Chicago Parent February 2013

FEBRUARY 2013 |

6

nights to save your sanity

+

connecting with families

SEX

Why it matters

Need A hug?

*

special

advertising section:

Camp Guide

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theatre camps!

registration is now open for 2013 summer camps! for info call 773- 477-9257 x 193 or visit www.lookingglasstheatre.org/education

ChicagoParent.com February 2013 1

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Meet

Henry attends: The Gardner School age: 4 years old teachers: Miss Kelly & Miss Becky can write: his name can count to: 100 loves the color: green favorite superhero: Batman favorite food: Mojo Rotisserie Chicken best friend: Daniel favorite enrichment class at TGS: Be Smart Kids Computer Class

LOVES: The Gardner School!

Discover The Gardner School. An award-winning academically focused preschool for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old. Coming soon to the Chicagoland area!

www.TheGardnerSchool.com

Like us on Facebook!

ENROLL NOW - SPACE IS LIMITED! Call now to schedule your personal tour of our state-of-the-art school!

The Gardner School The Gardner School of Chicago of Warrenville West Loop Campus 28W611 Ferry Road Warrenville, IL 60555

1301 West Madison Street, Suite 100 Chicago, IL 60607

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630.657.5029

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312.229.4299

OPENING MARCH 2013

1/18/13 1:08 PM

CELEBRATE BLACK CREATIVITY AT MSI! Join the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago this February as we celebrate Black History Month with our annual Black Creativity program and Juried Art Exhibit.

The Black Creativity Juried Art Exhibition is the longest-running exhibition of African-American art in the U.S. and features approximately 100 dynamic works of art from amateur and professional African-American artists around the nation. Guests will enjoy a new youth component in the exhibit, with artwork submitted from local high school artists.

The Juried Art Exhibition is free with General Admission. For more information on Black Creativity programming and the 2013 Juried Art exhibit, visit msichicago.org/blackcreativity

msichicago.org | (773) 684-1414 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60637

2013 Black Creativity Presenting Sponsor Allstate

2013 Juried Art Sponsor

Contributing Sponsors

Media Partners

U.S. Cellular

ComEd | Dover | ITW | Nicor Gas | Northern Trust Peoples Gas | State Farm Insurance | Walgreens

Comcast NBC 5 Chicago SPLASH, A Chicago Sun-Times Publication Chicago Defender | WVON

ChicagoParent.com February 2013 3

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Full-time and part-time early childhood education 6 weeks to 5 years old

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www.littlegreentreehouse.com 4 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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Dive Into Adventure!

Special Event

February 18th at 9:00am & 12:00pm pbskids.org

The PBS KIDS logo is a registered mark of the Public Broadcasting Service and is used by permission. All Rights Reserved. TM & Š 2013 The Jim Henson Company. All Rights Reserved.

ChicagoParent.com February 2013 5 Job Title: Chicago Parent Ad Client: PBS KIDS Date: 1.15.13 CHIPAR0213_005.indd 1

Size: 7.42 x 9.475 Contact: Greg Moraes Phone: 818-506-0313

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T:8.1875” S:7.42”

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Our commitment is to be the only place to go for the most advanced cures, treatments and technologies, performed by the best minds in children’s medicine.

Family-friendly rooms with advanced technology

Photo Courtesy of Nick Merrick, Hedrich Blessing

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

Multiple check-in desks ensure patient safety

see more at luriechildrens .org

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T:10.486”

Children’s healthcare in Chicago is even more magnificent.

The amazing Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago is a spectacular new facility built with the same splendor as our city itself and intentionally designed to provide superior care for every child. Strategically located on the downtown campus of Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Lurie Children’s allows for scientific collaboration between world-class physicians and

contents IN THIS ISSUE 15

18 20 25

GOOD TO GO

Beat Kitchen a remedy for a boring winter day BEST IN CHI

Best places to get in the mood DITCH THE KIDS

A dream come true at Timeless Spa THE SELF-AWARE PARENT

Time for a hug 32

37

48 41

PRODUCTS

Cool picks for supermoms CRAFT

Sweet tweets for backyard birds PARENT PANEL

Keeping your relationship strong

FEBRUARY 2013 | VOLUME 29 | NO. 2

ON THE COVER

FEATURES WHEN YOU JUST 22 CAN’T TAKE IT

Six nights that will save your sanity this winter

48

RED HOT WAYS TO IGNITE YOUR VALENTINE’S DAY You’ll be amazed at thee number icago of ways to do red in Chicago

Cover couple: Matt and Elizabeth Kirk, of Orland Park.

They love the graffiti around Chicago’s Wicker Park.

SHOW YOUR HEART 60 SOME LOVE Easy steps to live longer

MORE THAN BRUSH 62 AND FLOSS

SEX 50 Rekindle the spark in your relationship, plus five apps to explore with your main squeeze, seven playful ways to be a flirt and nd how to plan a fun night in

Dentists dish on products and procedures

64 6

HELLO SUMMER CAMP Winter Wi in Chicago is the perfect pe time to dream of summer su fun

Photography: Alaina Buzas Design: Claire Innes

Coming this month

Specıal Parent CHICAGO

Available beginning Feb. 18

The family that dines together, stays together!

ChicagoParent.com February 2013 7

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EDITOR’S NOTE

A little reminder

Adlerr Sum mes C amp Adler Mini-camps Astro Explorers Jr.: Engineering Experiences June 17-18 or June 26-27 (Kindergarten)

Astro Explorers: Rockets!

Astro Investigators: Rockets!

June 17-18, June 19-20, or June 24-25 (1st-2nd Grade)

June 19-20, June 24-25 or June 26-27 (3rd-4th Grade)

*Must be at least 5 years old

Exploring the Edge of Space Be the Scientist!

June 24-28 or August 5-9 (6th-8th Grade)

Technology camps Imagine, Design, Create!

Boys & Girls June 24-28 or July 15-19 (4th-6th Grade)

Girls Only July 8-12 (4th-6th Grade) July 22-26 (7th-9th Grade)

TECHNOLOGY CAMP 2.0 For campers who have previously completed an Adler Technology Camp

Boys & Girls August 1-5 (5th-7th Grade)

Summer Worlds Tour July 8-12, July 15-19, July 22-26 or July 29-August 2 (Kindergarten - 4th Grade)

Register Now! Register now at www.adlerplanetarium.org/camps.

Camp age guidelines are based on the grade campers will be entering in Fall 2013

TAMARA L. O’SHAUGHNESSY

From time to time, my husband says he misses us.

I know what he means. The us before kids, the us before life consumed us.

We all know that with kids underfoot all the time and everything that goes along with being a busy family, finding time for “us” and sex is just one more thing on a giant to-do list.

So it helps to be reminded every now and then how important it is to keep intimacy alive in a relationship.

This month’s issue is filled with tips and advice to help you do just that, if you, like me, are finding life a little too overwhelming to “do it.”

My pal, Wendy Widom, founder of Families in the Loop, recently found herself in many overwhelmed moms’ shoes, struggling with her libido. In chatting with other women, she discovered moms love to talk about sex but find the desire to “do it” lagging. Rather than just talk, Wendy publicly challenged herself and a few moms to have sex with their hubbies three times in a week.

The result: The first week, they all Let me know what hit the mark; the second week only y you think of our new one managed. Then winter break look. I always love hit. You can guess what happened.. hearing from you.

Yet, Wendy reports, the moms disEmail me at covered a real connection with each ch tamara@ other, enhanced their relationshipss chicagoparent.com with their hubbies and felt more or leave a comment at ChicagoParent. like the women they used to be. com/newlook.

We know our kids benefit when our relationships with our partnerss are strong, fun, and yes, sexual.

I do appreciate that the topic of sex—and this annual sex issue—disturbs some readers because of the misconception that we are a children’s magazine (we’re not). But sex is a part of our lives (at least once or twice anyway) so why not talk about it every once in a while? You never know what you’ll learn.

In this issue, at least, you’ll learn: * Quickies are good. * Tantra is more than just that thing Sting does. * A romantic night in can be quite, um, liberating. * There’s an app for “that.”

You might even be inspired to try Wendy’s challenge.

Happy February. Wink, wink.

1300 South Lake Shore Drive • Chicago 312-922-7827 • www.adlerplanetarium.org

8 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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Make.

Bre a .

Repeat.

Real tools. Real science. Really for kids.

Chicago’s first DIY maker-space for kids and families. Opens February 5 Let’s

PLAY!

ChicagoChildrensMuseum.org AT NAVY PIER • Open Daily: 10 am-5 pm • (312) 527-1000 Support for Tinkering Lab is generously provided by Abbott Fund and The Boeing Company

ChicagoParent.com February 2013 9

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CONTRIBUTORS

The best Valentine’s Day present we’ve ever received EDITOR Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy SENIOR EDITOR Liz DeCarlo ASSOCIATE EDITOR Elizabeth Diffin DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR Alaina Buzas ART DIRECTOR Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNERS Luke Baker,

Mark Tatara

MANAGER OF INTERNET AND TECHNOLOGY

Graham Johnston

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Laura Amann,

Kristy MacKaben

Emily Paster

Christy Bonstell

Donna Bozzo

“I love you” spelled out in Jolly Ranchers.

It was the very first Valentine’s Day I spent with my husband (then boyfriend). We had only been dating for three months and he went all out.

My parents always gave us books for Valentine’s Day— nice, thick hardback books. One year I got a beautiful edition of Anne of Green Gables.

I’m not much of a romantic. I prefer action movies to chick flicks. My husband tends to struggle finding something for Valentine’s Day since I don’t really care. But, this year, there’s a new Die Hard movie coming out in February and he’s taking me. To me, that’s as romantic as it gets!

I received the best Valentine’s gift ever in 2003, when I brought home my last baby girl. Ava Francesca made our family complete at a fantastic five.

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Chicago Parent is published monthly by Wednesday Journal, Inc. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Chicago Parent, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL, 60302. © 2013 Wednesday Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

10 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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How do you make a real difference in your child’s future?

One important way is to choose the right school. Children need reading, writing, science and math. They also need to learn what’s important in life. Catholic schools educate the whole child—in mind, heart, and spirit. They’re safe communities, where children get one-on-one attention from caring and dedicated teachers, and a strong sense of right and wrong.

Catholic school isn’t free, but for many parents, it’s worth every penny. Especially when you consider what children get in return.

Faith, focus, and achievement. To learn more, hear what other parents have to say, and search our online schools directory, visit schools.archchicago.org

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DEVELOPMENTAL DIFFERENCES RESOURCE FAIR

RSVP & GET CONNECTED February 10, 2013 • 10am-2pm

Gordon Tech High School, 3633 North California Ave., Chicago

FREE & open to the public Attend expert-led workshops For families with children facing a wide range of Developmental Differences - Ages birth to 8th Grade Get your ticket & expo details: npnparents.org/expos/758

Presenting Sponsor: Chicago North Shore General Office of New York Life Special thanks to all of our generous event sponsors:

12 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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ON THE WEB

So much more at ChicagoParent.com We’ve always loved our city. Our favorite museum, our neighborhood restaurant, our local park. But this month, we want you to get out of your comfort zone and get to know, and love, even more of Chicago.

First, we’ve made it really easy to access all of our neighborhood guides. They each h feature a full day itinerary of activities, ALAINA BUZAS landmarks and restaurants that are family-friendly. Find them at ChicagoParent.com/Neighborhoods and d start exploring. We’ll keep adding more throughout the year.

And we know that sometimes date nights can be a challenge. You finally book a sitter, but you’re sick of all your usual restaurants and aren’t sure where to turn. This month we’ll introduce you to a few new blogs and websites that will help keep your date nights exciting.

TREAT YOURSELF Inspired by our spa trip in this month’s Ditch the Kids? This month we’ll be posting products perfect for at-home pampering, including the coziest slippers. Plus, keep your eye out for our recommmendations for last-minute Valentine’s Day gifts (your loved ones will thank both of us).

ON THE BLOGS Last fall, we posted a call out for new bloggers. We love our current rotation of blogs but knew there was a lot more ground we could be covering with larger variety of writers. Not only are we resurrecting ChiTown Parent, a collaborative blog, we’ll be adding somee brand new blogs. We can’t wait for you to meet the he whole team. We know they have a lot to talk about.

STAY CONNEC CONNECTED Look us up on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram. We love that there are so many ways to stay connected to our read-ers and we want to make sure ure yyou’re included in all the fun. un.

>>

Don’t forget your download.

You can now read each issue of Chicago Parent on your iPad or iPhone.

CHIPAR0213_013.indd 1

CONTESTS What winter blues? February is a month to get-outand-do, thanks to giveaways on o ChicagoParent.com.

We’ve got ski lift tickets for Cascade Mountain comes!), movie tickets (if the snow ever co to Escape from Pl Planet Earth at Classic Midwest Ballet Theatre’s Cinemas, Mid performance of Peter Pan acclaimed pe Theatre, and Disney Live! at Tivoli Thea Mickey’s Musi Music Festival at Akoo Theatre Rosemont. Plus, our friends at in Rosemon Leona’s, Chicago Parent’s official kid-friendly restaurants, are kid-frie offering $100 vouchers for a offer family dinner, so you can celfam ebrate Valentine’s Day with ebr everyone you really love. eve

ChicagoParent.com C hicagoParent February 2013 13

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14 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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Beeat B atki kitc kitc tchen heen. n.co com m 210 21 00 W. Be 00 B lm lmon ontt Ch cago Chic

They got the beat

W

hen my girls were toddlers, Sundays during the winter made me feel like Jack Nicholson in “The Shining”: Snowbound, irritable and slightly psychotic. Then we discovered the Beat Kitchen’s concert series for kids and it gave us a respite from the playroom to hang out with other families equally thrilled to

have stumbled upon an entertaining indoor Sunday activity.

Local bands like the rockabillyinspired Deep Fried Pickle Project and Mr. Dave and the Space Cadets, which has a slightly punk rock vibe, groove on stage while kids strut their stuff on the dance floor and parents actually can relax a bit—some with the $6 day-friendly cocktails like mimosas or Bloody Marys.

Shows start at noon and many

concert-goers choose to partake in the Beat Kitchen’s tasty and hearty brunch, served 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

The French toast with caramelized banana and maple pecan butter or the grilled cheese—imported Gruyere on thick-cut bread served with creamy tomato-basil soup—are perfect choices for a frigid day.

The tickets are $6. It’s wise to buy them online in advance since they do sell out.

Linda Marsicano

Good to go

Be B eat Kiittch c en n

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GOOD TO GO

5-D theater a wild ride

I

experience seem authentic: environmental effects can include smoke, fog, bubbles, thunderstorms, wind, rain, snow and more depending on the film’s storyline. (My girls were delighted to be snowed on, and later slightly misted when our “boat” splashed into a wave; me slightly less so.)

With 36 seats, the intimate theater addresses all the senses with short movie clips including action, classic and thriller genres. Each show features two movie shorts deemed appropriate for all ages and the whole experience lasts about 15 minutes.

It’s difficult to picture what 5-D means until you experience it firsthand, but

took my 5-year-old twins to the PIX 5-D Cinema with absolutely no idea what to expect, having never even been to a 3-D movie. The only thing I assumed was that we’d probably have to wear special glasses. What I couldn’t have guessed is that we’d also have to wear a seatbelt.

The seats move up and down, front and back, left and right in sync with the onscreen activity. Whether you’re gliding high above a city trying to avoid colliding into skyscrapers or swerving down to duck a hungry dinosaur, what’s happening on screen feels very real.

And it’s not just the movement that makes the

Now acceptiNg applicatioNs for fall 2013 At the Montessori Academy of Chicago, we are proud to provide a foundation for academic and personal excellence year-round. Our program seeks to inspire the love of learning inherent in every student: today, tomorrow, and for the rest of their lives.

Learn More About Us: Join us for an informal informational session to learn more about the Academy. Contact us and reserve your spot today. 312.243.0977 Next SeSSiONS: • Tuesday, February 26, 9:00 - 10:30am • Tuesday, March 12, 9:00 - 10:30am • Tuesday, April 16, 9:00 - 10:30am

for a preview, check out the introduction video at pix5d.com—it’s sure to convince even the biggest skeptic that an enjoyable, unique experience awaits.

oUr prograMs Nursery: { Birth – Age 3 } Comprised of Infant, Toddler, and Pre-Primary classrooms, the Nursery program is focused on fostering basic trust, development of movement, and independence in the child.

Linda Marsicano

PIX 5-D Cinema $7 adults, $6 kids under 10.

Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg

not all great Minds think alike

Primary: { Ages 3 – 6 } Grouped in a three-year cycle, our Primary environments reinforce leadership skills and encourage mentoring in a structured “learn by doing” classroom.

Elementary: { Grades 1 – 6 } Our Elementary community is designed to encourage the growth of the curious mind, to develop empathy, imagination, and powers of reason, through an integrated and intellectually challenging curriculum.

www.montessoriacademychicago.org phone: 312.243.0977

1335 West Randolph Street, Chicago Illinois, 60607

16 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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THREE TO SEE

3 ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day with the kids

I

s it me or is Valentine’s Day less about romance and more about cutting red hearts out of construction paper with safety scissors once you have children?

If you’re looking for a family-friendly way to celebrate the holiday that’s fun for everyone, here are some options:

1

I Love Nature! Family Valentine’s Dance, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Feb. 9 Deck the kids out in Valentine’s Day finery and head to the nature museum’s first annual Family Valentine’s Day Dance.

Experience exclusive after-hours access to the museum, enjoy dinner and mocktails by Berghoff Catering and hit the dance floor with children in tow. When not shaking their booties, children can create Valentine’s Day cards, decorate cookies, win prizes and walk away with a cool swag bag.

Naturemuseum.org. $35, $15 kids, $5 kids 3 and under.

2

Laura Doherty’s Family Valentine’s Show, Schubas, 11 a.m. Feb. 9

3

Sweet and Treats Valentine’s Day Party, Pump It Up Feb. 14, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Pizza, jumping, prizes and sugar—what’s not to like?

Bounce around for hours with the offspring or—if you’re set on a dinner a’ deux, drop off kiddos 5-13 to steal some alone time. PumpItUpParty.com (821 W. Eastman, Chicago, location). $15; $5 adults; $25 drop-offs.

Linda Marsicano

Chicago’s “pop-sweetheart for kids,” Laura Doherty brings her folksy tunes like “Swingin’ Valentine” and “Vegetable Party” to Schubas for a special Valentine’s show for the whole family. Other songs include hits from the award-winning CD, “Kids in the City,” which pays homage to our kinda town...

Chicago! schubas.com. $8.

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BEST IN CHI

“He Will Outgrow It, Don’t Worry” Advice to mother of a child who is struggling with homework demands of elementary grades --- mom is not convinced.

Mom’s suspicions are right on target. When an obviously bright child is already struggling to finish his daily homework assignments, something is not right.

What will middle school be like ?

Best places to get in the mood

“But he is not a problem in class.” Has the teacher ever witnessed the “meltdowns” with homework? Is it normal for 30 minutes of homework to take 2 hours to complete after the tears, avoidance, and delay tactics ?

Reading – avoids and delays completing - fatigue and yawning - headache, eyes hurting – but loves to be read to .

Writing – avoids and delays - poor quality - odd grip – says finger, hand, arm hurts – can verbally express complete thoughts, but has trouble putting them on paper.

Attention – has disturbed concentration and focus - mainly with reading and writing tasks.

Pregnancy, labor, delivery – complications, difficult – problems as newborn, in NICU When a child’s history contains such items, it can signal the presence of Neuro-Developmental Delay (NDD), a treatable medical condition. NDD results when subtle disturbances occur in brain development and function following complications of pregnancy, labor, delivery, and newborn period.

No drugs or medication are involved in the treatment program.

More information: Phone: (847) 258-4490 Website: www.inpp.us

Lawrence J. Beuret, M.D., S.C. 415 West Golf Road, Suite 12 Arlington Heights, IL 60005

• Call to schedule a no charge 15 minute consultation •

SARA R. FISHER

1

Best way to get in the mood—monthly: Bedroom Chemist, bedroomchemist.com The brainchild of local mom Andee Harris, Bedroom Chemist “breaks the boudoir boredom.” Its monthly subscription service for products and toys to spice up what goes on between the sheets offers everything from massage oils and balms to vibrators and toys. The premise is that couples, especially married ones, need to keep it hot and interesting.

2 Do you love your school?

I want my child to be happy, to be known, to have friends, and to be excited to go to school every morning. I want my child to learn in a kind, positive environment where individuality and character aren’t just buzzwords.

I want my school to help me give my child the best possible foundation for the future. I want to love my school. That’s why my child goes to Roycemore.

College prep education for age 3-Grade 12 - roycemoreschool.org

Ca ll Am a n d a at 8 4 7 - 8 6 6 - 6 0 5 5 fo r a p e r son a l t ou r o f o ur n e w h o m e at 1 2 0 0 D av i s S tr e e t i n Ev a n st on .

It’s easy to get stuck in the rut of diapers, dinner, dead asleep on the couch, but February is the month to get busy with your honey. So I went looking for some sexy inspiration and found plenty in this fine city of ours.

Best place to shop for new nighties: G Boutique, 2131 N. Damen Ave., Chicago, (773) 235-1234 Luckily my significant other thinks T-shirts and flannel pants are the cat’s meow, but sometimes I want to break up the cycle of shirts I pick up for free at street fairs and look a little hotter. A visit to G Boutique, one of the city’s staples for sexy nighttime underthings, is in order.

Located in Bucktown, G Boutique can take you to new undies and beyond with its selection of undergarments and pajamas that are comfy to wear—and take off.

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Best place to kick off the night: Les Nomades, 222 E. Ontario St., Chicago, (312) 649-9010 Nothing says unromantic like no plans for dinner on a Saturday night. Surprise your loved one with a reservation at one of Chicago’s most romantic reservations here. The dimly lit dining rooms offer everyone’s favorite date food—French— and make for the preamble to a fabulous evening.

4

Best place to do the deed: Hotel Monaco, 225 N. Wabash Ave., Chicago, (312) 960-8500 There are so many “hot” places to catch up on your zzz’s and maybe stay up late for some ooo’s. I am into this boutique hotel tucked into River North.

With in-room spa services, it’s hard to find a better way to get in the mood.

18 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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FREE THIS MONTH

You’ll flip for this

I

f you’re a pancake lover, find time to visit a local IHOP on Feb. 5 when pancakes are free to celebrate National Pancake Day. The free pancake day will include opportunities to donate to the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. The restaurant chain hopes to raise $3 million for the hospitals.

Brookfield without breaking the bank Brookfield Zoo is perfect for busted budgets this month. It offers free general zoo admission on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays through the end of February. 8400 31st St., Brookfield, (708) 688-8000

Museum free days Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, (312) 922-STAR (7827). Feb. 5-6, 11-14, 19-20, 25-28.

Art Institute of Chicago, 159 E. Monroe, Chicago, (312) 443-3600. Free for Illinois residents weekdays through Feb. 13. In addition, the museum is free for all Illinois residents every first and second Wednesday of the month.

Kids 13 and under are always free.

DuSable Museum of African American History, 740 E. 56th Place, Chicago, (773) 947-0600. Free on Sundays; discounts to Chicago residents on all other days.

Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago, (312) 280-2660.

Free 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Tuesdays; kids 12 and under are free every day.

Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, (773) 684-1414.

Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27.

Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago, (312) 527-1000. Free 5-8 p.m. every Thursday and the first Sunday of every month for kids 15 and under. Always free to kids under 1.

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago, (773) 755-5100. Thursdays are free for Illinois residents. Kids under 3 are free every day.

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

Feb. 4-28.

Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, (312) 939-2438.

Feb. 4-5, 11-12, 17-19, 25-26.

ChicagoParent.com February 2013 19

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DITCH THE KIDS "Within the child lies the fate of the future" - Maria Montessori

Dream come true at Timeless Spa

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o most moms (and dads!), eight hours of uninterrupted sleep is a relic from a past life, lost to crying babies, scary dreams or a snoring spouse.

So when I heard about Timeless Spa & Salt Cave’s Zen Bed, which purports to provide the restorative benefits of a night’s sleep in only 30 minutes, I had to try it out.

On first glance, the Zen Bed looks like your average table, except this hard plank transforms into a soft mattress that submerges into a pool of hot water—without getting you wet.

Wearing street clothes, I was covered with plastic sheeting that provided a pleasant weight, a nice counterbalance to the gravity-free feeling of floating in water. Jets of water underneath my back gave me a subtle massage, my favorite part of the experience.

The staff at Timeless credits the restorative effects of the Zen Bed to the light therapy, LED lights that cycle through different colors. I’ll admit that I kept my eyes closed for most of the time, but they say the benefits from the lights are effective even then.

For someone like me, who has trouble “turning off” my mind in order to truly relax, it was helpful first to visit the eponymous Salt Cave, a room outfitted with a dozen reclining chairs and made from thousands of pounds of Himalayan salt, a mineral-rich salt that’s thought

to be especially restorative. The 45-minute session helped me to calm down enough that I could take full advantage of the restful Zen Bed experience.

I can’t confirm that my time in the Zen Bed equaled a full eight hours of zzz’s, but I do know that I emerged from the spa energized and more willing to take on my tasks of the day, including the grocery store, dinner and a full email inbox.

In other words: Mission accomplished.

Elizabeth Diffin

Timeless Spa & Salt Cave 1324 E. Ogden Ave., Suite 100, Naperville (630) 428-0700 timelessdayspa.com Salt Cave: $25 one session; Zen Bed: $50 one session

20 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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Special needs gets special focus

C

hicago mom Melanie Schlachter is passionate about helping parents with children with special needs find the help they need.

And she knows first-hand how tough it can be.

“As the parent of a child who was recently diagnosed with a developmental difference, I’ve just been absolutely amazed by all of the extraordinary resources that exist to help kids with different challenges,” says Schlachter, Neighborhood Parents Network’s associate executive director and point person for this month’s NPN Developmental Differences Resource Fair.

“As a parent it’s just a matter of finding those resources,” she says. “I think (the fair) gives people the opportunity to explore some of those and make connections so they can find the right resources for their family.”

Chicago Parent, which has a huge interest in helping special needs families

NPN Developmental Differences Resource Fair Gordon Tech High School, 3633 N. California, Chicago Free, open to the public Sunday, Feb. 10 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Online RSVP recommended to help expedite the check-in process, npnparents.org find the information they need through its semi-annual Chicago Special Parent magazine and throughout the year, is one of the fair’s sponsors again this year.

More than 50 exhibitors are expected for the second annual event, including schools, businesses, speech and occupational therapists and other therapeutic services.

The fair is aimed at families of

Scan here to see our activities!

Summoning all princesses and brave, shining knights! Uncover castles, dragons, shields and crowns with our Fairytale activities!

January 8 - February 3

children with a wide variety of special needs up to eighth grade, she says.

Workshops are planned throughout the day, including one on health insurance, one on navigating the IEP process and one by LEEP Forward on how to set a child up for success.

“It’s the only fair of its kind, so it is just such a unique offering,” Schlachter says.

ake A ess t e r p i e

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Paint With Colored Bubbles In Bubble’ology • Experimentation Station Offering Daily Science Experiments • Free-style Art At The Splat’tacular Art Tables Cooking Projects in Kids’ Creative Kitchen • Li’l Sprouts DIY Craft Station Drumroll, The Splashing Drum Studio

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No reservations necessary, activities starting all day • Ages 3-12 • Free parking garage

ChicagoParent.com February 2013 21

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When you just can’t take it anymore Six nights that will save your sanity this winter

H

BY

DANIELLE BRAFF

ibernating at home during a Chicago winter with little kids can get old really quickly. So we decided to spend six days and nights hibernating in Chicago-area hotels instead.

The rules were simple: Test each hotel to see if it’s possible to entertain two small kids and keep your sanity without stepping outside.

Not only did we keep our sanity, but we had a blast doing it.

Fairmont Kids’ package includes If you stay in the Fairmont Gold Level (rooms start at $254), opt for the bath butler service, which includes a prepared bubble bath complete with kid-sized robes and bath toys.

Kiddie favorite The Gold Level includes cookie time, appetizers, breakfast and a dessert spread.

Parent favorite We loved lounging in the fancy Fairmont Gold lounge, with views of the entire city.

Kid-friendly While the hotel is geared toward adults (fancy restaurants, fancy

lounges and an upscale lobby), they didn’t mind the mess my children made everywhere they went.

Hibernation The Gold package basically turns the hotel into an all-inclusive resort, sans the drinks and the pool.

