Chicago Parent February 2015

February 2015

| FREE

connecting with families

kiddie

crush CRASH COURSE

10

spots for romance

Cabin fever?

We can fix it SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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50 Over

Big Screen, Small World At GEMS World Academy – Chicago, innovative technology in every classroom connects cultures.

years of experience and leadership worldwide

Attend An Open House To learn more about GEMS World Academy - Chicago, tour the school and meet faculty and staff, join us for an Open House with our Director of Admissions, Ryan Hannon.

To learn more and reserve your spot, visit gemschicago.org/parent 312.809.8910 admissions@gemschicago.org

When most students first learn about other cultures, they open a book. At GEMS World Academy – Chicago, a premier JK - 12 school, they do it face-to-face via international teleconferences. With 70-inch interactive touch screens in every classroom, students collaborate globally beginning as early as first grade. Building authentic relationships with others around the world enables our students to understand the universal experiences that make us responsible global citizens.

That’s learning on a higher level.

2 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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Parent Connect YOUR TRUSTED SOURCE FOR KIDS’ HEALTH

Caring for a child with asthma

Q& A with University of Chicago Medicine Comer Children’s Hospital Specialists flu, exposure to allergens such as pets, cold weather and bad air quality. For children suffering from an acute asthma attack, Comer Children’s Hospital offers state-of-the-art emergency and inpatient care.

Q: When should we go to the emergency room?

B. Louise Giles, MD Assistant Professor of Pediatrics Medical Director, Pediatric Respiratory Therapy Program Director, Pediatric Pulmonology Fellowship

Q: Is my child at risk for developing asthma?

Dr. Giles: Your child is at greater risk if your family has a history of asthma and/or allergies, and if he or she was exposed to tobacco smoke before or after birth. Asthma is also overrepresented in black and Hispanic populations.

Dr. Giles: Go to the emergency room if you’re worried about your child’s breathing. Warning signs may include off-color skin tone, a cough that prevents eating or drinking, and the need to take medications more often than prescribed.

Q: What challenges do children with asthma face?

Dr. Giles: Children with asthma may lose sleep, be overly tired during the day and have difficulty concentrating. Some overeat, resulting in a weight

issue. They may have to miss school and take part in fewer activities. Children may hide their asthma from their peers and teachers to avoid feeling like a social outcast.

Q: If I suspect my child suffers from asthma, what can I do?

Dr. Giles: You can make an appointment at Comer Children’s Hospital where we will conduct a thorough physical exam, take your child’s medical history and do ageappropriate testing such as a lung x-ray and breathing and allergy tests.

Q: What happens next?

Dr. Giles: We will create an asthma plan which may include medicines and devices to help reduce inflammation and relax muscle cells in the airway. It is important to give controller

medication even when your child is well.

Q: Are there lifestyle changes we should make if our child is diagnosed with asthma?

Dr. Giles: Remove carpets, stuffed animals or anything that harbors allergens, and vacuum floors frequently.

If your child is allergic to the family dog or cat, find another home for the pet or bathe it more often. If anyone smokes, quit.

Q: What research is underway at Comer Children’s Hospital that might help my child?

Dr. Giles: Our studies are aimed at uncovering the genetic basis and underlying processes in the airways that cause asthma.

We hope to provide solutions to this growing problem, especially in urban neighborhoods.

Asthma care at the University of Chicago Medicine Comer Children’s Hospital

Q: What are the symptoms of childhood asthma?

Dr. Giles: Symptoms include wheezing sounds while breathing, difficulty catching a breath, and a cough that’s unusual or comes at specific times such as nighttime or during exercise.

Our Asthma Center works with patients and families to bring a child’s asthma under the best control possible and to help him or her stay active. Your child’s care team includes:

Q: What can trigger an asthma attack?

Dr. Giles: Triggers include viral infections such as the Asthma patient Tanzel Munroe with B. Louise Giles, MD

» Physicians and nurses specializing in asthma care » Social workers » Respiratory care therapists » Asthma educators

Visit at uckidshospital.edu If you have a child with asthma or your child has problems with their breathing, callusUCM Connect at 1-888-824-0200 for an appointment. Visit uchicagokidshospital.org/asthma to learn more.

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ADVERTISEMENT

Early literacy

By JENNI SORENSON Community Resource Director

C

hildren’s author Emilie Buchwald wrote, “Children are made readers on the laps of their parents”. The cumulative and growing research on early literacy would include ‘the laps of their teachers’ too. The more we know more about literacy development and acquisition the more we appreciate the role of early childhood environments in growing early literacy skills.

Early literacy is an emerging set of relationships between reading and writing. Young learners need reading to help them understand writing and writing to help them understand about reading. Oral language is needed to help them express their knowledge about both. These are dynamic relationships

that begin in infancy and predict future learning success.

Based on the research, we understand that these relationships are situated in a broader communication network of speaking and listening, whose components work together to help the child negotiate the world and make sense of their experiences. (Siegler 2000) Research identifies three critical content categories in early literacy: oral language comprehension, phonological awareness (understanding of the sounds of language), and print knowledge (Senechal et al. 2001) A literacy-enriched play environment provides countless opportunities for children to engage in valuable print experiences, interact with the alphabet, and lets them exercise their narrative skills. A preschool environment dedicated to creating and supporting literacy-rich classrooms will ensure the following for each classroom:

Print Rich Environments Print should be everywhere! Words should be placed next to any visual clue to help children understand the value of print. A posted alphabet, name labels, item labels, and teacher writing will signal to young learners the value and necessity of print in daily life.

Classroom Libraries Dedicated spaces for the housing and sharing of books provide children a place to get lost in the magic of narrative.

Books should be rotated so children are constantly exposed to different stories and varying forms of print. It is important for children to have access to the books that have been read to the group so they may further their narrative skills by retelling the story themselves.

Writing Centers A writing center is important to fine motor development and exploring the stages of writing. The narration a child provides to marks they have put on pa-

per strengthens their oral language skills while supporting their growing understanding of print in playful ways.

Instruction that is Explicit and Planned Developmentally appropriate literacy activities should be part of each days learning. Curriculum is established to support the teachers’ progression through age specific skills. Letter recognition, Phonemic and print awareness will be taught and modeled throughout the day with intention and purpose.

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contents IN THIS ISSUE 15

18 25 28

29

36 35 77 FEBRUARY 2015 | VOLUME 31 | NO. 2

FEATURES LOVE 36 PUPPY Handling young love

BEST IN CHI

Best workouts for busy moms PLUGGED-IN PARENT

Cyberbullying: What to do WELL-PLAYED

Four grown-up n-up playdates d your for you and favorite playmate aymate CRAFT

Heart paper er wreaths PARENT PANEL

The key to true love CALENDAR

Fun ideas to help you really love this month

ON THE COVER NUMBER 1: 44 RULE NO KID TALK

and crushes

Your spouse will thank you for these ideas

39 SEARCH FOR

CUPID’S ARROW 10 romantic spots for couples to fall in love all over again

GOOD TO GO

Camping at Radisson Blu Aqua and a visit to Zen Yoga Garage, Froyo plus skating at the Maggie Daley Ice Ribbon

48 50

CABIN FEVER BUSTERS Five ways to tame the grumpy bears sick of hibernating in your house

SENDING YOUR KID OFF TO CAMP? 5 questions to ask before you decide

Cover kid: Nora Schoeny, 5, and Wesley kiddie 10 0 Studee, 5, of crush spots Chicago at Lickety Split Frozen Custard Cabin & Sweets, fever?

6056 N. Broadway St., Chicago; licketysplitchicago.com FEBRUARY 2015

| FREE

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

CRASH COURSE

FOR ROMANCE

We can fix it

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Our annual camp guide

Photography: Thomas Kubik of TK Photography Design: Claire Innes

Coming soon

GOING PLACES Available beginning March 16

ChicagoParent.com February 2015 7

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Do what you love

TAMARA L. O’SHAUGHNESSY

I’m probably in the minority here, but Valentine’s Day and its Hallmark hoopla just doesn’t excite me. Of course, I loved seeing the kids’ hand-decorated shoeboxes come home overflowing with those cute little Valentines (even better when chocolate was attached). But soon the cutesy hearts, puppies and superheroes just became more clutter in my kid-clutter filled world.

I’d much rather celebrate love all year ‘round than with candy hearts once a year. I think we need to tell our kids every day how much we love them, making sure they hear us above all the noise in their world. We need to do the same with our spouses or significant others, even when we aren’t exactly feeling the same giddiness we did on those first heady days of falling in love. We also need to show each other some love—even just a smile on the overcrowded CTA at rush hour makes a difference.

We also need to show ourselves a little love. We parents tend to really be tough g on ourselves and each ch other.

When I started thinking about 2015,, I decided I’m going to do what I love without out worrying about whatt others think. I want to take a pottery class, to learn to knitt and to snuggle in to read when I want to without feeling guilty about not doing ng something else related ed to the kids. But first up, I’m going to find a way to get more timee snuggling with babies Liam, one of es (I could have stolen Liam our Hey Baby cover babies, pictured here, but his mom is kind of attached to him). I’ll keep you posted on my progress.

What’s on your list this year? I’d love to hear from you.

Happy February.

8 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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

– Dr. Maria Montessori

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CONTRIBUTORS

Our absolute favorite thing about February

EDITOR

Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy SENIOR EDITOR

Elizabeth Diffin DIGITAL EDITOR

Jackie McGoey ASSISTANT EDITOR

Emily Adams ART DIRECTOR

Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNERS

It’s the month my husband asked me to marry him on top of the Navy Pier Ferris Wheel!

Samantha Schultz

Knowing that winter is half over, I love to soak up the goodness of hot chocolate, cozy clothes, comfort food and a blazing fire.

Megan Murray Elsener

Letting the good times roll on Mardi Gras! Mardi Gras is all about Joie De Vivre—the Joy of Life. My kind of day for sure!

Donna Bozzo

My birthday! My adorable 3-year-old daughter has been planning my party for months. Can’t wait for the Buttered Popcorn Jelly Bellies!

Cortney Fries

Jacquinete Baldwin, Sky Hatter IT AND DIGITAL DEVELOPER

Mike Risher CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Donna Bozzo, Megan Murray Elsener, Cortney Fries, Sara R. Fisher, Linda Marsicano, Samantha Schultz, Meredith Sinclair, Marianne Walsh DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES

Walter Burden, Dawn Engelhardt, Erika Goodman, Lourdes Nicholls, Karen Skinner CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING SALES

Walter Burden

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Jessica Doerr

ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER

Philip Soell

ADVERTISING DESIGN MANAGER

Andrew Mead

ADVERTISING DESIGN

Debbie Becker, Mark Moroney CIRCULATION MANAGER

Kathy Hansen CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

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

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

Jill Wagner CREDIT MANAGER

Debbie Zari PUBLISHER Dan Haley VP/OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Andrew Johnston

COMPTROLLER Ed Panschar FOUNDERS Natalie Goodman,

Carolyn Jacobs

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

chiparent@chicagoparent.com TO FIND A COPY

circulation@chicagoparent.com ADVERTISING

dhaley@wjinc.com

Chicago Parent is published monthly by Wednesday Journal, Inc. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Chicago Parent, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL, 60302. © 2015 Wednesday Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

10 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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When your family is complete, consider Essure® permanent birth control.

Essure is the only non-surgical permanent birth control • Over 99% effective* • FDA-approved and available in the US for over 10 years

• Non-hormonal • May be covered by your health insurance plan at no cost†

The Essure® inserts are permanently placed in your fallopian tubes. Unlike getting your tubes tied, the Essure procedure is non-surgical. It can be performed right in your doctor’s office in about 10 minutes.

There’s no downtime to recover—most women go home about 45 minutes after the procedure and return to their normal activities within 1 to 2 days. The Essure Confirmation Test is given 3 months after the procedure to verify the inserts are placed correctly and your fallopian tubes are completely blocked, providing permanent birth control.

To learn more about Essure and find a doctor, visit essure.com or call 1.877.ESSURE4 (1.877.377.8734)

Indication Essure® is permanent birth control that works with your body to create a natural barrier against pregnancy.

Important Safety Information Essure is not right for you if you are uncertain about ending your fertility, can have only one insert placed, are or have been pregnant within the past 6 weeks, have had your tubes tied, have an active or recent pelvic infection, or have a known allergy to contrast dye.

Talk to your doctor if you are taking immunosuppressants.

WARNING: You must continue to use another form of birth control until you have your Essure Confirmation Test (3 months after the procedure) and your doctor tells you that you can rely on Essure for birth control.

It can take longer than three months for Essure to be effective. Talk to your doctor about which method of birth control you should use during this period. Women using an intrauterine device need to switch to another method. If you rely on Essure for birth control before receiving confirmation from your doctor, you are at risk of getting pregnant.

Please see additional Important Safety Information about Essure on next page.

*Based on 5-year clinical study data. †Some restrictions may apply. Visit essure.com/aca to learn more or contact your health insurance provider.

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Important Safety Information (continued) WARNING: Be sure you are done having children before you undergo the Essure procedure. Essure is a permanent method of birth control.

During the procedure: In clinical trials some women experienced mild to moderate pain (9.3%). Your doctor may be unable to place one or both EssureÂŽ inserts correctly. Although uncommon, part of an Essure insert may break off or puncture the fallopian tube requiring surgery to repair the puncture. Your doctor may recommend a local anesthetic. Ask your doctor about the risks associated with this type of anesthesia.

Immediately following the procedure: In clinical trials some women experienced mild to moderate pain (12.9%) and/or cramping (29.6%), vaginal bleeding (6.8%), and pelvic or back discomfort for a few days. Some women experienced nausea and/or vomiting (10.8%) or fainting. In rare instances, an Essure insert may be expelled from the body.

During the Essure Confirmation Test: You will be exposed to very low levels of radiation, as with most x-rays. In rare instances, women may experience spotting and/or infection.

Long-term Risks: There are rare reports of chronic pelvic pain in women who have had Essure. In rare instances, an Essure insert may migrate through the fallopian tubes and may require surgery. No birth control method is 100% effective. Women who have Essure are more likely to have an ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the uterus) if they get pregnant. This can be life-threatening. The Essure insert is made of materials that include a nickel-titanium alloy. Patients who are allergic to nickel may have an allergic reaction to the inserts. Symptoms include rash, itching and hives.

The safety and effectiveness of Essure has not been established in women under 21 or over 45 years old.

Essure inserts do not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases.

Talk to your doctor about Essure and whether it is right for you.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects or quality complaints of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

BAYER, the Bayer Cross and Essure are registered trademarks of Bayer. Š 2015 Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc., Whippany, NJ, 07981 All rights reserved.

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January 2015

1/15/15 5:32 PM

ON THE WEB

Get the goods at ChicagoParent.com

S

o, you are out exploring Chicagoland with your little ones and suddenly you all get a craving. But where to go? We can help.

Want doughnuts in Lake County? Doughnut connoisseur, aka blogger Kari Wagner, recommends Lovin Oven Cakery in Round Lake Beach and Libertyville, Lee Donuts in Libertyville, Gurnee Donuts in Gurnee and Spunky Dunkers in Arlington Heights. Get the full scoop at her blog, A Gracefull Life.

>>

Or, you are in the western suburbs and want lunch. Blogger Shannan Younger recommends Greek Islands in Lombard, Lao Sze Chaun in Downers Grove and Paris Bistro in Naperville. Check out her full list under blogs. Or, you are in Chicago and just need hot chocolate to warm up. Senior Editor Elizabeth Diffin did the (sweet) work for you.

Find all the details by searching “hot chocolate.” And this is just the tip of the iceberg. We have something new for you every day.

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’Tis the season to stay inside, and we’ve got tickets to help.

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Do it for your special Valentine.

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14 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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I

f there’s one thing to know about me, it’s that I don’t do camping.

But when I heard about Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel’s “Kids Kamping” package, I immediately signed up. Because “camping” in a swanky hotel in downtown Chicago is just about the only kind of camping I can get behind. I brought along my two nephews (ages 2 and 5), who loved the experience from beginning to end.

Kids Kamping aims to re-create the camping experience indoors, complete with a tent set up in the hotel room (and given to the guests to take home afterward). The boys couldn’t wait to dive into the perfectly sized tent, and were delighted by the Radisson Blu Teddy bears and crayons and coloring books waiting on their pillows.

To no one’s surprise, they didn’t end up actually sleeping in the tent.

Between the incessant whispering, a foot to the face while getting settled, and the discovery of the fun noise the nylon tent makes, we inevitably all ended up snuggling in one of the room’s queen-size beds. We fell asleep not to the sound of chirping crickets or foraging raccoons, but car horns, ambulance sirens and even a knock for turn-down service.

As for the other amenities, the milk and cookies delivered while

Good to go

Camping done right

we were exploring the hotel were a welcome treat. And while some of the “camping” aspects are better experienced in warmer weather (the kids’ splash pool and fire pit for s’mores were closed), we still enjoyed an early morning swim in the lane pool.

The package also includes breakfast in the hotel’s upscale Filini Restaurant, which, while not exactly designed for kids, clearly understands the child’s mindset with Mickey Mouse pancakes. I enjoyed a slightly more sophisticated breakfast from the lovely buffet.

All in all, our visit got me reconsidering my stance on camping—as long as it’s of the urban variety. And the boys enjoyed a fun intro to the camping concept, which they can re-create in their backyard with their brand new tent.

Elizabeth Diffin

ChicagoParent.com February 2015 15

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GOOD TO GO

Oms for tiny tots

Zen Yoga Garage in Bucktown adds dds fun new class

O

n Friday mornings at the spa-inspired Zen Garage Yoga Studio, you can now find kids 2 and up practicing their oms, sun salutations and breathing exercises. It’s all part of owner Piper-Lori Parker’s plan to introduce yoga as early as possible so kids can get the same health and emotional benefits their parents do.

Zen Garage’s Little Buddhas class is a serious yoga primer. Parker says the class improves posture, flexibility and creativity, and gives lessons in self-control and following directions while also providing kids a sense of calm.

The one-hour sessions are filled with activities that keep the kids on

If it’s important to you and your child, it’s important to us.

task and engaged. Parker plays the harmonium in her classes, adding a musical touch.

Parents and caregivers are welcome to stay with the kids—or better yet, take a hot yoga class in an adjacent room.

Linda Marsicano

Little Buddhas 10:45-11:45 a.m. Friday mornings $16 each 1845 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago zenyogagarage.com

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GOOD TO GO

Day out idea: A visit to Froyo

T

he new Froyo on Southport Avenue in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood offers more than its famous yummy yogurt with rows of toppings. This location hosts a monthly storytime with The Storybook Mom, aka Nili Yelin, as well as The Fun Zone, a playroom with tiny tables and activities.

The Storybook Mom is a lady who knows how to tell a story. She launches into an amusing and theatrical performance that is both interactive and creative. She manages to do what most of us can’t: Keep a room of 2- to 4-year-olds riveted and entertained.

While we know Froyo serves frozen yogurt flavors

payment, it also offers a range of healthy options that are just as delicious.

Or try the self-serve breakfast bar with slow-cooked, organic steel cut oatmeal with toppings like brown sugar, cinnamon, dates, raisins, cranberries, shredded coconut, almonds (all organic) and other tantalizing options.

Froyo also offers a “superfoods” section with items like wheat germ, acai berries, quinoa, chia seeds, flaxseed and noni.

Linda Marsicano such as yellow cake batter, peppermint stick, peanut butter and vegan coconut that can be deluged with treats like candy, cookies and syrups before getting weighed for

Food + Fitness + Finances + Friendships = FUN!

Froyo Storybook sessions are 11 a.m. the third Thursday of each month.

The next one, Feb. 19, has a Valentine theme of “Sprinkles and Love.”

3746 N. Southport, Chicago froyochicago.com

Celebrating 25 Years of Montessori Education

Register Now - Early Bird Discounts before April 1st 2 Week Camp Sessions in 2015: 6/22 - 7/3 7/6 - 7/17 7/20 - 7/31 Lunch Included Early drop off and late pick-up options (Lincoln Park location)

Co-Ed Grades 6-8 Four Life Skills in 2 Fun-Filled Weeks! Cooking, Fitness, Nutrition, Money Management and Social Skills are taught in a fun, safe and nurturing environment throughout this 2 Week Day Camp. Boys and girls learn team-building and leadership while gaining selfconfidence through interactive and engaging activities, concluding with a final day community service project.

We invite you to see our classic Montessori school, February 11, March 18, April 15, May 13.

By appointment please, 773-779-7606

Learn more at LifeSkillsEducators.com or Call 773.231.7414 ChicagoParent.com February 2015 17

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and Stratford Square Mall.

BEST IN CHI

gifts of love at...

STRATFORD SQUARE MALL THE CHILDREN'S PLACE GYMBOREE JUSTICE NEW YORK & COMPANY AEROPOSTALE BATH & BODY WORKS RED ROBIN

Best workouts for busy moms Each year, as I put out my query for the best workouts, I’m consistently surprised by the variety of workouts that our great city offers.

This year I went out of my comfort zone to try workouts that pushed my athletic ability and ego, all 45 minutes in length, to maximize your time and my sanity.

SARA R. FISHER Here are the three I tried to help you keep those New Year’s get-healthy resolutions.

1

It’s your gift.

It's their choice.

G I F T C A R D Fees may apply. See back.

JOIN US FOR PARK DAYS AT THE MALL!

