Chicago Parent January 2013

Making the Grade

JANUARY 2013 | FREE

Your school guide

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Finds for

foodie families

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

31

reasons to love WINTER

New year, new look (for you & us)

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FREE STAIRCASE!!

FREE STAIRCASE!!

WITH ANY compleTe BuNk BeD pAckAge purcHAse See Store for details.

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We manufacture hardwood Bunk Beds, Staircase Beds, Space Savers Beds, Captain’s Beds, Conversion Cribs as well as Dressers, Chests, Nightstands, Bookcases and much more.

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Now acceptiNg applicatioNs for fall 2013

not all great minds think alike At the Montessori Academy of Chicago, we are proud to provide a foundation for academic and personal excellence year-round. Our program seeks to inspire the love of learning inherent in every student: today, tomorrow, and for the rest of their lives.

LEARN MORE ABOUT US:

NEXT SESSIONS:

So whether you think you are ready for your child to start now, or three years from now, come for a coffee to learn more, it’s never too early to begin your child’s educational Journey. Contact us and reserve your spot today. 312.243.0977

• Tuesday, January 8, 9:00 - 10:30am • Tuesday, January 29, 9:00 - 10:30am • Tuesday, February 26, 9:00 - 10:30am • Tuesday, March 12, 9:00 - 10:30am • Tuesday, April 16, 9:00 - 10:30am • Tuesday, May 21, 9:00 - 10:30am

phone: 312.243.0977

web: www.montessoriacademychicago.org

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

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

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

1335 west randolph street, chicago illinois, 60607

ChicagoParent.com January 2013 1

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Meet

Alex attends: The Gardner School age: 2 ½ years old teachers: Miss Ashley & Miss Terri favorite food: Spaghetti & Meatballs favorite color: orange best friend: Samuel loves: caterpillars likes to: play with Legos favorite enrichment class at TGS: Music & Drama When I grow up I want to be: a Lion Tamer

LOVES: The Gardner School!

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

www.TheGardnerSchool.com

Like us on Facebook!

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

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

630.657.5029

OPENING JAN. 14, 2013

Now Accepting Pre-Enrollment!

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1301 West Madison Street, Suite 100 Chicago, IL 60607

312.229.4299

OPENING MARCH 2013

Now Accepting Pre-Enrollment!

12/19/12 10:11 AM

And as he gets older, all he’ll want is your encouragement. Right now is a perfect time to open a Bright Start College Savings Account to let your kids know you’ll always be there.

Today’s a good day. V i s i t

brightstartsavings.com to learn more.

Before investing in the Plan, investors should carefully consider whether their or their designated beneficiary’s home state offers any state tax or other benefits that are only available for investments in such state’s qualified tuition program, as well as the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses associated with municipal fund securities. The Program Disclosure Statement and Participation Agreement contain this and other information about the Plan, and may be obtained by visiting brightstartsavings.com or calling 1.877.43.BRIGHT (1.877.432.744). Read them carefully before investing.

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Full-time and part-time early childhood education 6 weeks to 5 years old 2nd location opening early January 2013!

3111 N Ashland Ave.

Call today to schedule your private tour!

Two Great Locations!

Coming Soon!

3111 north ashland avenue | chicago, il 60657 118 south ashland avenue | chicago, il 60607 tel 312.492.9876 | fax 312.492.6543

www.littlegreentreehouse.com 4 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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ChicagoParent.com January 2013 5

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It’s a big world out there.

Life Essentials® prepares her for it.

Kiddie Academy® understands growth isn’t just measured on walls. Children in our care are empowered to learn and grow socially, physically, emotionally and intellectually. That’s why we deliver Life Essentials®.

Character Education

From family style dining to character education to a developmentally appropriate curriculum, your child’s day is filled with learning and fun.

• Developmentally appropriate curriculum in every classroom • Outdoor play and fitness on age-appropriate playgrounds • Highly trained, certified staff and teachers

Curriculum

• Hot, nutritious meals served family style • Over 100 locations nationwide

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Call to schedule your Discovery Tour

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contents IN THIS ISSUE 18 22

BEST IN CHI

Best new workouts for busy moms SELF-AWARE PARENT

Practice saying no 26

29

PRODUCTS

Best for the cold and flu season GOOD SENSE SE EATING

Are organics worth the cost? st?

99

30

32 36 JANUARY 2013 | VOLUME 29 | NO. 1

YOU DOWN WN Tips to start the new year a different wayy this time

43

MAKEOVER ER ...

DADDY STYLE Two dads get a new look to help with life ife and loss

TIME 56 TUMMY IN THE CITY ITY

Food adventures ures make family life delicious elicious

CRAFT

Make a “cuddly” snowy owl PARENT PANEL

How to be happy

ON THE COVER

FEATURES GOODBYE ODBYE TO 40 SAY WHAT’S WEIGHING

TRENDING

New year, better you

TRENDS 60 INTOP CHICAGO C

Cover kid: Valerie Verlan, 4, of Westchester.

What you’ll fall in love with in 2013

64

KILLING TIME When prescription drugs and kids mix

GREAT AT 8 GRE 67 Child advocates trying to ma make the most of the ccritical third grade

Valerie is wearing a sweater and flower headband from Hanna Andersson in Northbrook Court in Northbrook.

Valerie is a very girly girl. Her favorite thing about her photoshoot?

Eating the marshmallows from the big blue mug.

Photography: Liz DeCarlo Design: Claire Innes

The family that dines together, stays together!

ChicagoParent.com January 2013 7

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EDITOR’S NOTE

2013: It’s going to be a really good year

You are holding a true labor of love.