Kids’ package cost The kids’ package is only available at the Fairmont Gold Level, and costs $40 for the first child and $60 for the second. Regular rooms start at $189.

Swissotel Kids’ package includes Four tickets to the Shedd Aquarium, plus a room completely decorated with kids’ toys and décor.

Kiddie favorite “I don’t ever want to go home,” my 4-year-old exclaimed when she walked into her hotel room, which contained nearly as many toys, books and stuffed animals as her own house.

Parent favorite We didn’t have to bring a single thing to entertain our children.

Kid-friendly The suite was more kidfriendly than their own home.

Hibernation When they weren’t at the pool, the kids were playing in the hotel room or eating at the kid-friendly restaurants.

Kids’ package cost Kids’ package suites start at $379.

Peninsula Kids’ package includes Giant cookie, popcorn, gummy bears, bath toys, baby bath toiletries, Teddy bear, parking and free kids’ room service.

Kiddie favorite The bath toys were an extra special surprise, as was the martini glass filled with gummy bears.

Parent favorite The suite was huge.

Kid-friendly They didn’t blink an eye when we took our 1-year-old and 4-year-old to tea.

Hibernation Between the afternoon tea ($42 for adults, $18 for children), the glorious floor-to-ceiling window pool, the bathtime filled with toys and the restaurants, there’s no need to leave the hotel.

Kids’ package cost The Winter Family Retreats package starts at $395 per night for a two-night minimum.

Trump Chicago Kids’ package includes Personalized business cards, stuffed animals, coloring books, milk and cookies, baby toiletries

22 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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and a baby bathtub.

Kiddie favorite The pink birthday cake waiting in our room to wish my 4-year-old a happy birthday.

Parent favorite It’s a kid-friendly hotel within a very upscale, sleek, trendy adult hotel. The pillow menu was lush, as was the most comfy bed in the entire world.

Kid-friendly They really love kids here and treat them as well as they treat the adults.

Hibernation Inside our room, the pink castle tent—complete with tiaras for our princesses— entertained the girls while we relaxed. The best part: Each room contains a kitchen.

Kids’ package cost Rooms start at $395, and the kids’ package is gratis.

Ritz-Carlton Kids’ package includes Juice and cookies, a welcome backpack including a kids’ T-shirt and Teddy bear, a choice of any toy from the

toy cart and a visit from the candy man. You also can opt for the American Girl Package, which includes an American Girl doll-sized travel bed that you take home, use of American Girl books and DVDs and complimentary room service for kids under 5.

Kiddie favorite The candy man arrived at our suite with a cart filled with jars of candy.

Parent favorite We also really enjoyed our huge bag of candy.

Why should we stick with fruit for dessert if a candy man arrives at the door?

Kid-friendly Bed rails and other kid-safety features are available upon request.

Hibernation There was a tent in our room all set with an American Girl doll bed and pillow. But we dragged the kids out of the room to go to the pool and to feed the fish in the pond (get free fish food from the restaurant host).

Kids’ package cost Starts at $329. The American Girl package starts at $389.

Four Seasons Kids’ package includes Unlimited visits to the new kids’ suite, a visit from the ice cream man, a visit from the bedtime story butler and complimentary kids’ meals.

Kiddie favorite This entire stay was a kid’s dream. In December, they created a kids’ suite (anyone with kids can visit the suite), which is just as good as many of the Chicago-area indoor play spaces.

Parent favorite The hot chocolate doc arrived with a cart full of hot chocolate, liquor, various whipped creams and hot chocolate toppings.

Hibernation Between the pool, the dessert deliveries and the incredible kids’ suite, there is absolutely no reason to leave. Ever.

Kids’ package cost Rooms start at $399.

Danielle Braff is a Chicago mom of two.

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ChicagoParent.com February 2013 23

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It’s a big world out there.

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1/18/13 12:51 PM

Time for a hug

CATHY CASSANI ADAMS

Every day I make a point to hug each member of my family. Not just a quick hello or goodbye hug, but a longer, outof-the-blue kind of hug. Sometimes I hear, “Oh, Mom” or see an eye roll, but they let me hug, and they hug back.

I say nothing. I am quiet and I breathe. I let go of what happened before and what comes next, and just hug.

After a minute or two we

move on, back to our busy day, but for those moments I am there, fully aware. These hugs have become a mindfulness practice, a way to find a few minutes of peace and stability.

It’s hard for me to believe that my daughters are already 9, 8 and 5. It’s even harder for me to believe that they were once 7 pounds and completely dependent upon me. But that’s the cycle. We move in and out of different ages, we grow, we change, we feel like time is moving fast.

That’s why hugging is so important—it’s an opportunity to be present and conscious of what’s happening right now, to connect with my husband and girls.

I also get to reconnect to myself. To notice if I am on autopilot, lost in my to-do’s, or worrying about things that don’t really matter.

It feels good to check things off my list and plan what needs to get done tomorrow, but I also want to be present for today.

Hugging reminds me to slow down so I don’t have to wonder where the time went.

Life can trick us into thinking we’re too stressed or too busy. We can get caught up in thinking that work or cleaning is extremely important. But we know what’s most important.

So we have to practice paying attention—even when we have busy schedules and pressing responsibilities. Even when we are worried about what happened yesterday or what could happen tomorrow.

Because the only thing we can do is right now. And right now there is plenty of time and nothing more important than a long and quiet hug.

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

Need to know

THE SELF-AWARE PARENT

February 2013 25

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NEWS TO KNOW

Finding comfort Supporting women with fertility problems Women going through fertility treatments can feel alone and unsure of where to turn for support, says Katie O’Connor, a Chicago mom who struggled with infertility for two years before becoming pregnant with her daughter. So O’Connor recently decided to start a support group called Shine Chicago for women to support each other.

“There was a need, because it was like a void in this big city for women wanting to be pregnant, wanting to be moms,” O’Connor says. “The first few women that are part of it are reassuring me that this has been a great path to go down. Either they’re so new in the process that they’re

overwhelmed, or their friends just looked at their husbands and got pregnant. It’s been fulfilling to me to help these women.”

The meetings take place about every three weeks at The Dailey Method in Chicago’s Bucktown neighborhood and are moderated

by O’Connor. Most meetings are open forums to discuss anything they’d like, although at some meetings, guest speakers talk about issues relevant to women facing fertility problems.

The sessions are $120, or drop in for $20 per meeting.

For information, visit shine chicago.com or email Katie@ shinechicago.com.

Spektral Quartet

Tunes for tots

A new performance and music series for the stroller set begins this month at the Chicago Chicago Cultural Center Cultural Center’s 78 E. Washington, Chicago Preston Bradley Hall.

The free series is de chicagoculturalcenter.org signed for parents and cityofchicago.org/DCASE children younger than kindergarten age.

The “Juicebox” series kicks off at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 1, with Spektral Quartet and continues every other Friday at the Cultural Center. On Feb. 15, the Chicago Q ensemble performs.

For a complete schedule and more details about performances, visit the website.

Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

If you go:

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Our newly expanded Our newly and decorated office expanded Freedom in Education Conference Adolescents will allow us T.to Dennis R. LaMonte, D.D.S., M.S. General & Cosmetic Kuhn, see D.D.S. Our andnewly decorated officeSteven Saturday, March 9, 9 am – 5 pm for Adults Steven T. Kuhn, D.D.S. Our newly Dentistry Dennis R. LaMonte, D.D.S., M.S. expanded willexpanded allow us to see more of you & your Exceptional Michael Kasper, Nikifor Kasper, D.D.S. Adults Exceptional & Cosmetic more of office you & office yoursmiles! and decorated Michael Kasper, D.D.S. – now expanded Niki Kasper, General D.D.S. General family’s Same & relaxed & fun atmosphere Cosmetic and decorated Dentistry provide the entire family with family’s smiles!

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26 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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NEWS TO KNOW

Volunteers needed for autism medication study The Baber Research Group in Naperville is looking for children with autism, Asperger’s and PDDNOS to participate in a clinical trial of a medication that may help with social interactions.

This research will study if the drug, memantine, helps with cognitive enhancing, which is one of the core symptoms of autism, says Dr. Riaz Baber, the principal investigator locally.

“Previous drugs (used for children with autism) were tried for the irritability part of autism,” Baber says. The research will test if the drug improves the child’s ability to learn social cues and emotional language, he says.

Children selected for the study will receive all examinations and medication free. To get started, parents should check with their primary care physician to make sure their child doesn’t have any seizure, cardiac or neurological problems that would make it unsafe for research.

Memantine has been used in the past for dementia. Side effects in adults who took the medication were mild and relatively rare, Baber says.

Count on this If you’ve been drilling your preschooler to help her memorize her numbers, you might want to rethink your strategy and work on teaching her to count instead.

A new study by the University of Michigan shows counting, not memorization, is more important for helping preschoolers acquire math skills. “Reciting means saying the numbers from memory in chronological order, whereas counting involves understanding that each item in the set is counted once and that the last number stated is the amount for the entire set,” says Louis Manfra, one of the study’s authors.

Parents and teachers should integrate counting into all aspects of children’s daily activities, Manfra suggests.

For more information, visit connectmetrial.com.

Liz DeCarlo

Radio Disney Live is coming to Chicagoland!

The Spring’s hottest road show is coming to Chicago and bringing some of Disney Channel and Radio Disney’s most beloved stars!

Join the Radio Disney Road Crew for a live interview and a chance to meet Leo Howard, star of the Disney XD show Kickin’ It, at the Rockford Discovery Center Museum and the Chicago Auto Show!

February 17: Radio Disney Live at the Rockford Discovery Center Museum February 18: Radio Disney Live at the Chicago Auto Show Schedule for both events: 10:00 am – wristband distribution begins 12pm – Q&A with Leo Howard and a Radio Disney DJ 1:00-3:00pm – public meet and greet

by pearance Special Ap XD’s y e n is D rd of Leo Howa e nd th Kickin’ It a rew 00 Road C 8 1 M A y e n is th D io Rad 7th & 18 !

February 1

Visit the Radio Disney Facebook page, and click on “Your Station” for more events or call the local listener line at 312-409-3212!

All events subject to change or cancellation

ChicagoParent.com February 2013 27

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MOM OF THE MONTH and sitting at my desk figuring out what the next move is for Marbles. I think I’m not very strict, but do expect a lot. Even though my kids are young, we work on a lot of things to make sure they grow up to be good citizens as all of us want our kids to be.

What has been your biggest parenting oops?

I’ve had lots of those. We overschedule a lot. One of our worst, we decided to go to a 30th birthday party in New York when Lulu was about 6 months old. ... Carrying a car seat around New York City is miserable, being at a 30-year-old birthday party in New York at a bar with a baby is not a good idea.

The brain food mom Lindsay Gaskins

{M.O.M}

Mom to Lulu, 2, and Frances, 5 months CEO of Marbles: The Brain Store, founded in 2008 around neuroplasticity, the idea that the brain continues to grow and adapt as you age. Game play and challenging activities can improve how the brain functions.

Chicago

What do you like about raising a child in Chicago?

I love this city. I love the neighborhoods.

There are just so many activities.

Do you experience any prejudice being a gay parent?

There’s a lot of questions that always come with it that if you were a heterosexual couple you would not get. ... I think Chicago is a great city, it’s very open and friendly. I think the city is great place to raise kids as a gay family.

Best piece of advice you’ve received: It’s probably from my mom: Be very confident that it’s going to work out. It’s OK if you made a mistake or things didn’t go perfectly.

How would your gal pals describe you?

I think they’d probably say pretty opinionated and I am often one to give advice. For a serious conversation, if they are looking for that, they’ll come to me.

How do you describe your parenting style?

I love my kids to death and really love my time with them, but I also see that other people are better at taking care of my kids for part of the time. (Laughs) I love our weekend time and I love seeing them in the morning and putting them to bed at night, but I don’t know how stayat-home moms do it. I like my adult time

>>

Get your game on at Marbles Marbles: The Brain Store hosts family game night the third Thursday of every month in all of its stores.

There are six area stores: find them in Chicago on Grand Avenue, in Lincoln Square and in Water Tower Place, in downtown Naperville, in Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg and in Old Orchard Center in Skokie. marbles thebrainstore.com

Tip: Feel the love with a kid-friendly Valentine’s Day menu While Valentine’s Day usually is a day for lovers, that can change after kids enter the picture. If you plan to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your children, here’s a kid-friendly menu that will have everyone feeling the love! Get the kids to help make dinner—heartshaped pizzas! Make your own dough or buy pre-made dough, then let the kids form it into heart shapes. Have a variety of ingredients ready for them to choose, buffet style, so they can top their pizza, then bake and serve. For dessert, make chocolate-dipped cherries or strawberries. Have the kids dip them in warmed chocolate or hot fudge. It’s a fun, delicious meal they’ll remember fondly!

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

28 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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PLUGGED-IN PARENT

Unplugging play Q

EARTH’S GREATEST SECRETS ARE ABOUT TO BREAK OUT!

During a recent play date, my 5-year-old son told me that he and his friend watched each other play computer games. Is this really playing?

Technology definitely can be entertaining, interactive and a part of a child’s social world.

A SHARON MILLER CINDRICH

Play activities that include technology often are based on scripted behaviors as opposed to child-directed, unstructured play. Experts know the latter allows children naturally to develop healthy behaviors like selfcontrol, problem-solving, social skills, sharing and planning.

So how can parents encourage imaginative play in the shadow of flashy digital tech activities?

Try these techniques to unleash creative playtime in your child’s world.

1

Spruce up your creative options. Add a few new items to your current imaginative play supplies to renew interest in creativity. Put a holiday garland into the dress-up box, add some emptied out cereal boxes or a few of your own kitchen utensils to your play kitchen area, make some homemade craft dough for modeling

and sculpting. Inexpensive regular updates can go a long way in keeping kids interested and offering new opportunities for imagination.

2

Designate imagination days.

Instead of focusing efforts on a specifically tech-free day, promote some unplugged time as special imaginative play days.

For instance, try a Silly Saturday (where everyone wears two different socks, dances to silly music and kids act out silly plays). Take iPods, tablets and video game controllers and put them in a silly place—in mom’s pillowcase, maybe—until Silly Saturday is through.

3

Make it a family affair. It doesn’t take much parental energy to plop kids in front of a computer game, but a little parent input can go a long way when it comes to igniting a child’s imagination. Kick off creative play by suggesting the whole family make a fort or set up an obstacle course in the yard.

IN DIGITAL 3D AND BRENDAN FRASER SARAH JESSICA PARKER JESSICA ALBA JANE LYNCH CRAIG ROBINSON WILLIAM SHATNER GEORGE LOPEZ SOFIA VERGARA AND ROB CORDDRY THIS FILM IS NOT YET RATED

OPENS EVERYWHERE THIS VALENTINE’S DAY! ChicagoParent.com February 2013 29

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GOOD SENSE EATING

Arsenic scare: Justified?

CHRISTINE PALUMBO

Most parents were startled d by the headlines warning about arsenic-laced rice.

The grain has long been a first solid food for babies and it’s a nourishing staple le in many households. And rice—in the form of pasta, a, bread, cereals and pizza crust—is increasingly used by those eating a gluten-free diet.

What did the headlines not reveal? While rice contributes 17 percent of dietary exposure to inorganic arsenic, fruits and fruit juices contribute 18 percent, with vegetables at 24 percent.

Consumer Reports, which released the results of independent lab tests showing inorganic and organic arsenic in a variety of rice products, wants the Food and Drug Administration to set limits for arsenic in most foods. Currently, there isn’t one.

The standard for drinking water is 10 parts per billion (ppb) and 23 ppb in fruit juice. According to the USA Rice Federation, one ppb is equal to a single drop of water in an Olympic-sized swimming pool.

What is arsenic?

Arsenic is a chemical element found in water, food, air and soil. It can be either organic or inorganic. If plants are grown in areas with arsenic in the soil or water, some of that arsenic can find its way into those plants.

Greek-Style Brown Rice Garden Salad Makes 14 (¾ cup) servings

Preparation

Ingredients 2 cups uncooked brown rice 4½ cups water 1 large cucumber, chopped (2 cups) 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (2 cups) cup Greek or Italian vinaigrette dressing ½ cup crumbled feta cheese 1 (2.25-ounce) can sliced black olives, drained Salt and pepper to taste

In a 4-quart covered saucepot, simmer rice and water until tender.

When rice is cooked, gently stir and let stand 10 to 15 minutes to cool. Stir in remaining ingredients.

Transfer to serving dish.

Yield: 11 cups Nutrition facts: 140 calories, 3 grams protein, 4 grams fat, 27 grams carbohydrate, 2 grams dietary fiber, 0 milligrams cholesterol and 140 milligrams sodium.

Recipe courtesy of USA Rice Federation

Should you be concerned?

The fact that rice contains arsenic is old news. In the opinion of many health professionals, Consumer Reports did a disservice by publishing analytical data showing that rice contains showin arsenic without answering the question of what is known about the effects of know very low doses.

The American Academy of Pediatrics A ssays additional rresearch is needed before it makes b

recommendation on the possible risks. It says “offering children a variety of foods, including products made from oats and wheat, will decrease children’s exposure to arsenic derived from rice.”

Cooking tips Rinse your rice. The FDA cites several studies that show thoroughly rinsing rice until the water is clear (four to six changes of water) reduces arsenic content by about 25-30 percent.

Cook and drain like pasta. Use about six parts water to one part rice, cook the rice, then drain off the water. Studies suggest cooking in excess water can reduce total arsenic levels by 50 to 60 percent.

Christine M. Palumbo, RD, is a Naperville-based nutritionist. She loves to warm up leftover brown rice for breakfast. Follow her on Twitter @PalumboRD, Facebook at Christine Palumbo Nutrition or Chris@ChristinePalumbo.com.

30 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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PRODUCTS

Cool picks for supermoms

BY DANIELLE BRAFF

T

o your kids, you’re already a superhero. So it’s about time you had some superpowers (besides having eyes in the back of your head, of course)..

Thanks to new winter-gear technology, we finally have the ability to have our very own superpower: The he ability to survive a Chicago winter while keeping our cool.

Superpower Monitoring the massive sledding adventure adventu without shivering ur Wear th this A heated vest under your coat. The vest contains tinyy winter co portable external heaters (think ( drives) that you power up by hard driv pressing a button on your vest. In addition tto keeping you toasty for up hours before needing to b be to seven h re-charged, re-charge h ed, this little device doubles as a USB char charger. rger.

Ellectro Amp Core Get it Electro Vest, $150, $150 0, columbia.com

Superpower Looking like a super-cool mom during the warmest winter in recent history Wear this Throw on a pair of colored skinnies, which will create air pockets that wick moisture from your body to generate heat naturally. The same technology is used for underpants, camis and even leggings.

Get it Uniqlo HeatTech Colored Skinny Fit Straight Jeans, $50, uniqlo.com

Superpower wer Popping up a video of your daughterr iceskating while standing outside the skating kating rink Wear this New touchscreen gloves make it possible ble for you to textt or tweet just as quickly as you u could withoutt the gloves on. They’re made with silver-coated nylon m fibers fib that pull bioelectricity city from your yo palm to conduct energy ergy to your fingertips. fi Get it Agloves, $20, agloves.com Superpower Putting that jogging stroller to good use even in icy conditions Wear this Slip into a pair of boots that have a Temperature ree Sensitive Compound on the bottom for optimal grip on icy surfaces. Once the temperature drops below and freezing, the TSC rises an nd hardens for extra stabilityy and grip.

Get it Adidas Libria boots, $130, zappos.com

32 February 2013

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MONEY

Anatomy of a credit score

W

e all know good credit is important for getting a loan, and employers increasingly are looking for good credit scores as a hiring criteria. Your credit score can seem scary if you believe you have no control over it. Advertising for creditrelated services plays off fears that credit can be irreparably damaged and must be continuously monitored. Ignore the hype.

Credit scoring is actually very rational and predictable.

What is a FICO? Credit scores are often generically referred to as “FICO” scores. The three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) each calculate their own version, but these credit scores contain basically the same information. Records of your credit and payment behavior are aggregated by the credit bureaus and used to calculate a numerical score—usually between 300-850.

The higher the better, as this score represents a prediction of your likelihood to repay a future debt.

How to get a credit report for free Both simple errors and malicious identify theft can damage your report.

The longer they go unchecked, the more Free reports do not include credit scores. damage is done. The Fair Credit Reporting That’s OK. You just need the data behind the Act entitles Americans to free credit reports. score because you want to make sure that Once per year you may request a free report there are no errors—like missing mortgage from each of the three major credit bureaus. payments—and that someone else is not In addition to the annual reports, you fraudulently securing credit under your name. are eligible to receive a free credit report Reports can be requested on the federal within 60 days of an adverse government recommended credit action. These include site, annualcreditreport. being denied credit or receiving com, or by calling (877) substandard credit terms from a 322-8228.

Lela Davidson lender. You also may be able to Learn the components of get a free credit score if, based a credit score on your credit score, you were Lela Davidson is a former CPA who denied a loan or insurance. almost always pays her bills on time.

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TRENDING

Sex it up…subtly MEREDITH SINCLAIR

It’s the month of all things hot and sexy. But if the thought of stilettos, slinky lingerie, and day-of-the-week thongs puts your granny panties in a bunch, have no fear. I’ve found a few non-threatening ways to get your sexy back without hurting yourself.

The deep v Here’s a universal truth for you: Men find a deep v-neck anything to be equal in excitement to a fridge full of beer and the TV stuck on ESPN. A tasteful sweater or tee with just enough plunge to entice them without showing all your wares is the goal here.

Here are two ways to give your girls a little exposure: SPLURGE J. Crew Collection v-neck cashmere sweater.

I treated myself to one of these in the fall and I wear it constantly. Soft, subtly sexy, and well, cashmere. Comes in 16 fabulous colors. And now select colors are on sale! $99-$188 SAVE Old Navy women’s v-neck softest sweaters Super-soft and comes in five yummy colors. My advice? Skip the cami underneath and let the sisters peek out just a touch.

Really, it’s OK. $15, Old Navy

Hot lips There is a way to rock a red lip … tastefully. Here are two lip colors that will turn your husband’s head, without embarrassing your offspring.

SLIGHT SPLURGE Bobbi Brown’s creamy matte lip color, “Red Carpet” $24, bobbibrowncosmetics.com SAVE CoverGirl Flipstick in “Cheeky” I love this concept of duo lip colors with a flip of the stick. $9, CVS $

The girls If your girls haven’t seen lace for a very long time—or ever—it’s time.

Hanky Panky, known for its supercomfy panties, has created bras from the same soft and lovely lace.

How surprised will your man be when you whip off the sweatshirt and BOOM!?

Hanky Panky signature lace bralette in six hotty colors. $46, barenecessities.com

Bat them eyes, baby During a recent segment on Windy City LIVE, I had my first experience with false eyelashes. And now I may need rehab. If you’re looking for a way to add instant “ka-pow!” to your look, try the Ardell fashion lashes starter kit. You’ll feel all Bridgette Bardot in seconds.

NOTE: These take a wee bit of practice, so buy a couple of pairs, read the instructions carefully and practice, people. It’s worth it. $6.50, CVS

ChicagoParent.com February 2013 35

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1/18/13 12:24 PM

CRAFT

Sweet tweets Show your backyard birds a little love

T

BY CAITLIN MURRAY GILES

here are lots of way to express love this Valentine’s Day—and not all of them involve ve a sugar rush. This year, work together to make ke heart-shaped treats for your backyard birdies. es.

This “valentine” is a simply way to show our kids that we need to love all living things (and not all hearts are made ade of chocolate!).

Mix the gelatin and water. Simmer until the gelatin dissolves. Allow the mixture to cool. Add 1-1/2 cups birdseed seed and mix well. The mixture should be pretty thick and very sticky. Add a little bit more birdseed if necessary to reach ach the right consistency.

A silicone mold will work best for this project because se you will be able to easily pop the hearts out when they are dry, but any heart-shaped vessel will get the job done. Fill your heart-shaped mold halfway with the birdseed mixture. You can also use heart-shaped cookie cutters placed on a baking aking sheet if you don’t have a heart-shaped mold.

Tie a piece of string into a loose loop. Position the string into the top of the mold so that you can use it to hang the birdseed heart from a tree branch. Fill the mold to the top with the remaining birdseed. Press down on the birdseed to make sure the mold is packed tightly and evenly.

Place the mold in the freezer until it hardens. Let the molds dry out for a few days until they come out of the tray easily.

Hang the heart-shaped bird feeders in your yard as a special Valentine’s Day treat for the birds in your life.

Supplies 1½ cups birdseed 2 small packets gelatin ½ cup water String (about 3- to 4-inch pieces) Heart-shaped molds (silicone molds, baking trays, cookie cutters) *(makes about six birdseed hearts)

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38 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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Redefining romance

MARIANNE WALSH

My husband, Joe, is not an obvious romantic. The last time he bought flowers for someone, the recipient was heading six feet under. During Pre-Cana (required Catholic marriage class), the instructor asked us to write a love letter to our future spouse.

Here is Joe’s note: Dear Marianne, I like you a lot.

Do you like me?

Please check yes.

Love, Joe

I recognized right away that life with my husband was not going to be filled with declarations of love or long-stemmed roses.

When I became pregnant, I was very self-conscious.

To his enormous credit (and despite my 50pound weight gain), Joe managed to make me feel desirable. Afterward, when my body resembled an aeronautical map, my husband again salvaged my fragile self-esteem.

It wasn’t because he wrote poetry. There were no heart-shaped boxes. He didn’t send me to a spa or attempt to romance me with fine wine.

But he did charge my cellphone every night.

He also took out the garbage before leaving for work.

And he would get up early on many cold Chicago mornings to scrape ice and snow off my car.

When I was a single girl, I had very lofty expectations of married life.

There were visions of sonnets and cozy nights by the fireplace sipping chardonnay. A bearskin rug

may have been involved. I think Vivaldi played in the background.

The soundtrack of our marriage is less Vivaldi and more Randy Newman.

We don’t own a fireplace.

And that bearskin rug? It’s a marker-stained couch with holes.

Whenever Joe and I try to snuggle for just a few minutes, we are immediately accosted by three little boys who somehow manage to wedge themselves onboard.

It is hard for the world to see past my gruff, burly fireman husband and appreciate who he really is.

They never witnessed the night he spent hours tending to our sick, screaming infant. Joe had just come off a 24-hour shift and I was completely beside myself with exhaustion and frustration. My husband cooled our fevered son in the bath, monitored his temperature throughout the evening, and cradled him in his strong arms until morning.

In all my life, it is the most romantic thing I have ever seen.

No, most people don’t look at my husband and think Rudolph Valentino.

Thankfully, the girl who once believed that a piece of jewelry or a trip to the theater somehow represented true love has evaporated. It now takes a lot more than a love note to make me swoon.

It takes a charged cellphone, a de-iced minivan, and a husband who never ever forgets to pick up a gallon of milk on his way home.

Marianne Walsh is a Chicago mom of three boys. Want more? Check out her blog at ChicagoParent.com and at webandofmothers.blogspot.com and her book Epic Mom available on Amazon.com.

Talk back

FAILING WITH GUSTO

ChicagoParent.com February 2013 39

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READERS’ OPEN MIC

Life’s a puzzle

This month’s Q: What’s the biggest puzzle you’ve faced as a parent?

KEEPING MY SANITY while trying to be the best parent that my kids deserve.

Marni711 We have faced many puzzles, especially with three

kids. The biggest one is managing

finances

as a stay-at-home mom. Living on one income is a puzzle in itself.

Marilynn

laundry!

How to stay on top of the !

With five kids and a hubby, it’s never-ending.

I’m always trying new methods and schedules.

It doesn’t help that I hate laundry!

Kathy

BEING TRUE Why the kids are always the most

clingy, loudest, and want to talk to me the second I get on the phone!

Nicole F. TRYING TO GET

MY HUSBAND AND

MYSELF ON THE SAME PARENTING PAGE. MB

TO YOURSELF AND AS A PARENT NOT ALLOWING OTHER PEOPLE’S OPINIONS (UNSOLICITED PARENTING ADVICE) TO AFFECT THE WAY YOU RAISE YOUR KIDS.

Hammerbowler The biggest puzzle I have faced as a parent is how to balance

discipline with

routine; it’s never easy to take a time out when there is a full schedule!

TechMommy

40 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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REAL PARENTS IN THE TRENCHES

Not counting good communication and date nights, what is the best way to keep the relationship with your spouse strong?

Reminisce about why you fell in love in the first place, and remember it’s normal to have highs and lows in a relationship. My husband would simply say, have more sex. So I would recommend a healthy combination of both!