Saturday, February 21st | 12pm – 2pm | Center Court Arts & Crafts, Balloon Artist, Face Painter, Train Rides, Carousel Ride & Treats.

It's all FUN. It's all FREE. Sponsored by The Bloomingdale Park District and Stratford Square Mall.

MACY’S | KOHL’S | CARSON’S | SEARS BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY Located at the corner of Schick Road & Gary Avenue Bloomingdale, Illinois www.StratfordMall.com | 630-539-1000

Sproing Sport 1652 N. Wells St.; (312) 266-2786, sproingfitness.com If heart rate monitoring, resistance training g and tabata are your ur thing, Sproing might ght be for you. The Sproing proing machine, created as a training platform, is used for an all-body pushyourself-to-themax workout. The Sproing has an air-filled, low-impact surface and once you strap in, the teacher directs you through exercises like running, lunges and weights.

Think of it as interval training with a twist.

2

Trainology 309 W. Chicago Ave.; (312) 526-3268, trainologychicago.com Trainology brings a little bit of everything to a high-intensity cardio and strength training workout.

A hybrid of Power Sculpt and Shred, Trainology pushes you through a hiking treadmill routine

and then ensures your quads don’t quit. With TRX and an ab routine that will make you wish for labor pains, Trainology offers maximum gain in a reasonable time.

3

WERQ various locations; werqfitness.com/classes WERQ is a dance fitness class based on current pop music. The teacher, who needs to be trained by a master WERQ expert, choreographs each song with heart-pounding, musclebuilding moves. Also kind of neat: WERQ was started by Chicago native Haley Stone.

18 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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THREE IDEAS FOR YOU

3 unique Valentine’s gifts for kids

F

orget the candy and cupcakes! Chicago offers some uncommon options that trump chocolate-covered cherries.

1

Jelly Belly BeanBoozled: OK, so this actually is candy, but none like you’ve ever tasted. Or maybe none like you’ve ever wanted to taste. This pack comes with 20 flavors, some weird (more like disgusting) and others yummy. Which will you get: stinky socks or tutti frutti? Canned dog food or chocolate pudding?

Moldy cheese or caramel popcorn? You’ve never seen kids so engrossed (pun intended). Available

at candyality stores or at candyality.com.

2

Playfully yours.

Many Chicago-area play rooms offer passes and gift cards for sale.

Favorites include Pump It Up, Explore and Much More, Little Beans and Kookaburra Play Cafe.

3

All the world is a stage.

Future thespians and spectators alike enjoy shows at Chicago Children’s Theatre. Upcoming plays, such as The Selfish Giant and Wonderland, Alice’s Rock-n-Roll Adventure, will be surefire hits as V-Day gifts. chicagochildrenstheatre.org.

Linda Marsicano ChicagoParent.com February 2015 19

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GOOD TO GO Leah Rose, one of Chicago’s Cutest Kids!

We’re excited to announce our new online parent communication platform.

Through email or a free app for smartphones and tablets, you can receive private and safe updates and photos shared directly from your child’s teacher. This daily communication app will give you real-time insight into your child’s daily activities, achievements and long-term progress.

FREE is fun

T

www.TheGardnerSchool.com

wo of Chicago’s best museums will be flinging open their doors this month just in time to beat the winter blahs with admission prices you can’t resist: Free.

Field Museum is offering free basic admission to every Illinois resident in February, a savings of $13-18 per person.

Special exhibits and the 3-D movies cost extra.

The Museum of Science and Industry wants to be full of kids this month. It is offering free admission to kids 3-11.

Two kids get in free with one paying adult.

There’s plenty to do, too.

Some of our faves: Getting lost in the giant mirror maze, watching the baby chicks hatch and spying the unique treasures in Colleen Moore’s Fairy Castle.

And since you are saving money on admission, you just might want to splurge on the movies. At Field, the kidfriendly options are Waking the T.rex and Titans of the Ice Age while at MSI check out Flight of the Butterflies on the five-story-tall Omnimax screen.

Follow us online!

Chicago West Loop 312.229.4299 Naperville 630.657.5029

GlenviewNorthbrook 847.770.6260

Chicago Bucktown 773.661.0151 Oak Brook 630.576.4740

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GOOD TO GO

Maggie Daley Ice Ribbon a real treat

W

hen I first read about the new Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon, I was stoked. A quarter mile path of ice in the heart of downtown!

Brilliant. But the pièce de résistance? If you own ice skates, it is all entirely free.

So I loaded up my husband, two of our experienced skaters and a friend. My main priority was a clean bathroom with working doors.

My husband was looking for plenty of bench space to lace up. Our boys simply wanted a fun course.

Let me tell you, the ice

ribbon is THE BOMB. My rag-tag group of skaters had to be dragged off the ice kicking and screaming.

But like everything, there are a couple of things to keep in mind in advance of visiting. The Zamboni runs every two hours, and it takes nearly an hour for the machine to do its job. Call ahead for the schedule to avoid arriving for Zamboni Hour.

My second suggestion: Invest in clearance skates.

The line for rentals gets quite long, and it was so great when we could just lace up and walk right on

Maggie Daley Ice Skating Ribbon 337 E. Randolph St., Chicago (312) 233-1001 Admission is free.

Skate rental is $12. chicagoparkdistrict. com/facilities/ice-rinks for hours without any aggravation.

We look forward to spending many years here enjoying the sights and sounds of kids having fun in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Marianne Walsh

Do you have postpartum depression?

If you recently gave birth and are experiencing sadness, fear or anxiety or are having difficulty caring for your infant, you may have postpartum depression.

Rush University Medical Center is conducting a study on the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS, as a treatment of this condition.

You may be eligible to participate in this study if you meet the following criteria: • Are a mother who has delivered within the past nine months • Are depressed nearly every day • Have a sense of being overwhelmed or unable to care for your baby • Have difficulty bonding with your baby

Rush is a not-for-profit health care, education and research enterprise comprising Rush University Medical Center, Rush University, Rush Oak Park Hospital and Rush Health.

www.rush.edu

M3837 12/14

For more information and to see if you are eligible, call (312) 942-7272.

ChicagoParent.com February 2015 21

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THE SELF-AWARE PARENT

Need to know

Roots and wings The definition of love requires constant re-examination. It means one thing when we are young, one thing as we look for a partner, another when we find work that speaks to us.

It especially requires re-examination when we have children. We fall in love with the idea of parenting, so we decide to have a baby, and then once we have a CATHY CASSANI baby, we fall deeply in love with this new ADAMS person. As they grow, our loves grows, and too often so do our fears and our concerns. This often morphs into a desire to tell our children who to be or what to do an effort to keep them “safe.”

We need to be aware of what they really need from us. This often-used paraphrased quote offers simple clarity for that: We give our children two things: one is roots and the other is wings.

These two things, roots and wings, can often feel paradoxical, but they actually work as a team, allowing our children to feel connected to the world while simultaneously encouraging them to expand their horizons.

Roots are established by a sense of belonging, a sense of knowing that there is space and acceptance in the home.

Children need to feel safe being themselves with their parents so they have the stability to deal with whatever life throws their way.

Giving children wings means knowing when to step back and not interfere. It means allowing them to fail, allowing them to choose

what they love, and allowing them to let go of things they are ready to release. Giving our children wings means giving them permission to trust their instincts and navigate their own life experience.

Embracing the roots and wings approach means listening to our children’s perspective and potentially opening up to a new viewpoint.

It means allowing them to try something new with our encouragement and support rather than imposing fear and worry.

It means recognizing that our children have an individual life they need to lead. Offering them roots and wings frees us from dictating how our children’s journey will unfold, and instead, supporting their path wherever it leads.

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

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MOM OF THE MONTH people is to try to learn the words to a bunch of songs. I sing to our daughter all day long. I’m probably the only person who sings Kenny Rogers’ The Gambler to their baby.

(And do you have a good singing voice? She laughs.) No, I have a horrible singing voice. Luckily, she has no clue.

The memory making mom Juliette Feld

{M.O.M}

Husband, Andrew Grossman, new parents to a 3-month-old baby girl Chicago Executive vice president and producer of Feld Entertainment, which produces Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey’s Circus, Monster Jam and Disney on Ice. Juliette produces Marvel Universe Live, coming to Chicago in September.

What has surprised you most about being a mom?

One of the biggest surprises ... is the amount of laundry. You have the tiniest person that you’ve ever met producing a load of laundry every two or three days. I don’t know where it comes from.

Feld has always been family focused. Do you think being a mom will change how you do your job?

Absolutely. When we were growing up, my two sisters and I were a focus group of sorts for our dad.

He always asked us our opinion and sometimes that impacted some of the production elements. That’s certainly something I hope to share with my daughter. I can’t wait to have her come to events. Her first Feld Entertainment event is going to be Disney on Ice presents Frozen. I foresee her being a really big inspiration for me because everything we do at Feld Entertainment is making memories for families and giving families a break from the day and an escape into fantastical worlds or events or thrilling action-geared shows. It’s great when I get to bring my daughter to work.

How are you planning to balance motherhood and your career?

I love what I do, and so I’m really excited to get back to work. I have some ideas on how it’s going to go, but I know whatever comes, I’m just going

>>

What piece of advice do you find yourself using most?

You certainly get a lot of advice as a pregnant person, as a new mom. I didn’t receive this, but what I would say to other

Disney on Ice presents Frozen Through Feb. 8 at the United Center Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse take the audience through the magical story based in Arendelle.

Families will feel they are trekking up to the North Mountains with Anna, Kristoff and Sven, and will experience the storm inside Elsa.

Elsa’s magic is enhanced by stateof-the-art special effects.

to have to manage it as it arrives.

I’m lucky that when I am in Chicago I get to work at home, so I can see my daughter in moments throughout the day, and when I’m traveling sometimes there will be opportunities to bring her with me and other times I will be thankful for Facetime.

Have you found it hard sharing baby duties with Andrew?

Absolutely not! I love having the help of my husband. We’re both in this together, and we’re learning as we go. Each of us will discover ways to make her smile or a faster way to change a diaper or any of those tricks that are helpful. We’re definitely united. It has to be both of you together because it is a lot to manage and because it’s important that our daughter see that both of her parents are really involved in her life.

How to naturally boost your immune system in colder weather

Our immune systems are naturally suppressed during cold weather months. Slowing down is one way to protect your health. This is a hard concept for many Americans to grasp given our busy culture, but we should expect ourselves to be less active during colder months. Traditional Chinese medicine also recommends following the sun and sleeping more in the fall and winter because we have fewer hours of daylight. It is best to get nine to 10 hours of sleep, as opposed to the recommended eight hours in the summer and spring.

Dr. Heidi Renner, Loyola University Health System

24 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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PLUGGED-IN PARENT

Cyberbullying: What to do Q

My third-grade daughter loves email, but has been getting mean messages from some of the girls at school calling her fat.

I think it should be reported. Am I overreacting?

You are not overreacting.

Cyberbullying is a serious problem and studies show that SHARON MILLER CINDRICH roughly 25 percent of kids in school today have experienced some form of cyberbullying.

Unfortunately, girls are more susceptible than boys.

A

Sign upr a now fo L

A FREE TSROIN! LES

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

In the city: 1460 N. Halsted St. Suite 506 680 N. Lake Shore Drive Suite 1207 In the suburbs: Niles, Skokie, Park Ridge, Libertyville, Glenview, Grayslake, Highland Park and Hoffman Estates

Katherine K. Hamming, M.D. Sometimes kids who are just playing a prank or joking around can find themselves in a situation where they are actually bullies. Due to the anonymous and impersonal nature of the Internet, teasing, pranks and even humor can easily be misinterpreted and become hurtful and harassing.

Kids aren’t the only ones who bully online. Grown-ups and even some parents make cruel remarks or play nasty jokes on others. Make sure you model good Internet behavior and send a strong message to your family that communicating online is a privilege, and irresponsible use can put their access in jeopardy.

Learn more about cyberbullying at stopcyberbullying.org.

Robert P. Miller, M.D.

Find out why Dolphin is

a great place

TO LEARN Wait for my turn Push myself V Learn new skills V Interact with peers V Follow directions V Respect my teachers V Be a good example V Overcome challenges V Be persistent V Learn to swim V And learn that...

V V

David L. Walner, M.D. On Staff at: Lurie Children’s Hospital Rush University Medical Center Lutheran General Children’s Hospital

I CAN:

Cyberbullying comes in many forms, and name-calling is just one example. Other types include exclusion, rumors, harassment, threats, impersonation or stalking.

Bad online behavior should be dealt with immediately, and parents can help by stepping in, teaching kids to identify bullying behavior and taking these actions: 1 Don’t respond online.

Responding to a bully online just fuels the fire. Teach kids to tell an adult before they fire back.

2 Block the messages. Your Internet service provider can help you block unwanted email and most instant messaging programs offer a block or ban option.

3 Alert others. If you know the bully, contact their parents or school administration and let them know about the behavior.

If bullying persists and includes threats of harm, contact local law enforcement.

Does your child snore?

Does your child have multiple ear or sinus infections?

To make an appt.

Call 312-266-6200 or 847-266-6200 PediatricENTIllinois.com

ChicagoParent.com February 2015 25

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GRAVITY • SOUND • MACHINES ENERGY • ELECTRICITY • SYSTEMS

How do they do that?

ATURDAY–SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21 –22 • 1 0AM–4PM S Soaring skyscrapers. Movable bridges. Elevated trains. The Chicago area is full of engineering marvels. Join us at E-Fest for two full days of fun, FREE hands-on activities that celebrate the creativity and ingenuity in the world around us.

FREE FA M E V E NI LY T!

To learn more, visit architecture.org/efest

224 South Michigan Avenue | Chicago, Illinois 60604 | 312.922.3432 | architecture.org

PRESENTING SPONSOR

LEAD SPONSOR

26 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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GOOD SENSE EATING

BONING UP on kids’ bones As long as their children are growing normally, most parents are largely unconcerned about the health of their kids’ bones. After all, osteoporosis is for old people, right?

Not so fast. According to a recent report by the American Academy of Pediatrics, osteoporosis may have its roots in the bone mass acquired in childhood hild hi ldho h od CHRISTINE and adolescence.

PALUMBO Lifestyle factors— — consuming enough calcium and vitamin a in am D plus weight-bearing activity—alll factor in.

It’s no secret that physical activity has changed compared to a generation ago. The AAP report urges kids to exercise to strengthen their bones.

Jumping, skipping, running and dancing are some enjoyable weight-bearing exercises.

Nutrition Today’s parents are increasingly choosing plant-based milk beverages in lieu of dairy milk because of perceived health benefits, milk allergies or lactose intolerance.

And this has Debra Barone Sheats, MPH, RDN, FAND, director of dietetics programs at St. Catherine University in Minnesota, concerned.

“Many parents think they’re equivalent, but they’re not equal at all,” says Sheats.

“Dairy milk contains nine essential nutrients. The white beverages made with plant sources don’t necessarily contain these nutrients.”

Children who drink alternative milks are twice as likely to have low vitamin D levels,

according to a new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.

Without Vitamin D, only 10-15 percent of dietary calcium is absorbed.

Another nutrient of concern is calcium.

“Often these milk substitutes have calcium added. But there’s a fair amount of data that the form of calcium is not absorbed as well as dairy milk,” Sheats says.

Other nutrients of concern include protein and sodium.

Diets too low in protein or too high in sodium tend to reduce the body’s retention of calcium.

Finally, caffeine, found in energy drinks, colas and coffee drinks, is linked to decreased bone mass, the study found.

I beg your parsnips ps Serve these matchstick fries as a super tasty and healthy alternative to o French fries. They’re fun to eat and packed with flavor.

Serves 2 (1⁄2 cup per serving) Ingredients Olive oil cooking spray 1 large parsnip (about 9 inches long, 5 ounces), peeled Cracked black pepper Salt to taste

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. To make “matchsticks,” cut the parsnips into long, thin strips, using a very sharp knife, or a mandoline if you have one. Spray the parsnip sticks with olive oil and lay them on the baking sheet. Lightly sprinkle with cracked pepper on both sides.

3. Bake the fries for about 25 minutes, flipping them over halfway through. They are ready when they are cooked completely, crispy and slightly brown. As they cool, sprinkle with pepper and salt to taste.

Nutrition information per serving: 50 calories, 0 g total fat and cholesterol, 7 mg sodium, 12 g carbohydrates, 3 g dietary fiber, 3 g sugars, 1 g protein. Percent daily value: vitamin A 0%, vitamin C 19%, calcium 2%, iron 2% Used with permission from The Nutrition Twins’ Veggie Cure by Tammy Lakatos Shames, RDN, and Lyssie Lakatos, RDN

Christine Palumbo, RDN, FAND, is a nutritionist in Naperville. She’s grateful she did plenty of weight bearing activity as a kid. Find her at Christine Palumbo Nutrition on Facebook and @PalumboRD on Twitter.

ChicagoParent.com February 2015 27

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WELL PLAYED

Re-ignite the silly spark

Four grown up playdates for you and your favorite avorite playma playmate ate Play BIG

MEREDITH SINCLAIR

February can be a very long cold month here in Chicago,, where playful spirits seem to go into hibernation. Come outt of hiding, gather a few of your favorite couples and plan some group-date fun. If you haven’t tried Whirlyball yet, your inner 8-year-old is begging you to give it a go. Think bumper cars meets basketball, lacrosse and hockey. You playy in teams of five with a referee who will help you learn the rules. es.

Whirlyball has a newly opened cool location in Chicago’s Bucktown neighborhood that also features 12 bowling laness and laser tag—and a full bar and restaurant. Done and done. ne. whirlyball.com

LOL for real

A little flirty competition “Laughter is the sun that drives winter from the human face.” Victor Hugo

Every time my husband and I go to historic Second City and watch the magic of the performers’ hilarious sketch comedy and improv skills, we walk away lighter and giddy, having happily re-connected over utter ridiculousness. It’s one of our city’s theatrical treasures and if you haven’t been, well, you really NEED to go.

Second City’s 103rd revue “Panic on Cloud 9” plays on Friday and Saturday nights at 8 and 11 p.m. and takes on everything from Ebola to parenting. Pretty dang fun.

Tickets start at $23, secondcity.com

When’s the last time the two of you played a board game together without having to manage the kids’ competitive sides or let someone win? I love the idea of putting the little ones to bed, mixing up a favorite cocktail, lighting a bunch of candles, and having your appetizers for dinner as you take each other on in a classic game of Monopoly or Scrabble.

This personalized wooden version from L.L. Bean is so beautiful you’ll want to keep it on your coffee table (which just might get your kids off their devices now and again). Scrabble on one side, Monopoly on the flip side and custom L.L.Bean Monopoly pieces that include a tote, dog, boot, canoe, lantern and moose equals total woodsy chic. $149, llbean.com

Get a bit dirty Looking to flip the date on its muddy heels? You are going to love the “Happy Hour” class at Penguin Foot Pottery, 2514 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago. If you have always wanted to try your hand at the pottery wheel or just want an artsy fun new way to spend time together, this BYOB pottery throwing session is the ticket. Classes run 6-9 p.m. Saturdays. You’ll get to keep up to two pieces you’ve created. There’s nothing more fun than learning something new together—while drinking wine.

Hint: We recommend NOT trying to re-create the pottery wheel scene from the movie “Ghost” while you’re there. $35 per person, penguinfoot.com 28 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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CRAFT

Circle of love Create heart paper wreaths for the ones you love PHOTOS AND STORY BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER

W

ith just some pretty paper and glue dots, you can make heart-filled wreaths to hang around the house for some added love and warmth. This is a great craft to create with your own sweethearts of all ages.

Supplies

Directions

1

3

Double-sided scrapbook paper aper generally comes in 12-inch ch squares. Cut the paper into 1.5-inch-wide strips.

Connect the comple completed hearts together by using glue dots at the bottom edge of each heart to create a circle.

2

With each strip, fold the paper in half and nd connect at the bottom with th a glue dot.

Then pinch the top arch of the paper down to create the top of the heartt and connect with another glue dot. Continue with each h paper strip to create the individual dividual hearts.

4

Cut a 12 12-inch piece of ribbon.

Using glue dots, insert the ends o of the ribbon into the creases of two hearts.

Double-sided scrapbook paper Glue dots Ribbon Scissors

5

Hang up you your love-filled wreaths around the house!

ChicagoParent.com hicagoParent.com February 2015 29

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Our 4 th Annual Fair dedicated to providing Chicago families with school options, service providers, and other resources that focus on serving parents of children with developmental differences.

DEVELOPMENTAL DIFFERENCES

RESOURCE FAIR 2015 {10AM-2PM} When: Sunday, March 8, 2015 10am - 2pm

RSVP: www.npnparents.org/expos/1695

Where: DePaul College Prep 3633 N. California Ave., Chicago Who: FREE & Open to the Public

Thank you to our sponsors!

30 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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FAILING WITH GUSTO

My middle son’s hairr sticks straight up. Jack ck often resembles one of tho those ose googly-eyed pencils you ru rub ub between your palms and th the he hair goes flying. My boy iiss a fantastic example of Den Dennis nniis tth the he he Menace meets Andy Warh Warhol. ho oll.

For school pictures, s, I try m myy be best estt tto o MARIANNE tame the wild beast. I load up o on n ge ggel, el, l, WALSH blast the hair dryer and implement nt that most time-honored mothering tradition n of licking your hand and rubbing it across your kid’s scalp. A brief six to eight weeks later, the final results arrive: a classic photo of Jack looking like a deranged Muppet.