Of course, you’ve already noticed the glossy paper and smaller size. But the changes we have in store for you go so much deeper.

We’re fresher, faster and full of more fun things for your family than ever before.

The changes will take some getting use to, of course, but I’m confident you are going to love the new look as much as I do.

Here’s a quick tour of what you’ll find where: TAMARA L. Good to Go: When I’m out and about, O’SHAUGHNESSY the number one thing I hear from moms and dads is how much they rely on Chicago Parent to find something to do with the kids. So we’ve embraced that, creating a richer get-out-and-do section sure to help you keep everyone in your family happy.

Need to Know: Knowing how popular she was at ChicagoParent.com, we added the zen, calm voice of Cathy Cassani Adams to kick off this section filled with info you need to know as you go about your busy life. You’ll find advice and news here, along with the craft, a new feature spotlighting the mom of the month and products we love.

Talk Back: So many of you also have told me how much you love reading the essays of everyday Let me know what parents. So we moved them into a you think of our new more prominent spot, right in front nt look. I always love of the features. Look for our always ys hearing from you. insightful Parent Panel, reader Email me at voices and funny dad Christopher tamara@ Garlington, plus we’ve added hilaririchicagoparent.com ous Chicago mom Marianne Walsh, h, or leave a comment at ChicagoParent. who embraces parental failings in a com/newlook. way we all can relate to.

Features: You count on us for stoories that matter to you and Chicago. o.

That isn’t ever changing. But expect ct more stories that will add a little zip to your parenting repertoire. This month, we’re all about getting a fresh start.

Calendar: Our award-winning calendar gets a new look, but it remains chock-full of things to do for all ages. I’m proud to say you won’t find a calendar like it anywhere else.

That is just the beginning.

Chicago Parent, along with Going Places, is now available on your tablet. I just love the interactivity of reading on a tablet and know you will, too. Plus, ChicagoParent. com will be your must go-to companion when you’re out and about now that it has been enhanced for your mobile device.

I am certain 2013 is going to be a good year for all of us.

8 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

Get ready for your brilliant future.

Get re your b

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

Reach your go of Chicago’s H

hool o

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

Work is now beginning on a new high school campus, with dedicated facilities at the heart of an urban hub.

British School of Chicago

takes a global pe overseas, a welltraditional sports Work is now beg dedicated faciliti

schools.org

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

Call 733.506.2097 or email admissionsbsc@wclschools.org

Equipped and in progress to colle us to find out mo

ChicagoParent.com January 2013 9

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CONTRIBUTORS

Our biggest hope for 2013 EDITOR Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy SENIOR EDITOR Liz DeCarlo ASSOCIATE EDITOR Elizabeth Diffin DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR Alaina Buzas ART DIRECTOR Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNERS Luke Baker,

Mark Tatara

MANAGER OF INTERNET AND TECHNOLOGY

Graham Johnston

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Laura Amann,

Christy Bonstell

Andrea Guthmann

Caitlin Murray Giles

To do my best to realize that stress doesn’t mean I’m working harder or smarter. To really try to replace stress in my house, life and relationships with love, laughter and joy.

Kids do what you do, not what you say. I want mine to be brave and try new things, so I hope to take on new challenges.

I am hoping for a calm and peaceful 2013 for my little family. Less running around from one activity to another and more hanging out together at home!

Megan Murray Elsener I hope to continue pursuing my passions and hobbies in life, while encouraging my children to discover their own at the same time.

Sara R. Fisher, Caitlin Murray Giles, Alena Murguia, Robyn Monaghan, Meredith Sinclair DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES

Walter Burden, Dawn Engelhardt, Lourdes Nicholls, Karen Skinner, Adrienne Smith CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING SALES

Walter Burden

SALES AND MARKETING COORDINATOR

Sandi Pedersen

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Jessica Doerr

ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER

Philip Soell

ADVERTISING DESIGN MANAGER

Andrew Mead

ADVERTISING DESIGN Maggie Acker,

35,000 square Feet oF Family Fun!

Elisha-Rio Apilado, Debbie Becker CIRCULATION MANAGER Kathy Hansen DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR Alan Majeski CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE Mike Braam CREDIT MANAGER Debbie Zari BOOKKEEPER Diane Eggers PUBLISHER Dan Haley VP/OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Andrew Johnston

COMPTROLLER Ed Panschar FOUNDERS Natalie Goodman,

Carolyn Jacobs

winter oPen Play Hours FrIdAy & sAturdAy 10Am-8pm sundAy 10Am-6pm

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

chiparent@chicagoparent.com CALENDAR

visit our website For sPecial events anD Promotions

all aGes welcome!

calendar@chicagoparent.com TO FIND A COPY

circulation@chicagoparent.com ADVERTISING

dhaley@wjinc.com CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

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

10 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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Need to get out of the house?

Visit Chicago’s most

AWESOME

AND

INDOOR place to play!

ChicagoChildrensMuseum.org AT NAVY PIER • Open Daily: 10 am-5 pm • (312) 527-1000 ChicagoParent.com January 2013 11

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If you’re going to bring a child into this world, I can’t imagine a better place…

Aurora Medical Center Kenosha.

So advanced. So close.

Lannan Christensen loved having her first two children at Aurora Medical Center of Kenosha.

Unfortunately, her third child, Olive, was born with a heart arrhythmia and had to remain hospitalized for several days. But with Aurora Kenosha’s special care nursery and exceptional neonatal nurse practitioners, baby Olive made a full recovery. Lannan and her whole family felt completely welcome and attended to.