Finding common interests is key. My partner and I are completely different people for the most part, but we take time out to enjoy the commonalities that we do have. Also, doing as I am told seems to keep our bond strong.

Heather Earnhart, Chicago

Ryan Salzwedel, Chicago

Sometimes we are so hurried that I feel I haven’t even looked my husband in the eyes! I have literally said to him, “We need to make eye contact, at least for a minute!” As simple as that sounds, we don’t do it enough and it allows us to really see how someone is doing.

Kerry Quirin, Downers Grove

@

Want more? Visit ChicagoParent.com/parentpanel

Love him the way you did in the beginning of your relationship. Laugh with him.

Touch him. Hold him close. Be intimate, both physically and emotionally. Have conversations that don’t revolve around the children, the bills and household stuff.

It might sound boring, but we watch our favorite TV shows together. We sit next to each other after the kids go to bed, hold hands and just be together.

Cherish Walsh, Streamwood

The grocery store or a spontaneous milkshake out without the kids does wonders. Give the kids macaroni and cheese, and make a nice dinner for the two of you. Send the kids upstairs, downstairs or ANYWHERE!!!

Lisa Cheruff, Skokie

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42 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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VOICE: CHERYL BURNS

Lucky, lucky me Who needs romance novels?

I

have the most amazing husband on the planet and every woman deserves a man like him. I know, you may be thinking, “yay, good for you.” Don’t be a hater. There’s more to the story.

I don’t always feel this way. I have been known to throw myself the occasional pity party, whining and complaining about this same man. Or at least about the overinflated ideas I hold him up to.

My idea: He’s been working a lot of hours. I’ve barely seen him in days. All the house and family obligations are on me.

I’m feeling tired and lonely. The doorbell rings, he has sent me a bouquet of flowers and a box of chocolate!

His idea: He brings me a case of energy drinks left by one of his customers.

My idea: He whisks me away to some rooftop decorated with a thousand white, twinkling lights. Gently walking me over to an exquisitely set table complete with white linens and champagne, he pulls my chair out and gestures for me to sit. Taking the sterling silver lid off of its sterling silver tray, he reveals a stunning diamond necklace.

His idea: “Burgers on the grill tonight?”

While my ideas may be romantic as heck and would score him a lot of points (hint hint), meeting him halfway makes for a more peaceful, loving marriage. My expectations need to take a backseat so I can see what is really in the road right in front of me.

On a daily basis, he shows up and participates in our lives. After working a

15-hour day, he walks in the door smiling, happy to be home and happy to see us.

Day after day he gets up for his job, not his dream career, and shows up ready and on time.

I can count on him to be there for me and the children. When he is busy at work, he always makes time to talk to us on the phone if we need something. More often than not, he tells me he loves me and gives me a kiss and a hug. He tells me I’m beautiful and an awesome wife and mother. He sends me text messages

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lors:

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with smiley faces that blow kisses. He’s not afraid to be himself and he makes us all laugh.

So I may not get the “stuff” that commercials, magazines and romance novels would have me believe I “need” to have a happy marriage, but in the real world, he is an awesome dad, a man of his word, a great friend and my funny little Valentine.

1

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1/18/13 11:32 AM

VOICE: SOLA OLU

Hope: A journey of prematurity and preeclampsia

M

y journey to motherhood literally began with a sirenflashing, horn-blaring ride to the emergency room.

That was eight years ago.

Today, like every other day, I reflect on how the turns and curves of life have made me stronger, bolder and with a new appreciation for everything.

On that day, though, I went for a scheduled OB/GYN visit.

The routine blood pressure check showed preeclampsia. My blood pressure at times reached 195/120.

My husband was called, an ambulance requested, and off we were on the whirlwind ride to a hospital 45 minutes away. I was 28 weeks pregnant.

That night at the hospital, via an emergency C-section, my daughter Angel was born weighing a mere 1 pound, 15 ounces and suffering from interuterine growth restriction due to inadequate nutrition caused by preeclampsia.

The doctors fought to save her life while I battled for three days to get stable enough to get to see her. When I did meet her, all I saw was this fragile being, about the size of her father’s hand, struggling to breath.

Regardless, my love for her was instantaneous.

Angel’s battle with the complications of prematurity began almost immediately with an intestinal perforation that would require multiple surgeries and months of hospitalization.

One week shy of her eightmonth birthday, I finally was able to bring her home.

Two-and-a-half years later, as I longed to add to our family, we began another journey, this time filled with hope, faith and care from a specialized team of doctors.

Despite all our efforts, though, I had preeclampsia again; this time at 33 weeks. I was emotionally done. I was so terrified of going down the path that Angel had taken, I practically shut down and anxiety took over.

We were blessed with a little boy, Lani, who weighed 3 pounds, 1 ounce at birth. I was able to bring him home after three-and-a-half weeks, weighing 3 pounds, 13 ounces.

Today both children are living miracles. Angel is in third grade and has won awards at school.

Lani is in kindergarten. I am fine, rid of anxiety attacks and able to counsel other preemie parents that hope is on the horizon.

Sola Olu is a Chicago mom. Her memoir, The Summer Called Angel, is now available. Visit solaolu.com for information.

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44 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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DEATH BY CHILDREN

How to fold your daughter’s thong

CHRISTOPHER GARLINGTON

Being a stay-at-home dad has its advantages. I watch TV while I work. I listen to the stereo real loud. There is beer. The downside is the long suffered horror all moms know: There are no secrets.

You go through everyone’s drawers. You wash their clothes.

You sweep under their bed.

You fold your daughter’s thong.

Look, I’m a ninja-level pop. I will go into Walgreens and inquire as to the location of the heavy flow pads. Long ago I suffered through the horror of my daughter’s emergent boobs.

But a thong in the laundry is a new horror.

My first impression was “oooh

la la, Mommy for the win!”

Mere seconds later I realized my voluptuous wife couldn’t get this miniscule strap around her foot, much less up to her—OH MY GOD! My second impression was OH MY GOD! Unlike a bra, which, no matter how much black lace or pink

and porn for girls. ribbons it has, still is structurally Thank God for my golf skills. important, a thong has no practiUsing a seven iron, I carried my cal use except to say to the world, daughter’s thong upstairs, like a “I am legally not naked,” which dead rat on a skewer. only happens in situations where I was halfway across someone else is—OH MY the living room GOD! when she walked We dads can work in. our minds around At this most daughter juncture, the stuff. We plan highly eduahead for puberty cated father (beer), driving would employ a lessons (beer), and sports maneuver boyfriends (gun). that snatched the But we forget; JA ILL DE UST RATIO N BY TOM panties out of sight our little princesses are before either of us needed exploding out of puberty into to acknowledge them. unparalleled womanhood. Never Most. in the history of man have women “You dropped your floss.” been so unfettered and free. They “Father, why are you hoisting are the fortunate great-grandmy unmentionables into the air children of women’s rights. They like a flag?” grew up in a world of equality, “I’m surrendering.” highly paid women CEOs, Oprah

Saturday, March 9 and Sunday, March 10, 2013 9:00am to 5:00pm

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ChicagoParent.com February 2013 45

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1/18/13 11:31 AM

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1/18/13 11:30 AM

Red hot ways to

ignite

your Valentine’s Day!

BY DONNA BOZZO

Red, red wine Pull up a couch for a glass of red at Chicago’s oldest wine bar, Webster’s Wine Bar. Newly remodeled, swanky Webster’s serves more than 40 wines by the glass and 500 reserve wines from around the world, focusing on artisanal and family-owned wineries. Not sure which red to order?

Ask for the sommelier’s choice. Webster’s sommelier made Food and Wine Magazine’s 2012 Top Ten Sommelier List just last year.

Roll out the red carpet For $100,000, the Fairmont Hotel will roll out the red carpet for you. Lead your sweetie down a trail of red roses that lead from the foyer of your presidential suite to a rose-sprinkled bed. The two-night Valentine package includes luxuries like a $10,000 shopping spree at Saks Fifth CONTINUED ON PAGE 49

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RED HOT

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 48

Avenue, a 7-carat diamond necklace, round-trip airport transportation, a romantic bath, a 90-minute massage for two, chef’s table dinner at Aria and dinner for two on the town. You even get your own personal butler!

Ride the red bull How about a night of Red Bull (and vodka?) with Diablos the Bull at Dos Diablos, at 15 W. Hubbard, Chicago, named in the Top 10 Best New Restaurants by Midwest Living. Dos Diablos offers bull riding on its mechanical namesake every night for the brave at heart.

Red in the face Get your moment in the spotlight at open mic night every Monday night, at Quenchers Saloon at 2401 N. Western, between Chicago Logan’s Square and Bucktown neighborhoods.

Find your own shade of red Rendezvous with your secret crush in front of one of Chicago’ s famous icons, Flamingo, the 53-foot statue in Federal Plaza. Unveiled in 1974, it’s not only red—it’s Cader red, named after the artist who created it. While you’re at it, why not create your own shade of red with by mixing some fun red lipsticks?

Try Hourglass’ Femme Rouge with its Extreme Sheen Primal for a shade all your own.

Roses are red Bloom in a garden of roses.

Try the triple rose hydrating body treatment at Elizabeth Arden Red Door for all-over body pampering. Great for couples who can experience

the bliss together in a shared room. Ask for Colleen. She was born on Valentine’s Day!

Put on red shoes Looking for a romantic night at home? Slip on a pair of red shoes—try Yosi Samra’s Valentine ballet flats, available at Krista K—and slip in “Red Shoes,” the 1948 British film. Top the night off with some red velvet popcorn and your very own bubbly. For yummy red velvet popcorn, check out the recipe at cookiesandcups. com/red-velvet-popcorn.

Create your own bubbly with Sodastream’s home soda machine. Good choices for Valentine’s Day? Fruit punch, cranberry or cherry cola.

Red well fed Sneak a Valentine’s Day treat in your sweetheart’s lunch. Pretzelmaker in The Promenade Bolingbrook will be featuring limited edition heart-shaped pretzels sprinkled with red and white salt.

Adopt a big red dog Give the gift of a second chance to an abused or abandoned animal at Red Door Animal Shelter at 2410 W. Lunt, Chicago, reddoorshelter.org. Red Door also offers e-adoptions for those who can’t make the commitment to take an animal home.

Red Cross your red-blooded lover

Donate to the Red Cross to celebrate someone special or in memory of a special loved one. Donations can be made at redcrossblood.org.

Catch a red eye Slip away for Valentine’s Day without missing a beat on one of Chicago’s many red eye flights. At Jet Blue, they even offer special shut-eye service with a complimentary snooze and eye-opener kits to make sure your valentine doesn’t lose any beauty sleep. You can even buy your own pillow and blanket on board. Wink. Wink.

Catch the Red Line Chicago’s Red Line is CTA’s busiest rail line. Grab

a ride to some of Chicago’s favorite spots along Fullerton, Division and Chicago.

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1/18/13 11:30 AM

A wake-up call to make intimacy a top priority Sure Fifty Shades of Grey got lots of moms hot and bothered and put pressure on their guys to match the sexpertise of Christian Grey. What the trilogy’s popularity tells us is a lot of moms are doing a lot of thinking about s-e-x. But doing it? Not so much. There’s laundry to fold after all. It’s time you scootch your relationship back to the top of your to-do list – even if you ARE really, really tired.

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A

BY KELLY JAMES-ENGER

ccording to a recent survey, 75 percent of married women say a good sex life is “important or very important” to them. Good to know. So why aren’t we having more of it?

An informal poll of my fellow mom friends revealed that most are like me—struggling to carve out time to “get busy” with our husbands. And even if we manage to find the time, it’s not that easy to get in the mood.

“After a long day of running around, taking care of the kids, and finally getting them into bed, the last thing I want to do is have to think about my husband’s needs, too,” admits one of my girlfriends, who insists on remaining anonymous. “Now that we have two kids, we have sex maybe once a month.”

She shrugs.

“But it’s not high on my priority list right now.”

My friend should rethink those priorities, says Debra Herbenick, Ph.D., a research scientist at Indiana University.

“Sex is important as it helps people feel connected,” says Herbenick, author of Sex Made Easy: Your Awkward Questions Answered—For Better, Smarter, Amazing Sex (Running Press, 2012). “It’s a way to have fun with your partner, to see a side of them that no one else gets to see.”

If you’re not happy with the quantity or quality—or both—of your sex life, don’t despair. Even the busiest parent can take steps to improve their love life, which will improve their relationship as well. It’s win/win.

1 Ditch the guilt First step: Forget about feeling guilty.

“Sex is important, but at the same time, I hate when people beat themselves up over it and have such high expectations,” says Herbenick. “Completely forget about what everyone else is doing.

There’s always that one friend who talks about how much great sex they have or

Embrace the

QUICKIE And 5 more tips to help you

‘GET BUSY’ how they sneak into bathrooms at parties to do it. Let go of the idea that that has to be you.”

By letting go of the guilt, you’re less likely to have sex only to please your partner, which doesn’t necessarily address the problem. “Focusing on the quality is much more important,” explains Herbenick. “When people focus on the frequency, they try to fit it in and try to do it so they can check it off the list and think, ‘now my partner’s not going to nag me.’”

It’s intimate sex—where the two

of you feel truly connected—that really helps strengthen your bond.

2 Share your feelings A better sex life may not start between the sheets, but at your kitchen table. “If you’re feeling bad about a low sex drive or low sex frequency, talk to your partner,” says Herbenick. “If you’re worried about it or disappointed, they probably wish they were having more sex or better sex, too.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 53

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Are you ready for Summer?

Summer Camp: July 1st -August 9th

register earlyspace is limited

Day camp registration begins: April 1 & 2

on-line registration www.chicagoparkdistrict.com (credit card required)

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(bring child’s birth certificate and proof of residency)

At local parks, campers ages 6 to 12 can enjoy educational, recreational and cultural activities along with arts & crafts, field trips, sports, water fun and more!

For more information about your Chicago Park District, visit our website at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com or call (312) 742-PLAY (7529); (312) 747-2001 (TTY).

City of Chicago, Rahm Emanuel, Mayor Chicago Park District, Board of Commissioners Chicago Park District, Michael P. Kelly, General Superintendent and CEO 52 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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EMBRACE THE QUICKIE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 51

Simply bringing it up can help—maybe the two of you can brainstorm some ways to have more time alone, or agree to make it a bigger priority.

“Most couples don’t talk about sex when they’re not having it and that’s not good for the relationship or their sex life,” she explains. “If you’re not having sex, let your partner know it’s on your mind and that it’s important to you, too. Your partner may think you’re not in love or attracted to him anymore, or that you’re having an affair.”

That level of honesty can help get through the rough patches when sex may be the last thing you crave.

3 Share your desires If you’ve been together for years, you may just take the state of your sex life for granted.

Maybe it’s time you probed a little deeper, pardon the pun.

“Start by having an open conversation with your partner.

Talk about what turns you on.

Share your secret fantasies with each other. Discuss the things you’ve always been curious about trying,” says Steph Auteri, co-author of The Good in Bed Guide to 52 Weeks of Amazing Sex (Good in Bed Guides, 2010). “Use this conversation as a jumping-off point for a new, sexy to-do list of things you’d both like to try.”

4 Make a date Auteri also suggests couples schedule sex. “Just as you’d schedule a date night to maintain your sanity and your relationship, schedule sex in order to maintain your intimate relationship. Schedule it in just as you’d schedule in a yoga class or that Mommy & Me music class.

Otherwise, it will continue to fall to the bottom of your to-do list.”

That’s what happened to a local mom we’ll call Melissa.

“My husband told me, ‘My

favorite thing in the world is to have sex with you and it makes me sad that we’re not doing that as much as I want to,’” she says.

Her husband had a solution.

“He said, ‘My idea is that on Friday nights it will be a bringyour-A-game-110-percent-fullblown sex night. And then I’ll watch the kids in the morning the next day so you can sleep in.’”

Melissa wasn’t sure how the standing sex date would work at first, but months later says she looks forward to every Friday night. “I know it’s coming, I know it’s going to happen, and it’s kind of exciting,” she says. “The expectation is fun, and it makes it more special… We know that at least once a week we’re going to have this connection.”

5 Involve your senses One simple yet amazing way to improve your sex life is to focus on it in a way you probably don’t. Pay attention to all five senses—smell, touch, sight, sound and taste—and really notice what’s happening.

“Being more mindful and aware contributes to better sex and better arousal,” says Herbenick.

“We’re seeing new data from a new study on sex, and in America a lot of people aren’t reporting a lot of intimacy in sex … staying present and in the moment makes sex much more intimate.”

6 Try something new One simple reason you may not be that interested in sex may not have anything to do with being tired. You may just be a little too used to each other.

“It can be tough to keep things spicy when you’ve been together forever,” says Auteri. “Trying new things—even nonsexual things—can raise your endorphin levels, which in turn can raise your libido.”

As for what you do beneath the sheets, use your imagination. Maybe Fifty Shades of Grey has given you some great roleplaying ideas. Ask your partner what he’d like to try. And, “embrace the quickie!” suggests Auteri. “Parents can oftentimes

It can be tough to keep things spicy when you’ve been together forever. Trying new things—even nonsexual things—can raise your endorphin levels, which in turn can raise your libido.

Steph Auteri

only steal several minutes away from their kids. This makes long, languorous lovemaking sessions near impossible. So become the masters of quickie sex. Allow the urgency of the situation to turn you on.”

Kelly James-Enger is a freelance writer living in Downers Grove with her husband and two kids.

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S E X

Apps to the rescue

Five fun apps to explore with your main squeeze

BY KRISTY MACKABEN

T

here was a time we would kiss at every red light. I don’t just mean a peck.

I mean full makeout sessions until the stoplight turned green.

I remember thinking: “Will we always be like this?”

A decade and two kids later, the answer is, of course, “No.” My husband and I love and appreciate each other, and we still have a spark, but we don’t always put our love life first.

Who knew technology could help?

While mobile devices are often blamed for tearing couples and families apart, technology isn’t all bad.

If used appropriately, technology can help couples reconnect, says Amy Stewart,

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@

I S S U E

Kahnoodle Free for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch (and soon Android) Developer: Kahnoodle Kahnoodle can be an eye opener. I was a bit surprised by my husband’s love rankings—especially which particular “love need” he ranked as number one. By understanding the ranking

a Streeterville-based psychotherapist who specializes in sex therapy. “Once you have kids, it’s hard. It gets boring.

It gets routine. You need to spark things up,” says Stewart.

“Technology can help.”

Texting or emailing sexy messages throughout the day, video chatting while away from each other or connecting via mobile applications can help couples bond, says Stewart.

Unlike my husband, I’m not a big app person. I usually get all huffy when I see him fiddling with his phone. But we put a few apps to the test. From surreptitiously leaving love messages on sticky notes throughout the house to communicating through a game about sexual intimacy, these apps can definitely do some good.

Here are our top five picks:

of love needs (quality time, thoughtful acts, spontaneity, verbal praise, sexual intimacy, affectionate touch and gifts), couples can work harder to make each other feel loved and appreciated.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 55

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@

APPS TO THE RESCUE The app then encourages users to give “Kudos” to their partners for meeting those love needs.

Kahnoodle also provides a mode to share lists, plan date nights and send private messages or pictures.

2

TheIceBreak Free for iPhone, iPad or iPod touch (and soon Android) Developer: TheIceBreak TheIceBreak is designed to keep couples better connected through fun questions and activities. Think there’s nothing left to learn about your main squeeze? You might be pleasantly surprised. Ever wonder how your partner would describe your “smell” or the exact moment he/she knew you were “the One”? TheIceBreak asks poignant, yet amusing questions.

Celebrating ov

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 54

3

Romeo To Go Free for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch or Android Developer: Angelsong Creations A sticky note in the refrigerator: “Great dinner tonight!” A sticky note on the bathroom mirror: “Your smile makes me smile.” A sticky note inside a book: “Thank you for being you.” My husband really got into this app and took the advice from Romeo To Go to show affection unexpectedly and often.

4

Kindu $1.99 for iPhone, iPad,

t. 1957

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• Admission to Rink • skAte RentAl • decoRAted cAke • PizzA & soft dRink

• bAlloon bouquet • biRthdAy host & mic Announcement • Gift foR biRthdAy PeRson • fRee PAss on youR next visit ($8 vAlue)

iPod touch or Android Developer: Franklin Innovations Now here’s a fun app. Wink.

Wink. Just skimming the more than 600 questions on Kindu will get you in the mood. The app even comes with a disclaimer from the developer: “This app is not for the faint of heart. There are some ideas you should not try in a million years, but we wanted to include the whole spectrum of sexual behavior.” Though a number of questions are a bit over-the-top for the average married couple, there’s nothing wrong with expanding your imagination, says Stewart. Kindu provides examples of turn-ons, fantasy role play and sexy activities.

Using passcodes, each person privately answers “Yes,” “No” or “Maybe” to each scenario, and then Kindu later reveals only the scenarios where both people matched. If some

answers don’t match, no one knows.

5

Love Map $1.99 for iPhone or iPad Developer: The Gottman Institute Want to know what your partner really thinks? Start by asking a handful of the questions provided on this app. From the serious “What makes your partner feel most competent?” to the kinky “What turns your partner on sexually?,” the Love Maps app encourages couples to quiz each other.

Kristy MacKaben is a freelance writer living in Lake Zurich with her husband and two kids.

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Gateway Montessori School 3748 West Montrose Ave., Chicago, IL 60618 www.GatewayMontessoriSchool.org Phone: 773-539-3025 Email: info@GatewayMontessoriSchool.org ChicagoParent.com February 2013 55

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S E X

I S S U E

Sexy date night—in Make the most of a little quiet time

F

BY EMILY PASTER

or a great date night, consider staying home instead. And if the goal is to end up in bed (or on the floor near the bed), what could be more convenient?

Nothing kills the mood more than having to drive the babysitter home.

You know what also kills a mood?

Yoga pants. Baseball caps. Stubble.

Treat this like a real date and dress up. Shave. Put on lipstick. It may feel silly, but if you were going out you would dress up. And why? To impress all those strangers? Surely you can do the same for your own spouse.

Divide up the work. Put one of you in charge of the menu and the other in charge of décor and entertainment. For the décor, think candles, flowers, romantic music. Hide anything that has Fisher-Price on it.

Set a nice table with your best china or throw a blanket in front of the fireplace for a picnic.

If you are in charge of the menu, keep it simple. The last thing you want for your hot date is to spend half the night slaving over the stove.

And overeating is a definite no-no.

Opt for simple, delicious bites of food. Bonus points for finger foods— to feed each other, of course.

For my sexy date night menu, I started with a light arugula salad.

Penne a la Vodka 1-pound penne regate 3 Tbsp. butter ½ cup minced shallots 1 pinch red pepper flakes 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes ¼ cup vodka ½ cup heavy cream 12 basil leaves, cut into ribbons

Arugula has a peppery bite that makes it more exciting than lettuce, but it won’t get in your teeth like spinach. Dress your salad up with crumbled goat cheese and a champagne vinaigrette.

For the main course, try Penne a la Vodka. It is easy to prepare—you can make the sauce while the pasta cooks—yet elegant. The red pepper flakes give the dish just the right amount of heat for a spicy evening.

After dinner and dessert, do something fun. Think dancing to your favorite tunes, soaking in a bubble bath, playing your favorite board game or watching a provocative movie with lots of eye candy.

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. While the water is heating up, melt the butter in a large, deep skillet over low heat. Add the minced shallots and sauté until translucent, about five minutes. Season with red pepper flakes, salt and pepper. Add the vodka and crushed tomatoes. Bring the sauce to a boil, then turn the heat down and simmer gently.

When the water boils, add the pasta and undercook it slightly. A few minutes before the pasta is done, stir the heavy cream into the tomato sauce. Drain the pasta and immediately add it to the sauce, tossing well to combine. Cook the pasta in sauce for 1-2 minutes. Toss with chopped fresh basil and serve.

Don’t fuss making a fancy dessert. Put together a plate of indulgent bite-sized treats, like chocolate-covered strawberries, grapes and rich truffles.

Or, think about all the money you are saving by not going out and splurge on a bottle of Piper Heidsieck Brut Rosé Champagne and nine-piece box of Exotic Truffles from local favorite Vosges Haut Chocolate ($103).

Emily Paster is a mom of two living in River Forest. Her food and parenting blog is West of the Loop (westoftheloop.com).

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S E X

I S S U E

She’s such a flirt!

7 playful ways you can be one, too. (Trust us, your partner will like it)

R

emember flirting? Back in the day you were the master of the hair flip, the eye bat or the smooth one-liner. Then, time passed. Now flirting seems like an archaic ritual that you lost somewhere between learning to cook for four and mastering the art of the one-handed diaper change.

But it’s vital to your relationship, says Bela Gandhi, owner and founder of Smart Dating Academy in Chicago. Gandhi, who’s been married for nearly 16 years and has two children, says she always followed her mother’s sage advice: Your spouse was there before and they will be there after, so be careful not to ignore them while you’re nurturing your career and kids.

“Flirting is important because

BY CHRISTY L. BONSTELL it shows receptivity. It makes the other person feel important,” she says. “Life happens. Things do get more difficult. The complexities of life, they just increase as you add more children. You have to make an effort to do it.”

It might feel a little awkward at first. Or you might not know where to start. The important thing, says Kim Olver, coach, speaker and author of Secrets of Happy Couples, is simply to try.

“I think a lot of times the reason it feels awkward is because each person thinks it’s the other person who should start,” says Olver, a counselor in Country Club Hills.

“That is so not important. If we notice something is off in our relationship, the person who notices it and is most upset by it, it’s their responsibility to start. If you want a

change and you’re not happy, take responsibility.”

You don’t suddenly need to become a Sofia Vergara or George Clooney to put the flirt back in your fellowship. Just follow these simple tips from Gandhi and Olver:

1

Successful relationships begin and end in your mind, Gandhi says. So take some time to really consider the great qualities your spouse possesses. Use the energy you normally would put toward dwelling on their faults to find the good in them again. Then, compliment them daily on something wonderful they do. Size doesn’t matter here—small or large, it’s the thought that counts.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 58

ChicagoParent.com February 2013 57

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FLIRT

Does your child snore?

Does your child have multiple ear or sinus infections?

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 57

Sneaking a hand-hold under the covers can feel pretty racy—even if you’re watching the latest Pixar flick.

Pediatric Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists Visit us at any of our locations!

In the city: 1460 N. Halsted St. Suite 506 In the suburbs: Niles, Skokie, Park Ridge, Libertyville, Glenview & Highland Park

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Robert P. Miller, M.D.

David L. Walner, M.D.

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On Staff at: Lurie Children’s Hospital Rush University Medical Center Lutheran General Children’s Hospital

To make an appt.

Call 847-674-5585 www.pediatricentchicago.com

2

Pull yourself together.

Yes, we know yoga pants are delightful (and the only thing that’s clean). But the truth is, you feel better about yourself when your hair is done, you’ve shaved and you’re wearing something that requires a fastener. And when you feel better about yourself, you feel more confident to flirt.

And feeling more confident also makes you more attractive.

3

Touch your partner daily and ask nothing in return. A hug, a shoulder rub—these are the touchstones of flirting. And sneaking a hand-hold under the covers can feel pretty racy—even if you’re watching the latest Pixar flick.

4

Use technology to your advantage. It’s shocking, but texting can be used for more than reminders about the kids’ schedules and appointments.

It’s OK to remind your spouse that the fridge is empty, but try sending a text every day that is about your spouse, not about their to-do

list. You can get edgy if you want, but even a simple “I love you” can go a long way.

5

Put the phone, paper, tablet, book or whatever else you’re reading down. Just walk away. Be present when you actually have time near your spouse. Make an effort to really listen to them.

Listening and being receptive were what made those first dates so exciting.

6

Flirt from the mind of your partner. Instead of focusing on what is lacking for you, try thinking about what they would like most.

7

Set the mood. Light a candle, play your partner’s favorite music, make their favorite dinner.

That’s it. It doesn’t need to lead elsewhere. Just one of these simple acts is a sexy, low-key way to flirt.

Christy Bonstell is a freelance writer and mom living in Oak Park.

58 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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COUPLES TURN TO PROS TO GET INTIMACY BACK

S E X

CHIPAR0213_059.indd 1

I

I S S U E

““II

BY CHRISTY L. BONSTELL

t’s just a three letter word.

A three letter word that undoubtedly has you simultaneously curious, introspective and possibly defensive.

Then there’s this word: Intimacy.

Yikes. A lot more complex reactions. We know what the word sex means (as a parent you’ve had it at least once). Despite all odds, many parents are still having it.