The thing is, I find it all rather funny.

I don’t know if I am allowed to say that. In an era where so much emphasis is placed on building up kids’ egos, I am undoubtedly causing irreparable harm. After all, I have been pointing out Jack’s outlandish hair for the better part of nine years.

People aware of this tell me constantly: “You are giving that poor child a complex.”

Sweet Jesus, NO. Not a complex. Don’t complexes mean you will drop out of high school? Most serial killers have complexes, right?

Complexes are the very reason nobody talks in elevators.

WHAT IN THE NAME OF DR. SPOCK AND DR. PHIL HAVE I DONE??

Besides class photos, I rarely deal with Jack’s electric tresses. In the winter, hats exacerbate

the situation, so I throw up my hands in merry surrender. I gleefully anticipate him coming home after a long day to reveal the glory of fourth-grade hat head.

One evening, I debriefed each of the kids on their day and Jack piped up: “My teacher made me go to the bathroom and comb my hair.”

I froze and panic set in.

What kind of permanent psychological damage had been done because I failed to keep my kid’s hair under control? Was Jack mortified? Embarrassed?

Did I need to investigate local therapists immediately?

I asked what his response was.

He said he laughed.

Then he went to the bathroom and combed his hair.

I asked if his teacher was angry about him being so askew. He said

no. He said she was laughing, too.

I realized then that experts are idiots.

There is basically nothing more hilarious than a 9-year-old with crazy ass hair, and the sooner the world recognizes this fact, the happier it will be. Jack, his teacher and I all understand comic gold when we see it.

But everyone else?

I think they might have a complex.

Marianne Walsh is a Chicago mom of three boys. Want more?

Go to ChicagoParent.com and webandofmothers.blogspot.com.

Talk back

The complexity of hair

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VOICE: MAGGIE STEWART

Spirits live in a child’s drawing One mom can’t part with her kids’ drawings and cards

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e received some thank you notes in the mail yesterday. One from Brynne, a 3-year-old. I am sure there is nothing more beautiful and curious to me than a flower drawn by a 3-year-old. Bold and bright pink. Species undeterminable. This pink and ruby flower took up one-third of the page. There was an animal floating van Gogh-ishly in the right hand corner. A cat? Large orange block letters took up the rest of the page: MIR MIR. Mir mir?

Chris and I stared at it. “Meow, meow?” I asked.

“Where’s the cat?” he asked and left the room.

I think it’s a cat. On the backside of the card, Brynne’s mom’s

A spirit lives in a child’s drawing. It lasts on the page forever.

note on a green sticky note said, “Brynne: ‘Thank you for the American Girl doll. It was so kind and generous of you.’” I flip over the card.

MIR MIR. I don’t believe the sticky note interpretation for a minute.

A spirit lives in a child’s drawing. It lasts on the page forever. I open boxes of report cards, art projects, Mother’s Day cards made in grade school and I see the spirit of my nowteenaged boys.

On the bus, you may see Shane texting feverishly, distracted by

any sound whatsoever, tapping his foot anxiously.

But here is Shane in this middle school drawing of a blue jay. Detailed like in an Audubon book, careful lines, exquisitely drawn feathers, the bird’s eyes opened wide and so still.

At dinner, you may not see Dillon’s eyes. He hides behind dark blond hair and becomes so quiet you may take offense. But on the wall I have framed his first grade art from Martin Luther King Day. His stick figure body is dropping in on a halfpipe at the skate park.

His blond hair and white crayon body rides right next to a black stick figure kid with a handsome jet-black afro. “PEACE” is scrawled at the bottom of the half pipe. The letters are out of line, but bold and without a doubt.

You might see Rory uptown, hanging behind Walgreens with a scraggly group of teens who all look exactly alike. They may be dressed in dark clothes with shoulders hunched over defensively.

They will have nervous, loud laughter, and unsure eyes.

Yet here in this closet is his name poster, circa 2005, “RORY” in black Sharpie bubble letters.

Detailed and colorful designs, lines, geometric and smiling sun faces surround his name leaving no white space on the page.

Brynne knows what Mir Mir means.

I pack up my boxes.

Throw nothing away.

Gently close the closet door and let the spirits be.

Maggie Stewart is the mom of three boys and a freelance writer living in Lake Forest.

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VOICE: JOE BUSH

The daddy-daughter dance diss While he may not agree with them, dad is up for the big event

T

he Daddy-Daughter Dance is a subject I have spent too much time thinking about, discussing and railing against. Because more people figure I’m the strange one than agree with me, I have learned I should keep my thoughts to myself.

Still, I have always considered it bizarre that we worry now and will worry so much later about our little girls once they reach dating age, yet we have an event mimicking a date when they are as young as 3 or 4. Dress up, dinner, dancing; of course girls love all three, and love their daddies as well.

We cannot say no to them, especially based on one’s own reservations about the event.

The main arguments I’ve heard for the value of DaddyDaughter Dance, other than the time spent together, is that we are modeling how they should be treated by boys and men. My natural reaction is well, sure, but do we not model that daily interacting with our wives?

I have a great point, I know, but at the risk of being seen as a grumpy weirdo, I’ll

stop there and finish with a, “Of course, I’ll go if they want to.”

If there are still people nearby after my deep analysis, I might treat them to wondering, “And what about Mommy-Son Dances?”

We can brainstorm just what would be the equivalent for our boys, gender-stereotypes be damned: Mommy-Son Fishing, Mommy-Son Ballgame, Mommy-Son Lego Building, Mommy-Son Touch Football, Mommy-Son, uh, Wrestling?

And what female behaviors would those activities model?

How the women who care for them and love them are willing to try to participate in their hobbies and recreation?

I like that, though again, this should be apparent daily.

The difference is, if the local park district and schools offered those activities, sons

PHOTO BY LAURI NOVAK PHOTOGRAPHY

likely wouldn’t beg their moms to partner with them for an event the way girls do once they know DaddyDaughter Dance registration has begun.

Writing this reminds me to register, because despite my contrarianism, I love making them happy. I have done one Daddy-Daughter Dance, when our 9-year-old was 6, and will do at least one more, likely this year, because her 7-year-old sister demands fairness (and loves dress-up, dinner, dancing and her Daddy).

The 9-year-old, Maggie,

is extremely social and our night consisted of dress-up, dinner, and for her, dancing with any friends she could find on the floor. Her sister Darcy may demand more Daddy dancing than her sister did. OK by me, I can bust out the ‘80s/’90s moves still.

Maggie had a blast. Darcy will have a great night as well. My belief that our first dance should be on their wedding days will be for my heart only.

Joe Bush is a Chicago dad and freelance writer.

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ChicagoParent.com February 2015 33

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Both folk wisdom and hard research tell us that people tend to marry their parents. Not literally, unless you’re King of Thebes or live considerably farther south of the Mason-Dixon than Chicagoland. That means your current behavior may be the best possible indicator of the behavior of your future sons- and daughters-in-law.

MATT ROCCO If that last sentence didn’t make you put your flask back in your desk drawer and clear your web browser, I don’t know what will.

I asked my daughter, Viva, if she remembers from last year what happens on St. Valentine’s Day. “Hearts,” she said with a toddler’s T-shirtready logic. And she’s right: Hearts happen. Paper hearts change hands, metaphorical hearts flutter around people’s heads. Sometimes hearts are broken.

How you as a parent handle this romantic holiday in front of your kids might determine not only whether or not your wife moves to a separate bedroom when the kids go to college, but also how your children expect to be treated by their partners later in life.

If Cupid fluttered out of your home when the stork fluttered in, you’d better find him again. You still need love in the time of Caillou.

Budgets and taste vary from couple to couple—you might go for dinner at Sepia before Tannhäuser at the Lyric, or perhaps a heart-shaped Malnati’s pizza before “When Harry Met Sally” on Blu-Ray. Just don’t be selfish and end up

at a monster truck rally in Rosemont. (Unless that’s your couple’s jam, of course.

Chacun à son goût.)

Whatever you choose to do, when you send the children to Grandma’s, let them know where and why you and Mommy are headed out on the town—you’re celebrating the love that started with a whisper and, just a few grueling rounds of IVF later, led to their birth.

(Maybe leave off that last part.)

If they take note, then maybe their future Valentine will make hearts happen, too.

Viva Valentine’s. Viva Viva.

Viva Daddy.

34 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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REAL PARENTS IN THE TRENCHES

Not including communication and honesty, what is the key to true love?

Money. I kid, sort of. Seriously, in my house it’s understanding where the other person is coming from.

When that doesn’t work, I just do as I’m told.

Ryan Salzwedel, Chicago

Focus on and appreciate all their good qualities and show a lot of grace and encouragement when it comes to their lessthan-perfect ways.

Gia Lee, Chicago

There is no simple answer. I think two people who are willing to work hard and fight for love through good times and bad.

Jackie Sergeant, Richton Park

@

Want more? Visit ChicagoParent.com/parentpanel

Respect and appreciation go a long way. Never take anything for granted, especially the little things.

Do more than your share, but never keep score.

Lisa Cheruff, Skokie

The key to true love is finding out what makes your partner feel loved. You could be doing all sorts of things that you feel make someone feel special, but if the other person couldn’t care less, it means nothing. Read The Five Love Languages!

Very true!

Tracie Guzolek, Chicago

I knew I was entering into a relationship that would last a lifetime when I cared just as much about his life as I did about my own.

It was no longer about me, instead it was about what would work best for both of us.

Kerry Quirin, Downers Grove

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ChicagoParent.com February 2015 35

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A real-life crush for Nora, 5. She and Wesley, 5, split a milkshake at Lickity Split, Chicago.

PHOTO BY THOMAS KUBIK/ TK PHOTOGRAPHY

36 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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Love in a social media world

HANDLING YOUNG LOVE AND CRUSHES

I

BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER

t’s something parents are not always prepared for and can definitely catch them off-guard—the day your child declares, “I have a boyfriend.”

Don’t panic! There are simple ways to use young relationships as learning experiences and confidence builders.

“First, take a deep breath,” says Julianne Neely, owner and therapist at Individual and Family Connection. “You want your kids to feel comfortable coming to you with their relationship questions, dilemmas and problems.”

According to Neely, the best things parents can do are listen and respond with curiosity.

“So swallow the part of you that wants to freak out when your sixth-grade daughter tells you she has a crush. This is a big deal in their world right now, and they need you to get on their level and hear them out,” she says.

Instead of immediately giving your own opinion and advice, dive into a conversation with your child and really listen.

Young love and childhood crushes are obviously very common, but it’s critical how parents react and support their kids as they experience these normal feelings.

As a mom of two daughters, Ellen Goldrick Riordan of Westchester often worries about her children dating in the new age of social media and technology.

“Relationships now have a level of exposure that can be alarming, and I’ve seen personally how people play out their relationships online for anyone to read. I don’t want my girls to be hurt publicly online,” she says.

Linda Morgan, parenting expert and author of Beyond Smart: Boosting Your Child’s Social, Emotional, and Academic Potential, warns that puppy love is much more sophisticated today.

“Young love has been around for a long time, but Twitter, Facebook and YouTube have not. Thanks to cyberspace, teen and tween crushes and relationships move at a supersonic pace these days,” says Morgan.

“Kids just know more.

Behaviors that we used to see in teenagers are now common among 11, 12 and 13 year olds.

There’s more information out there and there’s a speedier rumor mill. And younger children, less developmentally mature, aren’t really equipped with appropriate coping mechanisms,” Morgan says.

That means parents will be facing relationship issues earlier than ever.

“Parents need to really be plugged into their kids’ lives,” says Morgan. “Ask questions.

Invite their friends for dinner.

Meet their friends’ parents.

Parents should always know where their kids are and whom they are with.”

And though Morgan says parents should respect their kids’ privacy, she also encourages parents to know who your child is texting and to set limits on phone and screen time. She recommends using security and privacy settings on Internet browsers and social media sites and checking your child’s browser history regularly.

Often parents are nervous to have relationship conversations with their kids and wait until their kids come to them with questions, but experts agree that can be a mistake.

“It is key to remember that kids are already having this conversation whether parents are joining in or not,” says Neely.

“Kids are already getting information about romantic relationships from a variety of different sources. They receive relationship advice from magazines, TV shows, movies, friends, health class, the list goes on and on.

They are trying to sort through the flood of information, and they need a guide.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 38

ChicagoParent.com Ch C hiic c oParen en February 2015 37

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PUPPY LOVE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37

Focus on the positives

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Or as they see it,

Despite the parental worry that comes with puppy love and crushes, these young relationships often offer kids the opportunity to learn life lessons.

“On the positive side, kids learn how to navigate the sensitive emotions that are a normal part of a crush within the supportive structure of the family,” says Jill Hope, founder and empowerment coach at I Shine.

“When the crush is not reciprocated or a relationship ends, parents can coach and support their child through the emotions and help them stay focused on all that is good in their life,” she says.

Although it might be

5

uncomfortable, she encourages parents to keep an open dialogue on all aspect of relationships, including sexual, for the appropriate age.

“While many kids may choose not to discuss this aspect of their lives with their parents, it is important that a child knows their parents are always there for them to talk, support and guide them without judgment,” says Hope.

Neely agrees.

“Learning how to pick positive healthy partners, how to end a relationship, how to survive a breakup and how to set relationship boundaries are great life skills,” she says.

“They are encountering real-life dilemmas, but still have their parents’ care and rules to fall back on.”

tips for staying clued in to your child’s first crush

1 2

Watch for red flags, such as a sudden drop in grades or obsession with seeing a friend.

3

Watch for behavioral changes, such as extreme secretiveness.

4

Be more open about your own first relationships and crushes.

5

Be available to talk to your child, not lecture.

Keep your eye on your child’s computer use.

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From Beyond Smart: Boosting Your Child’s Social, Emotional and Academic Potential by Linda Morgan

38 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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a search for

BY DONNA BOZZO t only happens once a blue moon: A red hot Valentine Date Night. Yep, draw a lipstick heart around the big ole Saturday square this year and make some steamy plans for you and your honey right here in sweet home Chicago.

Here are a few red-hot spots to put on your love list!

1

Catch the sexy vibe at Chicago’s newest hot spot Fresh, contemporary and posh, the brand new FIG & OLIVE is heating up Chicago’s Gold Coast a la the South of France. Slip onto a sleek cocktail couch and sip a chilled Grey Goose martini while checking out the scene. Diners settle into white tables or slide into comfy, cozy booths complete with pillows for a Mediterraneaninspired meal. On Valentine’s Day, ladies will receive a special gift. The rosemary lamb chop will make your heart flip flop and the Chilean sea bass is a great catch—just like your Valentine!

104 E. Oak St., Chicago; figandolive.com

2

Gritty Valentine: Rewind an old crime scene If you are looking for a different kind of scene and you have trouble tearing away your hubby from repeats of The Godfather on USA, turn the channel on him this year. Take him to a real crime scene—the scene of the 1929 St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, the mass murder of seven members of Bugs Moran’s North Side Gang. Across from this infamous crime scene, the rumored lookout post for the hoodlum henchmen of the Valentine gunners, you’ll find The Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Company, a dark little pizza joint that’s been tossing and (up) turning pizza for decades. The upside of this upside-down pizza spot is you can get in without a reservation.

If your honey misses his remote too much, cap off the night with the 1967 classic movie.

2121 N. Clark St., Chicago; chicagopizzaand ovengrinder.com

3

Steall away: Steal Stea A hidden Italian hi wine wi ne cellar Nestlee iinside n id ns ide a cozy Italian Itaali l an n wine win inee cellar away fantastically ce ell llar ar ttucked ucke uc ked d aw way at the fa fan ntas asti tically popular scene Siena Tavern po opu p lar scen ne at S iena Tav ver ern n for your own romantic dinner wn n ro oma m ntic dinne nerr partyy forr up u to 14 guests. Or skip the cellar and join the party upstairs—there is always lots happening at this everyone-loves-me River North spot. You’ll fancy both bar areas and the contemporary fun beat of this trendy tart. Take my love notes: Belly up to the Pizza Bar for fantastic appetizers and order the squid ink linguini with lobster tail. It will absolutely melt your heart!

51 W. Kinzie St., Chicago; sienatavern.com

Flip for o dip ps!

If fondu duee iss your th du hing, or evven n if it’s not, you’ u’’ll fall in love wi with th h Gejja’ as C fe,, a ro Ca romantic Lincoln ln Par ark rest sttau aura ura rant an that th hat creeat a es e an in inti tim te moo tima ti ood d fo for llo oveerss.

Gett fr Ge fresh essh wi w th h fon ond due ue en entr tree eess yo you u cook o righ ri ght gh ht at your taabl blee. No st straang ngerr to love, this 50-year arr-o -old ld res esta taurant ha hass weelcomed ed d about 13 30, 0,00 00 00 fi f rst dates and witn tnesse tn sed abou ut 16 1 ,,0 000 00 engagements. Thee lobsteer iss exqu uiiissit site and theree are r lots off fan ntas taast sticc w nees that won’t bre wi reak ak the bank. k Lea e ve ro oom om for dessert rt bec e au ause the cho ho oco colate fondue will su fo sure reely sweeten e you en ourr da day. y. It will will wi ll be rolling g out the he rom mance c fo ce orr a weeekk lo ong Valentin ne’ e’ss Day Daay extr t av avag ag gan anzza, za, in incl clludin ud din ng Celebr brratio ation n of o Mar a riag ag age ge on Mon onda day, y,, Lov ovee No otee Tue uesd sd day and d Speeciial Val a en enti tine ne’s ’s d nn di nnerr packages..

340 W. Armitag 34 age, e, Chi hica cago g ; ge go geja j scaf affe. e.co com co m

CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

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ROMANCE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 39

5

Strike a pose!

As you crisscross the city on your romantic rendezvous, bridge the night and pucker up for a quick Valentine’s Day couple’s selfie on the Chicago River. With the magnificent Wrigley Building in the background, it’s the shutter for hearts aflutter.

Applies to general admission only and must use discount code 34CP. Plus tax. Not valid with groups, special offers or any other discounts. Upgrade packages are additional.

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2 Adult Admissions to the 2-hour Tournament and Four-Course Meal • Photo of Couple in a fold-over Keepsake Frame • 2 Cheering Flags • 1 Sweetheart Light Up Rose • 2 Logo Champagne Glasses

40 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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• Lite Brite Wall • Climbing Wall • Transportation Station

6

• Engineering Mega Station

Soak in a 180-degree view of Chicago If a little tub-bubbly is more your style, you’ll find an enormous infinity bathtub awaiting you and your favorite swim partner in the gorgeous bathroom of a southeast corner suite at the JW Marriott. After your romantic soak, enjoy the spacious suite with flat screen TVs and fluffy robes for two. Guests can indulge in the Ultimate Romance Package with champagne delivery, spa treatments, atmen inroom dining and a late checkout—allowing just allowing you ju enough time for some extra splish-splash.

151 W. Adams St., Chicago; marriott.com/hotels/ travel/chijw-jw-marriott-chicago jw-marriott-chicago

• Tubes and Tunnels • Water Play • Dress up Stage • Toddler Area • Private Birthday Parties

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7

A fight for forbidden lo love ve It’s edgy, electrifying ng an aand d tragically romantic.

Jazz up your night with one of the world’s greatest love stories, West Side Story at Drury Lane Theatre. It tells the tale of two star-crossed lovers, an Italian boy and Puerto Rican girl caught between rival gangs. A modern Romeo and Juliet, West Side Story promises an electrifying night with hum-all-week-long songs like “Somewhere,” “Tonight,” “I Feel Pretty,” and my absolute favorite, “America.”

100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace; drurylane.com CONTINUED ON PAGE 42

• Professionally trained/experienced night nurses (Registered Nurses & Baby Nurses)

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email: info@ourjoyinfantcare.com ChicagoParent.com February 2015 41

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ROMANCE

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Baby, light my fire Cozy up to a table-side fireplace—the 40-foot-high fire pit at Zed 451, and get sweet on the night with Zed’s amazing desserts. The banana cream pie with milk chocolate Guinness ice cream and butterscotch bread pudding with housemade marshmallow will have you whipped.

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www.fredmargolisdds.com 42 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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10

Heat things up at home with a little help from your friends If home is where your heart is, plan a romantic evening at Chez Vous. With Chicago-based Home Chef, you will find everything you need to create a gourmet meal delivered right to your doorstep. Don’t know how to cook? No problem. You’ll crush it with Home Chef’s easyto-follow (and easy to hide) cheat sheets. homechef.com

9

Love on the rocks Who needs anything but the stars?

Find some flat Lake Michigan rocks on the Chicago shoreline and create your own moonlit picnic. Sure the wind is fierce, but you’ve got each other to keep you warm!

Donna Bozzo is a mom, freelance writer and the woman behind the website theladywiththealligatorpurse.com.

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ChicagoParent.com February 2015 43

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rule number 1:

BY CORTNEY FRIES usy parents need to follow three simple (or not-sosimple, depending on how you look at it) rules when it comes to recreating the magic of those early days when they fell in love, says April Masini, relationship expert, author and founder of AskApril.com:

1 Don’t talk shop. Leave all talk of the kids behind when you get together time. Just speak of each other.

2 Preen. It may feel cheesy and unnecessary, but it’s not. Buy a fun outfit. Do your hair.

3 Make plans in advance. Show you care by putting some thought into what your partner would like.

Here are five out-of-the-box ideas to help get you following Masini’s advice.