And because of the expert care she and Olive received, Lannan has another reason to love Aurora Kenosha.

Lannan Christensen Please scan here to watch the video and for more on this story.

12 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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ON THE WEB

A new way to read Chicago Parent It’s a new year and we’re bringing you a new way to read Chicago Parent. On your tablet. That’s right.

We’re excited to announce our monthly magazine, as well as Going Places and Chicago Special Parent, now are all available e on iPad, Android and Kindle tablets.

You’ll see each magazine page-for-page as it is in print, but we’re adding more interactive features es ALAINA BUZAS for a special experience for our readers. We’re also lso happy to have this new platform because it means we can make back issues available to you easily.

ON THE BLOGS

CONTESTS

Failing with Gusto | Marianne Walsh

A new year means loads of new prizes for readers (who says you can only give gifts around the holidays?). We’re especially excited about giving away the 2013 3 American Girl of the Year, a Meep tablet and a KidzBop Karaoke Machine, not to mention tickets to Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam. And if you’re focusing on resolutions at your house, we’ve got wall charts from Victoria Chart company to reward good behavior and Tooth Tunes toothbrushes that will encourage regular brushing.

Don’t miss out on any of our great giveaways— subscribe to our two newsletters at ChicagoParent.com to be among the first to enter.

Just because Marianne is a new columnist in the magazine doesn’t mean her blog is disappearing from ChicagoParent.com. Marianne always gets us to laugh along with her about all the trials of parenting. Her blog helps us start off every Wednesday with a laugh and the nice reminder that nobody is the perfect parent.

Trending | Meredith Sinclair Meredith always is on top of the latest trends, even ven if we’re a bit hesitant to try them out at first. We were a little afraid fraid of metallic jeans when we were first challenged to give them a spin, n, but they were the perfect solution to completing a New Year’s Eve outfit. utfit. Thanks to her videos and Polyvore boards, we knew exactly how to style them, too.

White Dad Problems We’re so glad to have these guys as the newest part of our team at ChicagoParent.com. Their parenting stories don’t n’t disappoint, and you’ll love listening to them exchange their best anecdotes necdotes each week.

Be careful where you listen, though. Your boss might ight not appreciate giggles coming from your desk and you might nott want the kids to hear the adult content.

STAY CONNECTED Our New Year’s resolution is to strengthen our connection with you.

Which means we want to be your friend in a lot of places, including Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram. We love ove seeing snippets of your daily lives and sharing behind-the-scenes sneak peeks with you. Connecting with our social networks also is the best way to stay updated on our many giveaways. So make sure you ou search for us and add us right away.

ChicagoParent.com January 2013 13

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LEAP into SUMMER!

Center for Talent Development Northwestern University

2013 Leapfrog Summer Program Academically Gifted Children Age 4 – Grade 3 Fast-paced, enrichment courses for young students with a keen, early interest in learning.

• 6 programs sites throughout Chicagoland • New sites in Lake Forest and Elmhurst • Weeklong, half-and full-day courses For full information and online application visit:

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

INSPIRING LIFELONG LEARNING

Independent School Preschool-8th Grade Nurturing Community Reasonable Tuition Experiential Learning Comprehensive and Challenging Curriculum Fostering a true love of learning

N P E S North Park Elementary School

2017 W Montrose Avenue Chicago, Illinois 60618 (773) 327-3144 www.npeschool.org NPES admits qualified students without regard to race, religion, or national or ethnic origin.

14 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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3737 N. Southport Ave., Chicago

Bad Ass Coffee:

A Taste of Hawaii in Chicago

C

an a place with the term “bad ass” in its name really be kidfriendly? It can in the case of Bad Ass Coffee.

This Hawaiian-born establishment caters to little ones with tot-sized tables and tasty non-coffee drinks that appeal to keikis (kids) of all ages. This new spot in the heart of the Southport Corridor is as warm and family-oriented as the Hawaiian Islands from which its Kona coffee originates.

While this unique venue offers smoothies, sandwiches, pastries and

a variety of other delicious goodies, its heart and following come from the coffee it serves, described as “slightly nutty and fruity, lightly acidic, wonderfully aromatic and flavorful.”

Parents needing a jolt should try the Almond Mocha, swirling with flavors of dark chocolate, coconut and almond, or the Caramel Wave, a gorgeous blend of caramel, English toffee and vanilla. Kids will adore the signature steamers like the Pink Strawberry Milk, the Polar Bear—white chocolate blended with milk—or the Carmalapala, spiced cider with caramel.

But of course the name “Bad Ass,” steeped in local tradition, deserves explanation—and it goes like this: For generations, the donkeys of Kona, Hawaii, carried coffee beans down the mountains on the Big Island. Their bellows could be heard echoing as they hauled the heavy loads of coffee up and down the mountainside. The native people of Kona named these hard-working donkeys “The Bad Ass Ones” because of their cantankerous nature and perseverance while carrying the world’s richest coffee.

Hence, Bad Ass Coffee.

Linda Marsicano

Good to go

Bad Ass Coffee

ChicagoParent.com January 2013 15

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GOOD TO GO

For barbecue lovers of all ages

T

a sauce and use it on every dish they serve.

Smoque novices should order a platter of brisket.

The platter includes the choice of tantalizing sides such as freshly baked cornbread, barbecue baked beans and coleslaw. Then, “add a taste,” a small portion of another meat to sample, such as the divine pulled pork.

The kids’ menu is tiny but crowd-pleasing: a mini pork

rue barbecue connoisseurs are already aware of what many say is indisputably the best in Chicago: Smoque BBQ, the brainchild of several guys who gave up working for The Man (in one case as an IT consultant) to try their hands as restaurateurs—and the first time was the charm.