But intimacy? That’s a little different. Finding time in between loads of laundry is hardly “intimate.” When you first met there were long talks into the night, and that sex thing? It was, well, easy. Now you schedule it.

And the last long talk you had was about auto insurance.

Whether you’re still having sex or it got lost in the to-do list, there are people to help you get intimacy back. “... What we encounter for couples, and particularly couples with children, is that intimacy and sex go to the wayside. We show them how they can bring intimacy into their lives as a daily practice,” says Elsbeth Meuth, who co-owns TantraNova in Chicago with her partner Freddy Zental Weaver.

Tantric, for many of us, is “that thing Sting does.” But, Meuth says, there’s more to it than just sexual technique.

If you’re picturing a group of people in robes and a fishbowl full of keys, think again. It’s much tamer than that.

A base of the TantraNova way is simply learning to breathe with each other, Weaver says. It calms the mind and helps the couple connect.

So it’s not quite the Fifty Shades of Grey you were imagining.

Emily Harrell, LMFT, owner and sex therapist at the Center for Mindful Living in Schaumburg and Chicago, says the biggest misconception about sex therapy is that it’s all about sex, not emotions.

Parents have a host of concerns, time being one of them, she says.

.

I think having physical intimacy and emotional intimacy is extremely important. We long for it. And it’s necessary for connection.

Emily Harrell, sex therapist “When you have children, you’re constantly in a position where your time is limited and your attention is constantly occupied. By the time evening rolls around, those parents report to me they don’t have the energy for sex. Even if they wanted to earlier in the day, they are kind of done,” she says.

Women, in particular, have a tough time of things. For one, they often feel less sexual after becoming a mother.

Harrell notes that for the most part, the sexual objects in our culture are young and single. There’s also the fact that women’s brains work differently than men’s.

“We are web-thinkers, which means we’re multitasking. We’re really good at that. That’s not a skill set we want in the bedroom,” she says.

So, who’s seeking help in the boudoir? Apparently, a little bit of everyone. A variety of age groups, ethnicities, economic status and education level take advantage of TantraNova’s teachings, Weaver says.

“There’s the couple that come to us because they want to expand their relationship. Then there is the couple that loves each other but the spark went out of their intimate connection.

The third category is the couple that comes to us as the last resort,” Meuth says.

Weaver says being happy at home leads to being happy elsewhere. So it’s worth what you’re willing to throw at it. After all, it’s as big of a risk to improve your intimacy as it is to ignore it.

ChicagoParent.com February 2013 59

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Show your

♥

some love Relatively easy steps to live longer

BY KELLY JAMES-ENGER

C

hicago mom Susan Bennett was 40 when she gave birth to her second child, a son. One night when Ben was three weeks old, she nursed him and put him back into his bassinet.

When Ben started crying a few minutes later, she tried to get up, but fell back unconscious. Her husband, Chris Paluch, called 911.

Susan had had a heart attack.

Paramedics restarted her heart with an external defibrillator and she had an angiogram that night. She spent three weeks in the hospital.

“I have no memory of that day or evening and a lot of that time (in the hospital) is a blur,” she says. “But my husband said that when he came home that night, I was complaining of some pains in my left side. I’d talked to a nurse about it that day and she assumed that something was wrong with my breast because I was nursing.

She told me take an aspirin and call if it was still bothering me. That aspirin possibly saved my life.”

Bennett admits that she was under a lot of stress in the months before her heart attack.

“I had two kids in 18 months,

my father was diagnosed with a fast-progressing terminal illness, my job went away and I had to look for a new job, and I bought a new house…” Bennett says. Her doctors think the stress of being pregnant on top of everything else may have led to her heart attack.

But all in all, Bennett was lucky. Today, at 51, she is healthy and committed to sharing her story with other women.

Women at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago.

Those lifestyle changes include: Get moving. The general recommendation for heart health is 150 minutes of moderate exercise (or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise) each week. That may sound like a lot, but it works out to five 30-minute walks or a couple of high-intensity workouts (think spinning) each week.

Remember even mini-workouts, like a 10-minute walk after lunch or some enthusiastic vacuuming, “counts.”

Lower the pressure. “Probably Ask a woman what she’s worried about dying from and she’s likely the big risk factor for heart disease to say breast cancer. But it’s heart for women is hypertension, and disease that is the biggest killer of lifestyle-wise there are a lot of things women. Your lifestyle in your 30s, you can do for high blood pressure,” 40s and 50s (and beyond) can help says Briller. If it’s on the high side, reduce your risk. ask your doctor if you need to lose Risk factors include smoking, hyweight. Lowering your salt intake and pertension, diabetes, abnormal chobecoming more active help, too. If lesterol, family history, sedenlifestyle changes don’t work, ask tary lifestyle and poor diet, your doctor about medication. says Joan Briller, M.D., Manage your stress. an associate professor of Research has linked chronic medicine (cardiology) stress and heart disease, Take a quiz and the director of the and if you’re like most ChicagoParent.com/heart Heart Disease in Women moms, you probably feel Program at University of stressed or overwhelmed Illinois at Chicago. sometimes. Even if you can’t No, you can’t control your ditch the stressors (like your family history. But there are plenty kids!), you can figure out how to of things you can do to reduce your manage yours better. risk and help you live healthier—as “The key change for me was to well as modeling positive habits for really recognize the stress of my crazy your children. “Lifestyle changes (like lifestyle and the toll that it takes and exercise and eating better) can help try to make adjustments for it,” says you avoid developing plaque in your Bennett. arteries that cause heart attacks and strokes,” says Annabelle Volgman, Kelly James-Enger is a mom of two and freelance M.D., director of the Heart Center for writer specializing in fitness, health and parenting.

The biggest risk

@

60 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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More than

brush + floss Dentists dish on products and procedures

BY DAN CAMPANA hen it comes to kids and their teeth, it’s not so much where do you start, but when you start. While prevention and good dental habits always have been keys to keeping your child’s teeth healthy, different approaches to tooth decay and orthmight odontic care are just a couple of the things parentss mig i ht ht be seeing and hearing about these days.

We asked a few Chicago area pediatric dentists to tell us their thoughts on some of the products, procedures and innovations available.

Dental sealants What is it? The easy answer is sealants prevent cavities, they are easy to place, they are non-invasive (no shots) and they cost less than a filling. Sealants are used on the chewing surface of molars, which have many pits and fissures that are difficult to keep clean. Sealants might be recommended in order to fill the tiny grooves, creating a smooth surface to prevent food from packing into them.

What’s the cost? The price can vary, and often insurance companies will cover sealants as a benefit. Check with your insurance for eligibility.

Worth it? Yes, especially for cavity-prone children.

Dr. Cissy Furusho, Dentistry For Kids, Chicago, dentistry4kids.net

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KCP for cavities What is it? The KCP is an air abrasion machine that allows for treatment of cavities without the need for an injection. It works like a tiny sand blaster that uses small particles to blow away the tooth decay. Multiple cavities can be treated in a single visit. The best candidates are children and those who are fearful and have small amounts of decay.

It is painless and, since there is no shot involved, patients spend less time in the chair worrying while waiting for the anesthetic to take effect. In addition, there is no annoying sound that normally accompanies the traditional dental drill.

What’s the cost? It is no more costly than a traditional filling.

Worth it? Yes, if you consider saved time in the dental office, the fact that no injection is given and the fact that minimal tooth structure is removed, this would be any parent’s first choice of treatment for their child.

Dr. John J. Dzakovich, Arlington Heights, dentistinarlingtonheights.com

Lasers What is it? There are basically two types of dental lasers being used on all ages of patients. The erbium laser is an all-purpose

The

laser that prepares cavities without a shot and for soft tissue surgery, again without a shot. The diode laser is used for soft tissue laser surgery. In preparing cavities, the laser numbs the tooth. It allows dentists to do root canals on baby teeth as well as permanent teeth.

What’s the cost? Some dentists do charge extra, a typical extra charge is around $50.

Worth it? Absolutely. It numbs the tooth, it doesn’t leave a numb feeling in the child’s mouth.

Dr. Fred Margolis, Highland Park, fredmargolisdds.com

Custom-fitted mouth guards for sports What’s the benefit? A proper fitting mouth guard can save teeth from blunt trauma and might even lower the chance of concussion.

From my experience, a sports-related dental trauma can be very expensive, time consuming and psychologically difficult for a child.

What’s the cost? They can run anywhere from $200-$400 depending on the material, but many insurances are covering and thus bring the costs down by more than half.

Worth it? Yes. Dr. Raj Puri, Smiles Dental Center, Wood Dale, smiles-office.com

Digital imaging for braces What is it? It provides exact measurements and wire bends to get the teeth into the exact position for braces. There’s no more impressions. If you had braces, you know what impressions are—biting into a cold, gooey material and waiting a few seconds for it to set up. Children and adults with very strong gag reflexes are unable to tolerate the impression material.

What’s the cost? Digital imaging is more expensive than traditional braces because of the extra cost in diagnosis, treatment planning and the materials itself. Pricing varies.

Worth it? Yes, because it is more accurate and, in many cases, it will shorten the length of time your child wears braces.

Dr. Cissy Furusho

Products containing Xylitol What is it? Xylitol is a natural sweetener that minimizes cavity-causing bacteria and repairs damaged enamel.

What’s the cost? No cost if it is already in products.

Worth it? Yes, as long as the patient reads the labels and uses them as directed.

Dr. Raj Puri

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

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

Northwestern University employees receive reduced tuition.

Details at chicagogrammar.org Follow us on Facebook

900 N. Franklin, Chicago, IL 60610

• Active learning • Creative play • Daily art and gym classes • Nurturing environment with low student/teacher ratio • Half, full and extended day option • Private log-in for daily photo/narrative reports

312-944-5600

www.chicagogrammar.org ChicagoParent.com February 2013 63

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summer camp! lanning for summ llanning summer mmer er ccamp amp am p in F February ebruarry feels like planning for Christmas during Fourth of July fireworks. But camps fill up fast, so starting early pays off.

Peg Smith, CEO of the American Camp Association, says camp gives kids three key benefits: confidence because they’ve tried new activities and been successful; curiosity because camp allows them to explore; and character because camp fosters respect for other campers, a sense of community and problem-solving skills.

What’s out there?

Traditional camps offer a wide range of activities, from athletics to crafts to confidence-building skills.

Specialty camps meet a child’s particular interest, such as drama, music or sports.

Travel camps take campers on hikes, bike, horseback or canoe rides in parks or other outdoor sites, including abroad.

Preschool camps are day programs for young children.

Special needs camps are designed to meet the needs of children with physical, mental or learning disabilities.

Day camps can be a combination of fun activities and field trips, generally offered during regular workday hours. Some offer early drop-off and late pickup hours.

What to ask camps Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions about how a camp is run. Start with these topics:

Background and experience of the director.

Criteria for hiring staff: Average age, experience level, background checks.

Ratio of staff to campers. Look for one staff member for every six campers ages 7-8; one for every 10 campers ages 9-14; and one for every 12 campers ages 15-17.

Staff expertise at a specialty camp. A music camp should have professional music teachers instructing campers, for example.

Tuition and other expenses. Is financial aid available? Will a trip outside the camp cost extra? Is there a refund policy?

Condition and safety of facilities and equipment.

How medical care is handled.

Camp philosophy. Look for a clear statement of goals and a program that meets those goals.

Activities planned.

For overnight camps, ask about director’s availability to campers, how homesickness is handled and about the condition of living quarters.

Compiled by Deirdre Wilson, Dominion Parenting Media

64 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section // DAY CAMPS Ancona School 4770 S. Dorchester Ave., Chicago (773) 924-2356 www.anconaschool.org Ancona’s Summer Program is a favorite for students interested in performance, visual arts, science and sports in a culturally rich setting. This year, Ancona’s cultural component explores Brazil. Our virtual passport to Brazil features classes in Portuguese and samba dance, art, cooking and cultural studies. Register today!

(847) 425-5800 www.bakerdemschool.org

and snacks provided. Ask about transportation.

Baker Summer Discovery offers a blend of progressive educational activities taught by master teachers along with traditional summer day camp fun. Musical Theater, STEM, BIT/CIT programs and more keep your child engaged all summer long. Enjoy small camp groups, fun and caring counselors, swim instruction, and Fabulous Fun Fridays. June 17- August 9.

Chiaravalle Montessori School

BPD Adventure Camp 3701 S. Scoville Ave., Berwyn (708) 788-1701 www.berwynparks.org

Avery Coonley Summer Program

Adventure Camp is a great way to spend your summer. We pride ourselves on the quality of our counselors and activities. We take field trips every week! We also offer convenient before and after camp options. The fees for our camp include all activities, trips and events.

1400 W. Maple Ave. Downers Grove (630) 969-0800 ext. 122 www.averycoonley.org Educational and recreational programs for children ages 4-14, offering a variety of enrichment classes for those entering kindergarten through eighth grade.

Three sessions: Session 1: June 17 – June 28 Session 2: July 1- July 12 Session 3: July 15-July 26 Program individualized to foster the unique curiosity of each child. Students select from a wide range of courses that stimulate new interests while strengthening existing skills.

Casa Italia- Italian Language & Culture Summer Camp 3800 Division Street, Stone Park (708) 345-5933 www.casaitaliachicago.org Monday-Friday for 4 weeks, June 17-July 12, 2013. Children immerse themselves in the wonders of Italian language and culture through a wide range of activities on Casa Italia’s beautiful grounds.

Songs, games, storytelling, movies, skits. Soccer, bocce, dancing, cooking, gardening, fencing and more. Lunch

Baker Summer Discovery 2013 201 Sheridan Rd., Wilmette

Spend your summer days at

Game On! Sports Camp 4 Girls Inspiring recreational and travel athletes Grades K – 10

425 Dempster St., Evanston (847) 864-2190 www.chiaravalle.org For nearly fifty years, Chiaravalle has provided quality Montessori education for children. Parents are delighted for find a nationally respected program in Evanston, serving children aged 6 months through Middle School.

Chiaravalle develops skills to impact a child’s whole life: to think independently, communicate persuasively, and make responsible decisions. Our graduates find these abilities, combined with a strong academic foundation to be outstanding preparation for educational and life success.

Chicago Grammar School 900 N. Franklin, Chicago (312) 944-5600 www.chicagogrammar.org A full and half-day Summer Program for Preschool - 8th Grade designed to stimulate, provoke and nurture your child’s curiosity and performance. Program components for Grades K-8th: Weekly themed academic enrichment in reading, grammar, history and math; Sports (including swimming); Creative Arts tied to history and literature. Preschool program includes: Weekly themes, Sports and Creative Arts. Dates: June 17-July 26.

camp 2013

Chicago Lighthouse Vision Rehabilitation Center 222 Waukegan Road, Glenview (847) 510-6200 www.chicagolighthouse.org/north Please make plans to join us for our second year of day camp in Glenview.

Every Friday from June 21 to August 19 will feature a different theme for blind and visually impaired participants (ages 6-21). Campers will participate in a variety of multi-sensory activities including horseback riding, bowling, field trips, arts and crafts, swimming, and cooking. $60/week.

Chicago Park District Locations throughout City of Chicago (312) 742-PLAY www.chicagoparkdistrict.com Camp programs can be found at over 200 parks throughout the city where children enjoy water fun, field trips, athletic activities and cultural experiences. View camp options including locations, hours and price on-line beginning in March. Register early.

Some parks fill quickly and some parks only offer online registration

The Compass School 3040 Reflection Dr., Naperville (630) 848-1122 1128 Compass Ct., Naperville www.TheCompassSchool.com CompassQuest 2013, the Summer Camp Program of The Compass School,

Join us for our

SUMMER PROGRAMS

We Play it All:

Soccer H Lacrosse H Tennis H Softball Volleyball H Basketball H Ultimate Frisbee Swimming H Flag Football Yoga H Horseback Riding Golf H Karate Established in 2007

Quality Instruction Through FUN!

Empower. Play. Learn

• MOVE, GROOVE, AND SING for students looking to start the musical journey • GLEE CAMP for voice students • ROCK ‘N’ ROLL CAMP for guitar students • SUZUKI-BASED CAMPS for piano, cello, guitar, and flute students • PRIVATE LESSONS for all

Camp Locations Walt Disney Magnet School Chicago, IL

H

• and many more...

Lake Forest College Lake Forest, IL

www.gameonsportscamp.com 847.229.9959 | info@gameonsportscamp.com

Come for the ORFF, stay for the SUZUKI!

1148 W Chicago Ave • Chicago IL 60642 • 312.738.2646 www.suzukiorff.org

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camp 2013 // special advertising section Compass Creative

Dramatics Exercising creativity and bravery muscles through theatre.

Summer Camp 2013 | register today! at www.ccdramatics.com

Triple Threat Musical Theatre Workshop

Want to learn to sign, act and dance like a seasoned theatre professional? Sage Studio’s 6 week workshop will teach you the secrets to make you stand out from the crowd, get that call-­‐back or nail the college audition! Small class sizes insure hands-­‐on attention and a well-­‐ rounded (and fun!) experience. Saturdays starting April 6

More information 815.356.9212 or RAUECENTER.ORG

Do It Right Baseball Come join us for our 12th summer of baseball, sun and fun

This Summer...

Cultivate your Child’s Potential Join us for Summer Camp at Morgan Park Academy June 24 to August 16, 2013

• Innovative Coaching Techniques • Conditioning • Hitting Mechanics • Pitching Mechanics • Defense & Game Strategy • Game Play • Teamwork Skills

Help your child (preschool through high school) embrace and discover hidden talents and interests at the world class Morgan Park Academy summer camp programs.

These exciting, educational sessions foster independence, imagination and enriching experiences that will impact your child’s success throughout life.

8 week-long summer camps meet M-F 9am-3pm for ages 6yo-14yo Registration Information at DoItRightBaseball.com 773.307.1822 doitrightbaseball@gmail.com

Choose from programs that focus on: • Health and Fitness • Musical and Theatrical Arts • Recreation and Sports • Science Investigation

2153 W. 111th Street Chicago, IL 60643 www.MorganParkAcademy.org

Classes fill fast, register today.

For course information or to register call 773.881.6704 or visit www.morganparkacademy.org click on camps

66 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section //

camp 2013

designed for children who have completed Kindergarten through age 12.

Enjoy activities, arts & crafts, food, field trips, performances, and games related to each weekly theme, in addition to swimming and recreation. Your ticket to a fun-filled summer with friends!

tional courses. Our campus features engaging classrooms, spacious outdoor playgrounds and a soccer field that provides access to fun-filled day camp activities and enrichment courses designed to stimulate children of all ages.

Council Oak Montessori School

Game On! Sports Camps 4 Girls

11030 S. Longwood Dr., Chicago (773) 779-7606 www.counciloakmontessori.org

Day Camps: Chicago (Walt Disney Magnet School) Lake Forest (Lake Forest College) (847) 229-9959 www.gameonsportscamp.com

Council Oak Montessori School’s Summer Urban Gardening Program for children interested in community agriculture. Located on our property in the beautiful Chicago Beverly/ Morgan Park neighborhood. Camp begins in later June for 7 weeks. Daily from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Hands-on-learning centered around the development of the whole child. Limited availability.

Decoma Day Camp Northbrook (847) 945-4455 www.decomadaycamp.com Imagine a fantastic summer designed to fit your needs: choose any weeks, 5 or 3 days, transportation, extended care. We emphasize participation and fun while learning new skills and making lasting friendships. Swimming, sports, climbing wall, crafts, dance, archery, fishing, gymnastics, martial arts, biking, photography, theme days and more! Optional specialty camps.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ID TECH CAMP

Deerfield Park District Summer Day Camps 836 Jewett Park Drive, Deerfield (847) 945-0650 www.deerfieldparks.org Recreation is our business; and our Summertime Business is Day Camp! A wide spectrum of camps: by age (3-15 years), interest areas, and location include Full-day and Half-day Camps complemented by Specialty Camps

In e ett Wilm

Ages

8–15

Summer Workshop No auditions • Every child gets a part Annie (ages 8–13) • June 17–22 Disney’s Aladdin (ages 8–13) • June 24–29 The Music Man (ages 8–13) • July 8–13 Seussical (ages 8–13) • July 15–20 Bye Bye Birdie (ages 8–13) • July 22–27 Stage Struck Advanced Workshop (ages 12–15) July 31–August 10

(847) 920-5360•LightOperaWorks.com

in Sports, Cooking and Creative Arts, Science, and more. Many camps offer swimming, trips and special events.

Francis W. Parker School Summer Programs at Parker 2013 330 W. Webster Ave., Chicago (773) 797-5104 www.fwparker.org/summers Register your child for exciting JK-12th grade summer programs and educa-

Since 2007, Game On! has offered multiweek summer sports day camps that inspire girls of all athletic abilities, grades K through 10th. Through our established program, campers will experience hours of safe fun with exposure, quality instruction, & play in all sports. Our program is empowering, unique, spirited, and all about quality.

Flexible week options.

Glenbrook Racquet Club 1801 Janke Dr., Northbrook (847) 498-5333 www.glenbrookracquetclub.com Glenbrook Racquet Club offers a Tennis Only or Tennis, Golf, and Swim Summer Camp from June 10th through August 23rd for kids age 4- 17. Have fun, make friends, and learn to play tennis, golf, and swim. Full day and half days offered. OPEN HOUSE- February 10th 1:00 pm – 4:pm

Imagine More...

Exciting, hands-on, progressive educational activities taught by master teachers, a wide variety of games and play, and small camp groups led by fun and caring counselors are the hallmarks of Baker Summer Discovery. Our camp program offers a unique summer of growth and learning for the whole child.

Open to all campers entering Pre-Kindergarten-Grade 9.

For the curious camper.

SUMMER DISCOVERY

June 17- August 9, 2013

REGISTER TODAY! bakerdemschool.org ChicagoParent.com February 2013 67

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camp 2013 // special advertising section Make this your child’s best summer yet!

201 3

Join us for a summer full of fun in the sun. Sacred Heart offers something for every child. Choose to participate in day camps, academic and recreational programs.

Summer at Sacred Heart June 17–July 26 for Ages 3-15

For a brochure or more information, please call: (773) 262-4446 www.shschicago.org 6250 N. SheridaN road ChiCago, iL 60660-1799

Planning your summer? ...WE ARE! AVERY COONLEY SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAM In Three Sessions June 17 - June 28 July 1 - July 12 July 15 - July 26

y mentar Compli s! u B ide North S

Adventure Kids Day Camp Full Session: June 24 – August 2 Session I: June 24 – July 12 Session II: July 15 – August 2 Open to students entering grades 1–8 Celebrate our thirteenth anniversary with us! Activitypacked schedules every day and two field trips every week to some of the greatest Chicagoland attractions. Sailing, kayaking, sports, crafts, creative center, team-building and positive group dynamics make Adventure Kids the fun place to be. A full day program from 8:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m., with before and after programming available, too.

Enrichment Courses • Recreational Programs Stimulate new interests and strengthen skills in an exciting and educational summer program.

FOR CHILDREN AGES 4-14

For the 2013 Program Guide or Course Description call or write

Avery Coonley School 1400 Maple Avenue, Downers Grove, Illinois 60515

(630) 969-0800, ext. 122 fax.(630) 969-0131 www.averycoonley.org

Full Day, Morning, and Afternoon Programs for Children of All Ages.

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

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special advertising section // iD Tech Camps – Summer Tech Fun!

Intercultural Montessori Language School

Held at Northwestern, Lake Forest, Stanford, and 60+ Universities nationwide (888) 709-TECH (8324) www.internalDrive.com

301 S. Ridgeland, Oak Park 114 S. Racine, Chicago (708) 848-6626 www.interculturalmontessori.org

Gain a competitive edge! Create iPhone apps, video games, C++ and Java programs, movies, robots, and more at weeklong, day and overnight programs held at Northwestern, Lake Forest, Princeton, and others. Small classes for ages 7-17 in a fun and challenging setting. Also 2-week, teenonly programs held at Lake Forest, Harvard, Yale, and other universities: iD Gaming Academy, iD Programming Academy, and iD Visual Arts Academy.

Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy® 1500 Sullivan Rd., Aurora (630) 907-5000 www.imsa.edu Science, mathematics and technology will again take center stage in the 2013 Summer@IMSA program line-up as the students utilize discovery, exploration and problem-solving in innovative ways. To learn more or to register for Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy summer programs for students in grades 3-10.

Looking for Summer Fun! Intercultural 2013 Summer Program for children ages 3-12 begins Monday, June 10.

Register now if you want your child’s summer to include cultural activities such as foreign language, art, music, folklore, outdoor games and cooking.

Our 5 two-week Summer Sessions are available at both locations.

InZone Enrichment and Sports Camp Harper College, Palatine, IL (847) 925-6300 harpercollege.edu/inzone InZone offers kids ages 8-14 summer fun in a safe, friendly environment with an 8:1 child/staff ratio. Choose from nearly 200 courses in arts, cooking, stage/screen, technology, sports and more. Two-week sessions: June 10 – August 16, Monday – Friday, 7 a.m.– 6 p.m. Flexible scheduling, before/after care, and lunch available. See our ad on page 44.

Jerusalem Lutheran School 6128 Capulina Avenue (847) 965-4750 ext. 12 www.jerusalemlutheran.org Our summer camps offer four to seven hours of fun and activities for pre-

school and kindergarten age students only . This specially developed camp curriculum using fun weekly themes, combines physical fitness and play with arts, crafts and special events. It’s the perfect break for kids during the long summer months.

KIDDIE ACADEMY – CAMP ADVENTURE

Summer Lab 2013University of Chicago Laboratory Schools Adventure Kids Day Camp (773) 834-7766 www.summerlab.org

Create | Play | Discover Athletics Camp

(girls entering grades 5–9)

(girls entering grades 5–10)

July 7–12 July 14–19 July 21–26

July 7–11

Art, Creative Writing, Dance, Theatre, and Music

Summer Academy

Basketball, Soccer, Tennis, Volleyball I

July 14–18 Cross Country, Lacrosse, Volleyball II

400 E. Randolph, Ste. 6B, Chicago (312) 819-1760 lakefrontchildrensacademy.com

The Camp Adventure curriculum is built upon a series of two week themes to help reinforce learning all summer long. They inspire your child to explore, create, interact and stay active during the summer months. At Camp Adventure you child’s summer vacation is transformed into a strong foundation for the future.

Summer Camps | 2013

Fine Arts Camp

Lakefront Children’s Academy

Batavia (630) 761-4500 www.kiddieacademy.com/batavia Bolingbrook (630) 679-9400 kiddieacademy.com/bolingbrook Carpentersville (847) 844-8600 kiddieacademy.com/carpentersville Plainfield (815) 609-0900 kiddieacademy.com/plainfield Streamwood (630) 497-0200 kiddieacademy.com/streamwood

Summer

(girls entering grades 8–12)

July 7–12

Forensic Science

July 14–19 Theatre Camp

July 21–26 Studio Arts

Go to saintmarys.edu/camps for more information and to download an application.

Lab’s

six-week

camp 2013

includes Summer School, Adventure Kids Day Camp, Summer Lab Sports Camps, Fun in the Sun and Summer Lab on Stage. Summer Lab strives to embody the notion that love of learning is an appetite that never wanes – particularly not on vacation! Summer memories, here we come!

Summer camp features weekly themes and field trips to zoos, aquariums, museums, water park, swimming and more. We offer art, cooking projects, sports camp, Physical Education, Spanish, Language Arts, Reading , Math and Science classes. We accept ages 2-8. Call LCA for a tour and more information.

Language Stars 14 Chicagoland locations (866) 55-STARS www.languagestars.com Language Stars offers play-based summer language immersion programs in Spanish, French, Mandarin, Italian and German. Taught by native-speaking teachers, your child will be immersed in language, culture and summer fun!

Choose from week-long Immersion Camps (ages 3-8 years), Immersion Classes (ages 3-10 years) or Parent and Tot classes (ages 1-3).

program

LIFE-CHANGING

Camp/Registration Dates June 16-21 (Registration: February 5) June 23-28 (Registration: February 6) July 7-12 (Registration: February 7) July 14-19 (Registration: February 8) Registration opens at 8:00 am CST on each date.

Register online: www.lorasallsportscamps.com LORAS.EDU

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camp 2013 // special advertising section Latin School Summer at Latin

Art and Design Camps for Kids and Teens One- and two-week sessions begin Monday, June 10

saic.edu/cs

59 W. North Blvd., Chicago (312) 582-6080 www.latinschool.org/summer Summer at Latin offers children ages 3 to grade 12 a wealth of camp opportunities and academic activities.