1

Your spouse will thank you for these ideas

2

See your spouse a whole new way King Spa & Sauna, 809 Civic Center Drive, Niles, kingspa.com/chicago

If you find you are parents in need of peaceful quality time, the Korean-inspired King Spa is the spot. With nine saunas, a movie theater with recliners, and casual but delicious food, it’s a great place to reconnect.

You’ll immediately feel transported to an exotic destination because guests enjoy the luxurious male-only and female-only pools in the nude. Either skip it and move into the main unisex area or embrace a new

Enjoy an unforgettable meal at home Lobster Gram, lobstergram.com, (800) 548-3562

Live lobsters, shrimp, steaks, appetizers, desserts and more can be delivered right to your door for an awesome evening in. Flown in fresh from Maine, they arrive with all the fixings so you don’t have to worry about a thing.

My husband and I feasted on the delicious Lobster Gram. Just like at our favorite steakhouses, the filets were thick and juicy. Even Restaurant Impossible Chef Robert Irvine would approve of the crab cakes. And for just heating and eating, the clam chowder and chocolate lava cake were exceptional.

Order online for home delivery or pick up at Lobster Gram’s Chicago warehouse for up to 65 percent off catalog prices, 4664 N. Lowell Ave, Chicago, (773) 777-4123.

After dinner, order in a movie for snuggling or plan a relaxing tub soak together.

level of comfort with your body.

Massages, scrubs, bs, facials and foot rubs aree offered.

The acupressure massage, Seasoned Salad with Nuts, and fresh mango smoothies are my favorites. Unusual options, like infrared ared baths and patbingsu shaved aved ice dessert, allow forr adventurous experiences.

Open around the he clock, no appointa ments are required. ed. Matt and Alena A Ford, who enjoy regular ar date nights at King Spa, say it is a healthyy place to relaxx and discuss anything (just not ot the kids).

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3

Get your engines revving Gotham Dream Cars, gothamdreamcars.com, (877) 246-8426

Nothing is sexier than seeing my husband’s adrenaline pumping behind the wheel of a yellow Lamborghini. Make the fantasy of driving an exotic sports car a reality with Gotham Dream Cars.

In the warmer months, Gotham brings their Dream Car Sprints to Chicago. Specially designed autocross courses allow you to hit the gas, twist, turn and feel the thrill of driving amazing machines.

Use discount code “Chicago Parent” to lower the price from $250 to $125 and prepare to get your hearts racing (and keep them racing long after the car’s engine is cold).

4

Seek out some serenity Serenity Springs, S5888 U.S. 35, LaPorte, Ind., serenity-springs.com, (219) 861-0000

If you can secure a sleepover for the kids, Serenity Springs is the perfect adults-only getaway.

90-minute drive from Chicago, A 90-m this rom romantic retreat is situated on privately owned wooded acres.

85 priv Horse-drawn carriages whisk you Horse-d to yyour cozy cabin with fireplaces and sunken whirlpool tubs for d sun two.

What you do there is up to two o. W you.

Just remember rule #1. you u. Ju

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Mt. Prospect Park District has the BEST birthday parties!

www.classiccinemas.com

Book your party NOW! 847-255-5380 www.mppd.org

Chicago Grammar School Presents The Sapere Aude Speaker Series “Dare to Know” Chicago Grammar School provides a rigorous classical liberal arts education that teaches children to think.

The CGS motto, Sapere Aude – Dare to Know, represents both the process and the endpoint of a classical liberal arts education. Rather than waiting until high school or college, CGS students form the mindset for critical thinking and learn cultural literacy and the integrative nature of knowledge from the very beginning of their educational journey.

William Deresiewicz Renowned Author of “Excellent Sheep”

Akihiko Takahashi, PhD Mathematics Education

Students are losing the ability to think in innovative ways. Deresiewicz delivers a ground-breaking manifesto for people searching for the kind of insight on leading, thinking, and living that elite schools should be—but aren’t—providing, candidly exposing where the system is broken and clearly presenting solutions.

Many schools claim to teach critical thinking.

But what does that practice actually look like? Continuing his dialogue from The New York Times Sunday Magazine article "Why Do Americans Stink at Math?", Dr. Takahashi discusses" teaching through problem solving" as a method to strengthen perseverance and deepen a child's critical thinking ability.

February 5, 2015 7pm

March 9, 2015 7pm

Reserve your ticket at www.chicagogrammar.org Chicago Grammar School

900 N Franklin

Chicago, IL 60610

312-944-5600

www.chicagogrammar.org

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Ready to

Learn. Ready to Grow. Ready to Discover.

Little GEMS International Pre-School in Lincoln Park is the place where your child can learn and explore, grow and develop, and enjoy discovering the world.

As part of GEMS Education’s global network of award-winning schools, children at Little GEMS International Pre-School receive an early start on a world-class education in structured and safe learning environments. We may be the new kid in Chicago, but GEMS Education has been the world’s foremost provider of private education for children from birth through Grade 12 for over fifty years. www.lgipreschool-chicago.com

Schedule a pre-school tour today!

To learn more about Little GEMS International Pre-School and our newest Chicago school, GEMS World Academy-Chicago (K–12), call us at 312-361-3539.

LINCOLN PARK

Little GEMS International Pre-School • 2301 North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60614 • 312. 361.3539

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5 ways to tame the grumpy bears sick of hibernating nating in your house

Cabin fever

BUSTERS

B

BY SAMANTHA A SCHULTZ

y the time February ary rolls around in Chicago, we have usually had our fair share of cold weather. Unfortunately, that means we moms find the kids are going stir-crazy staying inside.

To help you, I have put together some ways to beat the winter doldrums.

Drive-in movie Save those shipping boxes from the holidays or ask local businesses for empty cardboard boxes.

Have your kids turn them into personalized cars complete with plates for wheels. The fancier, the better! Think stickers, markers and crayons. Once you’ve spent some time assembling the cars, have each child choose a pillow and blanket as their seat in the vehicle. Pop some popcorn and have your very own drive-in movie on your TV. This activity provides a few different opportunities to beat the

Family restaurant

winter blues and promises to continue to bring days of fun as the kids reuse the cars for all sorts of fun indoor activities. Let their imaginations drive future possibilities!

Take your role as shortorder cook to the next level when you help your kids re-create their most recent restaurant experience in your home. Bust out the aprons, assign your kids and their friends to different restaurant roles (cook, waitress, hostess) and have them collect orders, practice preparing food, draw menus and get creative with their menu offerings. This is

a perfect time to try out those Pinteresting kid-friendly recipes.

You might even consider having different themed restaurants on different days such as a diner, Mexican fare or breakfast brunch.

Your kids will love cooking up something extra-special for you. Just make sure that you don’t get stuck doing the dishes!

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Obstacle course Worried that your kids jump on couches and beds too much?

Give them an opportunity to do it with your permission! Use couch cushions, pillows and all the blankets you own to create an obstacle course fit for a kid.

Hula hoops make perfect targets and can mimic tires for hopping through.

If you’re feeling especially ambitious, add in a few trivia questions they have to get correct before proceeding to the next part of the course. Change things up by forming new teams, adding in fresh events throughout (like building a Lego house, drawing a pretty picture or jumping up and down 10 times). Tire the kids out without

Dance party

ever having to bundle up and head outdoors!

Imagination station My kids love to create art projects, but sometimes they get tired of using the typical crayons and markers. Instead, set up a surprise imagination station for them to create to their heart’s content while using new and fresh media.

A few ideas include paint, paintbrushes, shaving cream, noodles, pipe cleaners, leftover ribbon, felt, buttons, glitter or glue. Pair these tools with new canvases such as chalkboards, butcher paper or actual paint canvases. You’ll be surprised at what they can create.

Once the projects are completed, display an indoor art gallery using string or rope and clothespins. Invite friends and family over for a hot cocoa bar and a chance to buy the art.

Donate the art gallery funds to a local organization or family in need.

Put those new Christmas gift electronics to good use.

Whether the kids are rocking out to YouTube videos, Just Dance or a Pandora station, get the beats going and have fun with an impromptu dance party any time of day!

Make dinner to the tunes of Glee covers or clean the house with Pitch Perfect in the background. The crazier the dance moves, the better. Dancing

also works as great exercise, so rest assured that those holiday goodies will shake their way off.

Up the dancing ante by creating a game of Freeze Dance.

Stop the music at random intervals and watch little wiggleworms try to stop their bodies from moving. Take dance moves to the next level by reenacting favorite scenes from Dancing with the Stars and encourage them to create glittered costumes. Turn that cabin fever into Saturday Night Fever!

Find even more ideas on our Pinterest page (pinterest.com/chiparent) and share your favorite ways to beat the winter doldrums and escape Chiberia.

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Five questions to ask before you decide

Sending your kid

off to camp?

A

BY CARRIE RODOVICH

lthough you are watching the weather for snowfall predictions every day, summer is rapidly approaching. And now is the time to begin choosing which summer camp your children will attend.

Whether your child is interested in music or chess, or you’re looking for a residential camp or a day camp, it is hard even to begin to know what questions you should ask before registering and making that first payment.

Here are five questions to ask that might make your decision easier:

1

Is the camp accredited through the American Camp Association?

Being accredited isn’t mandatory, but it means that the camp has allowed outsiders to inspect the camp for safety and a wide variety of other issues, says Gordie Kaplan, executive director of the American Camp Association’s Illinois chapter. “... It is a plus for them,” he says. “It

doesn’t mean that a camp that’s not accredited isn’t doing a safe job or a good job.”

2

Does the camp offer a day camp, a residential camp or both? Kaplan says parents should involve their children in choosing the camp by doing research into the camp and its specialties, and

whether the camp is a sleep-away residential camp or whether it is a day camp that lets kids go home every night.

A residential camp isn’t a good fit for every child, Kaplan says. But if a child is comfortable with sleepovers at friends’ or extended family members’ homes, they might be ready to graduate to a residential camp.

“It should not be ‘Mommy and Daddy want you to go to camp because we want to go on a long trip.’ It should be something meaningful for the child,” he says.

Rona Roffey, the camp director for YMCA Camp Duncan, part of the YMCA Metropolitan Chicago, says many residential camps also offer day camps or mini-sessions that start on Sunday and go through Wednesday, so younger campers don’t have to commit to an entire week.

Roffey says Camp Duncan’s day camps start at age 4 and residential camps start at 7.

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“For younger campers, some are going to be ready for residential camp and some are not,” she says. “We’re prepared to help them through the tough first day or two.

But if they commit to a mini-session and are having fun and want to stay until Friday check-out, they can do that, too, and then pay the difference.”

3

How does a camp address safety and other issues?

Roffey says many parents ask about the staff and whether they go through background checks, but it is also important to ask other safety-related questions. It’s important to know how many staff members go through CPR training and first aid courses. Ask about lifeguards and other protocols around water-related activities.

Kaplan says it is also important to know the camper-to-staff ratio and know how the staff will manage issues like homesickness and communication between parents and children.

4

Can we visit the camp and will it provide references? What is the staff/camper retention rate?

Kaplan says you should be wary of a camp that won’t let you visit in advance.

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“You will get positive references from a camp, but you should also ask around to see if you know other families who have had experiences there,” he says. “You need CONTINUED ON PAGE 52

Looking for Childcare Solutions?

You can find great options in our Childcare Services section.

Private summer day camP

register today!

Located on the Lincoln Park Campus of DePaul University

Co-Ed Pre K - 8th grade June 22 - August 14, 2015 Extended Morning & Afternoon Hours Available

Fred’s Camp - Where Your Child’s Happiness is our Greatest Concern.

We offer a multi-faceted program including instructional swim, field trips, sports & games, special activities and more.

(773) 818-8027 www.fredscamp.com

We are a family owned business

Create, Play and Party with Your 18” Doll…

Sweet P. Doll Studio 106 West 3rd Street, Elmhurst 630.279.5453

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Register at sweetpdollstudio.com Camp I June 15-18 A Trip to…

Paris!!!

Camp II June 22-25 “Pet-Resort”

Camp III July 6-9 A day at The Beach…

Birthday Parties • Workshops • Camps • Play-dates • Walk-ins • Classes ChicagoParent.com February 2015 51

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CAMP

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 51

to check it out to see if it is a good fit. You don’t just want to take someone else’s word for it, and you can promise anything in a brochure or on a website.”

Isaac Brubaker, day and overnight camp director for Jewish Council for Youth Services’ Camp Henry Homer Day Camp in

Ingleside, says knowing how many campers and staff return year after year can tell a lot about the program.

“If you have a high return rate, you know those people are having enough fun that they want to come back year after year,” he says. “And that applies to staff as well as the campers.”

5

Can I meet the camp director? How passionate is

the staff?

Brubaker says possibly the most important thing is to meet someone in the upper level of the camp’s management and see what kind of passion they have for the camp. He has been a camp director for 20 years and is still excited to go to camp every day.

“You need to know that person is passionate, and make sure that passion trickles down,” he says. “If the person in charge is passionate and enthusiastic, that translates to the rest of the camp.”

Carrie Rodovich is a mom of two and freelance writer.

“For younger campers, some are going to be ready for residential camp and some are not. ” Rona Rolley YMCA Camp Duncan

Keep their creative juices flowing this summer!

Join us for hands-on adventure!

Exploring:

IGNITE YOUR CHILD’S PASSION

Code apps, design video games, mod with Minecraft, engineer robots, build websites, produce movies, and

HELD AT 100+ CAMPUSES NATIONWIDE

Loyola Benedictine Northwestern Lake Forest College Princeton • Stanford and more

iD Tech Camps Co-Ed, Ages 7-17

Alexa Café All-Girls, Ages 10-15

iD Game Design & Development Academy

• Ceramics • Science Experiments • Drawing • Painting • Sculpture • Sewing • Much More!

Choose from morning or afternoon camp. Ages 4-12, children are grouped according to age.

Visit www.magicalmindsstudio.com to register!

Co-Ed, Pre-College, Ages 13-18

iD Programming Co-Ed, Pre-College, Ages 13-18

iD Tech Mini Co-Ed, 6-9, Half-Day Options

www.iDTech.com/Chicago • 1-888-709-TECH (8324)

343 Harrison Street • Oak Park • 708.948.7934

52 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section // Day Camps School of the Art Institute of Chicago Multi-Arts Summer Camps

Center for Talent Development (CTD) at Northwestern University

SAIC’s downtown Chicago campus Chicago (312) 629-6170 saic.edu/summercamps

2015 Summer Program 617 Dartmouth Pl., Evanston (847) 491-3782 ext. 2 ctd.northwestern.edu/summer

In SAIC’s 1- and 2-week camps in June, July, and August, kids work together on a variety of fun projects, including painting, drawing, mixed-media, sculpture, printmaking, performance, digital art, and more. Camps are grouped by ages 4-5, 6-7, and 8-9, and include regular opportunities to explore the Art Institute of Chicago museum.

Life-changing residential and commuter programs for academically gifted children, age 4–grade 12, at Northwestern University and other Chicago-area sites. Students delve into a subject of intrigue, build upon strengths and connect with a community of peers. Enrichment and credit courses in a range of subject areas.

Single and multi-week programs.

The Avery Coonley School 1400 Maple Ave., Downers Grove (630) 969-0800 Educational and recreational programs for children ages 4 to 14, open to the public. Select from a wide range of courses that stimulate curiosity, creativity, and higher-level thinking while strengthening existing skills. Three sessions: June 15-June 26, June 29-July 10, July 13-24. Enriching your child’s life is our #1 priority!

Baker Summer Discovery Camp 201 Sheridan Rd., Wilmette (847) 425-5800 bakerdemschool.org/summerpro-

camp 2015

taught by expert instructors in science, sports, art, circus performing, drama, music and dance. Serving children 24 months thru 6th grade. More info at Brickton.org/summer.

​Chicago Athletic Clubs photo courtesy of light opera works

gram.html summer@bakerdemschool.org

Fun Fridays make for an engaging summer. June 15 - August 14.

Have fun while you learn this summer! Baker Summer Discovery Camp offers a blend of hands-on, educational activities with traditional summer camp fun. Musical Theater, Educational Explorations, Chicago Bulls Rookies and Veteran Camp, Play-Well TEKnologies, STEAM, BIT/CIT programs, small camp groups, caring, experienced collegeage counselors, swim instruction, and

Brickton Montessori School 8622 W. Catalpa, Chicago (773) 714-0646 Brickton.org Brickton Montessori School is fully accredited by the American Montessori Society and the Independent Schools Association of the Central States. Summer enrichment classes are

1019 W Diversey Pkwy, Chicago (773) 529-2022 ChicagoAthleticClubs.com Chicago Athletic Club Mini Campers ages 2-4 will have a blast exploring socialization and gross motor skills through creative movement, sports, yoga, ballet, and live guitar circle. Arts and crafts, story time, and snack time will round out each day! Visit www. chicagoathleticclubs.com for dates, prices, and online registration.

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camp 2015 // special advertising section Chicago Grammar School 900 N. Franklin, Chicago (312) 944-5600 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 16-July 25.

CircEsteem 4730 N. Sheridan, Chicago (773) 732-4564 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.

College of DuPage Youth Academy 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn (630) 942-2208 cod.edu/youth Join College of DuPage this summer for an unforgettable summer of fun!

We offer full-day camp, educational,

enrichment and talent search academic classes to children ranging from kindergarten through high school.

Our programs run from June 15 to August 14. For more information, contact Continuing Education at (630) 9422208 or www.cod.edu/youth.

Cornerstone Children’s Learning Center Summer Camp 1111 N. Wells St., Suite 200, Chicago (312) 573-8900 www.childtime.com/9108 Your child can enjoy summer while learning skills to expand his/her growth! There is fun for 2-5 year olds like having a picnic, playing in a sprinkler and more. Our exciting learning summer program for 6 and 7 year olds includes amazing field trips to the museums, zoos, and even planting a garden.

Freds Camp The DePaul University Athletic Training Center 2323 N. Sheffield Ray Mayer Fitness & Recreation Center 2235 N. Sheffield (773) 818-8027 fredscamp.com We offer a broad and flexible program encouraging campers to participate and challenge themselves. Through creative and stimulating activities,

Academic Adventures for Bright Young Learners 2015 Leapfrog Summer Program Age 4 – Grade 3 • Fun courses that engage and challenge advanced learners • Weeklong, half-day and all-day courses • 6 program sites throughout Chicago area

Center for Talent Development Northwestern University

EXPLORE OUR PROGRAMS

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

Great Programs for Grades 4 – 12 • • • •

Assessment to identify strengths Residential summer programs on top-tier college campus Weekend enrichment courses Rigorous, individualized online courses

54 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section //

camp 2015 2013

CircEsteem

1 week sessions June 22nd - Aug 14th ages 7 and up

Early Bird Deadline ends March 15th Save up $240!

www.CircEsteem.org for more details!

Registration now open!

Join us by session or week June 15 - August 7

Open to campers ages Pre-K - Grade 8

Register by March 1, 2015 & get the Early Bird Special!

Visit bakerdemschool.org.

SPRING MUSICAL THEATRE WORKSHOP Begins February 7th!

12 Weeks of Musical Theatre Exploration culminating in a fully staged musical!

AFFORDABLE SUMMER CAMPS One, Three, and Six week sessions available!

Acting, Singing, Dancing, Swimming, Crafts, and Outdoor Activities!

Early Registration Discounts!

Camps & Workshops taught in the Palatine/Schaumburg, Rolling Meadows area For more info - visit our website at www.artreachspotlite.com or call our offices at (847) 372-7798 or (773) 604-1892.

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camp 2015 // special advertising section In e ett Wilm

Ages

Make this your child’s best summer yet!

8–18

Summer Workshop No auditions • Every child gets a part The Sound of Music (ages 8–13) • June 15–20 Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka (ages 8–13) • June 22–27 Annie (ages 8–13) • July 6–11 Fiddler on the Roof (ages 8–13) • July 13–18 Shrek The Musical (ages 8–13) • July 20–25 South Pacific teen production (ages 13–18) July 29–August 16 (audition required) Public performance August 17, 7:30 pm

Join us for a summer full of fun in the sun.

Sacred Heart offers something for every child.

Our day camps include a variety of academic and recreational activities.

Summer at Sacred Heart June 15 – July 24 for Ages 3-15 For a brochure or more information, please call: (773) 262-4446 www.shschicago.org

(847) 920-5360•LightOperaWorks.com/summer.html

6250 N. SheridaN road ChiCago, iL 60660-1799

Learning Through Play Center for Child Development ally Profession trained staff , speech focuses on d behavior, an s to goal l ta en m p develo d and child atten help your a in ce en gain confid tting. se m o o classr

Summer Camp and Groups 2015 Speech & Language camp for preSchooLerS: (3-5yo) Intensive speech program, Mondays—Thursdays 9am-11am Focuses on increasing attention, spontaneous language skills, and transition skills; builds self-confidence in classroom settings

STRICTLY SPEECH: 3:30pm—4:30pm (2-4yo) Appropriate for children with speech disorders or language delays

SOCIALIZATION: Fridays 9am-10am (2-4 yo) Gentle separation and introduction to peer interaction

FEEDING GROUP: Wed 11:30am-12:30pm

(2+yo)

Learn to tolerate different tastes and textures in a fun, relaxed setting (led by SLP certified in Beckman Oral Motor) Currently accepting new clients for individual Speech Therapy —call us to schedule!