The beauty of Smoque is that its menu is inspired by the best barbecue from all over the country—Kansas City, Memphis, Austin, St. Louis, North Carolina—and makes a unique style all its own. The centerpiece here is the meat—not the sauce.

Smoque creators develop sauces that complement the specific meats, unlike many barbecue joints that create

The

or brisket sandwich served with fries and macaroni and cheese. Equally miniscule is the dessert menu: a peach cobbler so good it makes customers thrilled that there wasn’t another option.

One word of caution:

Smoque is not exactly a secret hidden gem, as evidenced by the consistently long lines. If your children are impatient, consider visiting at non-peak hours or ordering ahead for take-out.

Linda Marsicano

Smoque BBQ 3800 N. Pulaski, Chicago (773) 545-7427

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

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

Northwestern University employees receive reduced tuition.

Details at chicagogrammar.org Follow us on Facebook

900 N. Franklin, Chicago, IL 60610

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

312-944-5600

www.chicagogrammar.org

16 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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THREE TO SEE Gymnastics skills that improve independence and coordination.

Or as they see it,

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

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

Call or schedule a free introductory class online.

3 places to keep warm during the Chicago winter

1

Nature lovers can head to the balmy enclosed butterfly exhibit at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum (butterflies don’t like a chill either!) or the Chicago Botanic Garden where the warm, moist air will help you feel, for the afternoon at least, like you’re in the tropics. naturemuseum.org; chicagobotanic.org

2

Starved Rock State Park, less than two hours from Chicago, is one of our favorite hiking spots during nice weather, but it’s also a cozy retreat in winter. With one of Illinois’ largest wood-burning stone fireplaces—located in the lodge—it’s an ideal spot for warming tootsies while drinking hot cocoa. Higher-end

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

Learn to

Ice Skate

New classes starting in February • www.SkokieParks.org Figure Skating Registration begins Feb. 5

Hockey Registration begins Feb. 3

cabins also offer fireplaces. starvedrockstatepark.org

3

Visit the Fireplace Inn in Old Town to nab one of the coveted tables near the roaring fire and start with a bubbling bowl of the cheese-laden French onion soup. fireplaceinn.com Linda Marsicano

9340 Weber Park Place, Skokie • (847) 674-1500, ext. 2900 ChicagoParent.com January 2013 17

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BEST IN CHI

Best new workouts for busy moms V.2 Last year, I tested several of the city’s newest workouts for busy moms. Since then, a slew of new studios have opened. Yes, apparently there’s always a new way to torture, er, exercise, our bodies.

Here are the best new workouts I’ve seen: SARA R. FISHER

1

Power Sculpt Fitness, 3148 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 456-0779, powersculptfitness.com This is the brainchild of Heather Hughes, a physiologist, personal trainer and fitness instructor. After years of searching for the ultimate body-shaping regimen, Hughes developed Power Sculpt Fitness around the TRX suspension training system. A perk for busy moms: on-site childcare and 30-minute express workouts like the one I tried. I felt sore and conditioned—and still had time to grab lunch before preschool pickup. Win!

2

Barre Bee Fit, 1962 N. Clybourn Ave., (773) 348-2881, barrebeefit.com This little-known bar workout juggernaut on the western edge of Lincoln Park made my thighs burn for FOUR days. The classes combine intense cardio, total body toning, deep stretching and detoxification. It targets our “problem” parts—butt, thighs, belly and arms.

Media Sponsors:

3

CrossFit, 1444 W. Willow (rear unit), (773) 281-0411, crossfitchicago.com

Many of my hardbodied friends insisted I try CrossFit—apparently the new way to efficiently lose that baby weight. The CrossFit workout is based on life’s actual physical demands—like carrying a baby and four bags of groceries up your three-flat.

4

Fly Yoga, 2727 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 477-8400, id-gym.com Fly Yoga is kind of like how it sounds—yoga poses suspended in the air using silk hammocks. Only found at i.d. gym in Lincoln Park, Fly Yoga allows you to go deeper into yoga poses, improve strength and practice advance inversions. I love yoga, but this one kind of terrified me.

18 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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FREE THIS MONTH

A

day out at the museums or the local zoo can bust your budget, but not if you plan around free or discount days. Luckily, this month there’s a plethora of free days at some of the local hot spots. Just one note: Most free days are for Illinois residents only.

Adler Planetarium 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (312) 922-STAR Free admission: Jan. 8-9, 14-17, 22-23, 28-31 Art Institute of Chicago 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago (312) 857-7161 Free admission: Jan. 2-Feb. 8. Kids 13 and under are always free.

Shedd Aquarium 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (312) 939-2438 Free admission: Jan. 7-8, 14-15, 20-22, 28-29 Museum of Science and Industry 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (773) 684-1414 Free admission: Jan. 7-11, 14-18, 21-25, 28-31 Brookfield Zoo 8400 31st St. (First Avenue and 31st Street), Brookfield (708) 688-8000 Free admission: Tuesdays and Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays through the end of February (general ChicagoParent.com January 2013 19

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

A little art therapy for the

stressed out

C Now enrolling children 2½-6 programs offered; morning, extended day, all day, organic hot lunch

1501 W Fullerton 773-348-7340

www.MontessoriLincolnPark.com

hicagoland is home to plenty of creative studios where kids can learn, play and get a little messy, but where are the grown-ups supposed to go? More importantly, where can they go without kids and with their beverage of choice in hand?

Arts n Spirits in Chicago’s Bucktown neighborhood fulfilled my craving for a night of creativity, wine and some much needed stress-free time with a close friend.