Highlights include Day Camp, which includes swimming lessons in Latin’s pool, academic courses in arts, science, math, language arts, and languages, and chess, basketball, and volleyball camps. Registration available online.

Lincoln Park Preschool & Kindergarten 312 W. Belden Ave., Chicago (at Belden & Lincoln Park West) (773) 665-0110 108 W. Germania Pl., Chicago (at North & Clark) (312) 482-9009 www.lppschools.com Play is the foundation for learning at LPP. Through play, children experience the joy of learning and develop self confidence and passion for school. Our teachers have degrees in early childhood education and implement discovery based activities that nurture and grow each child. This growth is communicated daily to develop strong home/school connections. NAEYC Accredited

Little Green Tree House Childcare and Preschool

118 S. Ashland Ave., Chicago (312) 492-9876 www.littlegreentreehouse.com Offering a full day hands on summer program featuring special weekly activities from some of Chicago’s best child friendly organizations. Come grow with us and get your hands dirty in the organic garden, enjoy exercise, art and culture, science and more fun.

Our summer program will begin at the end of June and last until the end of August.

The Little Gym of Chicago 3216 North Lincoln Avenue (773) 525-5750 www.thelittlegym.com/ChicagoIL Our summer camps offer three hours of fun and activities. The specially developed camp curriculum using fun weekly themes, combines physical fitness and play with arts, crafts and special events. It’s the perfect break for kids (and parents!) during the long summer months. Available to children ages 3-12.

Montessori Academy of Chicago 1335 W. Randolph St., Chicago (312) 243-0977 (ask for Miss Nina) www.montessoriacademychicago.org The Academy offers a range of fun and stimulating sessions for ages 6-12 including arts, academic enrichment, outdoor education, sports, and field trips. An inspiring summer awaits beginning in our state-of-the-art facil-

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special advertising section // Celebrating 11 years of

–CIRCUS–

HASSLE-FREE BIRTHDAY PARTIES

in Chicago!

CIRCUS

Summer CAMP Hassle-free and convenient for parents

June 24-August 9th

Many themed packages available

sign up for weekly sessions

Fun and exciting for kids of all ages, 1 to adult

Mondays - Fridays

at Alternatives

to know that Just wanted you s! s a major succes Ariana's party wa IBLE and made CRED The staff was IN . rld in the wo all the difference Lisa K. - Parent

Event staff plan and facilitate games

4730 N. Sheridan Road Chicago, IL 60640

Register now:

312.731.HAHA (4242)

www.CircEsteem.org

CircEsteem Chicago’s Premier Youth Circus

Take an Adventure with Language Stars This Summer!

W ll NO Enro ceive e R and

OFF $50 er umm S on!* Tuiti

Fun Foreign Language Immersion Camps and Classes in Spanish, French, German, Mandarin, and Italian

.

camp 2013

Play-based curriculum . Dynamic native speaking teachers . Choose from 14 Chicagoland locations

To enroll call 866-55-STARS or visit www.languagestars.com

*Offer not available in Arlington Heights, Barrington and Crystal Lake locations.

No cleanup CALL NOW! Dates filling fast!

Call Alexis at

(773) 486-7416

or email akniaz@windycityfieldhouse.com

Follow WCF Online

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There Are More Than 20,000 Public High Schools in the Nation.

The Wall Street Journal Ranked the

Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy®(IMSA) Among the Top Ten. IMSA offers a tuition-free, advanced academic program for grades 10-12 and summer programs for youth in grades 3-10.

Summer Programs for Youth: Registration Begins February 2013. Email summerprograms@imsa.edu or call (630) 907-5987.

IMSA’s Academic Program: Application Deadline is March 1, 2013. Call (800) 500-4672.

Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy Money can’t buy you a world-class IMSA education.

Your love of math and science can!

Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy

Visit us at www.imsa.edu

igniting and nurturing creative, ethical, scientific minds that advance the human condition

1500 Sullivan Road Aurora, IL 60506-1000 Chicago Field Office | Beasley Academic Center 5255 South State Street, Chicago, IL 60609

ChicagoParent.com February 2013 71

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camp 2013 // special advertising section More th

Decoma

jus

t ad

Day Camp

an

• Select any weeks (4 week minimum) • Choose 3 or 5 days per week • Free extended care available • Hot lunches & transportation included • Swimming twice a day

• Sports/games, exciting theme days and trips • Optional Specialty Camps (Tennis, Sports, TechStars, Tae Kwon Do, Golf, Horseback Riding)

a mp ay c

BOYS & GIRLS AGES 3-12

We offer a variety of programs to fit your camping needs:

Gymnastics skills that improve independence andthat coordination.

Gymnastics skills improve Or in their independence andwords, coordination.

Or in their words,

FOR INFORMATION OR A HOME PRESENTATION, Call: 847/945-4455 or 847/272-CAMP www.decomadaycamp.com

Intercultur a l Montessori Language School Dual Language Montessori Programs Two Locations: • Chinese/English Oak Park (708) 848-6626 • Spanish/English Chicago-West Loop • Japanese/English (312) 265-1514 • Ages 3-12 years old ENROLL NOW FOR FALL AND SUMMER 2013!

E-mail: admissions@interculturalmontessori.org Visit: www.interculturalmontessori.org NEW! After School language programs in Spanish and Chinese

The Little Gym The Gym through 12 years reach their greatest potential. agesLittle 4 months ages 4 months through 12 themes years reach greatest potential.

Structured lessons, unique and atheir nurturing environment Structured lessons, unique themes a nurturing environment build confidence during each stageand of childhood. build confidence during each stage of childhood.

Call to schedule a free introductory class.

Call to schedule a free introductory class.

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

North Shore School of Dance SUMMER DANCE CAMPS Fairy Tale & Ballet Story Camps for ages 3 - 5 Ballet & Contemporary Camps for ages 6 - teen we make dreams come true

847-432-2060 ballet, jazz, modern, hip-hop, bollywood, pointe, variations, character, and contemporary

Since 1989 Professional faculty State of the art facility

505 Laurel Avenue Highland Park

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special advertising section //

Roycemore offers two engaging summer programs. Discovery Unlimited is a mornings-only enrichment program for age 4 through Grade 9. Creative classes for five different levels are taught by Roycemore teachers. Day Camp Adventures is a full- or half-day recreational program with activities and trips for ages 3-12. Take one week at a time or sign up for all nine!

Morgan Park Academy 2153 W. 111th St., Chicago (773) 881-6704 www.morganparkacademy.org Join us for Summer Camp June 24-August 16,2013. Help your child embrace and discover hidden talents and interests at the world- class Morgan Park Academy summer programs. These exciting, educational programs foster independence, imagination and enriching experiences that will impact your child’s success throughout life.

Summer at Sacred Heart Sacred Heart Schools 6250 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago (773) 262-4446 www.shschicago.org June 17 - July 26. Summer at Sacred Heart is fun for all! Experience a variety of academic, athletic, and fine arts programs. Campers, ages 3-15, will meet new friends and have a summer of beach time, fitness, field trips and more!

North Shore School of Dance 505 Laurel, Highland Park (847) 432-2060 www.northshoredance.com North Shore School of Dance inspires dancers of all ages and levels in a variety of fun and exciting camps.

All camps are held in our air-conditioned studios under the direction of warm, nurturing, professional teachers. Several 1, 2 and 4 week sessions are offered throughout the summer for pre-schoolers, grade-schoolers, and teens. We offer the opportunity to learn many dance styles while having fun and making new friends!

Park District of Highland Park Summer Camps 636 Ridge Rd. Highland Park

camp 2013

roycemoreschool.org/summer

ity. Tuition includes programming, organic lunch/snacks, and a flexible 7am to 6:30pm schedule. Six 2-week sessions begin June 3rd.

photo courtesy of casa italia day camp

(847) 831-3810 www.pdhp.org PDHP camps are sensory-rich and supportive of children’s need for stimulation and activity. Music, sports, dance, the natural world, or theater our camp staff will guide exploration, discovery, and imagination. See our ad on page 81.

River Forest Community Center Summer Camp Programs

8020 Madison St., River Forest (708) 771-6159 www.rfcc.info Offering full and part-time programs for parents & tots and children ages 3-12 years of age. Activities include arts &crafts, games, sports, swimming, field trips, special events, and more!

Roycemore School

Skokie Park District 9300 Weber Park Pl., Skokie (847) 674-1500 www.SkokieParks.com For more than 80 years, the Skokie Park District has provided summer camps that focus on adventure, friendship, fun, exploration, discovery and safety.

This summer, the district’s camp program promises to offer yet another exciting experience for kids. Check us out today!

1200 Davis St., Evanston (847) 866-6055

Summer Opportunities!

Center for Talent Development Northwestern University

2013 Summer Program Academically Gifted Children Age 4 – Grade 12 Life-changing academic adventures that allow gifted students to delve into a subject of intrigue, build upon their strengths and connect with peers.

Leapfrog Summer Program for Age 4 – Grade 3 • 6 programs sites throughout Chicagoland • New sites in Lake Forest and Elmhurst • Weeklong, half- and full-day courses

For full information and online application visit:

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

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camp 2013 // special advertising section ST. PAUL LUTHERAN SCHOOL 4660 West 94th Street Oak Lawn, Illinois 60453 School Phone: 708-423-1058 www.stpoaklawn.com

TENNIS

ON THE LAKE

Youth Program

Kids Camps are run every week Monday-Friday from June to August

The ABC’s of an Excellent Christian Education: Academic Excellence, Balanced by Extracurricular Programs, in a Christ Centered Environment Full and Half-Day Pre-School, Kindergarten through 8th Grade Extended Care available before and after school

• Half Day and Full Day Sessions • Weekly Registration/ Individually Tailored Schedules • U.S.T.A. “Quickstart” Methods and Equipment • Newly resurfaced courts Primary Location: Waveland Park at Addison and LSD (other city locations also available) visit www.tennisonthelake.com•

OR CALL PETER AT (773) 278-8877

River Forest Community Center

Summer Camps

Registration Begins March 11th Full-Day Camps

Breakfast Club (15 mos. – 2 yrs) Parent/Caregiver and Tot Camp M,W : 9:00 am–10:00 am

Young Voyagers (3 yrs. - 1st gr.)

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

Little Explorers (4 & 5 yrs) M-Th: 9:00 am-11:30 am Summer Scene (K – 7th grade) M-F: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

(2nd

New families present this add for $200 off on tuition for the 2013-14 school year!

Call now for your personal tour 708-423-1058 Visit us on Facebook

ST. PAUL HAS IT ALL!

Camp & Summer r C e a m m m p u S An Adventure ience s Exciting ExperFair Open House Daniel Wright Junior High School

1370 Riverwoods Road Lincolnshire

th

Adventure Camp – 4 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 3rd – August 16th 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

Call now to register for Summer Camp!

All Day option available, non-members also welcome

Sunday, February 10, 2013 10am-2pm

Half-Day Camps

Three For All (3 yrs. by 9-1-13) M,W: 10:15 am–12:15 pm T,Th : 9:30 am–11:30 am

*Nationally Accredited *Certified Staff *Average classroom size: 13 *Summer and sports camps *Interscholastic sports *Extracurricular Activities, music program, and more

www.ptocampfair.weebly.com

MEDIA Connecting with families

Illinois Section

All attendees entered FREE into multiple drawings for a chance to WIN $500 TUITION to the camp of their choice!

pto@d103.org

A FREE INFORMATIONAL FAIR SHOWCASING LOCAL AND NATIONAL SUMMER PROGRAMS! Meet directors and counselors from the best specialty, day, travel and overnight camps from the Chicago area and the nation!

Preschool through High School Programs

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camp 2013

special advertising section // St. Paul Lutheran – Oak Lawn 4660 W. 94th St., Oak Lawn (708) 423-1058 www.stpauloaklawn.org Summer Camp at St. Paul Lutheran School in Oak Lawn will run from 5/28/13 through 8/9/13. Options are: Half day from 9:00a.m.-3:00p.m. or Full day from 6:30a.m.-6:00p.m. (2 day minimum for both) There will be crafts, games, trips and swimming! Join us for summer fun!

Tamarak Day Camp 23970 N. Elm Rd., Lincolnshire (847) 634-3345 www.tamarakdaycamp.com Tamarak Day Camp has had a tradition of excellence since 1946. We have established a reputation for providing the finest programs with a special emphasis on swimming, magnificent grounds and facilities and enthusiastic, highly trained staff. Your child will have a great time at Tamarak and experience the satisfaction of improving their skills, learning to do their best and helping others.

OVERNIGHT All-Sports Camps 3155 Spring Valley Rd. Dubuque, IA 52001 www.all-sportscamps.com Kids ages 7-13 are invited to explore the unique opportunities at the AllSports Camps. The camps emphasize Christian values as well as athletic instruction in three different sports selected from over 40 sports during the week and participate in special activities and competitions daily. The camps are located at Loras College, Dubuque, Iowa.

Black River Farm and Ranch 5040 Sheridan Line Crosswell , MI 48422 (810) 679-2505 www.blackriverfarmandranch.com At Black River you will be able to experience being a horsewoman. Each camper will enjoy bringing in the horses, feeding, grooming, and saddling them. You will go on trail rides, mounted lessons, & ground lessons. The camp activities program at Black River is full of adventure, creativity, and fun!

Camp Agawak 7851 Agawak Road Minocqua, WI 54548 (715) 356-5383 www.agawak.com Camp Agawak for Girls, established in 1921, is much more than a traditional girl’s overnight camp. It’s an oasis for growth, friendship and self-discovery.

We offer quality instruction in over 36 different activities. Campers create their own schedules tailored to their interests. Excitement, adventure and fun awaits each camper.

Camp Anokijig W5639 Anokijig Ln Plymouth, WI 53073 (800) 741-6931 or (920) 893-0782

www.anokijig.com Camp Anokijig offers summer adventures filled with positive values, personal growth and outrageous fun.

Coed, ages 7-16, overnight camp with sessions from four days to one or more weeks. A great variety of activities to choose from plus many specialties, horses, teen programs and adventure trips. Conveniently located. Plymouth, WI.

Discover Chicago’s most unique World Camp For all children, from every language background: Pre-k to Grade 12 / June 24-August 30 • Summer Language Immersion Day-Camps in…

• French • German • Arabic • Mandarin Chinese • English Reading & Writing Camps • Science, Arts & Sports Camps • Chicago City Discovery Camp

Camp Nicolet 16040 Camp Nicolet Lane Eagle River, WI 54521 (715) 545-2522 www.campnicolet.com Family-owned and operated since 1944, Camp Nicolet is nestled in Wisconsin’s beautiful Northwoods. 2, 4, 6, or 8 week sessions are offered to campers ages 7-17 who join us from all parts of the USA and internationally. Watersports are especially popular, as well as all landsports and exciting adventure trips.

New this year: 3 weeks camp to the Center of France in July

Animal Camp – Cub Creek Science Camp

Native-speaking instruction Challenging curriculum Artist in residence

Fun:

Weekly field trips Beach adventures Daily activities

Learning:

Rolla , MO 65401 (573) 458-2125 www.MyAnimalCamp.com Animals, Animals, Animals. . . . Feed monkeys. Hold a baby kangaroo. Take a llama for a walk. If you like exploring nature and learning about science and animals, it doesn’t get any better than this. Enjoy classes in; Veterinary Medicine, Animal Care, Cooking, Survival Skills, Crime Science, Zipline, Climbing Wall, Pottery, Archery, Swimming, Crafts. - 240 beautifully forested acres, air-conditioned cabins, ages 7 – 17, one - six week sessions.

iD Teen Academies – Gaming, Programming & Visual Arts

Peace of mind:

Professional supervision Provided lunch Before & after camp options (swimming lessons available) 613 W. Bittersweet Place, Chicago, IL 60613-2307 | www.lyceechicago.org Contact: Jacques Fournier (773) 665-0066 x13 | jfournier@lyceechicago.org

mp a C r e m m Circus Su

Held at Lake Forest, Yale, Princeton, NYU, and other universities (888) 709-TECH (8324) www.iDTeenAcademies.com Prove interests are more than hobbies and learn the different aspects of video game creation, app development, filmmaking, and more. 2-week programs where teens ages 13-18 have the chance to interact with industry professionals and discover potential careers. iD Gaming Academy, iD Programming Academy, and iD Visual Arts Academy are held at Lake Forest, Yale, Harvard, Princeton, Stanford, and other universities.

Saint Mary’s College Summer Camps Notre Dame, IN 46556 (574) 284-4778 www.saintmarys.edu/camps Saint Mary’s offers the best in summer camp fun and learning for young women entering grades 5-12. Choose from four overnight camps in July: Athletics, Fine Arts, Summer Academy, and Spiritual Leaders. Explore your interests. Make new friends. Live in residence halls on the College’s historic campus. SaintMarys.edu/camps

rial Arts Tumbling Ae arts.com us www.msacirc

cs

ti Sports Acroba

Juggling

and more Ages 6 - 17

2 ne 17 – July 1 Session I: Ju t9 ly 15 – Augus Session II: Ju m p ay 9am - 3 id Fr y a d n o M

MSA & Circus Arts

773.687.8840

1934 N Campbell Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

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camp 2013 // special advertising section

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

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

Birthday Parties & Group Packages

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

Register for Glenbrook Racquet Club’s Summer Tennis Day Camps. Four different tennis camps offered for kids of all ages and levels from beginner to the highest elite players. Camps are located at Glenbrook Racquet Club and Glenbrook North and South High Schools and are run by our outstanding group of GRC Certified Teaching Professionals who make learning and improving fun. Choose one-, two-, four-weeks or more for a great summer tennis experience.

Tennis Camp

Offers tennis ONLY Develops stroke production and match play Teaches kids how to play and enjoy the sport

Recreational Camp

Offers tennis, golf, and swimming Experience all three sports in a week If you want variety, this camp is for you!

Half Day Mornings: Half Day Afternoons: Full Days:

9:00am - 11:30am 12:30pm - 3:00pm 9:00am - 3:00pm

10 weeks of learning and fun!

Choose your program: One-Week, Two-Weeks, or Daily Summer session begins: June 10th

Mention this ad

SAVE 10

%

ek on your first we r two up fo when you sign eks or more we

Call GRC at (847) 498-5333 to register or visit us online at www.glenbrookracquetclub.com

1801 Janke Drive, Northbrook, Illinois 76 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section // SPECIALTY Adler Planetarium 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago (312) 322-0329 www.alderplanetarium.org Build a rocket, program a robot, or explore the edge of space at the Adler this summer! Our popular hands-on summer camps are specially designed for kids ages 5-14. Adler camps sell out quickly so register today at www. adlerplanetarium.org .

Advanced Therapeutic Solutions 600 W. 22nd Street, Suite 250 Oak Brook (630) 230-6505 SelectiveMutismTreatment.net SM is a phobia of speaking in public.

Children with SM appear extremely shy, avoid verbal interaction, and/or use nonverbal gestures to communicate. At AC, each child is assigned a counselor (1:1 ratio) who applies evidence-based therapeutic strategies to reduce anxiety, increase verbal communication, and increase social confidence. AdventureCamp@ AdvancedTherapeuticSolutions.org

Center for Enriched Living 280 Saunders, Riverwoods (847) 948-7001 www.CenterforEnrichedLiving.org CEL camp is about making friends, experiencing new activities and learn-

ing new skills while having fun. Our highly trained staff creates a safe and welcoming environment for campers with developmental/intellectual disabilities. We offer two 4-week sessions - including full or half day options with swimming, games, specialty camp choices.

Christ Lutheran Preschool 595 Deerpath Drive, Vernon Hills (847) 367-5791 www.christlutheranvh.org

Center for Talent Development, Northwestern University

A non-denominational early childhood education center. Our objectives are to stimulate young children to love learning and to provide the highest quality early childhood educational experience. We recognize each child as a unique individual creation of God and we focus on a Christian orientation of school activities. Morning and afternoon sessions for 2 ½ year olds to Pre-K, extended day options.

2013 Summer Program (847) 491-3782 ctd.northwestern.edu/summer Life-changing residential and commuter programs for academically gifted children, PreK- grade 12, at seven Chicago-area sites. Students delve into a subject of intrigue, build upon strengths and connect with a community of peers. Single and multi-week programs offered.

Chicago Lakefront Soccer Club (773) 715-1329 www.LakefrontSoccer.com Our summer program is designed to improve individual and team specific skills. All camps run by professional USSF qualified trainers. Half and Full day camps for boys and girls ages 4yrs and up. Choose from: Chicago Fire Camp, Beach Camp, Specialized Training Camp, Conditioning Camp, Coerver Skills Camp and more.

Registration open.

camp 2013

This program is specifically designed to combine travelers who are blind or visually impaired with sighted participants (ages 15-19). Participants will share in individual/group fundraising activities to cover the expenses.

CircEsteem PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PARK DISTRICT OF HIGHLAND PARK

Chicago Lighthouse Vision Rehabilitation Center 222 Waukegan Road, Glenview (847) 510-6200 www.globalexplorers.org/news/ chicago_lighthouse_canyon_skies_ program_2013 The Lighthouse has partnered with Global Explorers and the Girl Scouts of America to offer a truly unique nineday travel program featuring rafting and camping in the great Southwest.

4730 N. Sheridan, Chicago (773) 732-4564 www.circesteem.org CircEsteem Summer Camp allows youth to build self-esteem and confidence through the practice of circus arts. Skills include stilt-walking, juggling, trapeze, gym wheel, trampoline, clowning and so much more. Every week of circus camp ends with a public performance so all kids can shine in the center ring.

2012 Summer Program: India

Ancona’s Summer Program features a wide variety of fun choices for students interested in exploring performance, visual arts, science and sports in a culturally rich environment. Campers enjoy weekly field trips, outdoor activities, swimming, art, sports, science and chess in a setting infused with the culture of Brazil. Campers explore Brazil’s language, cuisine, visual arts and cultural studies in a comfortable air-conditioned environment. For students entering the 7th and 8th grade, Ancona offers a Leadership Program designed to cultivate professional skills and build self-confidence. Your virtual passport to Brazil awaits you!

Find out more about Ancona’s Summer Program at www.anconaschool.org or contact the Main Office at 773.924.2356.

The Ancona School • 4770 South Dorchester Ave. Chicago, IL 60615 • Phone: 773.924.2356 Fax: 773.924.8905 • info@anconaschool.org

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camp 2013 // special advertising section CasaCampJan13_Layout 1 11/26/12 10:19 PM Page 1

OPUS Chamber Music Camp For violin, viola, cello, piano, August 4 – August 9, double bass, 2013 classical guitar, flute, or clarinet Benedictine University students, between the ages Lisle, IL 60532 of 8 and 18 Playing and Creating Music with Friends As Coached by 15+ Professional Musicians

www.napOPUS.org Email: opus@napopus.org

Soccer Camps 2013 All camps run by professional USSF qualified trainers.

Half and Full day camps 2013 ITALIAN LANGUAGE 2012 ITALIAN LANGUAGE & CULTURE SUMMER CAMP for all boys and girls

& CULTURE SUMMER CAMP

ages 4yrs and up.

At Casa Italia’s Italian Immersion Camp, your child will have fun, Wide variety of camps At Casa Italia’s Italian Immersion make new friends and from fully experience Italian language and culture! to choose Chicago Fire Camp

MONDAY-FRIDAY Beach Camp

Camp, your child will have fun, make friends and fully experience fornew 4 Weeks Italian language and culture!

June 17-July 12, 2013 for 4 weeks Monday-Friday Specialized Training Camp

Friends, Fun and Belonging

Conditioning Camp

June 17-July 12, 2013

Footskills Camp Special Needs Teen For four weeks this summer, children ages 4 to 13 can TRANSPORTATION is available immerse in the wonders Summer Camp themselves Registration of 20 children with minimum isof open now For foura weeks this summer, children ages 4 to 16 can immerse Italian language and culture from the same location.

Fee is language and culture Lakefrontsoccer.com www.CenterForEnrichedLiving.org themselves in the wonders of Italian through a wide range of enjoy$295 for four range weeks.

773-715-1329 through a wide of Children enjoyablecan and educational 847.948.7001 able and educational activities on Casa Italia’s beautiful grounds.

AS

be picked up from following locaactivities on Casa Italia’sthe beautiful grounds. tions: Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii, Harlem & Irving Our program focuses on teaching your Plaza or Addison Park District. All buses will have either children the Italian language through songs, ER OF M a teacher or counselor on board at all times. Other locaM games, storytelling, movies and skits.

U Our program focuses on tions will be considered. teaching your children the Children can take part in the following Italian language through activities: bocce ball,may volleyball, chess by the week, FEES &soccer, HOURS: Camp be purchased songs, games, storytelling, dancing, cooking lessons, diet & nutrition, but not by the day. Note: only the first and second weeks social graces, gardening, genealogy, fencing movies and skits. Children can of camp may be purchased individually. and marionette/puppetry, renaissance art of choose variety of activities, Summer Saturdays at from FrankaLloyd Wright’s Robie House entertainment, circus art, Italian Opera for children the kidsbocce, to one or all of our cooking, design-inspired July 13–August 24 Bring including soccer, dancing, Extended hours before and after camp Family Workshops (10 am to 12 noon): LEGO®fencing Architects, and water sports. diet & nutrition, etiquette, gardening, and the- baking are available for an additional fee, and Origami, Sun Prints, Nature’s Architects, and more.  atrical productions.

The camp fee daily run from 7-9includes a.m. and 3-6lunch, p.m. various nutritional snacks Reservations at gowright.org  $5 per child. Free for including fresh fruit and ice cream, fruit drinks and bottled water Theadults. camp fee includes daily lunch, various nutritional throughout the day, and one complimentary T-shirt.  Robie House, 5757 S. Woodlawn Ave, Chicago The camp is run by certified & skilled snacks including fresh fruit and ice cream, fruit drinks Italian language instructors.

The camp is run by certified & skilled Italian language instructors.

Youth Architecture Workshops in Frank Lloyd and bottled water throughout the day, and one compliWright’s Oak Park Studio Experience what it mentary T-shirt.

FULL-DAY PROGRAM: $795 FULL-DAY PROGRAM: $795

Siblings discounts apply only for campers who register for 3 or 4 weeks of camp.

REGISTER Today!

Register before APRIL 1

and the following discounts will apply:

FOUR WEEKS, FULL-DAY CAMP $595 FOUR WEEKS, HALF-DAY CAMP $395

SPECIAL!

MORE INFORMATION AT GOWRIGHT.ORG

9 a.m. 9 toa.m.

3 p.m. included.) to(Lunch 3 p.m.

(Lunch included.)

HALF-DAY PROGRAM: $550 HALF-DAY PROGRAM: $550 9 a.m. to 12to p.m.

12 p.m. to p.m.

3 p.m.to 3 p.m.

9 a.m.

12or p.m. or 12 All registrations must be in than April All registrations must benoinlater no later than30.

April 30.

SPECIAL!

takes to be an architect. Work in Wright’s own drafting room. Design a floor plan. Build a model.  For students entering 7th through 12th grade.  June–August (multiple sessions).  Space is limited.

Call 708.725.3828 to reserve a seat.  Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, 951 Chicago Ave, Oak Park

REGISTER TODAY! Visit www.casaitaliachicago.org • Call 312-593-7255 or 708-345-5933 Visit www.casaitaliachicago.org (Please note: There will be noCall camp on July 4.)

312-593-7255

or 708-345-5933

This page paid for by Midway Dodge in Chicago, a proud supporter of Casa Italia.

(Please note: There will be

no camp on July 4.)

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special advertising section // Do It Right Baseball

Foss Swim School

2932 N. CampbellChicago Indoor Facility Horner Park & Taft HSSummer Camp Locations (773) 307-1822 www.DoItRightBaseball.com

Highland Park, Libertyville Coming Soon: Chicago (847) 266-3677 www.fossswimschool.com

Do It Right Baseball sets the standard for professional baseball instruction in the Chicagoland area. We believe success on the field is a direct result of mastering the core fundamentals of baseball. Players learn in a fun, stressfree environment. Campers learn hitting and pitching mechanics as well as defense and game strategy.

Dolphin Swim Club Crystal Lake, Schaumburg, Skokie (847) 854-1300 www.dolphinswimclub.com Swimming lessons for children 4 months to adults! We offer professional, indoor swimming lessons year round for all ages and skill level.

Splashtacular birthday parties are also available! Call today for your FREE trial lesson!

A Fairytale Ballet Chicago/Lakeview/ North Evanston (773) 477-4488 www.AFairytaleBallet.com Where imagination and dance live happily ever after!

