

■

He is too little to be left outside. My boys are 6 and 8. If their dad is not out with us, I take them in the washroom with me. Don’t worry about what people think. You take care and protect your child. Evelyn S.

Gotta go potty!

■

Oh hell no. I’d take them depending on the place and what time etc. Tell them to get a life. I’d be taking my 11-year-old if I felt it was unsafe. Better than the alternative. Can never be too careful. Period. Dian N. ■

I was just in the ladies room at Nordstrom today and a mom brought in her son, probably 9 or 10 years old. I said good for you. She thanked me and said that others have given her a hard time. Ridiculous! Why do women do that to each other? Ugh!!! Mary L. ■

Ha! I have a 10-year-old son and since he’s too old to go into the ladies room I simply wait next to

the men’s room with my foot in the door and periodically call his name so I know he’s safe. Not a single man has told me anything or have given me a dirty look. I think women in general are uptight & catty. Who cares what anyone thinks? It’s better to be safe than sorry! I’d rather deal with an ignorant comment than my child being hurt. Mayra P.

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I say until you feel comfortable leaving him outside alone. It’s up to you and no one else. If someone doesn’t like it, then they can wait outside until you are finished. Don’t worry about anyone but you and your family as you are not harming anyone by being safe. Laura G.

F times when For you’re on the go and the kids (or you) just can’t hold it, Chicago dad of two, Erez Arbel, has an app for that. He created the free Getloo restroom finder app that shows rrestrooms within a 35-mile range of Chicago, including those with baby changing stations and unisex/ family rooms. Plus, it rates the cleanliness of each one (you’ll chuckle over the “better than nothing” rating because ... parenting). Download Getloo from the Apple app store or Google Play store.

64 June 2019 CHICAGOPARENT.COM

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