We arrived early, which meant we were able to stake out what we thought was the best painting table—the one where nobody else could see our easels. We hadn’t picked up a paintbrush for years and were a little scared of what might end up on our canvases.

Our fears disappeared after the first five minutes of class.

With Arts n Spirits, you choose a date to attend and know ahead of time what you’ll be painting.

At the class, you can follow along with the step-by-step instructions or go at your own pace with your own image.

My class was painting a beach scene, but being a Midwestern girl, I opted out on the palm trees and added my own personal touches to my Lake Michigan shore instead.

The class had a very relaxed atmosphere, with music playing and a lot of chit-chat. I won’t say I emerged with a newfound

inspiration to become a professional artist, but I definitely had a dose of therapy.

Plus, now a beautiful beach scene painting—complete with a UFO—hangs in our Chicago Parent office.

Alaina Buzas

If You Go Arts n Spirits 1921 N. Damen Ave., Chicago artsnspirits.com (773) 772-3877

Other Chicagoland painting studios Bottle & Bottega, multiple Chicagoland locations, bottleandbottega.com Both Sides, Pilsen, facebook.com/ bothsidesart The Brigantine Gallery, Downers Grove, vickeryart. com. Offers family paint and play on Thursdays and adult paint and play on Fridays.

20 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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Chicago Parent’s mobile website

Chicago Parent’s new Tablet version Chicago Parent’s new full-color, all-glossy magazine format

Debuting for January 2013

ChicagoParent.com January 2013 21

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12/19/12 11:10 AM

THE SELF-AWARE PARENT

Need to know

Practice saying no You have big responsibilities that necessitate your time. There are “musts” on your list, essential and nonnegotiable parts of your daily experience. But within your life, within your day, there always are areas where you can make choices.

What kind of choices are you making?

CATHY CASSANI Do you do what you want to do ADAMS or do you do what you think you should do? Do you volunteer because it makes you look like a great parent or because it sounds fun? Do you accept an invitation to a party because you want to be there or because you’re afraid to say no?

Step back, take a breath, and notice what goes into your decision making. It’s wonderful to help others, but not if you are sacrificing yourself in the process.

How can you give of yourself authentically if you are overwhelmed or depleted?

How can you have fun at a social event if you really want to be home relaxing?

This year recognize your needs and practice listening to them. Let go of being everything to everybody so you can pay attention to yourself.

If you don’t, you may end up resentful of those who ask for your time. But they shouldn’t be blamed for asking; it’s your responsibility to answer them genuinely.

Maybe this year you practice saying no. No to the things that don’t feel good. This creates space for things that do feel right—a night out with your partner, a long conversation with your child, an afternoon nap.

Yes, a nap. You deserve it. How do I know this?

Because we all do.

We all deserve to be cared for, honored and respected. Instead of looking to the outside world for this validation, why don’t we validate ourselves? Guilt may make an appearance, but you can take a deep breath and let it go. Guilt is based on an old way of thinking; an unnecessary self-depreciating martyrdom. Nobody can make you feel guilty—you choose to feel it and only you can let it go.

Sound impossible? Then practice. Make this the year you kindly say no to unwanted obligations so you can say yes to the things and people closest to your heart.

Make this the year you focus on how you feel on the inside rather than focusing on outside perception.

This is your time; this is your life—make the choices that honor who you are.

Cathy Adams is the author of The SelfAware Parent, host of Zen Parenting Radio, and the mom of three girls.

22 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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12/19/12 2:16 PM

NEWS TO KNOW

Throw bad thoughts away

W

ant to get rid of those unwanted negative thoughts that have been burdening you as you head into the new year? Try writing them down and tossing them into the trash.

In a new study, researchers found that when people wrote down their thoughts on a piece of paper and then threw the paper away, they mentally discarded the thoughts as well.

On the other hand, people were more likely to use their thoughts when making judgments if they first wrote them down on a piece of paper and tucked the paper in a pocket to protect it.

“However you tag your thoughts—as trash or as worthy of protection—seems to make a difference in how you use those thoughts,” says Richard Petty, co-author of the study and professor of psychology at Ohio State University.

So remember, when in doubt, throw it out.

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ChicagoParent.com January 2013 23

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12/19/12 12:08 PM

MOM OF THE MONTH

The playful mom

Shannon Guernsey Coulter Three stepchildren, a 15-year-old stepdaughter who lives with her and her husband full-time, 13-year-old stepdaughter and 9-year-old stepson Naperville Author and creator of the sevenbook Fassa Tales series (pen name S. Moo) and Planet Fassa, a go-to website of fun offline activities for busy parents and play-starved, technology-loving kids In your former corporate life, you liked helping people discover their ‘aha’ moments. So what was your ‘aha’ moment as a stepmom?

My ‘aha’ moment was when (the kids) came in and asked me how to play. It was so sad to me. I had such a rich childhood of play. I want to use those memories and tell kids how fun it is to play.

{M.O.M}

What has been the biggest ‘oops’ you’ve experienced as a stepparent?

You can never ever ever ever compare yourself to the biological parent. That’s something you have to deal with all the time.

Fassa Tails Planet Fassa, planetfassa. com, offers 300 offline activities, to which parents assign points for completing. It is searchable based on the number of children and how much time is needed (such as the time it takes to make dinner.)

What is the one thing you wish you could change about raising a kid in Chicago?

In Chicago we have such diversity. I would love to volunteer more with my child so she has a broader perspective on what’s even going on in Chicago.

How would your oldest stepdaughter describe you?