Fit it in and learn to swim!! 2-Week and 4-Week Progress Builder Camps® are back at Foss Swim School. Each camp offers 8 lessons, 91 degree warm water, adult instructors and fast, fun results!!

Camps begin April 16th... See you at the pool!!

Chicago Lakefront Soccer Club (773) 715-1329 Lakefrontsoccer.com Our summer program is designed to improve individual and team specific skills. All camps run by professional USSF qualified trainers. Half and Full day camps for boys and girls ages 4yrs and up. Choose from: Chicago Fire Camp, Beach Camp, Specialized Training Camp, Conditioning Camp, Coerver Skills Camp and more.

Registration open.

Lifeline Theatre Summer Drama Camps Ages 4-6 and Ages 7-12 6912 N. Glenwood, Chicago (773) 761-4477 www.lifelinetheatre.com TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE! For 2013, campers will explore two works of popular children’s literature that revolve around explorations in

JanuaryCAMPad-CP:Layout 1 12/18/12 2:36 PM Page 1

Join us for a FUNtastic Summer!

the wild: Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury’s We’re Going on a Bear Hunt for Junior Camp, and Maurice Sendak’s Where the Wild Things Are for Drama Camp. Children will create their own adaptations of these stories to perform for families on the last day of camp!

Light Opera Works Summer Kids Musical Theater Workshop 516 4th Street, Wilmette (847) 920-5360 LightOperaWorks.com/workshop Kids 8 to 13 learn acting, dancing and singing from professional actors and counselors, in five self-contained week long sessions based on popular musicals. Classes begin on Monday; on Saturday the kids put on a mini-musical. No experience needed. Every child is guaranteed a part. Also advanced session for 13 to 15 (audition required).

Lincoln Park Baseball Academy Several Lincoln Park Locations, Chicago (312) 246-1616 lincolnparkbaseballacademy.com Summer camp sessions are June 10 thru August 30 in Lincoln Park and will provide players with a camp experience that is safe, challenging, fun and educational. We accept players at all levels from 5 to 15 years old. Private instruction and group clinics are also available. info@lpba.co

camp 2013

Lookingglass Theatre Company 875 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago (773) 477-9257, x193 lookingglasstheatre.org/education Spend your summer with Lookingglass!

Our multiple camp programs for students 5-18 years old offer opportunities to explore thrilling stories about the world around us, as we create original pieces performed on the Lookingglass Main Stage. Each program, offered at multiple sites, focuses on developing theatre skills using Lookingglass core values: collaboration, invention and transformation.

Mad Science (773) 227-3345 www.madscience.org/chicago Mad Science invites you to explore the wonderful world around us during this coming summer vacation! Our camps combine spectacular demonstrations, hands-on activities and take-home projects in flexible programs designed to meet one hour, three hour and even all day program needs of parents and camp operators. madscientist@mschicago.com

Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts 6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park (708) 383-3456 www.Master-SH-Yu.com Ninja Camp (ages 5-12) presents the movement, culture and history of the Martial Arts. GrandMaster Yu appears with Kumdo (Swords) demonstrations

Day Camp l Credit & Non-Credit Courses Sports Camps l Chess Camp

Summer at Latin

Online Registration begins

l l l

www.latinschool.org/summer 312.582.6080 summer@latinschool.org

January 24, 2013

June 10 - August 2, 2013 ChicagoParent.com February 2013 79

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camp 2013 // special advertising section THE AWARD-WINNING

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

SPORTS BROADCASTING CAMP

Confused by all of the camps out there?

All camps are not created equal.

Let us help you find the right camp for your child!

is back for our 8th year in Chicago

July 8-12, 2013

Call Faith Rosenstein: 312-909-1909 Faith@tipsontripsandcamps.Com Overnight Camps (no day camps), Educational Programs, Wilderness Experiences, Sports Camps, Community Service, Domestic and International Travel Experiences.

A free consulting service since 1971.

• Boys and Girls age 10-18 will have an opportunity to learn from the pros in the industry • Make sports anchor tapes from a TV studio • Make Play-By-Play tapes of the Super Bowl and NBA Finals • Make reporting tapes at a professional stadium

Adventure Camp

Intensive Treatment for Selective Mutism

• Meet sports celebrities… and much more

600 W. 22nd Street, Suite 250 Oak Brook, IL 60523 630-230-6505 www.SelectiveMutismTreatment.net

Day/Overnight sessions available For more info call 800.319.0884 or visit www.playbyplaycamps.com facebook.com/sportsbroadcastingcamps youtube.com/sportsbroadcastcamp

and leads traditional martial arts conditioning games. Other camps include: The Twin Sticks Defense Art, and Airborne Kicks, for youth & teens.

Camps presented in August: Schedules available after March 1st.

a chamber music ensemble, a chamber orchestra or handbell choir, workshops, a concert, and more.

Metropolis School of the Performing Arts

26 N Williams Street Crystal Lake (815) 356-9212 rauecenter.org

Metropolis Summer Performance Camps 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights (847) 577-5982 x221 www.MetropolisArts.com/sopa Spend this summer in the arts, and be in an awesome show on Metropolis’ main stage! Campers will learn all the elements that go into putting on a play, from auditions, to character development, to stage presence.

Camps are for all ages from 4 years through high school.

MSA & Circus Arts Summer Camp 1934 N. Campbell, Chicago (773) 687-8840 www.msacircusarts.com Spend the summer flying, flipping, and spinning with MSA Summer Camp.

Watch your kids become circus performers by learning new skills and staying active. Daily activities include stretching, tumbling, aerial arts, sports acrobatics, stilt walking, rolling globe, tight wire, juggling and much more.

Oak Park School of Rock 219 Lake Street, Oak Park

INSPIRE. CHALLENGE. NURTURE.

Play with a purpose.

AKIBA-SCHECHTER SUMMER PROGRAM JUNE 5-JUNE

June 5 through August 1 For children 2-6 years old Full + half-day options Before + after-care Swimming 2x/week for Big Guys on the Go Weekly field trips

Learn more: kharris@akibaschechter.org (773) 493-8880 • www.akibaschechter.org

(708) 298-0002 www.oakpark.schoolofrock.com Summer Rock-n-Roll Boot Camps at School of Rock are Inspiring, Immersive and Insanely Fun! Days are packed with skill-building activities with professional instructors and designed to make musicians stronger– fast! Camps culminate with live concert or recording project. Ages 10 -17.

Old Town School of Folk Music 4544 N. Lincoln Ave & 909 W. Armitage Chicago (773) 728-6000 oldtownschool.org The Old Town School of Folk Music will be offering camps for many age groups all summer long. Check out Summer Double Play: Two-day morning camps designed for 4 & 5 year olds. Drop your child off and introduce them to a wide variety of music, art and dance. Learn more and register at oldtownschool. org

OPUS Summer Chamber Music Camp Naperville-Lisle (630)-983-8902 www.napOPUS.org Playing and Creating Music Together with Friends ... a day camp for beginner to advanced students of: violin, viola, cello, bass, piano, classical guitar, clarinet and flute, for Youths Ages 8-18.

August 4-9, at Benedictine University in Lisle, Illinois. Will push your creative boundaries by participating in

Sage Studio Triple Threat Musical Theatre Workshop

A new six week advanced program, designed for teens who are preparing for college theatre program auditions, spring and summer shows or just want to get the callback at that next audition. Students will learn from theatre veterans, focusing on practical techniques and strategies.

School of the Art Institute Chicago (SAIC) 36 S. Wabash, Suite 1440, Chicago (312) 629-6170 saic.edu/cs SAIC holds renowned one and two week summer camp sessions for both students and families between June 17 and August 16 . Children’s Workshops ages 4-10, are scheduled half days.

Parents can enroll campers for morning, afternoon, or both. Each week is a new and exciting focus. Middle School Program Summer Camps (ages 11–13) meet full days 9-5 for two weeks.

The Second City Training Center 1608 N. Wells St., 4th Floor Chicago (312) 664-3959 www.secondcitysummers.com Get ready to laugh! The Second City Training Center offers Spring Break and Summer youth camps in improvisation and sketch comedy for students ages 11-18. Summer Camps are two weeks long and feature an end of camp performance, an exclusive Second City show, and a pizza party.

Sports Broadcasting Camps July 8-12, 2013 Skokie (800) 319-0884 www.playbyplaycamps.com Boys and girls age 10-18 will have an opportunity to learn from the pros and meet sports celebrities. Make sports anchor tapes from a tv studio.

Make play-by-play tapes of the Super Bowl and NBA Finals. Tour a pro stadium/arena and make reporting tapes from the stadium. Participate in mock sports talk radio and PTI style shows, and much more. Day/overnight sessions available.

Suzuki-Orff School of Music 1148 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago (312) 738-2646 www.suzukiorff.org The place to be for musical fun this summer! We’re offering a variety of opportunities for children ages 4 to 18 to express their musicality. From beginners to those with experience, we have a program for everyone! Visit our website for descriptions, schedules and tuition

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special advertising section //

The Chicago Lighthouse

SUMMER CAMP PROGRAMS

camp 2013

Summer Adventure Camp Join us for a great summer! We have the best counselors and the most fun. Our fees include all activities, like field trips every week!

For more info, see our website or call Conor @ 708.795.2892

Lighthouse Away Southwest Expedition July 22nd - 30th, 2013 The Chicago Lighthouse is teaming up with Global Explorers and Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana for a truly unique leadership travel program featuring rafting on the San Juan River and an unforgettable camping experience at Canyon de Chelly National Monument.

This program is specifically designed to combine sighted participants with travelers who are blind or visually impaired (ages 15-19).

Lighthouse Day Camp June 21st - August 19th, 2013 Please make plans to join us for our second year of summer camp in Glenview. Every Friday of each week, will feature a different theme for blind and visually impaired participants (ages 6-21). Campers will participate in a variety of multisensory activities including For more information on these programs, please contact Pam Stern at 847-510-2054 or email pam.stern@chicagolighthouse.org.

Chicago Lighthouse North

222 Waukegan Rd. ‫ ׀‬Glenview, IL 60025 www.chicagolighthouse.org/north

berwynparks.org

Make Friends at Camp Anokijig!

New Friends

• Overnight, resident camp • Boys & Girls, ages 7-16 • Traditional and Specialty activities, plus • HORSES, teen programs, and adventure trips

Person al Growt h

Positive Values

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Fu

• Sessions from 4 days to 1 or more weeks of summer fun!

• Kids love us; Parents trust us • Online Registration Available

800-741-6931 or 920-893-0782 www.anokijig.com Plymouth, WI 53073

Camp 2013

Experts in Play field trips, friends, fun, life skills, adventures, sportsmanship, and much more...

Register Online www.pdhp.org

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camp 2013 // special advertising section KinderKarate Amazing Skills for Young Minds & Bodies - Start Today.

6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park

708-383-3456

www.master-sh-yu.com

Mom,

we offer adult training that will bring peace to your mind and body, too!

Putting the

Art

Back Into

photo courtesy of Jerric Ramos

Martial Arts

Setting The Standard In Early Care & Education Two Convenient Naperville Locations OPEN HOUSES SATURDAY FEBRUARY 23RD 10:30AM - 1:00PM

Offering outstanding Reggio - Inspired Infant, Toddler, Two’s & Preschool programs, as well as Kindergarten, After School & Camp for school age children.

www.AboutCompass.com

Degreed Teachers, Daily E-mail Communication, Welcoming & Innovative Learning Environment

Featuring children’s activities, refreshments, and a performance by JEANIE B! This is a free community event– please join us!

1128 Compass Court

(Corner Hobson Rd & Naper Blvd)

630-983-9190

Featuring children’s activities, refreshments, and a performance by THE FLYING FOOL! This is a free community event– please join us!

3040 Reflection Drive (Corner of Route 59 & 95th St)

630-848-1122

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special advertising section // Tennis on the Lake The “Racket Shack” Club House & Pro Shop is located in Waveland Park at 3650 N. Recreation Drive Other court locations throughout Chicago (773) 278-8877 www.tennisonthelake.com Using the latest U.S.T.A. “Quickstart” methods and age-appropriate modified equipment on our newly resurfaced “U.S. Open Blue” courts, your child will develop the character and lifetime skills only tennis can deliver! Camps run half or full day, M-F, June-August. Registration can be tailored to meet your needs. Afterschool, weekend classes and privates available April-Oct.

chicagochildrensmuseum.org

camp 2013

Christ Lutheran presents....

The Chicago Children’s Museum is a great destination for families, schools, camps and daycare centers during the summertime

KIDS KAMP 2013 Session 1: June 10-28 Session 2: July 1 -19 (No camp 7/4) Session 3: July 22-Aug. 9 Children ages 3-9 CIT program for campers ages 10-12 5 Internships available for students ages 13-15

Kohl Children’s Museum 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview (847) 832-6600 www.kohlchildrensmuseum.org Kohl Children’s Museum of Greater Chicago offers 17 interactive, handson exhibits for children ages birth to 8. All of our exhibits and programs are aligned to the Illinois State Learning Standards and are designed to nurture a love of learning in young children.

New this year: Christ Lutheran Tot Travelers for young campers (2-yr. old by start of camp) and their parents or caregivers 595 Deerpath Drive | Vernon Hills, IL 60061 | (847) 367-5787 | kidskamp2013@gmail.com

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WCF specializes in youth programs including sports classes, clinics and camps Year-Round. These programs strengthen children’s skills in a structured and safe no-pressure environment. All programs focus on learning rather than winning. WCF offers a full schedule of Summer Classes and Camps. Classes and camps for boys and girls ages 2-14.

La

2367 W. Logan Blvd., Chicago (773) 486-7300 WindyCityFieldhouse.com/youth

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Windy City Fieldhouse

Wonder-Space Computer & Technology Camp (877) 972-2671 www.wstechcamp.com Co-ed campers’ ages 7-17 explore the depths of technology! Design a video game in our game design courses, Build a App, Create a Website, or unleash the world of digital/video photography! Get hands-on experience with engineering & technology principles using project based curriculum designed by Rice University graduates. All experience levels welcomed.

Youth Architecture Workshops

FIELD TRIPS Adler

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Youth Architecture Workshops give students in grades 7-12 an opportunity to practice design, drawing, and model-building in the inspiring drafting room of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Oak Park studio. Participants create their own design for a “client,” build a 3-dimensional model and participate in an architectural critique. Visit GoWright. org/youth for more architecture and design fun.

est. 1993

Swimmers Guaranteed.

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Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio 951 Chicago Ave., Oak Park (708) 725-3828 www.GoWright.org/youth

See Specialty Camp

Chicago Children’s Museum Navy Pier 700 E. Grand, Chicago (312) 527-1000

Highland Park • Libertyville • Lakeview-Lincoln Park

www.fossswimschool.com ChicagoParent.com February 2013 83

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camp 2013 // special advertising section Make-A-Messterpiece 2050 Tower Dr., Glenview (847) 730-5275 www.Makeamessterpiece.com

dance

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REGISTRATION FOR SUMMER CAMPS OPENS IN FEBRUARY! 847.577.5982 x221 • METROPOLISARTS.COM/SOPA

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Unleash camper’s creativity with unique, messy, hands-on activities... explore gravity, airflow and color theory while painting with bubbles at Bubble’ology, work together and create a giant banner to proudly display back at camp at the Splat’tacular tables, and mess-makers will be oozing with joy as they create their own ooey gooey slime, while discovering the states of matter at Experimentation Station or dig into our dirt box and excavate dinosaur bones then paint a picture of their favorite fossilized friends!

Monkey Joe’s 286 W. Geneva Rd., Wheaton (630) 653-5867 748 S. Rand Rd., Lake Zurich (847) 719-5867 4306 E.New York St., Aurora (630) 851-3040 6250 Northwest Highway, Crystal Lake (815) 477-3866 www.monkeyjoes.com Monkey Joe’s Weather Forecast: Fun today, with a 100% chance of fun tomorrow! You don’t need a weatherman to predict that a giant room of wall-to-wall inflatable jumps, slides, and obstacles courses is a forecast for a good time. If you’re planning a special event and want a whole lot of entertainment at a special discounted rate, Monkey Joe’s should be on the top of your list. Rain or shine, hot or cold be prepared for a hurricane of fun!

Museum of Science and Industry 57th St. and Lake Shore Dr., Chicago (773) 684-1414 www.msichicago.org Don’t miss all the summer fun at the museum this summer with Omnimax theatre, and exhibits like Charlie Brown and the Great Exhibit; Science Storms and the U-505 Submarine.

special events for any group! No matter the size of your group, your event will be private~no sharing of inflatables with other groups guaranteed!

Safariland 701 W North Ave, Villa Park (630) 530-4649 www.safarilandfun.com Come start your journey here.... don your pith helmet and prepare for ja jungle adventure. Explore the grounds, play any of our 190 state of the art and retro video games. Venture if you dare and ride the tiger terror.. the Midwests’ largest indoor roller coaster; little explorers can ride the monkey jump, merry-go-round or play in the lion’s den soft play area. Want to fly...ride in our 3D Hi Def Max Flight simulator...”

CAMP RESOURCES Camp & Summer Adventure Fair February 10, 10am-2pm Daniel Wright Junior High School 1370 Riverwoods Rd., Lincolnshire www.ptocampfair.weebly.com Camp and Summer Adventure Fair: Sunday, February 10, 10am-2pm at Daniel Wright Junior High School, Lincolnshire. Nearly 60 local and national camps in attendance. The Fair is FREE and attendees will be entered into several drawings to win $500 tuition to a participating camp of their choice.

Tips on Trips and Camps (312) 909-1909 www.TipsonTripsandCamps.com Need help finding something for your child to do this summer? Are you looking for something educational, community service, outdoor adventure? I can help. My services are free! Contact Faith at www.tipsontripsandcamps. com for information on teen tours, educational programs and traditional overnight camps in the US, Caribbean and abroad.

Party Fantasy 342 Townline Rd, Mundelein (847) 837-0010 www.partyfantasy.net Party Fantasy provides 35,000 square feet of family fun! With Huge Inflatables, Rock Climbing Wall, Video Game Arcade, Go Karts, Disco Dance Floor with Karaoke, and the Fantasy Café, there is FUN for everyone!

Accommodations can be made for any size group and all attractions are included!

Pump it Up Chicago (312) 664-PUMP (7867) Orland Park (708) 479-2220 www.pumpitupparty.com The #1 indoor inflatable party place in the country! With private arenas and party rooms and our dedicated staff, Pump It Up isn’t just for birthday parties. We will customize field trips and

PHOTO COURTESY OF COMPASS CREATIVE CAMP

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special advertising section //

TRAINING CENTER

camp 2013

AGES 8 & UP

REGISTER NOW FOR SPRING & SUMMER CLASSES

ONLY 10 REPORTED MILK IN NOSE ACCIDENTS LAST YEAR

IMPROV • SKETCH • MUSIC • ACTING • CLOWNING • STAND-UP • CAMPS

SECONDCITY.COM/TC • 312-664-3959 23970 N. Elm Road, Lincolnshire, IL 60069

phone: 847.634.3168 fax: 847.634.8262

Registration Now Underway for 2013!

2013 Camp Season June 17 to August 9 4, 6 or 8 week options Instructional Swim Twice Daily Door to Door Transportation

Sports, Performing Arts, Archery, Nature, Tennis, Specials Weeks and Athletic Clinics!

Before and After Camp Care Available

For more information, to schedule a tour or to register please call 847.634.3168 Visit us on the web at www.TamarakDayCamp.com

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CP Marketplace special advertising section

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calendar FEBRUARY

1

Even animals need some lovin’ this time of year. Kids in third through fifth grades can celebrate Valentine’s Day with their furry friends at Lake Katherine Nature Center. They’ll get the chance to pet the creatures and even make valentines for a few lucky ones. Be sure to bring along fresh fruits and veggies to share with Felix the ferret, Gracie the guinea pig and Lucky and Cookie, a pair of bunnies, at a feast fit for Cupid. Don’t worry—we hear there’s cake for the human participants. $5. 3:454:45 p.m. Feb. 13. 7402 Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights. (708) 361-1873, lakekatherine.org.

2

Anyone can play a trumpet or a flute, but it takes a real maestro to capture the musical potential of a blade of grass or a seashell. At “Air Raid,” kids 3-8 learn about wind-generated sounds with some odd instruments, plus the usual suspects like kazoos, harmonicas and oboes. You might want to hide your garden hose, though—once your kids figure out how to make it play a tune, your sanity might be the next thing to blow away. $6, $4 kids. 10:30 a.m. Feb. 16. Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music, 50 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. (847) 4674000, pickstaiger.org.

3

One of our favorite quiet nooks in the Field Museum displays the so-called Benld Meteorite, which landed right here in Illinois—and the car that boasts a meteorite-sized hole in its upholstery. Check out that exhibit before stopping by the Crown Family PlayLab to meet scientist Jim Holstein, who shares meteorite specimens, and make a piece of art that’s out of this world. Free with admission. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Feb. 16. 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago.

(312) 922-9410, fieldmuseum.org.

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CALENDAR 1 | FRIDAY MOM & ME VALENTINE CUPCAKES. Kids in grades K-3, with

adult, design artistic cupcakes with icing, pastry bags, food coloring and other tools. $25 pair, $20 resident pair. 6:30-8 p.m. West Ridge Center, 636 Ridge Road, Highland Park.

(847) 831-3810, pdhp.org.

ANNUAL PRINCESS BALL. Kids

2730 N. Clark St. (773) 549-4140, metrochicago.com.

SUBURBS NATURE DISCOVERY DAY. Visit nature classrooms, complete a craft, explore the science of nature, go sledding or cross country skiing, view live animals and enjoy a roasted marshmallow around a campfire. 10 a.m.-noon. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

4-12 enjoy music, dancing and refreshments. $25, $23 resident.

6:30-8:30 p.m. Park Center, 2400 Chestnut Ave., Glenview.

(847) 486-5385, glenviewparks.org.

ANNUAL PRINCESS BALL.

DADDY DAUGHTER DATE. Features

Glenview. See Feb. 1. Today’s times are 5:30-7:30 p.m.

dancing, pictures, corsages, a craft, snacks and a keepsake to take home. $27, $18 member. 6:30-8 p.m. (ages 4-8); 8:30-10 p.m. (ages 9 and up).

H-F Sports Complex, 18211 Aberdeen St., Homewood. (708) 957-0300, hfparks.com.

2 | SATURDAY

POLAR BEARS, PENGUINS AND PANCAKES. Kids 3-8 enjoy a

pancake and sausage breakfast, then head outside to find polar bears and penguins. Games and crafts available inside. $15, $10 residents. 9:30-11 a.m. Schaumburg Park District, 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg.

(847) 490-7020, parkfun.com.

It’s never too early to think about a visit to CJDS! Call Cortney Stark Cope, Director of Admissions, at 773-271-2700 to schedule your tour.

junior kindergarten through grade eight A multi-denominational Jewish community day school

www.chicagojewishdayschool.org

CHICAGO CREATURE’S FEATURES: FASCINATING FEET. Kids 4-5

discover amazing adaptations of some of the world’s most unique animals. $24, $20 zoo members. 9-11 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive. (312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

FAMILY DAY/OPEN HOUSE: GROUNDHOG DAY. Celebrate

Groundhog Day with Wilson the groundhog. The Z Team presents dogsledding demonstrations. Hot dogs and hot chocolate available for purchase. $5. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Big Run Wolf Ranch, 14857 Farrell Road, Lockport. (815) 588-0044, bigrunwolfranch.org.

ROCK THE CASA. Families with

kids 3-13 can come in from the cold and learn hot Latin dances from Latin Street Dance. $20 family, $5 per person. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Metro,

GROUNDHOG DAY. Enjoy the lore and learn the facts about the little animal that some say can predict winter’s end. 1-2 p.m. Trailside

About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the March issue is Feb. 1. All events are subject to change. Please call the event sponsor at the number listed to confirm before you go. Events taking place on four or more dates during the month are listed in Events, beginning on page 101.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day as a family!

Don’t miss a chance to win a $125 gift certificate for any Leona’s Restaurant location.

VISIT

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar

chicagoparent.com/contest to enter February 4-8!

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CALENDAR CALENDAR Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest.

(708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

GROUNDHOG DAZE. Crawl through a tunnel, make a pop-up groundhog to take home, touch real fur, and have a puppet show. Free with admission.

11 a.m.-4 p.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle.

(630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

HAPPY TO BE ME! A luncheon for

girls in grades 5-8 and the women in their lives with body image expert Leslie Goldman, who helps them navigate media messages, gives confidence-boosting tips and offers a fresh perspective on loving yourself. $50. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 325-1900, robertcrown.org.

JAPANESE FESTIVAL. Includes drum and dance performances, and hands-on activities and

games, such as origami, calligraphy, crafts and chopsticks, and food and drinks. Noon-4 p.m. Oak Park River Forest High School, 201 N. Scoville Ave., Oak Park. (708) 434-3386, oprfhs.org.

3 | SUNDAY SUBURBS A CLOSER LOOK. Families view nature up close using microscopes and hand lenses to study the intricate patterns and details of insects, plants and fungi. 1-2:30 p.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest.

(708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

send to Sesame Street, sing “Happy Birthday,” and play in a jungle bounce house. Plus cake and party favors. $23, $15 resident. 1-3 p.m.

Main Street Recreation Center, 501 Hill Ave., Glen Ellyn. (630) 858-2462, gepark.org.

GROUNDHOG DAZE. Lisle. See

Feb. 2.

ROCK & MINERAL IDENTIFICATION. Geologist Sara

Johnson presents an introduction to rocks and minerals for ages 8 and up. All materials provided.

Reservations required. $5, $3

ELMO’S BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION! Bring

your favorite Elmo and create a sculpture of him, make a birthday card to

members. 2 p.m. Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, 220 Cottage Hill Ave. (in Wilder Park), Elmhurst.

(630) 833-1616, lizzadromuseum.org.

5 | TUESDAY LAURA INGALLS WILDER: GROWING UP ON THE PRAIRIE.

The adventures of Laura and her family as they push westward are brought to life in this family-friendly musical production for grades 2-6. $8.50. 9:30 a.m. and noon.

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

MAKE, SHAKE AND TAKE. Kids 4-6, with adult, mix common things in an uncommon way to make scientific discoveries and receive a shaker bottle to take home. $21 pair, $15 member pair. 4-5 p.m. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 637-8000, dupagechildrensmuseum.org.

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Ned L. Savide, DDS, Ltd.

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Pediatric & Laser Dentistry Dentistry for Special Needs 1770 First Street, Suite 360 Highland Park www.fredmargolisdds.com

Pediatric Dentistry; Practice Limited to Children & Adolescents 12001 S. Harlem Ave. Palos Heights (708) 448-6700

Children’s Dentistry

Partners in Oral Health

Fredrick S. Tatel, DDS

George Lin, D.D.S Anjali Talati, D.M.D. 195 Arlington Hts. Rd, Suite 150 Buffalo Grove (847) 537-7695 www.kidsmyl.com

We take the fear out of dentistry for your child.

16345 S. Harlem, Tinley Park (708) 633-8700 www.kidsdds.net

Specializing in Dentistry for Children & Adolescents 10313 W. Lincoln Hwy., Brookside Commons Frankfort (815) 806-1600 treasuredsmilesdentistry.com

Jerry Udelson, DDS Where Kids Have Fun at the Dentist!

1129 S. Harlem, Forest Park (708) 386-5437 www.little-teeth-big-smiles.com

Dentistry for Kids Drs. Cissy Furusho & Kirk Koomann 4801 W. Peterson, #410, Chicago (773) 545-0007 www.Dentistry4Kids.net

Bonciel Griffin, DDS We offer braces for children & Adults 10019 S. Western Ave., Chicago (773) 239-7696 www.bgriffinorthodontics.com

Pediatric Dentistry Christopher J. Morin, DDS 811 W. Wellington, Chicago (773) 871-4964 Chrismorin5@yahoo.com

Dr. Russell S. Pollina 601 W. Central Rd., #4 Mt. Prospect (847) 392-2457 18 E. Dundee Rd., Bldg. 5, Ste. 100, Barrington (847) 382-1720 www.grins4kids.com

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CALENDAR MY FIRST COOL COLORS MESS.

Kids 18-24 months, with adult, use paint, collage and other art processes to learn about color mixing and new ways to understand the seasons. $18 pair, $12 member pair. 9:30-10 a.m. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 637-8000, dupagechildrensmuseum.org.

WALK ON: THE STORY OF ROSA PARKS. The story of Rosa Parks,

who refused to give up her seat on a city bus and created an uproar that launched the Civil Rights moment. $20, $10 kids. 12:15 p.m. Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. (815) 356-9212, rauecenter.org.