633 W Addison | Chicago | 60613 | Phone: 312 458 9865 | pediatricresources.com | Fax: 312 284 4776 56 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section // children will have the opportunity to develop physical coordination, awareness of themselves as group members, self-esteem and sensitivity to their environment.

interests. Also in Chicago: Alexa Café (all-girls, ages 10-15), iD Tech Mini (ages 6-9), and 2-week, pre-college Teen Academies (ages 13-18).

Game On! Sports Camps 4 Girls

Held at Benedictine University (888) 709-8324 iDTechMini.com

Chicago (Walt Disney Magnet School) Lake Forest (Woodlands Academy) (847) 229-9959 (800) NIKE-CAMP gameonsportscamp.com Game On! has spent years devoted to inspiring GIRLS, ages PreK - 8th, through its proven teaching methodology, fun programming and spirited traditions.

Name a sport – we play it. We know that learning the right way and understanding the sport leads to increased confidence and the ability to enjoy.

Join us and feel #ProudToPlayLikeAGirl #GirlsCan #SportsEmpower #GirlTalk #CharacterCounts

iD Tech Camps Held at Northwestern, Loyola, Lake Forest College, and Benedictine (888) 709-8324 iDTech.com Inspired by hip, tech-savvy instructors, ages 7-17 code apps, design video games, mod with Minecraft, engineer robots, build websites, produce movies, and meet friends who share their

camp 2015 2013

iD Tech Mini

Kids ages 6-9 love iD Tech Mini, where half day options let aspiring innovators discover a love for tech. Campers make new friends and learn hands-on STEM skills in a kid-friendly environment. Also in Chicago: iD Tech Camps (ages 7-17), Alexa Café (all-girls, ages 10-15), and Teen Academies (ages 13-18).

JCC Apachi Day Camps (3 years-7th grade) Chicago at UIC (773) 938-8348 Chicago at Northside College Prep (847) 763-3504 Northbrook (847) 272-7050 Lake Zurich (847) 726-0800 gojcc.org/daycamp Swim, run, play and thrive at one of our premier camps where life enriching values are infused throughout camp activities such as climbing walls, fine arts, sports ,swim instruction and lively celebrations of culture and heritage.

Join us for an unmatched summer, building independence, confidence, character and lifelong friendships.

Enter to win $500 toward camp tuition.

Camp & Summer Adventure Fair

Sunday, February 8, 2015 from 11am-3pm.

Daniel Wright Junior High School 1370 Riverwoods Road, Lincolnshire www.ptocampfair.weebly.com

MEDIA Connecting with families

Illinois Section

pto@d103.org

• FREE Admission • Meet Directors and Counselors • Over 60 local and national Summer programs represented • Covers Preschool to High School • A unique adventure for every child

SALT CREEK BALLET SUMMER

2015 Summer School

BALLERINA SUMMER FUN ages 3-8 6 wks. of Tuesday Afternoon Ballet June 15—July 24

Full Session: June 22–July 31 Session I: June 22–July 10 Session II: July 13–July 31

SUMMER BALLET CAMPS

Photo by Cheryl Mann

themes include Cinderella, Frozen, Rapunzel & more

July 27 - July 31 (Fairy Tale & Creative) August 3-August 7 (Fairy Tale & Creative) August 10-August 14 (Fairy Tale Only)

Fairy Tale Camp Dance Training  increases musicality  promotes teamwork  improves coordination  builds strength Is Fun!

Ages 3-4 9 am—11 am

Creative Ballet Camp Ages 5-7 12 noon—2 pm

Boys are Welcome too!

Excellence in Dance Training 630.769.1199 saltcreekballet.org 98 E Chicago Ave., Westmont, IL 60559

Children from Nursery through twelfth grade may choose from the variety of Morning, Afternoon, and Full Day classes. Summer School offers academic enrichment programs such as Math, Reading, Writing, Science, Art, Cooking, and more. Join us at Summer Lab, where the love of learning spends the summer.

Save $150—Register by March 15 Complimentary North Side Bus 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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camp 2015 // special advertising section JCC Apachi Village Day Camp (3-5 years) Northbrook (224) 406-9200 gojcc.org/village

Skokie (847) 763-3511 Flossmoor (773) 753-3080 Hyde Park (708) 753-3080 gojcc.org/daycamp

Preschoolers have the summer of a lifetime at the only big camp experience tailored specifically for them. Get the excitement of professional entertainment, sports, arts and swim instruction without busses or field trips. The intimate atmosphere, exceptional staff and great facilities ensure an outstanding summer experience.

Hugs, high-fives and ear-to-ear smiles greet preschoolers through teens.

Friendships blossom as campers find new interests or dive passionately into favorite activities such as swim instruction, sports, arts and celebrations of heritage and culture. Close to home and packed with adventure, activities and fun, every child is special at JCC.

JCC Early Childhood Preschool Summer Camp

Kiddie AcademyCamp Adventure

(18 months-3 yrs) Lakeview (773) 871-6780 Rogers Park (773) 761-9100 Skokie (847) 763-3523 Glencoe (847) 835-0008 Northbrook (847) 272-8707 (847) 901-0620 Lake Zurich gojcc.org/earlychildhood

Arlington Heights: 880 W. Dundee Road (847) 595-0722 Batavia: 2201 Main Street (630) 761-4500 Bolingbrook 540 W Boughton Road (630) 679-9400 Carpentersville: 112 Tay River Drive (840) 844-8600 Crystal Lake: 720 Cog Circle (815) 893-0924 Naperville: 2828 Patriot’s Lane Coming Soon!

Plainfield: 13703 S. Route 59 (815) 609-0900 Streamwood: 1040 Sutton Road

Tap into your little one’s sense of wonder with JCC’s unique summer program for developing young bodies and minds. Immerse your child in water play, art, stories, games and cultural celebrations in a secure and loving environment. Experience our unmatched personalized approach to care, development and fun.

JCC Neighborhood Camps (3 years-9th grade) Rogers Park (773) 761-9100

(630) 497-0200 kiddieacademy.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 Lab 2015 University of Chicago Laboratory Schools (773) 834-7766 summerlab.org Summer Lab’s six-week program includes Summer School, Adventure Kids Day Camp, Summer Lab Sports Camps, Fun in the Sun and Summer Lab on Stage. Please join us for a memorable Summer Lab experience, where love of learning spends the summer!

Latin School of Chicago Summer at Latin 59 W. North Blvd., Chicago (312) 582-6080 latinschool.org/summer Join us at Latin this summer. We have planned another summer full of educational and recreational opportunities for children ages 3 -18. In addition to day camp, we offer chess, basketball and volleyball camps as well as classes in math, science, art and language arts.

Life Skills Summer Camp 1409 N. Ogden Ave. Chicago (773) 231-7414 LifeSkillsEducators.com Cooking, Fitness, Nutrition, Money Management and Social Skills are taught in a fun, safe and nurturing environment throughout this 2 Week Day Camp. Boys and girls (6th-8th grade) learn team-building and leadership while gaining self-confidence through interactive and engaging activities, concluding with a final day community service project.

Montessori Academy of Chicago 1335 W. Randolph St., Chicago (312) 243-0977 (ask for Nina Pope) 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 in our state-of-the-art facility. Tuition includes: programming, organic lunch/ snacks, field trip costs and a flexible 7:00am to 6:30pm schedule. Five 2-week sessions begin June 8th. Minimum 3 sessions sign-up per family.

Morgan Park Academy 2153 W. 111th St., Chicago (773) 881-6704 morganparkacademy.org Join us for Summer Camp June 23rd to

His Best Summer Yet! North Shore School of Dance SUMMER DANCE CAMPS Fairy Tale and Favorite Story themes for ages 3 - 5 Ballet & Contemporary Camps for ages 6 - teen Intensive Study Programs for ages 10 - teen

Celebrating 25 years Professional faculty State of the art facility

847-432-2060

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

505 Laurel Avenue Highland Park

Your Son’s Adventure Begins At Developing Character, Through Adventure, Inspired by Tradition

Est. 1935 • Chippewa National Forest • Cass Lake, Minnesota

2-, 4-, and 8-week sessions from June – August

Mike & Mary Endres, Camp Directors mike@campchippewa.com • mary@campchippewa.com

www.northshoredance.com nssdance@aol.com

800-262-1544 • 218-335-8807 WWW.CAMPCHIPPEWA.COM

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special advertising section // August 1st. 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.

North Shore Country Day School Summer Programs 310 Green Bay Road, Winnetka (847) 441-3350 nscdscanps.org For more than 65 years, North Shore Country Day School’s Summer Programs have provided children with safe and fun summer experiences. Our camp programs for children ages 3-14 build a spirit of adventure, develop friendships and teach teamwork. For more information contact 847-4413350 www.nscdscamps.org

Northwestern Women’s Basketball Camps 2705 Ashland Ave. Evanston (847)491-5709 www.northwesterncatscamps.com/ Our camps, featuring head coach Joe McKeown and players, provide a funfilled learning experience for participants. Camps are designed to serve each individual camper, teaching fundamental skills as well as team play.

All camps are open to every girl, limited only by age and number of campers.

River Forest Community Center Summer Camp Programs 8020 Madison Street 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 1200 Davis St., Evanston (847) 866-6055 roycemoreschool.org/summer Which Roycemore summer adventure will you choose? Discovery Unlimited is a mornings-only enrichment program for age 4 through Grade 6. Two sessions of creative, hands-on offerings by grade pairs. 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 eight!

Sacred Heart Schools Summer at Sacred Heart 6250 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago (773) 262-4446 shschicago.org Make this the BEST summer yet!

Learning, and friendships, and fun…

Oh my! Whether it’s fun day camps, field trips or beach excursions… don’t miss out! Full and half day camps avail-

Camp Lee Mar, located in the beautiful Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, is a coed overnight camp for children and teenagers (from 7 to 21) with mild to moderate developmental challenges.

2015 Dates: June 24-August 11

camp 2015 2013

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

LIFE-CHANGING

A Life Changing Experience!

Check out our website at

www.leemar.com

• 2015 Launch of the Lee Mar L.I.F.E. Program • Fun traditional summer camp activities rd • Academics • Speech and language therapy Season!

• Daily living skills • Teenage campers enjoy social Winter Office dancing every week with an Camp Lee Mar end-of-summer “Prom” Ph: 215-658-1708 • Optional trips during the summer Fax: 215-658-1710 • Exceptional facilities featuring air conditioned bunks and buildings Email: gtour400@aol.com • Junior Olympic heated pool Like us on facebook • Caring Nurturing Staff

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Camp Sessions/Registration Starting Dates June 21-26 (Registration: Feb 3) June 28-July 3 (Registration: Feb 4) July 12-17 (Registration: Feb 5) July 19-24 (Registration: Feb 6) Registration opens at 8:00 am CST on each date.

Register online: www.lorasallsportscamps.com LORAS.EDU

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camp 2015 // special advertising section able. Summer fun begins June 15-July 24! Visit www.shschicago.org to make your summer a Summer at Sacred Heart!

Science & Arts Academy Summer Adventures in Learning 1825 Miner St., Des Plaines (847) 827-7880 scienceandartsacademy.org/summer

North Shore Country Day School Summer Programs

Summer Adventures in Learning (SAIL) at SAA provides morning enrichment classes and afternoon recreation experiences for preschool – 8th grade students. Flexible class options are available, including full and half-day preschool and kindergarten. SAIL runs from 9:00am-3:00pm, with early morning and extended day care available. Three, two-week sessions are offered: June 22 – July 31. Register for a fun-filled summer at scienceandartsacademy.org/summer.

Serves and Sail Waveland Park Tennis Courts/ Belmont Harbor (773) 871-7245 Servesandsails.com Introducing a new all-day sports camp for kids 10 – 16 years old! Expose your camper to two life-long sports: tennis and sailing. In one awesome week your child will master beginner tennis and sailing skills in a comprehensive 5-day camp. Sessions are offered weekly from 9 am to 4 pm.

Skokie Park District 9300 Weber Park Pl., Skokie

Summer adventures begin at an early age.

Climb on a rock. Climb a bigger rock. Learn what “jib” and “mast” mean while you get your sea legs. Achieve your first bullseye. Find out just how artistic you are as you create things from paper, paints and clay. For children 4-10 years of age, it’s all part of Day Camp at North Shore Country Day School.

(847) 674-1500 SkokieParks.org For more than 85 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!

Summer Programs at Parker 2015 330 W. Webster Ave., Chicago (773) 797-5104 fwparker.org/summers Francis W. Parker School’s Summer Programs at Parker 2015 offers exciting summer educational programs and recreational activities for students entering JK through 12th grade. Our campus offers access to many funfilled day camp activities, enrichment courses, sports conditioning camps, performing arts classes and a wide range of STEM-based course offerings. You can learn more or register for Summer Programs at Parker 2015 at fwparker.org/summers.

Sweet P. Doll Studio 106 West 3rd St., Elmhurst (630) 279-5453 sweetpdollstudio.com Summer Camps at Sweet P. Doll Studio offer creative fun for girls with their dolls. Choose from “A Paris Vacation, “Pet Resort”, and “A Day at The Beach” .Girls will create accessories sets and

Summer Camp for Kids with Special Needs Offering 8-week, full day, and overnight integrated camp options.

GYMNASTICS•ARCHERY•TENNIS ROCK CLIMBING•SAILING•CANOEING•SWIM LESSONS

A TIME FOR FUN, FRIENDSHIPS, ADVENTURES AND GROWTH.

Call 847.441.3350 for more information or visit www.nscdscamps.org

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

A RAINBOW OF HOPE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

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special advertising section // play with their doll as related to each theme. Camps are 2hrs/4days starting June 16, 2015. Visit our website for more information at sweetpdollstudio. com

Urban Prairie Waldorf School Summer Fun Programs 1220 W. Lexington St., Chicago (312) 533-7339 urbanprairie.org/camp Urban Prairie has put together an amazing summer line-up for children ages 6-12. Weekly camp offerings this year include our ever-popular Circus Camp, as well as Mandarin, Spanish, Painting, and Music Camps and much, much more. Each afternoon will feature a taste of Little Italy, like a walk to a local park or pool or a group trip to Mario’s for Italian ice. Students may sign up for single, full, or half days of camp with before and after-care options. Sign up today to reserve your spot.

OVERNIGHT Alexa Café (All-Girls!)

Held at Lake Forest College (888) 709-8324 AlexaCafe.com Unique, stylish all-girls program where ages 10-15 develop a passion for tech.

Whether designing a webpage, producing a film, coding creatively, or developing wearable electronics, technology should be fun and meaningful.

Co-ed tech programs in Chicago: iD Tech Camps (ages 7-17), iD Tech Mini (ages 6-9), and Teen Academies (ages 13-18).

Animal Camp Jamaica Seven Palms Villa Runaway Bay Jamaica (573) 458-2125 AnimalCampJamaica.com Come swim with the dolphins! 13 day Teen Travel / Adventure program.

Spend your mornings in the ocean and your afternoons exploring the island, climbing waterfalls, hiking through jungles, shopping in local markets.

Live in a luxury villa while creating memories to last a life time. You can even get SCUBA certified!

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

Camp Buckskin PO Box 389 Ely, MN 55731 (763) 432-9177 campbuckskin.com

Buckskin helps youth with AD/HD, LD, Aspergers, or similar, or are adopted to become more socially competent. Our structured program combines mainly traditional camp activities with some academics. Our featured Personal Growth program helps campers develop a variety of social skills, improve problem solving / coping abilities, and increase self-reliance.

Camp Kidwell 39000 1st Ave Bloomingdale, MI 49026 269-521-3559 www.campkidwell.org At Camp Kidwell camper experience fun and exciting activities and learn so much about themselves and the world around them. Offering day and resident camp to children ages 4-16, campers can experience horseback riding, swimming, singing, archery, crafts, climbing wall/ropes activities, water trampoline, campfire, drama, friends and so much more!

Camp Lincoln for Boys Camp Lake Hubert for Girls 7460 Market Place Drive Eden Prairie, Minnesota lincoln-lakehubert.com Nestled on the pristine shores of Lake Hubert in northern Minnesota, Camp Lincoln and Camp Lake Hubert focus on skill and character development for boys and girls. We strive to create a safe camp environment for children that encourages the discovery of self and a sense of wonder in nature!

THE AWARD-WINNING

camp 2015 2013

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SPORTS BROADCASTING CAMP is back for our 10th year in Chicago

SUMMER FUN AT COD

July 6-10, 2015

Something for everyone— including children ages 5 and up.

• 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 • Meet sports celebrities… and much more

• Day camp • Educational and enrichment programs • High school classes Summer programs begin June 15. www.cod.edu/youth

Day/Overnight sessions available For more info call 800.319.0884 or visit www.playbyplaycamps.com facebook.com/sportsbroadcastingcamps youtube.com/sportsbroadcastcamp

Cub Creek Science and Animal Camp (573) 458-2125 MyAnimalCamp.com Feed monkeys, pet kangaroo, take classes in Veterinary Medicine, Animal Care, Survival Skills, Crime Science, Zipline, Pottery, Archery, Culinary Science, Swimming, Crafts and so much more. Campers live in air-conditioned cabins, enjoy delicious meals, great staff, fantastic campers and fun activities. Airport pickup available for every session. Free Brochure.

iD Programming Academy and iD Game Design & Development Academy Held at Lake Forest College (888) 709-8324 iDTech.com 2-week, pre-college academies where students gain hand-on experience in coding, app development, programming, modding with Minecraft, and robotics. Ages 13-18 tour a studio, create a portfolio, and meet teens with similar interests. Also in Chicago: iD Tech Camps (ages 7-17), Alexa Café (allgirls, ages 10-15), and iD Tech Mini (ages 6-9).

Day and Resident Camps Children ages 4-16

Horseback riding Camps, Water Trampoline, Climbing wall, Archery, Themed sessions, and so much more

YMCA Camp Glacier Hollow 1000 Division St. Stevens Point, WI 54481 (715) 342-2980, ext. 308 www.glacierhollow.com Camp programs include: Nature Quest camp; a camp for girls only; a camp for

WWW.CAMPKIDWELL.ORG | 269-521-3559 campkidwell@btc-bci.com | BLOOMINGDALE, MI ChicagoParent.com February 2015 61

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JCC daycamp

s r e m m u S C C J g n i z a m A # • Endless activities that grow with your child • Create friendships and memories to last a lifetime • Kids build independence and boost self-esteem as they learn responsibility and cooperation • Daily swim instruction JCC Apachi Day Camps Apachi Chicago Day Camp At UIC (campers 4 yrs - 6th grade) Apachi Northside Day Camp At Northside College Prep (campers k - 6th grade) Apachi Village Day Camp, Northbrook (preschool campers 3 - 5 yrs)

Mayer Kaplan JCC Day Camp, Skokie (campers 3 yrs - 6th grade) Bernard Horwich JCC Day Camp, Rogers Park (Orthodox Jewish campers 4 yrs - 8th grade)

ArtReach Education Theatre 3839 W. Frontage Rd, Palatine (847) 372-7798 artreachspotlite.com ArtReach Educational Theatre offers a variety of arts and theater camps, workshops, and private lessons.

Workshops take place at 3839 W. Frontage Road, Palatine. One, Two, and Three Week Summer Sessions offered with after Care Sessions Available. Let your child have fun this summer while learning all aspects of the creative and performing arts activities, and explore nature trails! In addition to our Summer Camps we also offer acting, singing, and dance classes, as well as teen programs and private voice lessons all summer long!

Bucktown/Lincoln Park, Edgewater, Lake View (773) 342-7250 chicagobluedolphins.com/chiparent

Anita M. Stone JCC Day Camp, Flossmoor (campers 3 yrs - 9th grade)

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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.

Chicago Blue Dolphins

Hyde Park JCC Day Camp, Chicago (campers 3 yrs - 9th grade)

62 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com DCCW152P | JCC Daycamp

3155 Spring Valley Rd. Dubuque, IA 52001 all-sportscamps.com

Boyhood is a special time and Camp Chippewa provides a rare opportunity to slow the pace of our daily routine, to escape the wired world to discover the wider world and to find true adventure around the glow of friendship and a campfire.

JCC Neighborhood Day Camps - Early Registration Discounts Feb. 2 - Mar. 16

For more info call 847.763.3663

All-Sports Camps

7359 Niagara Ln N Maple Grove, MN 55311 (218) 335-8807 campchippewa.com

Elaine Frank Apachi Day Camp, Lake Zurich (campers 3 yrs - 7th grade)

gojcc.org/daycamp

Specialty Camps

Camp Chippewa Foundation Camp Chippewa for Boys

“Z” Frank Apachi Day Camp, Northbrook (campers 4 yrs - 6th grade)

See camp in action

youth with learning disabilities; rock climbing, canoe/kayaking, and backpacking adventure trips; and family camp. Camp is nestled in beautiful central Wisconsin on Lake Elaine and offers outrageous fun, friendships, and positive experiences to last a lifetime!

We offer small swim classes with professional instructors for swimmers 6 months and up. Private lessons are available for children 4 years and up.

Intensive swim camps (2 or 4 days per week) offered during the spring and summer to speed the learning process.

Contact us to register today!