The toughest of all of their parents (laugh). She would say I’m silly, but I’m very open with her. I try to teach her all the time and I hold her to the standard I know she can live up to.

>>

Tip: Let your kids wear your clothes: For play or for real

My twin daughters have always loved playing dress-up in my clothes, but now they’re at the age where they can actually wear them for real. It’s especially fun (and economical!) to let them wear dresses that I wore. One of my daughters discovered a fancy dress I wore in my late teens and it fits her perfectly! While it may not be in the current style, that’s actually refreshing. Today’s teen dresses are a bit racy, so wearing “vintage” gives them a more elegant look. Plus, they love when I share the memory behind each dress—and then being able to create new ones in them. They plan to hand down these inherited pieces to their own kids. How fun is that?

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

24 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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12/19/12 12:10 PM

NEWS TO KNOW

Jumping straight to the ER

W

hen the weather turns cold, many parents turn to indoor play centers filled with inflatable structures to keep kids busy. But a recent study shows bounce houses land more than 30 children per day in the emergency room with broken bones and head and neck injuries.

In 2010 alone, about one child every 45 minutes was treated in a hospital emergency department for injuries associated with inflatable bouncers. Falls were the most common cause of injury, followed by stunts and collisions.

The study’s author recommends parents limit the use of bouncers to children 6 and older, allow only one child on the bouncer at a time if possible, and make sure an adult is supervising. If more than one child will be on the bouncer at the same time, the children should be about the same age and size.

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12/19/12 11:27 AM

PRODUCTS

Ahchoo!

Products for flu and cold season

I

t’s that time of year again, when days and nights are filled with runny noses and kids coughing. So we decided to put a few flu and cold products to the test to get you prepared for another germ invasion.

All of these products are available at local stores or online at the major retailers.

Starry Night ($44.99) and GermFree ColdMoisture humidifiers ($59.99)

by Vicks. Our editors loved how easy these two were to fill and dump. We admit we missed the comforting image of steam coming out of the humidifier—these have an invisible mist—but we could feel a strong current of cool air coming out of both. Both came with germ-free filters and were the workhorses of the bunch—solid and functional. Kids will like the stars projected on the ceiling with the Starry Night humidifier.

Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifiers by Crane ($39.99-$45.99). The owl-shaped humidifier we tested was adorable and the double row of mist spewing out of its head was moist and comforting. This one was also easy to fill and clean. The teardropshaped humidifier blew out a nice stream of cool mist and was attractive enough

Local company Crane sells humidifiers in animal and teardrop shapes, sure to please kids and parents.

even to be used in mom’s room. We also liked that Crane is a local company—it’s headquartered in Bensenville.

Exergen TemporalScanner ($39.99). We were eager to try this thermometer after seeing it on TV commercials.

Taking a temperature is as super easy and fast as promised. It proved accurate, too, alerting on a fever in one of the five testers who was sick.

3-in-1 Family Thermometer from Summer Infant ($30.29). This one was extremely accurate. The thermometer was easy to use and includes three separate attachments for rectal, oral and underarm.

Best of all, all the attachments store within the thermometer—no searching for missing pieces in the middle of the night.

Behind Ear Gentle Touch Thermometer by Vicks ($32.99). We had mixed results with this thermometer. It was very easy and quick to use, but the thermometer gave the same reading when tested on several people and failed to register a fever on one of our testers who actually had a fever.

Associate Editor Elizabeth Diffin helps checks out some humidifiers, as Chicago Parent puts products through their paces.

We loved the 3-in1 thermometer (above).

26 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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12/19/12 11:55 AM

MONEY

Money makeover A

machine will help cut costs by extracting the most water from the clothes and using less water for washing. Washing in cold water will cut the heating bill, but is not always practical.

Consider replacing old tank water heaters with heat pumps that only heat water as needed.

(This saves money in the bathroom, too!)

3 ways to save all over the house

void ugly utility bills this winter with easy makeovers for the most expensive rooms in your home.

Cook up kitchen savings Because food is one of the largest expenses, buying smart can yield massive savings. Kelly Whalen, founder of The Centsible Life (thecentsiblelife.com), champions cooking at home from a pre-determined, repeating meal plan.

Whalen encourages taking one

1

day each week to ‘clean out the fridge’ of leftovers and things that need to be eaten. After all that home cooking, open the oven door to let the heat warm the house. Another trick: Stop the dishwasher and open the door to let dishes air dry.

Wring pennies from the laundry room For such a tiny space, the laundry room consumes a lot of resources. The primary culprit is the dryer.

Use an indoor rack to cut down on dryer use. A good washing

2

Live in luxury, but don’t pay full price In the living room, avoid cranking up the heat by investing in cozy blankets so you can cuddle up. Whalen recommends decreasing cable services, renting games and DVDs instead of buying, and being a smart consumer of big ticket items like TVs, sound systems and gaming consoles.

3

Lela Davidson is a former CPA with foam

Cost cutters worth repeating Install storm windows and weather stripping, and turn out the lights.

Insulate the garage door with foam panels you can cut yourself.

Put foam inserts in outlets and light switch boxes on exterior walls.

Close vents in rooms you don’t use often.

Lock windows for extra protection against drafts.

Unplug appliances and electronics when not in use.

on her garage door and a scribbled meal plan in her purse.

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ChicagoParent.com January 2013 27

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12/19/12 4:48 PM

GOOD SENSE EATING

Organic: Worth the Cost?

S

hopping for organic food is an individual choice for your growing family.

“For me personally, my top priority is making sure that my family is eating the recommended five to nine servings of CHRISTINE fruits and PALUMBO vegetables per day whether it be from organic produce or not,” says Elizabeth Zawila, a mother of two young children.