6 | WEDNESDAY

Do D Down own wner ers Gr Gro ov ve Ic ce F Fe e es st: L st: st Lo ove e Is s in n th the Ai Ar

TODDLING ON THE WILDSIDE.

Kids 18-35 months, with adult, experience textures, sounds, movement, smells and tastes of natural materials.

This month’s theme is Snow Tots. $6 pair, $4 resident pair. 10-10:45 a.m.

Irons Oaks, 20000 S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields. (708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

7 | THURSDAY CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH. Watch

performances from local music and dance groups, make art, and create a memento to take home. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 527-1000, chicagochildrensmuseum.org.

MUNTU. An evening of authentic

and progressive interpretations of contemporary and ancient African and African-American dance, music and folklore. 9:30 a.m., noon and 7 p.m. $8.50. Paramount Arts Centre and Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora.

(630) 896-6666, paramountaurora.com.

DATE NIGHT. Dads and daughters,

moms and sons come dressed in red and enjoy food, photos and dancing. $20, $13 resident. 6:30-8 p.m. Palatine Park District, 250 E. Wood St., Palatine. (847) 991-0333, palatineparks.org.

Se ee Fe eb b.. 8

LITTLE EXPLORER’S LISTEN TO THE BEAT. Learn about the body’s

biggest muscle. Includes a walk and a heart craft for Valentine’s Day. $5.

9:30 a.m. Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens, 7402 Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights.

(708) 361-1873, lakekatherine.org.

MR. SINGER’S SING ALONG FUN. Little ones sing, clap and

dance with their caregiver to uptempo songs that focus on the natural world around them. 1:45 p.m.

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago.

(773) 755-5100, naturemuseum.org.

8 | FRIDAY VALENTINE CUPCAKES. Kids in grades 3-5 create artistic Valentinethemed cupcakes. $23, $18 resident.

7-8:30 p.m. West Ridge Center, 636 Ridge Road, Highland Park.

(847) 831-3810, pdhp.org.

5TH AND 6TH GRADE VALENTINE’S DAY BLAST.

Kids 10-12 celebrate Valentine’s

Day with games, dancing and crafts. Concessions available for purchase. $16. 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Community Recreation Center, 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg.

(847) 490-7020, parkfun.com.

DOWNERS GROVE ICE FEST: LOVE IS IN THE AIR. Unique

CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH. Chicago. See Feb. 7. Today’s

ice sculptures line the streets of downtown, while families enjoy an array of events, such as live ice carving demonstrations, the Radio Disney Road Crew and a Ronald McDonald magic show. 6 p.m. Downtown Downers Grove. downtowndg.org.

times are 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and cost is free with admission.

NATURE PLAY DAYS. Sing, fiddle,

ANNUAL DADDY/DAUGHTER DANCE. Father figures spend an eve-

ning with their special young lady and enjoy dinner, dancing and games. $20 couple, $10 additional family member.

6:30-9 p.m. Shaw Recreation Center, 715 Engle St., Dolton. (708) 841-2111, doltonparkdistrict.org.

LITTLE EXPLORER’S LISTEN TO THE BEAT. Palos Heights. See Feb. 7.

jiggle and journey into the wild, encountering nature through selfplay. Self-guided stations explore the theme of owls. Children must be accompanied by a non-paying adult. $9, $7 resident. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Northside Park, 1417 N. West St., Wheaton. (630) 665-4710, wheatonparkdistrict.com.

9 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE. Kids

3-10, with adult, have fun dancing, laughing and making ice cream sundaes. $48, $32 resident. 7-9 p.m. Main Street Recreation Center, 501 Hill Ave., Glen Ellyn. (630) 858-2462, gepark.org.

FAMILY VALENTINE’S DAY DANCE. Enjoy music, dinner and

“mocktails,” plus activities such as creating Valentine’s Day cards from recycled materials, decorating

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CALENDAR CALENDAR cookies and discovering fun facts about the love lives of animals. $45, $40 member; $15 kids; free kids 3 and under. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive. (773) 755-5100, naturemuseum.org.

FAMILY VALENTINE’S CONCERT.

Laura Doherty returns to Chicago to perform a full-band family Valentine’s concert. $8, free kids 2 and under. 11 a.m. Schubas, 3159 N. Southport. (773) 525-2508, schubas.com.

JUSTIN ROBERTS. Kids concert at

11 a.m. and 2 p.m. $15. Old Town School of Folk Music, Gary and Laura Maurer Concert Hall, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 728-6000, oldtownschool.org.

UNRAVELING THE MYSTERIES OF HARRIS BURDICK. The Metropolis

Oboe Quartet performs a musical score based on the illustrated book The Mysteries of Harris Burdick, asking

audience members to participate in unraveling the story. $15, $10 kids 5-12.

10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Driehaus Museum, 40 E. Erie St. (312) 482-8933, driehausmuseum.org.

VALENTINE’S DAY! EVENT.

Create Valentine’s Day crafts and cards for loved ones. 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Lakeshore Learning Store, 2255 W. 95th. (847) 705-5052, lakeshorelearning.com.

WALT WHITMAN’S SOUL CHILDREN OF CHICAGO.

SUBURBS PRINCESS BALL. An enchanted

appetizer table is available throughout the evening, and guests 3-9 can take a picture with Cinderella and the prince. $40 couple, $32 resident couple; $14 additional child.

6:30-8:30 p.m. Recreation Center of Highland Park, 1207 Park Avenue West, Highland Park. (847) 579-4554, recreationcenterofhp.org.

KIDDIE GRAS. Family-friendly

Walt Whitman created one of the most celebrated youth choirs when he formed the roof-raising Soul Children of Chicago. Call for cost.

2 p.m. Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph Drive in Millennium Park. (312) 334-7777, harristheaterchicago.org.

Mardi Gras celebration for ages 3 and up that includes games, crafts, music and a bounce house. Enjoy a Cajun meal plus a mini balloon drop to end the evening. $10 kids, $7.50 adults; $8 resident kid, $6 resident.

4-6 p.m. Park Center, 2400 Chestnut Ave., Glenview. (847) 486-5385, glenviewparks.org.

CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH. See Feb. 7.

LITTLE EXPLORER’S LISTEN TO THE BEAT. Palos

Today’s times are 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and cost is free with admission.

Heights. See Feb. 7. Today’s time is 10:30 a.m.

DOWNERS GROVE ICE FEST: LOVE IS IN THE AIR. Downers

Grove. See Feb. 8. Today’s times are 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

NATURE NAVIGATORS: RAINFOREST RAMBLE. Kids 6-10

can take a journey into the world of tropical rainforests, play a camouflage game, take a hike and make chewing gum using chicle from the rainforest. $27, $22 resident. 1-4 p.m.

Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace.

(630) 941-8747, obtpd.org/lvnc.

SNOWSHOE HIKE. Enjoy a guided hike on snowshoes if there is snow, or on foot if not. 1-2:30 p.m.

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest.

(708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

TERRARIUM CONSTRUCTION. Kids 8 and up create a self-supporting, small ecosystem to take home. $45, $30 resident. 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Oak Park Conservatory, 615 Garfield

It’s the return of Old Town School of Folk Music’s camp program:

Summer Double Play!

Session 1: June 24 - July 19, 2013 Session 2: July 22 - August 16, 2013

4544 N. Lincoln Ave 909 W. Armitage Ave 773.728.6000

Register now for our two-day morning camp program designed specifically for 4 and 5 year olds. In this eclectic program, we’ll introduce your child to a wide variety of music, art, and movement forms, all taught by experienced Old Town School kids teachers.

Learn more or register now at oldtownschool.org/classes/kids/camp

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CALENDAR St., Oak Park. (708) 386-4700, oakparkconservatory.com.

TINY GREAT PERFORMANCE: COWBOY RANDY ERWIN. Randy

Erwin is a master of trick roping, yodeling and singing cowboy songs with stories. Free with admission.

2 and 2:45 p.m. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 637-8000, dupagechildrensmuseum.org.

10 | SUNDAY CHICAGO SECOND SUNDAY. Drop-in

art-making activities for the whole family. 1-4 p.m. Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Ave. (773) 324-5520, hydeparkart.org.

HISTORY SPEAKS LECTURE SERIES – NORTHERN ILLINOIS AND THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD. The audience takes

the role of scholars and walks from building to building to meet the townspeople and get their perspectives on the issues of the day. $12, $10 students and members, $10 in advance. 2-4 p.m. Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville. (630) 420-6010, napersettlement.museum.

KID’S COOKING CLASS: DECORATE & BUILD YOUR OWN CANDY HOUSE. Kids 6 and up

construct a small candy house using molded chocolate panels and other candy treats. $20, $15 member.

Noon, 12:45 and 1:30 p.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

SUBURBS

12 | TUESDAY

CHOCOLATE SUNDAE SUNDAY. Enjoy a sundae, create valentines and listen to the Dixieland Docs. $2.50, $1.50 members; plus admission. 2-4 p.m. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 963-6769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

FANCY NANCY SOIREE. Kids 4-8 wear their fanciest apparel and share some stories, snacks and crafts with friends. 4-5 p.m. West Chicago Public Library, 118 W. Washington St., West Chicago. (630) 231-1552, westchicago.lib.il.us.

BUILD-YOUR-OWN RACE CAR WORKSHOP. Kids 4 and up, with

SNOW, ICE AND WATER. Kids 2-3,

adult, snap together a Lamborghini Diablo VT or ‘63 Corvette Sting Ray Coupe model car. A model of the recently retired Space Shuttle also is available for assembly. $5, $3 members. 1-3 p.m. Elmhurst Historical Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 833-1457, elmhursthistory.org.

DARWIN DAY CELEBRATION. Celebrate Charles

Darwin’s birthday and legacy with naturalists, and explore adaptations, fitness, selection and survival of species through educational activities and displays. Noon-3 p.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest.

(708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

DOWNERS GROVE ICE FEST: LOVE IS IN THE AIR. Downers

Grove. See Feb. 8. Today’s times are 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Prin Pr ince ess ss Ballllll Ba

with adult, create art by sculpting with ice, painting with salt crystals, exploring snow images and more. $21 pair, $15 member pair. 9:30-10:15 a.m. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 637-8000, dupagechildrensmuseum.org.

See Fe Se Feb. b. 9

Highland Park. (847) 831-3810, pdhp.org.

LITTLE NATURALISTS. Explore the

topic of Animal Tracks with activities, stories, games or an art project. $6, $4 resident. 9:45-11 a.m. Irons Oaks, 20000 S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields.

(708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

15 | FRIDAY DADDY DAUGHTER PRINCESS BALL. A magical evening of dinner

and dancing with a Little Mermaid theme. $30 resident couple, $8 additional child. 6:30-9 p.m. Centre of Elgin, 100 Symphony Way, Elgin.

(847) 531-7012, centreofelgin.org.

16 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

VALENTINE’S DAY PARTY. Kids

3-6 make homemade Valentine’s Day cards and some other crafts, plus spend some time playing games and reading a special story. $20, $15 resident. 4-4:45 p.m. Oakbrook Terrace Park District, 1 South 325 Ardmore Ave., Oakbrook Terrace.

(630) 627-6100, obtpd.org.

13 | WEDNESDAY MAGIC CLASS. Kids 5-12 learn tricks with ropes, coins, cards and mind reading. All materials provided, and each kid takes home a magic kit. $27, $20 resident. 6:30-7:25 p.m.

West Ridge Center, 636 Ridge Road,

9-11 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive.

(312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

POLAR ADVENTURE DAYS. Activities include ice carving demonstrations, live animals such as birds of prey, Siberian huskies, live entertainment from the Old Town School of Folk Music, arts and crafts, and free snowshoe rental if weather allows. $3 parking.

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

ZOO.0: THE TECHNOLOGY OF ANIMAL CARE. Kids in grades 3-4

explore the different ways zookeepers and scientists use technology, from iPads to binoculars, high tech to low tech. $24, $20 zoo members.

SUBURBS MOTHER/SON HIP-HOP DANCE. A hip-hop dancer shows moms and sons 5-12 the newest moves and grooves.

Have your picture taken and enjoy dessert. $37 pair, $29 resident pair.

6:30-8:30 p.m. West Ridge Center, 636 Ridge Road, Highland Park.

(847) 831-3810, pdhp.org.

DAD AND DAUGHTER SWEETHEART BALL. Girls 4-12

dress in their best clothes and have a date night with dinner and dancing.

Each child receives a gift and picture with dad. $45 couple, $22 additional child; $30 resident couple, $15 additional child. 5-7 p.m. Schaumburg Park District, 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg. (847) 490-7020, parkfun.com.

LINCOLN STATE CAT CLUB PURR-A-PAWLOOZA FELINE EXPO AND CFA ALL BREED BENEFIT CAT SHOW. Guests

can pose for photos with cartoon cat Garfield, learn about several cat rescue organizations, adopt a shelter or pedigreed cat and meet the breeds. $8, $12 both days; $6 kids age 6-12, free kids 5 and under.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Harper College, Building M, 1200 W. Algonquin Road, Palatine. (847) 707-2896, lscats.org.

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CALENDAR

Tuesday, February 26 at 7 pm

DISCOVER ENGINEERING. Dozens

of real engineers from local firms set up shop to give kids and adults hands-on experiences. Conquer fun challenges, meet local robotics teams and more. Free with admission. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 963-6769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

LEGO TRAIN SHOW. Watch as LEGO trains race through cities and towns, as well as scenes from popular movies, in a custom-made display produced by the Northern Illinois LEGO Train Club. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

DuPage County Historical Museum, 102 E. Wesley St., Wheaton. (630) 510-4941, dupagemuseum.org.

OPEN HOUSE. Go “behind the scenes” for an all-new experience at the military museum, plus see rare artifacts. Also features guided tours and hands-on educational activities for all ages. $5 parking. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

The Avery Coonley SChool is pleased to present the

ROCK & MINERAL IDENTIFICATION. Elmhurst. See

Creating the Future

Feb. 3. Today’s time is 10:30 a.m.

lecture with distinguished guest Paul Tough, best-selling author of How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character

17 | SUNDAY SUBURBS LINCOLN STATE CAT CLUB PURR-A-PAWLOOZA FELINE EXPO AND CFA ALL BREED BENEFIT CAT SHOW. Palatine. See

Feb. 16.

20 pre-register | $25 at the door

$

The Avery Coonley SChool Performing Arts Center Downers Grove, IL

BEAR FACTS. Kids 4-6, with adult, follow bear tracks, feel a bearskin rug and touch real bear claws and teeth. $15 adult/child pair; $12 resident/ child pair, $6 each additional child. 10-11 a.m. The Grove, 1421 Milwaukee Ave., Glenview. (847) 299-6096, glenviewparks.org.

LEGO TRAIN SHOW.

owls. After the presentation, dissect owl pellets and make a craft to take home. $17, $10 members. 1-2:30 p.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

WARM HEARTS, COLD NOSES HIKE. Take a late winter

nature hike. Registration required.

1-2:30 p.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

18 | MONDAY GYM JAM. Kids 6-10 enjoy basket-

ball, dodgeball, kickball, scooter races and more. Pizza provided for lunch. $20, $12 resident. Noon-2:15 p.m. Recreation Center of Highland Park, 1207 Park Avenue West, Highland Park. (847) 579-4554, recreationcenterofhp.org.

MOTHER/DAUGHTER: BEST FRIENDS JEWELRY BOUTIQUE.

Girls 3-11, with mom, design jewelry with a “Best Friends” charm, plus fire polished crystals, beads, and unique charms. $35 couple, $22 additional child. Noon-1:30 p.m. West Ridge Center, 636 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 831-3810, pdhp.org.

THE FABULOUS FABLE FACTORY.

Stage production includes recreations of famous fables including The Ant and the Grasshopper, The Tortoise and the Hare, and The Lion and the Mouse. $6. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Palatine Park District, 250 E. Wood St., Palatine. (847) 991-0333, palatineparks.org.

DISNEY’S BEAUTY & THE BEAST.

Classic musical love story. Call for cost. 7 p.m. Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet.

(815) 726-6600, rialtosquare.com.

BUILD A SUCCULENT GARDEN.

Kids 6 and up learn the basics about cacti and succulents and

Wheaton. See Feb. 16.

Visit www.averycoonley.org for complete event details

OWL FAMILY ADVENTURE. Experts

from SOAR (Save Our American Raptors) talk about their

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Beat the winter blues

G

o ahead and admit it: by the time Feb. 1 rolls around, you’re officially over winter. Fortunately, Chicago’s got five fun fests this month that are all about heading indoors.

Progressive International Motorcycle Show: Your kids can go hog wild at this celebration of all things twowheeled, which features the Strider Adventure Zone and stunt shows. Mom and dad can test-drive motorcycles, meet celebs or daydream about life on the open road. $6-$15; free kids 5 and under.

3-9 p.m. Feb. 8; 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Feb. 9; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Feb. 10.

Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. (800) 331-5706,

motorcycleshows.com.

Chicago Maritime Festival: Lake Michigan usually is thought of as a warm-weather spot, but you can get a taste of its history this month. Kids can try out knot-tying, build a model ship to take home and sing some sailing tunes.

Everyone together: “Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate’s life for me.” $14, free kids 12 and under; $20 concert, $15 kids 10-15. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Feb. 23 (evening concert 7 p.m.). Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., Chicago. (773) 575-7244, chicagomaritimefestival.org.

Chicago Auto Show: We’ve got the tallest building in the U.S., why not the biggest auto show, too? While the nearly 1,000 cars definitely are the stars, there are family-friendly activities and appearances throughout the week, like

mascot faves Tommy Hawk, and Benny the Bull. $12, $6 seniors and kids 7-12, free kids 6 and under with adult. Feb. 9-18. Check website for schedule. McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. chicagoautoshow.com.

International Kennel Club Cluster of Dog Shows: Dog lovers come together at this show to learn just who will be this year’s top dog. Kids will love the unique events— doggie fashion show, anyone?—and the chance to pet some of the dogs.

We can’t wait for the “Best Puppy” competition on Saturday. The cuteness alone will chase away those winter blues. $20, $14 seniors, free kids under 12. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Feb. 23-24.

McCormick Place Lakeside

Building, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 2375100, ikcdogshow.com.

Elizabeth Diffin

CALENDAR see how simple they are to grow and nurture. $37, $25 resident. 9:3011:30 a.m. Oak Park Conservatory, 615 Garfield St., Oak Park. (708) 386-4700, oakparkconservatory.com.

KID’S COOKING CLASS: LEARN TO MAKE A FRENCH LOG CAKE.

Kids create a chocolate log cake, earn a Chocoholic Certificate and take home a chef hat and recipe. $30, $22 member. 11 a.m., 12:45 and 2:30 p.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

NATURE FUN AT TRAILSIDE MUSEUM. Families drop in

for nature-related crafts and educational activities. 1-2:30 p.m.

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest.

(708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

SCHOOL’S DAY OUT – BREAKING THE CODE. Kids in grades 1-5

discover the hidden symbols on currency, go undercover to learn the secrets used by spies throughout history and write secret messages using codes and invisible ink. $45 (includes snack and supplies). 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville. (630) 420-6010, napersettlement.museum.

national bird month by making treats for our feathered friends, then hike outdoors to hang them in the preserve. Pre-registration and payment is required. $5. 3:45-4:45 p.m. Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens, 7402 Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights. (708) 361-1873, lakekatherine.org.

20 | WEDNESDAY

MAGNETS AND MORE. Kids 2-3,

MELODRAMA AT THE MANSION: BERTHA, THE SEWING MACHINE GIRL. The tale of a villainous

sweatshop owner and the beautiful heroine, Bertha, who strives to earn enough money as a Manhattan seamstress to cure her sister’s blindness and reclaim her murdered father’s estate. $35, $25 members; $12 kids 5-12. 7 p.m. Driehaus Museum, 40 E. Erie St., Chicago. (312) 482-8933, driehausmuseum.org.

BIRDS. Kids in grades 2-3 celebrate

with adult, use magnets to go through a maze, test objects to discover what is magnetic and make a magnetic game to take home. $21 pair, $15 member pair. 9:30-10:15 a.m.

DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 6378000, dupagechildrensmuseum.org.

pair; $5 additional child. 9-9:45 a.m.

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago.

(773) 755-5100, naturemuseum.org.

21 | THURSDAY MELODRAMA AT THE MANSION: BERTHA, THE SEWING MACHINE GIRL. Chicago. See Feb. 20.

ANIMAL CARE LEAGUE WORKSHOP. Kids 3-12 assemble

and sew catnip toys and bag dog treats for our furry friends. Take home recipes to make homemade pet treats. 3:30 p.m. Oak Park Public Library, 834 Lake St. Main Library, Oak Park. (708) 383-8200 ext. 2, oppl.org.

NATURE STROLLERS! Bring the

stroller along to explore the exhibits, then let the little ones get handson experience as they explore and discover nature during a 20-minute playgroup. $10 pair, $5 member

INSECT ZOO. The experts from

Anderson Pest Solutions introduce children to nature’s Good Guy bugs, such as Hercules beetles, giant lubber grasshoppers and giant pumpkin

ChicagoParent.com February 2013 97

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CALENDAR CALENDAR millipedes. Free with admission or membership. a.m.-noon. millipedes.

Free 10 with admission DuPage Children’s 301 N. or membership.

10Museum, a.m.-noon.

Washington St., Naperville.

DuPage Children’s Museum,(630) 301 N.6378000, dupagechildrensmuseum.org.

Washington St., Naperville. (630) 6378000, dupagechildrensmuseum.org.

22 | FRIDAY 22 | FRIDAY

DADDY DAUGHTER NIGHT “PRINCESS BALL”. Enjoy music, DADDY DAUGHTER NIGHT food and a photo together.

“PRINCESS BALL” . Enjoy$37.50 music,pair,

$25 pair;together. $8 additional child. foodresident and a photo $37.50 pair, 6:30-8 p.m. Worth Park District, child.

11500 $25 resident pair; $8 additional S. Beloit, Worth.

(708) 6:30-8 p.m.

Worth Park448-7080, District, 11500 worthparkdistrict.org.

S. Beloit, Worth. (708) 448-7080, worthparkdistrict.org.

DADDY DAUGHTER PRINCESS BALL . Dads and daughters 4-10 DADDY DAUGHTER PRINCESS make memories with4-10 crafts, BALL.special Dads and daughters

corsages and memories commemorative photos. make special with crafts, Guests music, dancing, corsagesenjoy and great commemorative photos. craft projects, a sundae bardancing, and a Guests enjoy great music, surprise princess visit. $48, $35 a craft projects, a sundae bar and resident.

6-8 p.m.visit.

Wheaton Park surprise princess $48, $35 District Center, Park 1777 S. resident.Community 6-8 p.m. Wheaton Blanchard Road, Wheaton.

District Community Center,(630) 1777 S. 690-6880, wheatonparkdistrict.com.

Blanchard Road, Wheaton. (630) 690-6880, wheatonparkdistrict.com.

HOP ‘N’ BOP JAZZ. Kids 18-24 months, . Kidswiggle, 18-24 HOP ‘N’with BOPadult, JAZZclap,

shake andwith sway to the smooth sound months, adult, clap, wiggle, of jazz.and $18sway pair,to$12 shake themember smooth pair. sound 9:30-10 a.m.pair, DuPage of jazz. $18 $12 Children’s member pair.

Museum, 301DuPage N. Washington St., 9:30-10 a.m.

Children’s Naperville.

(630) 637-8000, St., Museum, 301 N. Washington dupagechildrensmuseum.org.

Naperville. (630) 637-8000, dupagechildrensmuseum.org.

23 | SATURDAY 23 | SATURDAY CHICAGO CHICAGO

GUSTAFER YELLOWGOLD’S . A multimedia experiences SHOW GUSTAFER YELLOWGOLD’S that is equal parts pop rock concert .

A multimedia experiences SHOW

and animated $10, that an is equal partsstorybook. pop rock concert free kidsanimated 2 and under.

11 a.m.-noon. and an storybook. $10, Schubas, Southport. free kids 23159 and N. under.

11 a.m.-noon.

(773) 525-2508, Schubas, 3159 N.schubas.com.

Southport.

(773) 525-2508, schubas.com.

TERRIFIC TALES STORY TIMETERRIFIC . The Storybook Mom reads to TALES STORY families with kids 3-10Mom and teaches TIME. The Storybook reads to

the adults storytelling families with kids 3-10techniques and teaches to promote literacy at home. thehelp adults storytelling techniques Free snacks and book giveaway at to help promote literacy at home. the of each Registeratat Freeend snacks andsession. book giveaway the end of each session. Register at

companies-that-care.org/tt-storytime.org.

10-11 a.m. Kelly Library, companies-that-care.org/tt-story6151 S. Normal Boulevard. time.org.

10-11 a.m.

Kelly Library, (312) chipublib.org.

6151 S.747-8418, Normal Boulevard.

(312) 747-8418, chipublib.org.

MUSEUM DISCOVERY DAY: TRICKY TRACKSDISCOVERY . Nature-related acMUSEUM DAY: tivities, stories, acart TRICKYincluding TRACKSthematic . Nature-related

projects, self-guided activities and hot tivities, including thematic stories, art chocolate.

1-4 p.m. Irons Oaks,and 20000 projects, self-guided activities hot S. Western 1-4 Ave., Olympia Fields.20000 chocolate. p.m.

Irons Oaks, (708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields.

(708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

SUBURBS SUBURBS

AN EVENING OF PERCUSSION. Performances Crystal Lake .

AN EVENINGby OFthe PERCUSSION

Strikers’ All Star Performances

by Drumline, the Crystalcomprised Lake of talented from comprised all around Strikers’ Alldrummers Star Drumline, town. $12, $5 kids 8 and older, free of talented drummers from all around kids and under. town.7 $12, $5 kids78p.m. and older, free Raue for the Arts, kids 7Center and under.

7 p.m.

26 N. Center Williams Raue forSt., the Arts, Crystal Lake. St., 26 N. Williams (815) Crystal356-9212, Lake. rauecenter.org.

(815) 356-9212, rauecenter.org.

MAPLE SYRUP HARVEST. Discuss methods and .

MAPLEthe SYRUP HARVEST tools of the treemethods tapping, and as Discuss well andas making toolsas ofcollection tree tapping, of maple syrup. Registration well as collection and making required. $7.50, Registration $5 resident. of maple syrup.

9required. a.m.-noon.

Irons 20000 $7.50, $5Oaks, resident.

S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields.

9 a.m.-noon.

Irons Oaks, 20000 (708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields.

(708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

FEEDING TIME AT TRAILSIDE . SeeTIME animals FEEDING ATget fed and learn about Trailside’s resident outdoor TRAILSIDE . See animals get fed and

display animals such asresident a fox, coyote learn about Trailside’s outdoor and redanimals tail hawk. display such1-2 asp.m. a fox,Trailside coyote Museum Natural 738 and red tailofhawk.

1-2History, p.m. Trailside Thatcherof Ave., RiverHistory, Forest. 738 Museum Natural (708) Ave., 366-6530, Thatcher River fpdcc.com.

Forest.

(708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

Professional services Directory ORTHODONTICS

pediatric dentistry

Children’s Dentistry Trust your children’s dental needs to a specialist

773-239-7696

10019 S. Western Ave., Chicago, IL 60643

www.bgriffinorthodontics.com Complimentary Orthodontic Evaluations Most Insurances Accepted • Flexible Payment Plans Dr. Griffin is a member of the American Association of Orthodontics Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontists

98 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com 98 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0213_098.indd 1

Got Tots...

Get Peace of Mind 1•800•531•9527

We offer braces for children & adults

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Pediatric eye care

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1129 S. Harlem Ave., Forest Park (708) 386-5437 • (708) FUN-KIDS www.little-teeth-big-smiles.com • Practice Limited to Infants, Children, Adolescents & the Disabled • Hours by Appointment

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

www.eyesbypremier.com

1/18/13 5:16 PM

CALENDAR CALENDAR 24 | SUNDAY 24 | SUNDAY SUBURBS SUBURBS

CHILDREN’S CONCERT. CHILDREN’S CONCERT .

Features a performance of the Mother Features a performance theby Mother Goose Suite, with storiesoftold Goose Suite, with and stories by Virginia Pebelske, thetold Children’s VirginiabyPebelske, and the composer Children’s March Australian-born MarchGrainger.

by Australian-born composer Percy Kids can have a brief Percyconducting Grainger. Kids can have aand brief stint the orchestra try stint conducting the orchestra and try playing various orchestral instruments playingintermission. various orchestral instruments during Donations are apduring intermission. are appreciated.