JCC Chicago is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring a strong and vibrant Jewish life and community for generations to come. JCC is a partner in serving our community, supported by the Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation. ©2014 JCC Chicago DCCW152P

Dolphin Swim Club Crystal Lake, Skokie (847) 854-1300 dolphinswimclub.com Swimming lessons for children 4 months to adults! We offer professional, indoor swimming lessons

| Chicago Parent | Due 1/5/15 | 5.5x9.472

1/15/15 6:47 PM

special advertising section //

Camp

2015

camp 2015

Interc u ltural Montessori Language School Two Locations:

Dual Language Montessori Programs

Oak Park (708) 848-6626 Chicago-West Loop (312) 265-1514

• Chinese/English • Spanish/English • Japanese/English • Ages 3-12 years old

ENROLL NOW JANUARY 2014 | FREE

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

ChiCago Parent’s annual CamP guide January - May

CURES for cabin fever

Inside: Making the Grade Education Guide ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

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READERS’ top picks for Chicago

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

E-mail: admissions@interculturalmontessori.org Visit: www.interculturalmontessori.org Elementary After School Language programs in Spanish and Mandarin – Oak Park campus only

12/12/13 10:16 AM

Be part of the country’s most elite and cutting-edge interdisciplinary art school.

Children’s Multi-Arts Camp and Middle School Programs in art, design and mixed media.

Registration begins February 16. saic.edu/cw | saic.edu/msp | cs@saic.edu | 312-629-6170 ChicagoParent.com February 2015 63

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camp 2015 // special advertising section The Avery Coonley School

SUMMER Programs at Parker 2015 Educational and Recreational Activities for Junior Kindergarten through 12th grades

Register online at fwparker.org/summers

An exciting and educational summer program for children ages 4–14. Three sessions available: June 15–June 26, June 29–July 10, July 13–July 24 View the 2015 Summer Program Guide online at www.averycoonley.org/summerprogram 1400 Maple Avenue, Downers Grove, Illinois

630-969-0800

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camp 2015

Photo by G. Yoshioka

CAMPCAMP GLACIER GLACIER HOLLOW CAMP HOLLOW Stevens Point Area YMCA Stevens Point Area YMCA GLACIER HOLLOW Stevens Point Area YMCA

Quality, year-round training • Traditional Martial Arts • Summer and Seasonal Camps • Ancient Swords • Artistic Weaponry

Redefining Smart.

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

Call 773.714.0646 today or visit www.brickton.org.

edefining Smart.

Open House on Sunday, March 1, 2015 10:00 am – 12:30 pm

rickton Montessori School we measure our Located just South of I-90MAKE between ents’ abilities to THINK critically, Cumberland East River Road onsible decisions, andand SOLVE problems 8622 West Catalpatoday Avenueor in visit Chicago atively. Call 773.714.0646 w.brickton.org.

Ages 2 - 14 (Toddlers do not need to be

trained). Fully ed just South oftoilet I-90 accredited by the een Cumberland and American Montessori River Road Society and the

West Catalpa cago

Independent Schools Avenue Association of the Central States.

6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park

708-383-3456

www.master-sh-yu.com | Follow Us!

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence Serving Our Community

Celebrations

ChiCago Parent’s Party Planning guide Coming in April

Good Thinking

For more information, call (708) 386-5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com ChicagoParent.com February 2015 65

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camp 2015 // special advertising section us Fun at Camp Anoki o e g a r jig!

Out Person a New Friends

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Growt

year round for all ages and skill level.

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

GreenApple Campus Locations Chicago & Naperville (630) 778-8480 GreenAppleCampus.org Hey Robotics, Digital Media & LEGO Maniacs! GreenApple® Campus offers creative, challenging STEM programs preK to Grade 8. Exciting activities utilizing Robotics, LEGO, Digital Media & Technology, Game Design & App Design, Explore NASA, Coding & Minecraft! New ThinkTinkering® in the Maker space.

Gus Giordano Dance School Summer Dance Camp Positive Values

Great es! tur Adven

1 or • Sessions from 4 days to p fun!

• Overnight, resident cam more weeks of summer 6 • Boys & Girls, ages 7-1 • Kids love us; ty • Traditional and Special Parents trust us activities, plus • Online Registration ms, • HORSES, teen progra Available and adventure trips

800-741-6931 www.anokijig.com Plymouth, WI

Food + Fitness + Finances + Friendships = FUN! Register Now - Early Bird Discounts before April 1st 2 Week Camp Sessions in 2015: 6/22 - 7/3 7/6 - 7/17 7/20 - 7/31 Lunch Included Early drop off and late pick-up options (Lincoln Park location)

Co-Ed Grades 6-8 Four Life Skills in 2 Fun-Filled Weeks! Cooking, Fitness, Nutrition, Money Management and Social Skills are taught in a fun, safe and nurturing environment throughout this 2 Week Day Camp. Boys and girls learn team-building and leadership while gaining selfconfidence through interactive and engaging activities, concluding with a final day community service project.

Learn more at LifeSkillsEducators.com or Call 773.231.7414

5230 N Clark St., Chicago (773) 275-5230 gusgiordanodanceschool.com A high energy dance camp with classes for beginners, intermediate, & advanced dancers! Jazz, Hip Hop, Modern, Ballet, Musical Theater & Tumbling. 4 One Week Sessions: June 15-19, July 6-10, July 20-24, August 17-21. Girls & Boys Ages 5 to 14. Optional After Camp Care.

Intercultural Montessori Language School 301 S. Ridgeland, Oak Park 114 S. Racine, Chicago (708) 848-6626 interculturalmontessori.org

Looking for Summer Fun! Intercultural 2015 Summer Program for children ages 3-12. 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.

Lifeline Theatre 6912 N. Glenwood, Chicago (773) 761-4477 lifelinetheatre.com SPRING BREAK (April 6-10) and SUMMER DRAMA CAMPS & CLASSES (June 26-July 17) Our fun-filled programs let your children celebrate their imaginations and hone their natural abilities as performers. Discover the tools of the actor. Explore books and adapt them for the stage. Learn to work others and express yourself! www.lifelinetheatre. com

The Little Gym of Chicago 3216 North Lincoln Avenue (773) 525-5750 thelittlegym.com/ChicagoIL Our summer camp is an adventure filled three hour camp available to children ages 3-12. Each camp theme is based on fun exciting “quests” which involves a fun storyline that will incorporate opportunities for the kids to exercise their muscles and minds.

Lookingglass Theatre Company 875 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 1430,

River Forest Community Center

Summer Camps

Registration Begins March 9th Half-Day Camps

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

Three For All (3 yrs. by 9-1-15) M,W: 10:15 am–12:15 pm T,Th : 9:30 am–11:30 am Little Explorers (4 & 5 yrs) M-Th: 9:00 am-11:30 am Summer Scene (K – 7th grade) M-F: 12:00 am – 4:00 pm

Adventure Camp (2nd – 4th gr.)

M-F: 10:00 am-4:00 pm Extended Care: 7:00 am-10:00 am & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm Urban Safari (5th – 8th gr.)

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

Unforgettable Adventures from June 8th – August 21st 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

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camp 2015 // special advertising section Chicago (773) 477-9257, x193 lookingglasstheatre.org/education

(708) 948-7934 haj@magicalmindsstudio.com www.MagicalMindsStudio.com

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.

Magical Minds Studio has expanded their artistic opportunities! This summer campers will not only be exposed to painting, drawing, sewing, sculpture and crafting, they will have the opportunity to explore ceramics! We’ve added a kiln to our Studio and it’s been busy churning out some pretty amazing pieces. With over 1500 sqft of creative space, campers will have the freedom to move around from station to station, exploring different art mediums.

Lycée Français de Chicago World Camp 613 W. Bittersweet Pl., Chicago New campus: 1929 W. Wilson Ave. Chicago (773) 665-0066 LyceeChicago.org

CHICAGO’S #1 HOME CHICAGO’S #1 HOME FOR FUN & HASSLE-FREE FOR FUN & HASSLE-FREE CHICAGO’S #1 HOME BIRTHDAY PARTIES BIRTHDAY PARTIES FOR FUN & HASSLE-FREE VOTE BIRTHDAY PPARTIES LVAOCE TD BEST O TEDOBWE

PLAUCTETHE ESTAR KIEDAS OUVTOTTHO W R TED E K IEDSST B PLACE OUT TTHO WEAR E KID Hassle-free andSconvenient

Call Alexis at

(773) 486-7416 (773) 486-7416 Call Alexis at

or email at akniaz@windycityfieldhouse.com Call Alexis at or email at akniaz@windycityfieldhouse.com

for parentsand convenient Hassle-free for parents KIDS PLAY TOGETHER with Hassle-free and convenient activities and games KIDS PLAY TOGETHER with for parents organized and facilitated activities and games by WCF event staff organized and facilitated KIDS PLAY TOGETHER with by WCF event staff activities and games Many themed parties organized andparties facilitated available including Many themed

by WCF including event staff Ultimate Sports, available Mad Ultimate Sports,parties ManyScience, themed LaserTag, Mad Science, available including Build-A-Friend Stuffed Animals, LaserTag, Ultimate Sports, Scavenger Hunts more!

Build-A-Friend Stuffed Mad Science, andAnimals, Scavenger Hunts and more!

LaserTag, Fun and exciting for kids of Build-A-Friend Stuffed Animals, all ages, 1 to adult Fun and exciting for kids of Scavenger Hunts and more! all ages, 1 to adult No cleanup and Funcleanup andcatering exciting for kids of flexible No and options all ages, 1 to adult flexible catering options CALL NOW! No cleanup Dates filling and fast!

CALL NOW! flexible catering Dates filling fast! options CALL NOW! Dates filling fast!

Chicago's #1 Home for Birthday Parties

WindyCityFieldhouse.com/birthdays (773) 486-7416 WindyCityFieldhouse.com/birthdays or email at akniaz@windycityfieldhouse.com Chicago's #1 Home for Birthday Parties

Chicago's #1 Home for Birthday Parties

WindyCityFieldhouse.com/birthdays

Expand your child’s horizon at the Lycée Français de Chicago’s World Camp. Language immersion camps in Arabic, French, German, and Mandarin, co-hosted by China Friends, the German International School, and Turath Institute, run from June through August. Sports camps (with instruction in English) run throughout August.

Campers will be the first to experience our brand new campus, opening this summer on Damen and Wilson.

Magical Minds Studio 343 Harrison Street Oak Park

Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts 6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park (708) 383-3456 www.Master-SH-Yu.com Bring us your budding Ninja this summer, and we will guide them on a true martial arts journey to nourish their yearning for adventure on the mat.

Our ever-popular Ninja Camp for children ages 5-12, presents the movement, culture and history of the Asian Martial Arts. GrandMaster Yu appears as a special guest, affirming and enlivening the children’s imaginations with Kumdo (Swords) demonstrations, cultural anecdotes, and traditional martial arts games. For more experienced artists, Master Yu teaches Artistic Weaponry featuring the TwinSticks & Nunchauka defense, and Airborne Kicks Camp, appropriate for youth & teens, with ongoing Swords Class throughout the year. Schedules and

AMP

SUMMER C

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

We strive to create a safe summer camp environment for children that encourages the discovery of self and a sense of wonder in the natural world!

Planning a Party?

Check out our Entertainment & Party Planning section for the perfect entertainer, party supply or service.

7460 Market Place Drive Eden Prarie, MN 55344 800-242-1909 www.lincoln-lakehubert.com

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Try your hands at amazing real-world experiences – build and program a robot, diagnose patients, get backstage access to Dodger Stadium, CNN and Madison Square Garden or interact with professionals on a movie set.

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special advertising section //

camp 2015 2013

ENV I S I ON

MIDDLE SCHOOL

CAMPS

STEM Programs for Kids

Robotics & Invention • Adventure with LEGO Digital Media & Technology 3D Game Design ∙ App Design iPhone ∙ 3D Animation Coding ∙ Minecraft ∙ KidsCode Explore NASA ∙ ThinkTinkering

• STEM • Sports & Entertainment • Business • Media • Leadership • Law

TryMyFuture.com (844) 320-0388

Chicago & Naperville

www.greenapplecampus.org 630.778.8480

Attend the way cool summer camp at next best CornerstoneThe Center place to home The next best this summer. place to home this summer.

Summer Camp for 2 to 5 year olds

Your child will continue to learn and grow through fun themed activities and special guests.

Programming staffed by Childtime Learning Centers Everyone receives a camp t-shirt, backpack and water bottle

• Pet a monkey • Get up close to a lizard • Enjoy a clown • Play in the sprinkler • Have a picnic • 4 and 5 year olds take fun & exciting field trips once a week

Cornerstone Children’s Learning Center (An Accredited Childtime Learning Center location) Tour our accredited school today!

1111 N. Wells St. • Chicago, IL 312.573.8900 • Childtime.com Email: 9108@childtime.com • www.childtime.com/9108

Childtime Childcare, Inc. is an equal opportunity provider and employer. ©2015 Childtime Childcare, Inc. BCT83 ChicagoParent.com February 2015 69

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camp 2015 Ely, MN 55731 (763) 432-9177

• Helps youth with AD/HD, LD, Aspergers, or similar, or are adopted to become more socially competent.

• Structured program combines mainly traditional camp activities with some academics.

• Featured Personal Growth program helps campers develop a variety of social skills, improve problem solving / coping abilities, and increase self-reliance info@campbuckskin.com • www.campbuckskin.com T:4.625”

photo courtesy of id tech camp

registration available online at www.

Master-SH-Yu.com or call us!

North Shore School of Dance 505 Laurel, Highland Park (847) 432-2060 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!

Old Town School of Folk Music

Summer Camp at Old Town School is exciting, educational, and awe-inspiring! Campers will learn to think independently, work cooperatively, and discover their own creativity, all while gaining artistic confidence, engaging in active learning, and exploring the arts with their peers and our talented team of teaching artists. Join us! http:// ots.fm/camp

Power Up Tech Academy Chicago, North Side (321) 659-3082 powerupTA.com Your child can learn to code this summer and gain real-world skills while having fun! Kids program their own websites, games and interactive stories – developing confidence, problem solving and logical thinking skills along the way. Camps feature low student-teacher ratio, individualized pacing, and daily outdoor recreation time. Register online today!

Pump It Up Chicago (312) 664 PUMP (7867) Orland Park (708) 479-2220 pumpitupparty.com

Salt Creek Ballet Summer 98 East Chicago Ave., Westmont (630) 769-1199 saltcreekballet.org You choose the dance option this summer! Girls and boys ages 3-8. Six weeks of Summer Fun on Tuesday afternoons only: June 15-July 24, or Week Long Summer Ballet Camps: July 27-July 31, August 3-August 7 and August 10-August 14. Bring your energy and take home some dance enrichment!

Summer programs also available for ages 9 and older.

The Second City Training Center 1608 N. Wells St., 4th Fl., Chicago (312) 664-3959 secondcitysummers.com

T:7”

4544 N. Lincoln Ave & 909 W. Armitage Chicago (773) 728-6000 oldtownschool.org

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 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!

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 6-10, 2015 Skokie (800) 319-0884 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.

Vertical Endeavors Indoor Rock Climbing

T

CAL

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CLIENT JOB NUMBER

AD COUNCIL ADCCO11001R29

FONTS None IMAGES 140788_Monday_revise_flat.tif (CMYK; 573 ppi; 52.29%), Letsmove.gov.

APPROVAL

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camp 2015 // special advertising section

Experience UP! The art of education meets the science of child development in Urban Prairie Waldorf School’s interdisciplinary, experiential approach to elementary school education.

See for yourself how inspiring and engaging education can be during sample math, science, and language arts classes for prospective parents on Saturday, February 7.

RSVP at upws.org/event/experience-up 312.733.5337 1220 W. Lexington St., Chicago Day Camp l Credit & Non-Credit Courses l Sports Camps l Chess Camp

June 8 July 31

l www.latinschool.org/summer l 312.582.6080 l summer@latinschool.org

Online Registration begins January 22

Join us for a FUNtastic summer!

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Kohl Children’s Museum

Glendale Heights (630) 784-9000 verticalendeavors/glendaleheights.com Warrenville (630) 836-0122 verticalendeavors/warrenville.com

2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview (847) 832-6600 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.

Vertical Endeavors is perfect for group events including birthday parties, field trips, lock-ins and slumber parties, scouting events and corporate team building events. We also offer camps throughout the year for kids ages 6–16 including week-long summer camps and winter and spring break camps.

Windy City Fieldhouse/ Windy City Sports Academy

WCF specializes in youth programs including sports classes and camps YEAR-ROUND for boys and girls ages 2-14. These programs strengthen children’s skills in a structured and safe nopressure environment. All programs focus on learning rather than winning.

WCF also offers a full schedule of Summer Classes and Camps including a SUMMER LONG ALL SPORTS CAMP.

Camp Lee Mar 450 Rte. 590 Lackawaxen, PA 18435 (215) 658-1708 leemar.com

Safariland

photo courtesy of light opera works

2367 W. Logan Blvd., Chicago (773) 486-7300 WindyCityFieldhouse.com/youth

Special needs Camps

camp 2015

Camp for children & teenagers with mild to moderate developmental challenges. A structured environment, individual attention & guidance are emphasized at all times. Traditional camp activities plus academics, speech & language therapy, music & art therapy, daily living skills. We also have therapeutic horseback riding & overnight trips. Heated pool, modern facilities & air-conditioned buildings (including bunks). ACA accredited.

Keshet A Rainbow of Hope for Individuals with Special Needs Chicagoland Locations (847) 205-0274 keshet.org Keshet offers various eight-week, full day and overnight-integrated camp options for individuals with special

needs. Families can choose from over 14 camps to best suit their child’s interests and needs. Keshet provides opportunities for children with intellectual/ developmental disabilities that no one else does!

Field Trips Chicago Children’s Museum Navy Pier 700 E. Grand, Chicago (312) 527-1000 chicagochildrensmuseum.org Chicago Children’s Museum is the perfect summer destination for families, camp groups, scout troops, daycare centers and field trips of all kinds.

Located on historic Navy Pier, it’s three floors of hands-on fun!

701 W North Ave, Villa Park (630) 530-4649 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 8, 11am-3pm Daniel Wright Junior High School 1370 Riverwoods Rd., Lincolnshire ptocampfair.weebly.com

Unique PreK-8th Grade Summer Program • 9am-3pm with early morning and extended day care • Morning enrichment classes and afternoon recreation • New! ISO sanctioned Science Olympiad Camp • Flexible class options that fit any schedule • Full and half-day preschool and kindergarten • Three, two-week sessions: June 22 through July 31 Visit our website for schedule & brochure

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Let’s CLown Around Former Ringling Bros. Navy Pier Entertainer

Perfect 5-star rating on Yelp Chicago’s best-reviewed magician

Performer with an ActionPacked, High Energy Comedy Magic Show Includes: • Fire-Eating • Machete Juggling • Stilt Walker • & Much More

847-672-6165

Learn more: thegreatscott.com (847) 361-0924

www.letsclownaround.net

Mary Macaroni

Magic & Juggling Shows

Children’s Parties!

Corporate Events!

Providing Quality, Professional Entertainment since 1991 Several Themed Characters available.

Video clips and party ideas are provided on the website.

Balloon Animals and Puppets

Princess & Character Parties Magic • Clowning Guitar Sing-a-Longs Face Painting & Balloons!

www.IYQENT.com IYQ Entertainment

Call Today:

847-228-0882

773-774-3755

www.marymacaroni.com

SuE’S Party AnimAlS

Book us for your next party or event!

•We Entertain •We Educate •We're Cute & Fun •We're Clean & Safe

You'll LOVE US!

Call Sue Johnson, Educator

847-215-8508

The Bus of Fun will come to your home for your child’s next Birthday Party.

“Like Us” and add a friend on Facebook and receive $25 off your Party! ...Sit back and let us run the PARTY for you!

Not only do we bring the fun, we also bring:

■ Prizes ■ Cotton Candy ■ Snow Cones (seasonal) ■ Face painting

■ Photography ■ Homemade Treats ■ Small gift for Birthday Child ■ Games

■ Creative Crafts ■ Pinata ■ Money Machine (real money) ■ Refreshments

Rain or Shine, Hot or Cold, we always bring the FUN to you year round!

Please call (708) 388-2200 to schedule your party

www.TheBusofFun.com

The Bus of Fun is fully insured.

Custom designs for all ages 503-867-9223 Chicagoland

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Natures Creatures Animal Show

A fun Exotic Educational Animal Show for kids & adults of all ages!

• Snakes • Frogs • Bunnies • Lizards • Giant Turtles • Spiders • Ducks • Talking Parrots • Alligators • Pony Rides

Serving the Chicago land area for over 10 years!

• Birthday Parties • Block Parties • Scouts • Schools • Licensed & Insured • Veterinarian & Teacher Approved!

For more info or to book:

call Erin at

Make your next Birthday Party a

(773) 881-9379 or visit:

www.naturescreatures.net

#1 Birthday magician

Amazing Tim Adamz 3 Arrives Early

3 Amazes Kids 4-9

Rated

3 As Seen on WGN

• Hands-on • No mess fun • Ages 5-12!

3 Live Rabbit

HHHHH

Book Him Here Now: www.AmazingAdamz.com - 630-416-4318

Traveling Players presents

Aurora area

CLOE the Clown

• Magic Tricks • Games • Face Painting • Balloon Animals • Story Telling and More

Book your Birthday Parties Today!

Diane Cloe Knight is We Come to You!

Cloe Clown

Exciting hands-on experiments may include: • Slippery slime • Cool chemistry Also Available • Rocket launches • Cotton candy ....and lots more

the

North Cook Chicago Western 115 Cedar Street, Aurora IL 60506 773-227-3345 and Lake Suburbs (630) 816-2288 www.cloeclown.com

Call: 630-816-2288 www.cloeclown.com

As seen on WGN, WTTW, and NBC Local!