Labeling a food as ‘organic’ can give you a false sense of security.

There’s increasing concern about the safety of exposure to synthetic pesticide residues, especially for pregnant women and young children.

What has captured parents’ attention is the emerging research linking pesticide exposure to children’s attention, cognition and behavior, as well as sensory issues.

A clinical report published by the American Academy

of Pediatrics in November 2012 came out in favor of buying organic produce and meat, but suggested you can skip the organic milk. The report found there’s little difference in the vitamin and mineral content between organic and conventional foods.

The report does cite lower pesticides in organically grown produce and a likely lower risk of exposure to drug-resistant bacteria.

Switching to organic produce for five days reduced the levels of pesticide residue in the urine of children accustomed to eating conventional produce, one study cited found. “It remains unclear whether such a reduction in exposure is clinically relevant,” the report states.

Organic milk is popular with parents due to concerns about growth hormones and estrogen often given to conventionally raised cows. The report concluded, “Ingestion of milk from estrogen-treated cows appears to be safe for children.”

Be strategic Organics cost 10-40 percent more than conventionally grown produce.

Save money by choosing store brands, shopping at warehouse clubs or buying in stores’ bulk sections.

“Labeling a food as ‘organic’ can give you a false sense of security.

Even organic snack foods can be just as high in sugar, sodium, fat, as their

Citrus-Yogurt Sundae

Makes 6 servings nonorganic One cup of fruit per serving counterparts,” Ingredients reminds Zawila, 8 oz. lowfat vanilla yogurt a registered 1 tsp. freshly grated orange peel dietitian who is 1 tsp. freshly grated grapefruit peel a clinical nutri2 grapefruit, peeled and sectioned tion specialist at 2 oranges, peeled and cut into half-cartwheel the University slices of Illinois 2 bananas, sliced Medical Center.

1 cup blueberries, strawberries, raspberries or While the seedless grapes debate contin1 tsp. sugar ues over which ¼ tsp. ground cinnamon is healthier, consider this: 1. Combine the yogurt, orange and grapeEating more fruit peels; cover and chill. fresh fruits and 2. In a large bowl, combine all the remainvegetables in ing ingredients; cover and chill. general is the 3. To serve, spoon fruit mixture into point. individual dessert dishes and top with the If buying all yogurt. organic isn’t Nutrition Information (per serving): 150 a priority or calories, 0.9 g total fat, 0.4 g saturated fat, 4 a financial g protein, 35 g carbohydrates, 2 mg cholesreality for you, terol, 5 g dietary fiber, 26 mg sodium consider taking Recipe courtesy of Sunkist a strategic approach. Insist on organic versions of what retains the most pesticide residue such as Christine Palumbo, RD, is based in apples, grapes or celery. Skip it Naperville. Contact her at Chris@ for produce with skins or peels ChristinePalumbo.com or through Twitter @ such as bananas, pineapples and PalumboRD. onions.

28 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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12/19/12 11:54 AM

PLUGGED IN PARENT

Homework struggles Help for when you can’t

Q A

How does online tutoring work?

Most online services offer a connection with a live tutor hired by the company to help students.

At Tutor. com, for instance, students work in an online SHARON MILLER classroom CINDRICH with their tutor and have access to a mobile app for tutoring on

the go. TutorVista.com uses a virtual whiteboard to work out problems and has a chat option. At GrowingStars. com, students’ sessions are conducted with Skype VoIP service.

Pricing, tutor qualifications and resources can vary for each service. Eduboard.com, for instance, covers subjects from elementary school to university level content, costs about $20 for 30 minutes of tutoring and offers oneon-one tutoring or a quick whiteboard answer with a sliding scale fee. Tutor.com charges $39 an hour. STIZZIL. com incorporates “live” video interactions from licensed teachers.

So which one will help Janie improve her geometry?

Use this checklist to find the right fit for your child.

1

Check qualifications.

While many services pride themselves on qualified tutors, you’ll want to find out what those qualifications are. Background checks and teaching experience often are a minimum qualification.

2

Match subjects.

Make sure the subject and grade level of your student are served by the tutoring service. Be specific when requesting Advanced Placement tutoring and inquire about the ability of the tutors to accommodate your child’s special needs if he or she has an Individual Education Plan.

3

Read reviews. Look online for reviews comparing the price, effectiveness and features of different online tutoring programs.

Greatschools.org and Edudemic.com offer reviews on the top tutoring and educational trends.

4

Start together. Make sure you are available to participate with your child with the tutoring service.

Technology glitches and awkward introductions can often dampen enthusiasm.

Parents can help by checking tech requirements before tutoring starts.

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ChicagoParent.com January 2013 29

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12/19/12 1:44 PM

TRENDING

New year…better you I’ve never been a big fan of resolving to COMPLETELY change oneself every Jan. 1. Just because it’s a brand new year, doesn’t mean MEREDITH ya need a whole SINCLAIR NEW you. Why not ot simply opt for a little bit better you? Way less pressure.

Here are a few fabulous g products that can help you bring a little bit of better into your beauty routine.

Better hair I recently had a consultation, cut, and style at Art and Science Salon in Evanston n and I am now obsessed with the products co-owner and Creative Director Paul Wilson used to make my hair bloom and glow. You can thank me later.

Shu Uemura Depsea Moisture Foundation, $33, is the perfect light hair moisturizer to help combat dryness during our long winters.

Shu Uemura Fiber Lift, $38, gives killer volume to the limpest of locks.