3 p.m. OurDonations Savior Lutheran preciated.

3 p.m.

Our Savior Lutheran Church, 420 W. Downer Place, Aurora.

Church, 420 W. Downer Place, Aurora.

(630) 476-9072, fvacademy.org.

(630) 476-9072, fvacademy.org.

ELLA JENKINS CONCERT. The ELLA JENKINS . The Chicago native hasCONCERT been educating Chicago native has been educating children through her call-andchildren through herforcall-andresponse song style more than response stylemembers. for more than 50 years. song $16, $12 4 p.m.

50 years.Works, $16, $12 members.

4 p.m.

Wonder 6445 W. North Ave., Wonder W. North Ave., Oak Park.Works, (708)6445 383-4815, Oak Park. (708) 383-4815, wonder-works.org. wonder-works.org.

OWL SECRETS. Kids 8 and up, with OWL SECRETS . Kidsfacts 8 and up, with adult, learn amazing about owls adult, learn amazing facts about owls

ory

through touchable owl artifacts and through touchable owl artifacts fun activities including dissectingand owl fun activities including dissecting owl pellets.

Registration required. $1. 1-2 pellets.

Registration required. $1. 1-2 p.m.

Trailside Museum of Natural p.m. Trailside MuseumAve., of Natural History, 738 Thatcher River History,(708) 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest.

366-6530, fpdcc.com.

Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

TINY GREAT PERFORMANCE: TINY GREATESCOLA PERFORMANCE: EVANSTON DE SAMBA. EVANSTON ESCOLA DE SAMBA Enjoy the costumes, music, dancing.

Po P ola lar lar Po P o lve lar A Ad dla vaer nt ntur ure Aa Ad dys vsent ve ntur ure D Da y D Da a y ys s S e Fe Se Feb. b.. 16

Enjoydrumming the costumes, music, dancing and of Rio’s annual and drumming of Rio’s annual 2 Carnival.

Free with admission.

Carnival.

Free DuPage with admission.

2 and 2:45 p.m.

Children’s and 2:45 p.m.

DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Museum, 301 N. Washington Naperville.

(630) 637-8000, St., Naperville. (630) 637-8000, dupagechildrensmuseum.org. dupagechildrensmuseum.org.

26 | TUESDAY 26 | TUESDAY

EARLY CHILDHOOD FAMILY EARLY .CHILDHOOD FAMILY FUN NIGHT Kids 6 and under FUN NIGHT . Kids 6 and while under explore different stations

explore different stationsfun, while experiencing interactive includexperiencing fun,preschool including games andinteractive the popular ing games andwhere the popular preschool fitness station children test fitnessstrength station and where children on testa their endurance their strength andbench, endurance treadmill, weight cycleon anda treadmill,machine. weight bench, cycle and elliptical Plus, check out elliptical machine. Plus, check out

S e Fe Se Feb. b.. 16

the snowball room. 6-7:30 p.m. the snowball room. 6-7:30 Meineke Recreation Center,p.m.

220 E. Meineke Recreation Center, 220 E. Weathersfield Way, Schaumburg.

Weathersfield Way, Schaumburg.

(847) 490-7020, parkfun.com.

(847) 490-7020, parkfun.com.

WEEKDAY NATURE WALK. NATURE WALK. A newWEEKDAY monthly nature walk, exploring A new monthly exploring Thatcher Woodsnature Forest walk, Preserve.

1-2:30 Thatcher Woods Forest of Preserve. p.m.

Trailside Museum Natural1-2:30 p.m. Trailside MuseumAve., of Natural History, 738 Thatcher River Forest.

History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest.

(708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

(708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

28 | THURSDAY 28 | THURSDAY HEALTH AND HEALTH AND . Families can get WELLNESS NIGHT WELLNESS NIGHT . Familiesracing can get their hearts and imaginations

their an hearts and imaginations racing with evening of fun activities.

5-8 with Chicago an evening of fun activities. p.m.

Children’s Museum,5-8 p.m.E.Chicago Museum, 700 Grand Children’s Ave. at Navy Pier, 700 E. Grand at Navy Pier, Chicago.

(312)Ave. 527-1000, Chicago. (312) 527-1000, chicagochildrensmuseum.org. chicagochildrensmuseum.org.

Professional services Directory Pediatric dentistry

Pediatric dentistry

Pediatric dentistry

Fred S. Margolis, D.D.S., P.C. Pediatric & Laser Dentistry Dentistry for Special Needs

Office Hours

By Appointment Days Evenings Saturdays

Ned L. Savide, D.D.S., Ltd. 1770 First Street, Suite 360 Highland Park, IL 60035 224/927.9321 Saturday Appointments Available!

24 Hour Answering Service

www.fredmargolisdds.com

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PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY Practice Limited to Children & Adolescents Diplomate American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

12001 South Harlem Ave. Palos Heights, IL 60463 Tel. (708) 448-6700 24 Hours

2nd Office in Crystal Lake February 2013!

PEDIATRIC DENTAL ASSOCIATES, P.C.

George Lin, D.D.S. Anjali Talati, D.M.D. Buffalo Grove Business Park 195 Arlington Hts Rd., Suite 150 Buffalo Grove

847-537-7695

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

www.kidsmyl.com

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SPECIAL NEEDS JUMP SESSIONS. Sky High Sports

turns off the music and dials down the distractions for special jumpers.

One court remains especially quiet for kids with sensory disorders. $5, free parent or therapist. 3-6 p.m. Feb. 5. Sky High Sports, 2244 Corporate Lane, Naperville; 6424 Howard St., Niles. (630) 717-5867, nil.jumpskyhigh.com.

NETWORK & RESOURCE MEETINGS. Learn more about

apraxia and associated issues.

Meeting locations vary. Contact chicagoapraxia@comcast.net with questions. Feb. 7. The Windy City/ Chicagoland Apraxia Network, 1541 Springside Place, Downers Grove.

(630) 881-0666, groups.yahoo.com/ group/windycityapraxia.

PLAY FOR ALL. The museum opens

early for registered kids and families with disabilities to experience the multisensory exhibits and activities. The first 100 visitors to register

receive free admission (limit six per family). 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Feb. 9. Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 5271000, chicagochildrensmuseum.org.

FAMILY WINTER PLAY DAY.

Games, activity stations, winter sport demonstrations and a nature hike. Sponsored by NEDSRA and the Oakbrook Terrace Park District.

1-4 p.m. Feb. 10. Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 941-8747, obtpd.org/lvnc.

DEVELOPMENTAL DIFFERENCES RESOURCE FAIR. Connect with more than 50

exhibitors, including schools, service providers, and nonprofits that serve children with developmental differences. Plus, free workshops. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Feb. 10. Neighborhood Parents Network, Gordon Tech High School, 3633 N. California Ave., Chicago.

(312) 409-2233, npnparents.org.

BREAKFAST WITH THE BUTTERFLIES. Move, play and

explore nature in an environment adapted for young children with development differences. A quiet, low stimuli breakfast room offers glutenand dairy-free treats. Experience the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven with song and floor time. Registration required. $20 pair, $15 member pair; $10 additional family member. 8-10 a.m. Feb. 17. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago.

(773) 755-5100, naturemuseum.org.

THIRD THURSDAY. A special time for families of children with autism spectrum disorder, visual impairments and/or mobility impairments. Free with admission. $8.50, $7.50 seniors 60 and over, members free. 5-7 p.m. Feb. 21.

DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 6378000, dupagechildrensmuseum.org.

RESPITE CARE FOR FAMILIES. Childcare for families of

children with special needs. Volunteers are trained to care for children with a variety of disabilities and their siblings. To register, email or call Amy Giacalone, churchinroscoevillage@ gmail.com. 5-8 p.m. Thursdays.

Christian Fellowship Church, 3425 N. Damen Ave., Chicago. (773) 299-8126.

SENSORY STORYTIME. Geared toward kids 2-6 with special needs, especially those who may have a hard time in big groups. Followed by a playgroup with sensory activity stations. No advance registration required. Individual schedules, fidget toys and lap weights available. Caregivers must attend. For information, email sharris@oppl.org. 4 p.m. Tuesdays. Oak Park Public Library, 834 Lake St., Main Library, Oak Park.

(708) 383-8200 ext. 2, oppl.org.

ARTS AND CRAFTS. Class promotes sensory integration with various textures and visual sensory. 3-5 p.m.

Fridays. Vittum Park, 5010 W. 50th St., Chicago. (773) 284-6022.

Professional services Directory Pediatric dentistry

Pediatric dentistry

Pediatric dentistry

We take the fear out of dentistry for your child.

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

Christopher J. Morin, DDS 811 W. Wellington Chicago, IL 60657

(773) 871-4964 e-mail: chrismorin5@yahoo.com

Evenings and Saturdays available.

Practice limited to infants, children and adolescents.

4801 W. Peterson Ave • Chicago, IL 60646

773-545-0007

Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

16345 S. Harlem • Tinley Park

708-633-8700 • www.kidsdds.net

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ONGOING EVENTS EXHIBITS CHARLIE BROWN AND THE GREAT EXHIBIT. Through Feb. 18. Exhibit

explores Schulz’s personal history and his role as the inspiration and artistic talent behind Peanuts and its unique characters through original cartoons, reproductions and related Peanuts items. $5, $3 kids 3-11, plus admission.

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

(773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

START WITH A SKETCH EXHIBITION. Exhibit highlights the

culture of illustration through the talented cartoonists, illustrators and voice actors connected to the Geneva community. Features well-known artists such as Daws Butler, the voice of Yogi Bear and many Hanna Barbera characters, along with Chester Gould, creator of the Dick Tracy comic strip. Donations accepted.

Geneva History Center, 113 S. Third St., Geneva. (630) 232-4951, genevahistorycenter.org.

ory

SWEET HOME CHICAGO: THE HISTORY OF AMERICA’S CANDY CAPITAL. Exhibit includes

numerous artifacts, photographs and other documentary items that tell the story of Chicago’s iconic candy makers, including Snickers, Lemonheads, Butterfingers and Cracker Jack. Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St., Chicago. (312) 747-4898, chipublib.org.

DICKENS: 200 YEARS OF CELEBRITY. Hundreds of objects

and documents from the exclusive private collection tell the story of how Charles Dickens and his characters became enduring cultural icons.

Free with admission. Lake County Discovery Museum, Lakewood Forest Preserve, Route 176, west of Fairfield Road, Wauconda. (847) 968-3400, lakecountydiscoverymuseum.org.

BLACK BEAR EXHIBIT. Features the black bear and its adaptations for survival in the forest.

Crawl into the bear’s den, compare

Cooll Kiid Co ds W nt Wi nte err Pla lay y

your senses to that of the black bear, feel his fur, come face to face with a black bear mount and more.

Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace.

(630) 941-8747, obtpd.org/lvnc.

OINK, BAA, MOO: FARM FUN. Interactive learning

centers include a barn slide, apple orchard and chicken coop, plus Maggie, a life-sized fiberglass milking cow with a working udder that re-circulates the water that children “milk.” Waukegan Public Library, 128 N. County St., Waukegan. (847) 623-2041, waukeganpl.org.

Professional services Directory Pediatric theraPy Assential Therapies, Inc

Pediatric Therapy Services: Speech/Feeding Therapy Occupational Therapy Physical Therapy Developmental Therapy Located in Niles, IL (in Golf Mill Mall) Call: (847) 699-9757 x0 for more info.

www.atmfc.com

Educational assEssmEnt & consultation

tutoring

McK Educational Associates

TUTORING BY THAD

psychoeducational evaluation academic assessment gifted program identification advocacy consultation For information, please call: 773-613-9106 • 773-779-4945 or email: mckeduassc@sbcglobal.net

Specialized, In Home Tutoring 20 years experience, M.Ed+18 Academic/Behavioral/Learning Disabilities Illinois Certified K-21, LD, ED, MR, SED, LBS1

(773) 951-6079 Serving the North Shore and Northwest Suburbs

thaddiusmaslanka@att.net

cyoournAdnveretiscintg.

ges A k c A P l A it ig /d t in r Ask About our P ChicagoParent.com February 2013 101

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ONGOING EVENTS

Families brush up on art at MCA

I LEGO LE EGO O ttrrai ain sh ain show o Se S ee Fe Feb eb. b. 16

OTHER EVENTS MSI FREE DAYS. Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27. Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago.

(773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

COOL KIDS WINTER PLAY. A guided glimpse into the world of outdoor play, such as snowman and snow fort building with natural materials or garden scavenger hunt for natural objects. Free with admission. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

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

EXPLORATION STATION. Docents help children and others learn through interactive displays and games in the showrooms. This month’s topic is “Chocolate.” 10 a.m.-noon Saturdays. Oak Park Conservatory, 615 Garfield St., Oak Park. (708) 386-4700, oakparkconservatory.com.

CRAFTS FOR KIDS. Kids 3 and up enjoy crafts at all Lakeshore locations. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays.

Lakeshore Learning Store, 1403 N. Rand Road, Palatine; 2255 W. 95th., Chicago; 15780 S. LaGrange Road, Orland Park. (847) 705-5052, lakeshorelearning.com.

objects using everyday craft materials. Recommended for kids 5 and up.

Free with admission. 11 a.m.-noon Saturdays; 12:30-1:30 p.m. Sundays.

Mitchell Museum of the American Indian, 3001 Central St., Evanston.

(847) 475-1030, mitchellmuseum.org.

BIKE, SKI AND SNOWSHOE.

With small solar lights to guide their way, hikers, skiers and snowshoers can traverse the 1.3-mile fitness trail at Old School Forest Preserve or the 1.65-mile hilly section of the Millennium Trail. Trails and parking lots remain open until 9 p.m. daily.

Lake County Forest Preserves, 2000 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville.

(847) 968-3321, LCFPD.org.

GNOME HUNT. Search for gnomes

in the Children’s Garden using “I Spy” skills. Checklist provided. Free with admission. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle.

(630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

KIDS CRAFT MORNING. Kids

learn to construct simple versions of traditional Native American

t’s no secret that Chicago is home to some of the most highly respected art museums in the world, but it can be intimidating to darken the doors of such august institutions with diaper bags, juice boxes and hyperactive kids in tow.

Thankfully, the Museum of Contemporary Art aims to be as family-friendly as possible, offering a monthly Family Day She says the focus is on program. Family Day, held the families spending time together second Saturday of each month, and the programs are appropriintroduces families to “the artate for all ages. And, since the ists of our time” with hands-on themes change monthly, they’ve activities and interactions with seen families return over and artists and their work. over again.

“We equip families with “The emphasis is on facilitatmethods to discover personal ing that making, talking and connections to contemporary looking together as a family, and art,” says Elena Goetz, manager of youth and family programs at we use art as a catalyst to do the museum. “Contemporary art so,” Goetz says. “We’re making sure that family programs are is for everyone.” not watered-down contempoFamily Days revolve around rary art experiences.” a theme. February’s program, If you’re still worried about called “I Heart Art,” simply lugging around your diaper bag, celebrates a love of art and the juice boxes and hyper kids, the MCA’s collection. museum even offers a stroller Each program includes four valet, so you can leave your different aspects: Studios, three extra wheels at the door. to four art-making projects And that, we can agree, is a (generally not a prefabricated true masterpiece. project); a Scavenger Hunt that gets families exploring all Elizabeth Diffin different corners of the museum through visual clues; the Tot Spot, a quiet snack and reading room where families can take a break; and Find the Artist, in-gallery experiences an artist facilitates games, discus 220 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago sions or other interactive (312) 280-2660 experiences. mcachicago.org “Each family customizes the day for what Upcoming Family Days: Feb. they need…. We have 9: I Heart Art; March 9: Memories; all kinds of families who April 13: Deconstruction; May 11: come,” Goetz says.

Active Art

Museum of Contemporary Art

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© Disney, © Disney/Pixar.

FEB. 8 – 10

Fri. 7:30 PM • Sat. 2:00 & 7:30 PM • Sun. 2:00 & 7:30 PM

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SAVE $5 on Kids’ Tickets to Weekday Performances!

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Ages 2-12. Excludes Opening Night performances. Excludes Front Row and VIP seats.

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PERFORMANCES THE MUSIC MAN. Through

Feb. 3. $34.90-$46.90.

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

FRINDLE. 9:45 and 11:30 a.m. Feb. 4-8, 11-15; 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Feb. 9.

Recommended for families with kids in grades 4-8. $14, $12 for kids 12 and under. Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. (847) 577-2121, metropolisarts.com.

REMOTE CONTROL: A MUSICAL JOURNEY THROUGH TV LAND.

What happens when some teenagers get magically trapped in TV Land? 7 p.m.

Feb. 7-8; 10:30 a.m. Feb. 9.

Recommended for families with kids 5-14. $8. Winnetka Theatre Especially for Kids, Winnetka Community House, 620 Lincoln, Winnetka. (847) 446-0537, winnetkatheatre.org.

THE MUSICAL ADVENTURES OF FLAT STANLEY. 7 p.m. Fridays; 10

a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturdays; 2 and 5 p.m. Sundays from Feb. 8-17. Recommended for families with kids 5-10. $10, $8 kids. Theatre and Interpretation Center at Northwestern University, 1949 Campus Drive, Evanston. (847) 491-7282, tic.northwestern.edu.

DISNEY ON ICE ROCKIN’ EVER AFTER. Through Feb.

10. Favorite Disney characters compete to be the next superstar. For additional information, visit disneyonice.com. $15, $20 and $26, with limited number of VIP and front row seats available. United Center, 1901 W. Madison St., Chicago. (312) 455-4500, unitedcenter.com.

S ow Whiite Sn te an a nd tth he Se Seve en Dwarfs Dw Dwar ffs s

10. Cathy Rigby takes flight. $18-$85. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago. (312) 977-1700, broadwayinchicago.com.

$12 kids 12 and under.

Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. (847) 577-2121, metropolisarts.com.

THE MYSTERY OF THE PIRATE GHOST. Through

JAMES & THE GIANT PEACH. Feb. 17-March 10. $15,

Feb. 17. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Saturdays and Sundays.

One hour before each performance, for an extra $10, kids can participate in Stories Come Alive! Hour, an interactive storytelling session followed by theater games. $15. Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago. (773) 761-4477, lifelinetheatre.com.

$10 kids. Steel Beam Children’s Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. (630) 587-8521, steelbeamtheatre.com.

PETER PAN. Through Feb.

ROLL OF THUNDER, HEAR MY CRY. The Logan

family is trying to eke out a living on their small family-owned farm in 1930s Mississippi. Recommended for kids in grades 5-12. 9:45 and 11:30 a.m. Feb. 19-22, 25-28; 1 p.m. Feb. 23. $14,

WINTER CIRCUS. Show

features professionals from the Chicago circus and physical theater communities alongside the teen ensemble and advanced students.

Weekends, Feb. 17-March 23. Call for cost. The Actors Gymnasium, Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes St., Evanston. (847) 328-2795, actorsgymnasium.com.

SNOW WHITE. Through Feb.

23. This version contains song, dance and puppetry.

10:30 a.m. and

1 p.m. Saturdays.

Reserved seats are $8 in advance; $10 online and at the door. Northbrook Musical Theatre for Young Audiences, 3323 Walters Ave., Northbrook. (847) 2912367, northbrooktheatre.org.

LIZZIE BRIGHT AND THE BUCKMINSTER BOY. 10

a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays and 2 p.m. Saturdays (no performance Feb. 2).

Recommended for kids 9 and up. $10. Chicago Playworks at DePaul University, Merle Reskin Theatre at DePaul University, 60 E. Balbo Drive, Chicago. (312) 922-1999, theatreschool.depaul.edu.

BUD, NOT BUDDY. Through Feb. 24. The journey of a young AfricanAmerican orphan as he searches for his father.

Recommended for kids 8 and up. Chicago Children’s Theatre, The Ruth Page Center for Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. (872) 222-9555, chicagochildrens theatre.org.

kids, limited number of $10 tickets. Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 935-6100, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS. Through

THE FROG PRINCE CONTINUED. $16, $13 kids,

Feb. 27. $12. Chicago Kids Company, The Stahl Family Theater (inside St. Patrick’s High School), 5900 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago.

(773) 205-9600, chicagokidscompany.com.

limited number of $10 tickets available for all performances. Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 935-6100, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

DR. SEUSS’S THE CAT IN THE HAT. $16, $13

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Summer Baseball Camp Private Instruction Group Clinics Professional Instruction RegIsteR at: lincolnparkbaseballacademy.com 312.246.1616 Chicago Playworks for Families & Young Audiences

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JAN 19 – MAR 2, 2013 at DePaul’s historic Merle Reskin Theatre 60 E Balbo Dr, Chicago | 312 922 1999 | theatre.depaul.edu

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Even superheroes and princesses can get sick.

And if they do, we have three locations to keep them healthy.

Presence Medical Group pediatricians combine years of experience with the latest in training to keep your children healthy throughout the year. The pediatricians at our locations in Joliet, Lockport, and New Lenox treat colds and flu, minor injuries, allergies and asthma. They also provide flu shots for children six months or older, immunizations, and physicals so your little superhero or princess can get back to more important things.

Learn more.

Visit provena.org/medicalgroup

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special advertising section // Home sweet Homewood

Village of Homewood

By TRICIA DESPRES

T

he wife of a Chicago Public School teacher, Mary Jane Maharry was in a quandary. She and her husband had, up until this point, loved the life Chicago offered them. They attended shows and ran along the lakefront and relished in the nightlife of the city.

But then, something changed.

“We had kids…and it was frustrating to have kids in the city,” explains Maharry.

“There was always a fight for resources. If I wanted to sign up the kids for a park district program, I didn’t want to have to get up early in the morning or wait in a huge line. We knew it was time for a change.”

In August of 2009, they made the move to the Village of Homewood and in doing so, joined the countless city girls and professional guys

who have made the pilgrimage to the south suburb in recent years.

“We looked at homes in the neighboring southern suburbs and in the western suburbs but we kept coming back to Homewood photo courtesy of homewood school district 153 because we felt there were lined streets to the beauty more amenities,” explains Jes- of their forest preserves, the sie Jury, who moved to Home- suburb has something for evwood from the city with her eryone, including children! husband Tim in 2004. “The “We love the fact that our train and proximity to down- park district offers so many town was a big draw, as well programs for all age groups, as the beauty of mature trees, specifically for kids,” explains the diversity, the active park Cemile Lengel, a resident of district and the quaint down- Homewood since 2003. “For town area.” instance, our daughter took From Homewood’s out- swim, tennis, soccer, and skatdoor festivals to their tree ing classes and enjoyed them

all. We were also impressed with the strong sense of community, friendly people and good neighbors.”

“We were looking to own a home with a yard and a bit more space than our apartment, enroll our son in a great preschool, and become part of a community that was less transient and than our city neighborhood, all while keeping the commute to work reasonable,” adds Homewood resident Claudine Holaska, who moved from Hyde Park in 2007. “After looking at homes in Homewood and Flossmoor, we finally settled in Homewood.”

So, does anyone miss the excitement of the city?

“Chicago is still close enough that you can enjoy all it has to offer,” concludes Maharry. “It’s just nice to come back home to Homewood afterwards.”

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Home sweet Homewood // special advertising section

The Downtown Homewood Business Association is made up of members of the Homewood Business District. Some of us have been here for years, while others have newly arrived. We all share a common goal, and that is to promote healthy business development in Homewood.

MEMBER BUSINESSES Aurelios Pizza • Village Door • Global Fusion, Inc. • Art4Soul Sole Chic Boutique, Inc. • South Suburban Family Shelter • Homewood Florist Nathalie Interiors & Gallery • Rudolph Insurance Advisors, Inc. Farmers Camms Automotive Repair of Homewood, Inc. • Grady’s Grille Independent Days Adult & Senior Care Center • Carl Buddig ELIM Outreach & Training Center • Arbor Center for Eyecare, SC Edward Douglas Salon • Village Artists • World of Enrichment Suburban Access, Inc. • Nail Savvy • Reflections Yoga Center Suzies Hallmark • Grape & Grain • Bella Vita Home Accents MB Financial Bank • Homewood Dairy Queen • Edward M. Ruiz DDS Kirschner Vision Group • Climb On • Edward Jones (Edgar Wright)

photo courtesy of the downtown homewood business association

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Available to Readers March 11 Contact your Sales Rep by February 18 to reserve ad space!

108 February 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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CP Marketplace Jaynesway Farms Equestrian Center English & Western Lessons Horse Sales & Boarding Heated 300 x 80 ft. Indoor Arena, Stalls Available 32 Miles of Trails

Pony Rides & Pony Parties Here or at Your Location 630-483-1827 • fax 630-483-9618

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on Route 59 ½ block So. of Army Trail

• Judo • Brazilian Jiu Jitsu • • Kick Boxing • Muay-Thai • • Taekwondo • • Non-Classical Kung-Fu • • Discounts for family of 3 or more • No belt promotion fees in Judo • No set up fees Offering 2 weeks of FREE Tryout Classes in ANY Style!

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ARR Alternative Alternative Reproductive Reproductive Resources ARR Resources

Kids & Moms are needed for consumer research

One of the first agencies in the country and Chicago’s premier agency One of the first agencies in the country and Chicago’s premier agency is looking for interested: is looking for interested:

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ALSO Available in Spanish

CP Marketplace special advertising section

Making a Difference, While Making Money On September 10, 2001, Inverness resident Kathleen Rosner was a flight attendant who had her whole life mapped out in front of her. On September 12, 2001, she had no clue where to turn.

Indeed, the tragic events of September 11th changed us all in some way. But for a wife and mom who had always thought her career in the airline industry was something she could count on for the rest of her life, the fateful day changed her…both professionally and personally.

“I knew I needed to find something different,” explains Rosner, an Executive Director with Melaleuca, Inc. and the creator of CEOmoms.biz. “Somehow I wanted to band together with other educated, disciplined people leaving the corporate world and finding ways to work from home and stay home with their kids.”

At the same time, she was a consumer of Melaleuca and their long list of organic cleaning products. And while she used many of their products in their own home, she didn’t consider it a business, until she became inspired by the story of others within the company. “It was my

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By Tricia Despres

way of making a difference, while making money,” says Rosner, the mother of two grown boys.

In recent years, countless mothers, father, seniors and retirees have flocked to the CEOmoms.biz website to discover and share their very own success stories.

“The current state of our economy has brought so many different people to our website,” explains Rosner. “People are not only looking to create income, but supplement their incomes. Some of the men and women I work with are already holding down one or two jobs, but they are out there still looking for more.”

For many of those people, the flexibility with a home based job is essential.

“This is really a turnkey opportunity where someone can start their very own franchise for as low as $29,” remarks Rosner. “Some people claim that it’s just too good to be true. But it is true. This is something that everyone can do rather easily. And the best part? You are doing something good for you, your family and the people around you.”

A fun and simple guide for parents and caregivers to aid in children’s speechlanguage development.

• 7 effective tools for speechlanguage development • Simple activities for everyday encouragement • Fun and exciting games to “play with purpose” • Activity sheets and logs to track progress ALSO Available in Spanish

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CP Marketplace

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WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS

Sweet tooths welcome

F

ebruary is the sweetest month, so why not celebrate by visiting a place where sugar reigns supreme?

That’s the beauty of Candyality, an old-fashioned candy store with a modern edge.

At Candyality, they believe “you are what you eat,” which is why each candy bin explains what your choice says about you. (My beloved yogurtcovered pretzels apparently peg me as well-rounded.)

The store overflows with sugary goodness, from the bins of gummies to the licorice bar, the loose candies to the M&M mixing station. There’s even a selection of “Chicago Celebrity Truffles”—the “Rahm” packs a punch with Cappuccino flavor.

Candyality’s Water Tower Place location also is home to the Life is

Sweet Candy Museum, a section that explains Chicago’s candy history, plus peeks at some pop culture treasures like Willy Wonka and Candyland.

We liked the fun Project Runwayesque dresses and shoes made from candy wrappers and the skyline mural made by CPS students completely out of Jelly Bellys.

But our favorite part of the store? A vintage dentist’s chair, complete with a reminder to brush.

Elizabeth Diffin

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*Each child should be between 1 and 8 years of age and be accompanied by an entree-eating adult. May not be used with delivery or carry-out orders. May not becombined with any other offers.

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Travel a billion lighT-years and back in a new space advenTure only aT The adler!

Media Sponsor: The Adler Planetarium gratefully acknowledges The Grainger Foundation for its leadership in transforming the historic Sky Theater.

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