224-676-1635 630-393-3322 Children’s birthday parties a specialty with balloon animals, face painting, silly story telling with puppetry, magic, Award-winning games, prizes,magician goody bags and more with over 30 years experience!

All Birthday Shows include balloon animals and live rabbits!

Also offering Face Painting!

Don’t miss our newest magic trick, “BirthDAy ChilD levitAteS”

Magical Entertainment for all occasions!

630-855-4521 toll free:855-KDM-AGIC

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ChicagoParentMarketplace Child Care

Activities & Classes

Family Services

Income Opportunity Resale

Digital In Print

Connnect with your demographic audience. Build & grow your business.

Contact Walter Burden for rates & print/digital packages 708-613-3357 • wburden@chicagoparent.com 76 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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calendar FEBRUARY

1

The world is divided into two groups: ice cream people and not ice cream people. And if you fall into the first group, chances are you can go for a heaping bowl of the sweet stuff at any time (or season). Good news! Chicago Botanic Garden’s g got our … um, your … back with Weekend Family Class: Homemadee Ice Cream. Make (and eat!) a bat batch of ice cream, plus get an up-close look at a seed from and pot a plant that the vanilla orchid, an hat can flavor future iice cream batches. s. adults. 9:30-11 a.m. $23 kids, free ad m.

Feb. 21. 1000 Lake or 1-2:30 p.m. F ke Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org. b t i

2

When you hear “mummies,” you probably think Halloween. But who says we can’t get a little spooky in the middle of o winter? Head to the Oriental Institute Museum, where the Secrets Mummies will be exposed. Kids of the M 5-12 can c help prepare a simulated mummy for the afterlife, meet some mumm real m mummies, and then discover treasures they took to the grave. the trea guessing it will be more We’re g educational than frightening, but just educatio in case, any scaredy cats have at least months to recover. Free. 1-3 seven m Feb. 28. 1155 E. 58th St., Chicago. p.m. Feb 702-9514, oi.uchicago.edu.

(773) 702

3

Fall in love with bovines this Valentine’s Day with a play that brings Doreen Cronin’s awardwinning book Click, Clack, Moo to life. Farmer Brown’s surprisingly literate cows go on strike, and their escalating demands have him udderly perplexed. The Theatreworks USA production is recommended for kids in grades K-4, but is sure to have even mom and dad laughing (or mooing) until it hurts. $16, $15 kids. 10:30 a.m. or 1 p.m.

Feb. 14. McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn.

(630) 942-4000, atthemac.org.

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CALENDAR 1 | SUNDAY CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL KENNEL CLUB CLUSTER OF DOG SHOWS. One

of the largest all-breed benched dog shows in the country that draws top dogs to compete for prizes and the title of “Best in Show.” Plus dog fashion shows, meet the breeds, pet the dogs and Kid Zone. $20, $15 seniors, free under 12; two-day: $25, $20 seniors, free under 12. Cash only. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. McCormick Place Lakeside Building, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive. (773) 237-5100, ikcdogshow. com.

Once ce Up po on a Sy ymp mpho hony y: Liittttle L le Re ed d He en n

SUBURBS

SSeee Fe Feb. 21 Feb

KING ARTIE AND THE KNIGHTS OF THE RAD TABLE. A fun-filled

medieval musical theater performance for all ages. Gwen’s spending her Saturday reading a book and Artie’s riding around on a skateboard

until Merlin wakes up from a 1,500year snooze to whisk them away to the days of chivalry. $16, $11 kids

7-12, $6 kids 6 and under. Noon.

Mayer Kaplan JCC, 5050 Church St., Skokie. gojcc.org/theater.

CHOCOLATE EXPO AND MARKET.

Celebrate chocolate and its connection to the natural world. Visit, taste

On your desktop.

In your pocket.

On the go.

We’re with you.

The only 100% private party place with gigantically fun inflatables Trained/Dedicated Staff There Stress-Free for Party Host Safe & Clean Environment Brightly Decorated Party Room

is a Pump It Up close to you!

Chicago • Orland Park

2 Free Pizzas

Pump It Up of Chicago

312.664.7867

Open Jump Parents Night Out Field Trips and more!

$2 OFF

Open Jump Admission

(Adult Size) When you book any Mon-Thu Party Package for 25 Valid at these locations only. May not be combined with other offers or promotional discounts. One coupon per customer. Expires 12/31/15.

Some of the programs we offer:

pumpitupparty.com

Check the Events Calendar at pumpitupparty.com for available jump times. Valid for one Open Jump session at these locations only. May not be combined with other offers or promotional discounts. One coupon per customer. Expires 12/31/15.

Chicago Parent

99¢

Tablet editions available at your favorite digital newsstand now!

Time slots fill quickly, call or click Pump It Up of Orland Park to book your party today!

708.479.2220

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CALENDAR and buy specialty chocolates and treats from a variety of vendors. Free with arboretum admission. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

3 | TUESDAY MOONLIT SKI. Families with kids

6 and up cross-country ski by the light of the moon, then head inside the nature center to warm up with a warm beverage and a snack. $13, $8 kids (includes ski rental). 6-8 p.m.

Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 4336901, hellernaturecenter.org.

4 | WEDNESDAY ECO-EXPLORERS: KNEE-HIGH NATURALISTS. A different theme

is featured each week with hands-on activities, hikes, stories and crafts for kids 4-5. Today’s theme is Winter Birds. $20, $13 resident. 1-2:15 p.m. Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 8485000, napervilleparks.org.

STROLLER TOURS. Caregivers discover the exhibitions with a docent, exploring galleries without concern that their baby or stroller will disrupt the tour. Free with museum admission. 11:30 a.m. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago. (312) 280-2660, mcachicago.org.

6 | FRIDAY DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE “SWEET MEMORIES.” A night of

music and dancing at Monastero’s Ristorante. Dads and daughters enjoy dinner, dessert and a candy buffet. Highlights include music, dancing and DJ-led games, plus a special Daddy-Daughter photo. $90 couple, $30 additional girl; $75 resident couple, $25 additional resident girl. 6-9 p.m. Lincolnwood Parks & Recreation, 6900 N. Lincoln Ave., Lincolnwood. (847) 677-9740, lincolnwoodil.org.

Discover Roycemore…

7 | SATURDAY CHICAGO THE PEKING ACROBATS. The

troupe’s gymnasts, jugglers, cyclists and tumblers blend ancient tradition with modern-day stagecraft. Call for cost. 2 p.m. Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph Drive in Millennium Park. (312) 334-7777, harristheaterchicago.org.

PERSONAL, ENGAGED COLLEGE PREP Admissions Open House Sunday, February 22, 1:00-3:00 PM Call Amanda at 847-866-6055 or visit roycemoreschool.org 1200 Davis Street in Evanston Age 3–Grade 12

CIVIC CHAMBER MUSIC SERIES. Families with kids 8 and

up enjoy a series of innovative public performances, educational performances at public schools and participation in the 2015 Chicago Youth in Music Festival. 3 p.m. Davis Square Park, 4430 Marshfield Ave. (312) 294-3000, cso.org.

SUBURBS NATURE DISCOVERY DAY.

Visit the nature classrooms, complete a craft to take home, explore the science of nature, go sledding or cross country skiing, view live animals and enjoy a roasted marshmallow around a crackling campfire.

About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the March issue is Jan. 26. All events are subject to change. Please call the event sponsor at the number listed to confirm before you go.

Events taking place on four or more dates during the month are listed in Ongoing Events, beginning on page 90.

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar

Find us on Facebook Join the Twitter party!

Follow us @ChicagoParent

is part of your favorite social networks

On Pinterest pinterest.com/chiparent

ChicagoParent.com February 2015 79

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CALENDAR 10 a.m.-noon. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park.

(847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter. org.

CIRC ZUMA ZUMA. Dressed in

elaborate costumes, the performers never stop moving, tumbling, stacking up on one another, contorting, juggling objects on their feet, and leaping through the air to the sounds of live, traditional music. $30, $15 kids 18 and under. 7 p.m. Fermilab, Kirk Road at Pine Street, Batavia.

(630) 840-2787, fnal.gov/culture.

“B Be My My Va allen entine e” Fami Fa am miily y Eve ventt

DADDY/DAUGHTER WINTER LUAU. Dads and daughters 3 and

up attend a luau featuring treats and a disc jockey. Each couple receives a commemorative photo. Tropical dress is encouraged. $22, $15 resident. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Ranch View School Gym, 1651 Ranchview Drive, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

Seee FFeeb. b. 8

ROCK & MINERAL IDENTIFICATION. Geologist Sara

Johnson presents an introduction to rocks and minerals. Kids 8 and up

learn how to make a basic mineral test kit. All materials are provided.

Reservations required. $5, $3 members. 10:30 a.m. Lizzadro Museum

of Lapidary Art, 220 Cottage Hill Ave. (in Wilder Park), Elmhurst.

(630) 833-1616, lizzadromuseum. org.

February is Dental Health Month // advertising Advanced Family Dental, PC

Dr. Russell S. Pollina

Crest Hill, Joliet, Lockport, Lombard, Plainfield, Romeoville & Shorewood 2241 Theodore Street, Crest Hill (815) 905-9289 AdvancedFamilyDental.com

Kids are special people!

601 W. Central Rd., #4 Mt. Prospect (847) 392-2457 18 E. Dundee Rd., Bldg. 5, Ste. 100, Barrington (847) 382-1720 grins4kids.com

Bonciel Griffin, DDS We offer braces for children & adults 10019 S. Western Ave., Chicago (773) 239-7696 bgriffinorthodontics.com

Children’s Dentistry Jerry Udelson, DDS Where Kids Have Fun at the Dentist!

1129 S. Harlem, Forest Park (708) 386-5437 little-teeth-big-smiles.com

Every Tooth Counts Dental Center Specialists in Dentistry for Infants, Children & Adolescents 2711 Flossmoor Rd. Flossmoor 708-799-9755 everytoothcounts.com

Fredrick S. Tatel, DDS We take the fear out of dentistry for your child.

16345 S. Harlem, Tinley Park (708) 633-8700 kidsdds.net

Fred S. Margolis, D.D.S., P.C Gail Czarnecki, D.D.S. Pediatric & Laser Dentistry Dentistry for Special Needs 1770 First Street, Suite 360 Highland Park (224) 927-9321 www.fredmargolisdds.com

Treasured Smiles Specializing in Dentistry for Children & Adolescents 10313 W. Lincoln Hwy.,Brookside Commons, Frankfort (815) 806-1600 treasuredsmilesdentistry.com

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CALENDAR

Family Day F ay:: Double le See Feb. 14

8 | SUNDAY CHICAGO “BE MY VALENTINE” FAMILY EVENT. Activities include music

from DJ Kareem; performances by Little Miss Ann, Jesse White Tumblers and All About Dance; sweet treat decorating and tips from Sweet Mandy B’s; a room filled with candy and allergy-safe treats; ELTIF Designs bead bar for jewelry making; makeovers from Rock Candy Salon and Spa; an Abt Electronics video arcade room; and a silent auction. Proceeds benefit the Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation. $85, $65 kids in advance; $100, $80 kids at the door. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The Ritz-Carlton Chicago Hotel, 60 E. Pearson St. (312) 926-7133, lynnsage.org.

SUBURBS CHOCOLATE SUNDAE SUNDAY.

Enjoy a self-designed sundae, create

special valentine crafts and more. $2.50, $1.50 members; plus admission.

2-4 p.m. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 9636769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

WEEKEND FAMILY CLASS: PAPERMAKING WITH PLANTS.

Kids 4-10, with adult, learn the process of turning plants and old paper scraps into paper. Make sheets of textured, scented and colored handmade paper. $23. 9:30-11 a.m. or 1-2:30 p.m. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

to help orphaned huskies find new homes. Enjoy a snack in the great outdoors while warming up by the campfire. Noon-3 p.m. Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 941-8747, obtpd.org/lvnc.

11 | WEDNESDAY ECO-EXPLORERS: KNEE-HIGH NATURALISTS. Naperville. See Feb.

4. Today’s theme is We Love Nature.

12 | THURSDAY CUPID’S TREATS. Kids 6-12

FROSTY’S WINTER PLAY DATE. Meet Frosty the Snowman and

enjoy activity stations and a nature hike. Have fun trying on snowshoes; bring sleds for the hill (weather permitting); Free Spirit Sled Demo Team will demonstrate the world of mushing and offer information about Free Spirit Siberian Rescue organization and accept donations

decorate treats for Valentine’s Day. $11, $7 resident. 6-7 p.m. Hartman Recreation Center, 511 N. Collins St., Joliet. (815) 741-7296, jolietpark.org.

13 | FRIDAY VALENTINE’S DAY PARTY WITH THE QUEEN OF HEARTS. Join the

Queen of Hearts for crafts, stories

and playtime served up with snacks and pizza. $25 adult/child pair; $10 siblings and additional adults. 6-7:30 p.m. Purple Monkey Playroom, 2040 N. Western Ave., Chicago. (773) 7728411, purplemonkeyplayroom.com.

14 | SATURDAY CHICAGO FAMILY DAY: DOUBLE.

Families can share, collaborate and exchange at this Family Day inspired by the MCA exhibition BMO Harris Bank Chicago Works: Sarah and Joseph Belknap. Free for families with kids 12 and under. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave. (312) 280-2660, mcachicago.org.

JAZZ FOR YOUNG PEOPLE. This

narrated, hour-length program for kids 8 and up explores the colorful history and irresistible energy of swing. $20-$60. 1 p.m. Chicago

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CALENDAR Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 294-3000, cso.org.

SUBURBS VALENTINES FOR THE BIRDS.

Make some tasty treats in the Children’s Garden to hang on the trees for favorite feathery friends.

Free with arboretum admission. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 9680074, mortonarb.org.

15 | SUNDAY SUBURBS VALENTINES FOR THE BIRDS.

Lisle. See Feb. 14.

T:10”

FUN FEST. Families can prep for the game in the Skyline Room across the street from the arena’s north entrance. Play games, create posters, enjoy music and take part in other activities. 5-6:30 p.m. Chicago Wolves, Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Road, Rosemont. (800) THE-WOLVES, chicagowolves.com.

16 | MONDAY A HOOTIN’ GOOD TIME. Kids 6 and up meet several live owls, hear their stories and see what makes them such fascinating creatures. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult. $8. 1-2:30 p.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

PRESIDENTS DAY KUMBAYA CHESS WORKSHOP. The workshop

helps kids improve chess skills through instruction, practice and one-on-one coaching. Led by Super Trainer Shiva Maharaj and staff from Chess-Ed, the workshop features opening theory, middle game planning and combinations, and winning endgame technique. In addition, puzzling, analysis of famous games and tournament-like game playing will be included. $35 part day; $60 full day.

9 a.m.-3 p.m. Edgebrook Lutheran Church, 5252 W. Devon, Chicago.

(847) 775-9906, chess-ed.com.

ECO-EXPLORERS: WINTER BIRD BONANZA. Kids learn to

recognize several species of birds, investigate the ways these feathered animals stay warm, find out what kind of food birds eat in winter, and make a feeder to take home for neighborhood feathered friends. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Knoch Knolls Nature Center, 320 Knoch Knolls Road, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

MESSY MONDAYS. Features

special theme-focused art projects with professional artists. Free with museum admission. 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 963-6769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

20 | FRIDAY PUPPETS ALIVE!

Contemporary animated and liveaction shorts incorporating shadow and body puppetry, presented in conjunction with Temptation: The Demons of James Ensor and interactive exhibition Puppets! Films include Humdrum (UK), Paul the Badger (UK), Ubu Tells the Truth (South Africa), Jackleg Testament Act III (US), William Wegman shorts (US). 2-2:45 p.m. Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 443-3600, artinstituteofchicago.org.

TODDLER EXPLORATION TIME. Parents and kids interact

during guided activities, facilitated by a Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory docent, and highlighting a different topic each month.

10:30-11:15 a.m. (kids 18-30 months); 12:15-1 p.m. (kids 3-5).

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

21 | SATURDAY CHICAGO POLAR ADVENTURE DAYS.

Families can enjoy winter activities and meet live animals. Activities may include dog sledding demonstrations, live entertainment from the Old Town School of Folk Music, arts and crafts

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CALENDAR

The Ultimate Guide to Family Fun!

Ch hic icag ago Fa Fami milly y Pa P alo looz oza a See Feb. 28 Se

table, toddler zone with outdoor “ice fishing,” REI winter activity station, and free snowshoe rental if weather conditions allow. First 500 visitors receive hot cocoa. $3 parking.

Noon-4 p.m. Northerly Island, 1400 S. Linn White Drive. (312) 745-2910, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

JUNIOR ARCHAEOLOGISTS.

ONCE UPON A SYMPHONY: LITTLE RED HEN. Start an engag-

ing journey into the world of music for preschoolers with Once Upon a Symphony. Little Red Hen features small ensembles of CSO musicians paired with vivid storytelling, sets, costumes and images created by Chicago Children’s Theatre for families with kids 3-5. $17. 10 and 11:45

SUBURBS DISCOVER ENGINEERING.

Professional engineers from local firms set up shop in Discovery Center spaces to give kids and adults handson experiences. Engage your brain and conquer fun challenges, meet high school robotics teams, erect your own edifice and enjoy special science demonstrations. Free with museum admission. 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 963-6769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

HOME SWEET HOMEWOOD CHOCOLATE FEST. Features live

music, children’s activities, demos and vendor booths with sweets, desserts and gourmet baked goods.

At the annual Chocolate Bake-off Contest amateur bakers compete to be crowned “Home Sweet Homewood’s Master Pastry Chef.” 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

H-F Park District Auditorium, 2010 Chestnut Road, Homewood. home sweethomewood.com.

FREE

HOLIDAY 2014

going PLACES

Kids 5-12, with adult, learn how archaeologists work in the field and discover artifacts, then take part in excavating a simulated dig in the Oriental Institute’s Kipper Family Archaeology Discovery Center. $14 pair, $10 member pair; $7 additional person, $5 additional member. 1-3 p.m. Oriental Institute Museum, 1155 E. 58th St. (773) 702-9514, oi.uchicago.edu.

a.m. Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 294-3000, cso.org.

GP_Winter_Cover2014.indd 1

Snow much fun Tubing,

Holiday edition now 52 available!

skiing and more

Cabin Fever Fixes

jolly holiday fests

11/5/14 11:53 AM

For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com ChicagoParent.com February 2015 83

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CALENDAR BIRDHOUSE WORKSHOP. Learn

about birds and decorate a wooden birdhouse to take home. Discover the perfect place for a birdhouse and explore some winter birds that live here at the arboretum on a short walk through the woods. Strollers welcome. $13, $6 members; $7 per birdhouse. 10-11:30 a.m. and 2-3:30 p.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

FUN FEST. Rosemont. See

Feb. 15.

22 | SUNDAY SUBURBS

Melrose Ave., Chicago. (773) 8716780, gojcc.org.

25 | WEDNESDAY ECO-EXPLORERS: KNEE-HIGH NATURALISTS. Naperville. See Feb.

4. Today’s theme is Tracks and Scats.

STORY TIME AND CRAFT.

Join Ruth and her friends for Stinky Face and his Mom. Paperback Trading Co. Inc., 8825 S. Ridgeland Ave., Oak Lawn. (708) 598-8442, paperback trading.webs.com.

27 | FRIDAY SCHOOL’S OUT DAY CAMP: SLIME AND GRIME. Kids mix

INFANT AND TODDLER GYM.

Includes soft places to crawl, variety of textures to explore, parachute, bubbles and Music with Mr. David.

Facilities include a quiet room for feeding and diaper changes as needed. $10 family. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Florence G. Heller JCC, 524 W.

and measure to make different types of slime; create homemade silly putty to bounce, stretch and copy; and explore chemical reactions while making film canisters into rockets. $45. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville. (630) 420-6010,

napersettlement.com.

2 8 | S AT U R D AY SUBURBS SAP’S RISING. Walk in the sugar maple forest as winter comes to an end and learn about the sweet history of maple syrup making. 1:30 p.m. River Trail Nature Center, 3120 N. Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook.

(847) 824-8360, fpdcc.com.

“BY ALL ACCOUNTS” PUBLIC GRAND OPENING WEEKEND. Celebrate the grand

opening of the new Elmhurst history exhibit. Enjoy a tour, refreshments, musical entertainment and familyfriendly craft activities. 1-5 p.m.

Elmhurst Historical Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 833-1457, elmhursthistory.org.

CHICAGO FAMILY PALOOZA. A wide variety of interactive activities, including a 220-foot indoor zip-line,

Euro bungee, inflatables, carnival rides, a petting zoo, rock climbing wall, trackless train rides, miniature golf, DJs, magicians, strolling and costumed entertainers, face painting, balloon twisters and animal shows. The Zip Line, Euro Bungee Jump, Face Painting, Sand Art and Caricature Portraits are considered premium attractions and can be accessed with the additional purchase of the $5 Premium Attraction ticket. $8, $15 activity wristband; some activities cost extra. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. (800) 4-PHEASANT, pheasantrun.com.

ROCKIN’ LOCK-IN. Kids 9-11 enjoy open gymnastics, slice of pizza, one can of pop or bottle of water, DJ, dodgeball and more. Pre-registration required. $18, $15 resident. 7-10 p.m. Wagner Community Center, 615 N. West Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 993-8901, epd.org.

FUN FEST. Rosemont. See

Feb. 15.

Show Your Love For Valentine’s Day, Adopt-A-Manatee® For a Loved One

Call 1-800-432-JOIN (5646) savethemanatee.org

Photo © David Schrichte

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CALENDAR

Honoring Honest Abe

T

his month we celebrate all the commanders-inchief of our country, from George Washington all the way to Barack Obama. But for those of us who live in Illinois, aka the Land of Lincoln, there’s one president that tops the list—and you don’t have to go to his former home in Springfield to party.

Check out these spots this month that honor Abraham Lincoln in both name and spirit.

Animal Enrichment Workshop

to check out the animals living nearby. $9.50, $7.50 resident. Or hit the trails as part of the free Great Bird Count from 1-2 p.m.

Feb. 14. Families create an avian inventory that will be submitted to the annual Great Backyard Bird Count. Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Harrison and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. (630) 871-2810, lincolnmarsh.org.

Lincoln Park Zoo You don’t even have to spend a Lincoln to enjoy a day at the city’s free zoo. But stop by from 1-3:30 p.m. on Feb. 14 for the Animal Enrichment Workshop, where you can help make piñatas or willow balls for the animals to use. $5, $4 members. On Presidents Day itself (9 a.m.-3 p.m. Feb. 16.), elementary school kids can go ape wild learning about primates at Zoo Camp and observing the zoo’s monkeys in action. $57-$67. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

Did you know that Honest Abe wasn’t always the serious and gravelly voiced figure we’ve come to know? In fact, this former prankster would probably fit right in at the Lincoln School Carnival, which includes such frivolous pursuits as “Plinko” and “Bozo Buckets.”

Head over from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Feb. 7 for a goldfish toss, bingo, face painting and airbrush tattoos, balloon animals and a cake walk. Raffles and healthy snacks are promised. Lincoln School, 1111 S. Grove Ave., Oak Park. ptolincoln.org.

Naper Settlement

Lincoln Marsh Abe Lincoln grew up in a log cabin, so it’s only fitting that this natural area bears his name. From 1-2:15 p.m.

Feb. 1, enjoy a Snow Day at the marsh, which includes a hike

Lincoln Carnival

Naper Settlement

OK, it might not be named for the man of the hour, but Naper Settlement’s Feb. 16 day camp is clearly in Abe’s honor.

At School’s Out Day Camp: Happy Birthday, President Lincoln, kids in grades 1-5 celebrate Lincoln’s birthday a few days late (9 a.m.-3 p.m.) with games that pioneer kids like Abe once played and a round of “Pin the Hat on President Lincoln.” Crafts and homemade cupcakes are on the menu (we hear he liked corn cakes). $45. Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville.

(630) 420-6010, napersettlement.com.

Elizabeth Diffin

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PERFORMANCES FRINDLE. Mrs. Granger assigns Nick

the task of finding out where words come from, so Nick, a creative and imaginative student, decides to make up his own word. Recommended for families with kids in grade 4-8. Feb. 4-13. $14, $12 for kids 12 and under.

Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. (847) 577-2121, metropolis arts.com.

MONSTER JAM #MOREMONSTER JAM. This showcase of Monster Jam

endurance features more racing, more freestyle, more donuts, more wheelies and more competitive action. Fans will be treated to two new competition vehicles, extreme Monster Jam Speedsters and Monster Jam ATVs, as they rip through the arena during combative racing action. Athletes compete to earn a bid to the Monster Jam World Finals. Pit Passes are available for $10. $15 and up. 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 5-7; 2 p.m. Feb. 7; 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Feb. 8. Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Road, Rosemont. (847) 635-6601, allstatearena.com.

THE MLK PROJECT: THE FIGHT FOR CIVIL RIGHTS. Through

Feb. 6. A one-woman show that follows a Chicago student’s personal transformation through studying the Civil Rights Movement. Alaya uses her fists as an outlet for anger, but after interviewing local heroes of the Movement she discovers she can put “anger into action” and that her power is in her voice and her hip hop, not violence. By weaving real interviews, poetry, hip hop, history and multi-media projections, The MLK Project tells stories of both celebrated and unsung Chicago-based Civil Rights activists. 6 p.m. Saturdays; 10 a.m. and noon Tuesdays-Fridays. $15 and up. Chicago Children’s Theatre, The Ruth Page Center for Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. (872) 222-9555, chicagochildrenstheatre.org.

DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS FROZEN. Through Feb. 8. Mickey

and Minnie Mouse take the audience through the magical story based in Arendelle, with special appearances by beloved Disney princesses and favorite

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characters from Disney/Pixar. Call for cost. United Center, 1901 W. Madison St., Chicago. disneyonice.com.

THE ADVENTURES OF TAPMAN.

Through Feb. 8. Follow the

triumphs and trials of the tenacious Tapman, a lovelorn scientist turned tap dancing superhero. Audiences meet his crime-fighting comrades, Hourglass and Modern Marvel, as well as his arch-nemesis, the MADD

Tapper, during this adventure. $27; $24 students/seniors; $17 kids under 10. Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport Ave., Chicago.

(773) 935-6875, athenaeum theatre.com.

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PERFORMANCES

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THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: HOT COCOA TIME. Through Feb. 9.

Barrel of Monkeys turns CPS students’ stories and words into professionally performed theater. The line-up changes each week, so no two shows are ever the same. 8 p.m. Mondays. $12; $6 for kids under 12. Barrel of Monkeys, The Neo-Futurarium Theater (2nd Floor), 5153 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago. (312) 409-1954, barrelofmonkeys.org.

BLUE PLANET. Best friends Hulda and Brimir live on a planet much like Earth—populated only by children.

When they meet an adult, the mysterious Jolly-Goodday, they are promised a life of greater joy, even more spectacular fun, but at what cost? This familyfriendly piece is a lively integrated theatrical experience using movement, puppetry, aerial dance and object work with traditional elements of storytelling. It is based on the award-winning “eco-lit” children’s book, The Story of the Blue Planet. 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sunday. Feb. 11-March 15. $15, $5 kids under 12. DCASE Storefront Theater, 66 E. Randolph St., Chicago. akvavittheatre.org.

WINTER TAP JAMBOREE. The weekend opens on Friday with a Welcome Party at 7 p.m., followed by a Tap JAM hosted by M.A.D.D. Rhythms. Classes for teens and adults take place Saturday (10 a.m.-6:20 p.m.) and Sunday (10 a.m.-3:50 p.m.). Faculty members participate in a panel discussion on Saturday

(2:30-3:30 p.m.). The weekend concludes with a Tap JAM on Sunday (4-5 p.m.). Feb. 13-15. $20 per master class plus $15 registration fee; $15 Tap Scholarship Audition; free panel discussion and Tap JAM. The American Rhythm Center, 410 S. Michigan Ave., Studio 300, Chicago.

(312) 922-1272, arcchicago.org.

“GOODNIGHT MOON” THE MUSICAL. This musical transforms

the simple story of a young bunny preparing for sleep into a 3-D wonderland, full of catchy songs, delightful choreography, a colorful set and clever costumes. Kids are encouraged to wear their pajamas to the show.

Actors will sign autographs after the one-hour performance. 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Feb. 14-15 and 20-21. $10, $26 for two tickets and the book.

Edgewood Middle School Theater, 929 Edgewood Road, Highland Park. highlandarkplayers.com.

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SHORT SHAKESPEARE! MACBETH. Through Feb. 14. This

fast-paced production is designed to immerse students, young audiences and families in the treacherous world of the Macbeths. Call for cost.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago.

(312) 595-5600, chicagoshakes.com.

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WINTER CIRCUS. The Actors Gymnasium explores a world of microscopic daring and survival through chance, fight or flight. The Actors Gymnasium Winter Circus will feature

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PERFORMANCES

SURE, AT FIRST I WAS A LITTLE TAKEN ABACK

BY THE WHOLE PEEING STANDING UP THING. SURE, BUT I TAUGHT HIM TO THROW A STICK AT FIRST WAS HANGING A LITTLEOUT TAKEN ABACK ANDI NOW WITH HIM

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acclaimed Chicago clown Dean Evans and surprising turns of acrobatics, mime, live music and adventure. Feb. 14-March 22. $15 adults, $12.50 kids.

The Actors Gymnasium, Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes St., Evanston.

(847) 328-2795, actorsgymnasium. com.

himself on a memorable journey alongside a wisecracking donkey and a spirited princess. 9:30 a.m., 11:45 a.m. and 7 p.m. Feb. 19-20; 2 and 6 p.m. Feb. 21-22. $12; $10 kids and seniors. McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. spotlight. org.

ELEPHANT AND PIGGIE’S WE ARE IN A PLAY! Favorite characters

SYMPHONY OF CLOUDS. Through Feb. 21. Follow the adventures of young Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: boy genius, musical prodigy and gifted composer. Performances are Tuesday and Thursday-Sunday. $10, $5 kids. Chicago Playworks at DePaul University, Merle Reskin Theatre at DePaul University, 60 E. Balbo Drive, Chicago. (312) 922-1999, theatre school.depaul.edu.

from Mo Willems’ beloved Elephant and Piggie series take the stage for this vaudevillian romp of a musical.

Feb. 14-May 16. Check website for schedule. $15 and up. Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 935-6100, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

SKIPPYJON JONES. A rambunctious Siamese kitty with grande ears and a gigantico imagination to match, Skippyjon Jones dreams of becoming El Skippito, the greatest Chihuahua in all of Old Mexico. Feb. 14-May 16.

Call for cost. Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 9356100, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

LIONS IN ILLYRIA. Through Feb.

15. Separated from her brother by a storm at sea, the young lioness Violet braves an unknown country all alone.

But her adventure takes a turn for the absurd when she becomes entangled in the antics of a wacky warthog and his featherbrained dodo sidekick. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. $15. Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago.

(773) 761-4477, lifelinetheatre.com.

LOOKINGGLASS ALICE. Through Feb. 15. The show transports audiences down the rabbit hole to a circusinfused playground for a wonderland adventure inspired by Lewis Carroll’s beloved stories. Recommended for families with kids 5 and older. $35 and up. Lookingglass Theatre in the Water Tower Water Works, 821 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 3370665, lookingglasstheatre.org.

THE SELFISH GIANT. Through Feb. 22. Musical spectacle created for CCT and based on the classic story about a grumpy giant who forbids children from playing in his garden.

Features original puppets and music.

Recommended for families with kids 3 and older. $38, $28 kids, $5 off with promo code PUPPET. Chicago Children’s Theatre, The Ruth Page Center for Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. (872) 222-9555, chicago childrenstheatre.org.

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK.

Jack and his dancing Spanish cow Carmelita try to save their village from the crazy Giant. Recommended for families with kids 2-12. $12.

Chicago Kids Company, Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St., Chicago.

(773) 205-9600, chicagokidscompany. com.

THE THREE LITTLE PIGS.

Performances are 10:30 a.m. weekday mornings and 1 p.m. Saturdays.

Recommended for families with kids 2-12. $12. Chicago Kids Company, Stahl Family Theater, 5900 W. Belmont Ave, Chicago. (773) 2059600, chicagokidscompany.com.

FANCY NANCY: THE MUSICAL.

SPOTLIGHT YOUTH THEATER’S SHREK: THE MUSICAL. Based

on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks animated film, Shrek, the musical features an unlikely hero who finds

Nancy’s ready to take the spotlight in her first dance recital. But when someone else gets picked to be the prima ballerina, Nancy is stuck playing a dreary, dull tree. Can she

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PERFORMANCES still bring fancy flair to her role?

Call for cost. Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 9356100, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

BINGO’S BIRTHDAY. Kids are

invited to Bingo the dog’s birthday, but no one can find Bingo, in this interactive performance just for the very young. Recommended for kids age 0-4. Call for cost.

Emerald City’s Little Theatre, 2933 N. Southport Ave., Chicago. (773) 529-2690 ext. 810, emeraldcity theatre.com.

A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD.

The cheerful Frog and grumpy Toad celebrate their differences as they move through four, fun-filled seasons in this charming musical.

Recommended for families with kids 3 and older. 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays. $12. Northbrook Theatre for Young Audiences, 3323 Walters Ave., Northbrook. (847) 291-2367, northbrooktheatre.org.

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Chicago Playworks for Families & Young Audiences

Follow the adventures in the life of young Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: boy genius, musical prodigy, and gifted composer. For all ages.

By Margaret Larlham directed by Ann Wakefield

JAN 13 – FEB 21, 2015 at DePaul’s historic Merle Reskin Theatre 60 E Balbo Dr, Chicago | 312 922 1999 | theatre.depaul.edu

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ONGOING EVENTS EXHIBITS PUPPETS! AN INTERACTIVE PUPPET EXTRAVAGANZA. Includes

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performances, puppet-making workshops, and the opportunity to interact and explore creativity through puppets. Inspiration for these puppet creations is drawn from works in the Art Institute’s collection, including the drawing The Temptation of St. Anthony, the centerpiece of this winter’s special exhibition, Temptation: The Demons of James Ensor.

Puppeteers of all ages can experiment with ways to develop stories and use sound effects and props to create playful, one-of-a-kind performances.

Free with museum admission. Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 443-3600, artinstituteofchicago.org.

BUILD IT! Exhibit puts an innovative spin on classic building blocks by letting children explore and interact with 10 varieties of blocks. Kids can

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ONGOING EVENTS build structures and cast shadows using directional lights, examine building on vertical and horizontal planes, test the strength of structures and use their creativity while focusing on STEAM concepts. Free with admission. Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org.

RAINFOREST ADVENTURE.

Visitors can climb a kapok tree, explore a gorilla’s nest and meet virtual rainforest scientists. The exhibit explores tropical rainforests around the world and highlights ways to help make a difference. Free with admission. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (773) 755-5100, nature museum.org.

OTHER EVENTS

ory

ground. There are two levels of trains traveling through the beauty of four seasons. Free with arboretum admission. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday.

Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

KIDS FREE FEBRUARY. MSI offers free museum entry to kids 3-11.

Up to two free child tickets allowed per purchase of one full paying adult.

Additional experiences, including the WOW! Tour, Omnimax films, U-505 Submarine on-board tour, Future Energy Chicago, Coal Mine and special tours are not included in museum entry. Feb. 1-28. Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

ENCHANTED RAILROAD. Through

DOWNERS GROVE ICE FEST: ONCE UPON A TIME. Unique ice

Feb. 22. This model train display is easily seen from two feet off the

sculptures line the streets while visitors enjoy an array of events. Live

Snow w Days ay ys C ic Ch cag ago See th t is pag agee

ice carving demonstrations on Friday at 6:30 p.m., as well as Saturday and Sunday. Visit website for details.

5:30 p.m. Feb. 5; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Feb. 6-7. Main Street, Downers Grove. downtowndg.org.

SNOW DAYS CHICAGO. Teams

of artists from around the country and the world gather to create sculpting masterpieces out of 10-foot blocks of man-made snow. Plus, other winter-themed activities for kids and families, including snowboarding, snow games and snow painting. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Feb. 7; 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

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ONGOING EVENTS Feb. 8. Gateway Park, Navy Pier.

(312) 744-3315, navypier.com.

PROGRESSIVE INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE SHOW. See sport

bikes, dirt bikes, cruisers and more.

The show features stunt shows, seminars and family activities. $17, $6 kids. 1-8 p.m. Feb. 13; 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Feb. 14; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Feb. 15. Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. (800) 331-5706, motorcycleshows.com.

CHICAGO AUTO SHOW. The

nation’s largest and longest-running auto exposition showcases more than 1,000 domestic and imported vehicles, auto-related exhibits, competition vehicles and project, antique and collector cars. Visit website for cost and times. Feb. 14-22. McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. chicagoautoshow.com.

THE ORCHID SHOW. A showcase of

unusual and stunning orchids. This year, visitors will learn about vanilla,

which is the seedpod of an orchid, throughout the exhibition. Check website for tickets. Feb.14-March 15.

Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 8355440, chicagobotanic.org.

LAKE HOME & CABIN SHOW.

Includes rustic and specialty furniture and furnishings, custom builders, remodelers and real estate brokers from Illinois, Wisconsin and Michigan’s lake and cabin country, plus boats, docks, marine accessories and hundreds of unique products, gifts and accessories. Also includes special features, cooking demonstrations and educational seminars. $12, $5 kids 5-15, free kids under 5. Feb. 20-22; check website for schedule. Schaumburg Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg. (847) 303-4100, lakehomeandcabinshow.com.

ARBOR READING ADVENTURES.

Kids 3-5, with adult, enjoy interactive story time and fun crafts indoors before heading out on the grounds for an adventure walk. Themes

change each week. $5, $4 members.

11-11:45 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 9680074, mortonarb.org.

EXPLORATION STATION. Try hands-on activities at the Exploration Station created by the Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory. A new topic each month highlights special aspects of the conservatory. 10 a.m.-noon Saturdays; 1:30-3:30 p.m. Sundays.

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

ICE SKATING AT LINCOLN PARK ZOO. Whizz past the goats and

cows at the rink in Farm-in-the-Zoo. Snacks and winter warming drinks are available for purchase. $5; $5 skate rental. 4-8 p.m. Fridays; noon-8 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays and Presidents Day. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago.

(312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

GNOME HOMES. Children can

create a keepsake, light-up gnome home of their own made from natural materials. Tickets are limited and can be purchased in the Visitor Center. $10, $7 member. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. weekends. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 9680074, mortonarb.org.

FROZEMONT. The “Skating in the Park” ice rink is open to the public for free. Other winter festivities include the Winter Frost Face Off hockey series. Check website for hours. MB Financial Park at Rosemont, 5501 Park Place, Rosemont. (847) 349-5008, mbparkatrosemont.com.

WINTER PLAY. A self-guided glimpse into the world of outdoor play will depend on the day.

Possibilities include painting snow or building a fort. Free with arboretum admission. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. daily.

Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

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611 N. Meacham Rd Elk Grove Village, IL 60007

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92 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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ONGOING EVENTS

FREE for all

N

ow that the credit card bills from the holidays have started rolling in, you’re probably desperate for something—anything!—that’s free for your family.

Fortunately, there are a few spots this month that have your wallet in mind with some fun, free exhibits.

For the athlete

When pitchers and catchers report later this month, you can head to the Harold Washington Library for a refresher on Chicago’s deep-seated baseball rivalry. Sox vs. Cubs: The Chicago Civil Wars examines the history of both of our city’s much-loved teams—and the cross-town competition that ties them together. Kids can color a mascot or create a cartoon, plus see memorabilia and souvenirs from the good old days, while parents can enjoy some nostalgia—and dream about what 2015 holds.

Through Feb. 8. Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S.

ory

State St., Chicago. (312) 7474898, chipublib.org.

For the dreamer

Ever wanted to climb Rapunzel’s tower, mine for diamonds with the seven dwarves or whittle in Geppetto’s workshop? All of those scenarios are possible at Waukegan Public Library, where Once Upon a Fairy Tale brings some of your favorite stories and characters to life. The exhibit aims to promote literacy by fostering a love of books and reading, and there’s a strong emphasis on role play. So when your little prince or princess sits down in

Cinderella’s carriage, they’ll be transported straight to a magical realm. Waukegan Public Library, 128 N. County St., Waukegan. (847) 623-2041, waukeganpl.org.

For the naturalist

Most of us probably don’t give waterfowl a second thought. But at Lake View Nature Center, you can deepen your knowledge of the duck, goose, merganser, grebe, heron

and cormorant (we promise they’re real names!) at Duck, Duck, Goose. Kids can play in a pretend pond, compare their wingspans to a heron’s, learn about birds from beak to feet, and even see some taxidermied specimens. Maybe you’ll even pull together a round of the classic tag game. Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 941-8747, obtpd.org/lvnc.

Elizabeth Diffin

Professional services Directory special needs dentistry

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WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS

Ice, Ice baby

Y

ou know the expression: If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.

And while the phrase might not have originally applied to weather patterns, we think it’s pretty relevant when it comes to ice.

Downtown Downers Grove must agree. They’ve taken the stuff we have an overabundance of this month and turned it into a reason to celebrate at the annual Ice Sculpture Festival.

This year’s celebration taps into our recent national obsession with fairy tales with the theme “Once Upon a Time.” The approximately 40 ice sculptures lining the streets of downtown will reflect that theme, with businesses being encouraged to choose sculptures that reflect their favorite books and stories. Keep an eye out for Madeline, Goldilocks and other classic characters, plus Rocco and Rocco Salon’s traditional kissing booth (a popular photo op spot).

Erin Venezia, marketing director for the DG Downtown

Management Corp., says families might even spy a certain fairy tale queen who starred in a frosty flick last winter.

In addition, families can watch real ice sculptures take shape Friday evening and in two different locations all day Saturday and Sunday. Bystanders are encouraged to suggest sculpture ideas, which have included the Blackhawks logo and a huge totem pole in the past.

“It’s fun to see what they can make out of ice,” Venezia says.

If you need to warm up, stop

by First Congregational Church on Saturday morning for a yummy pancake breakfast, or take advantage of shopping and dining deals at local Downers Grove businesses. Plus, Ronald McDonald is set to put on a magic show at the train station (think the Hamburglar will stop by?).

And even if the weather doesn’t quite cooperate—it is February, after all—we’re betting this frozen weekend will be a “happily ever after” for everyone who attends.

The Downtown Downers Grove Ice Festival: Once Upon a Time Free 5:30 p.m. Feb. 6; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Feb. 7-8 downtowndg.org

Elizabeth Diffin

96 February 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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