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Better skin B If you’re looking for a way to combat those lovely lines that come lo with w age, then Nuance Anti-Aging Smooth and A Firm Elixer is the best F bang for your buck. b Nuance is a line by Salma N Hayek and can be found H at a CVS. Love that. It’s full of o vitamins A, C and E aand has Sea Buckthorn that helps smooth and th hydrate skin. Just what hy we need in January. w CVS stores or CVS.com, $19.99

Better kisser B My FAVORITE (and soon to be yours) lip balm ever… just got better. Fresh ju h Sugar lip balms are the Su yummiest, most soothing yum thing lip balms around. And they ey taste like candy. They run about $22 each for the full-size version, but now they come in a cozy collection of six mini balms in various colors. Yippee! Keep em’ all for yourself, ourself, or share them w with a few of your BFFs. s.

Addiction Mini Lip Collection, Sugar Addic n, $48, Fresh.com or Sephora stores, sephora.com

Better bod Local Chicagoland mom (of triplets!) and fitness guru Dana Pieper has come up with a DVD series that will get you up off the couch and in better shape than ever. If you don’t have tons of time or money to spend on getting fit, you’ll love Dana’s “EveryBody Fitness” routines and her highly motivating style. I recommend the Kickbox Challenge DVD. It’s just feels good to pretend punch and kick things. $20, every-body-fitness.com

30 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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12/19/12 11:12 AM

With the purchase one full price Adult Admission, get one child or teen (18 & under) admission for $9.95. Must mention or enter code KTCP at time of purchase to receive discount.

Tickets are non-transferable and cannot be sold or applied to previous transactions. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Cannot be applied to birthday parties. Valid at Schaumburg Castle only. Other restrictions apply. Upgrade packages are additional. Expires 1/31/2013.

*Applies to General Admission only. Plus tax. Upgrade packages are additional. Must mention code 155CP at time of purchase to receive discount. Tickets are non-transferable and cannot be sold or applied to previous transactions. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Offer valid at Schaumburg Castle only.

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12/19/12 1:39 PM

CRAFTS

Who-hoo loves owls?

Make simple pine cone “snowy owls” to add to your winter decor

E

BY CAITLIN MURRAY GILES

mbrace the wintery conditions outdoors with a craft inspired by the super fluffy snowy owl.

Begin by choosing a pine cone that has a nice symmetrical shape. Ponderosa pine cones work best for this project because they have lots of open spaces to stuff the cotton balls.

Use a toothpick to spread a little bit of craft glue into the crevices on the pine cone. Stretch the cotton balls out and use the toothpick to stuff the cotton into the crevices. Repeat until the entire pine cone is covered in cotton and only the tips of the scales are peeking through.

Use craft glue to attach two googly eyes to the owl’s face. Cut out a 1½-inch piece of brown pipe pe cleaner and bend it in half to create a “nose” shape. ape.

Dab a little bit of craft glue onto each end and carefully place onto the cotton on the owl’s face until til it sticks.

Finally, cut out two 3-inch pieces of white pipe pe cleaner to use as “wings.” Dab some glue onto one end of the white pipe cleaner and insert into a crevice on one side of the owl’s “body” until it holds.

Repeat on the other side of the owl to create thee second “wing.”

Supplies

Ponderosa pine cones (You can buy a big bag of this type of pine cone from a craft store at this time of year) Lots of cotton balls or polyfill stuffing

Googly craft eyes White and brown pipe cleaners for the wings and beak Craft glue Scissors Toothpicks

32 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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12/19/12 11:29 AM

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ChicagoParent.com January 2013 33

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12/19/12 10:54 AM

FAILING WITH GUSTO

Bad parents united

Talk back

It has been suggested that many publications trend toward a singularity of thought. That is, they only showcase voices that reinforce shared beliefs, lifestyles and ideology. Up until this month, even Chicago Parent seemed guilty of this.

The publication consistently favored one very specific kind of parent.

MARIANNE Good ones.

WALSH The other parents, bad parents, were left scratching their heads wondering if their cause would ever be championed.

Bad parents, such as me, throw away the school fundraising packets without hesitation. We give our kids Cheerios for dinner. We have a hard time keeping our carpools straight and we can’t make heads or tails of our third-grader’s math homework.

Most telling of all, we are the parents who ignite the accusing whispers of “I’ve never seen her volunteer for Market Day” and “Why is she still wearing maternity clothes—her

expectations are very low. It doesn’t take much to dazzle. When I finally brought something in for the school bake sale (a box of Jewel cookies), you would have thought I was Julia Child herself with individually wrapped crème brulees. The response from other mothers was so overwhelming that I actually considered transitioning into the Good Mother Club.

Then they all started talking about Market Day, and I ran like hell.

Sometimes I rationalize my “bad mother” status by citing my family’s ridiculous schedule and my very real memory issues.

But then I forget what I was worrying about, and I Google “Nutella Coupons” instead.

Yes, the ne’er-do-well parents of the world will at last have a champion.

Whenever a mom loses the notice for Picture Day and sends her son to school in a promotional Budweiser T-shirt, I will stand by her. Whenever a dad drops off his daughter with misaligned pigtails and no lunch, I have his back. After all, if we don’t stick together, you know how this story ends.

It’s called Market Day, and it ain’t pretty.

Marianne Walsh is a Chicago mom of three boys. Want more? Go to ChicagoParent.com and webandofmothers.blogspot.com.

youngest child is 5!?”

So I applaud Chicago Parent for finally giving voice to the failing parents of Chicago. I gave up on perfection years ago, right around the time I noticed my post-baby stomach wasn’t bouncing back like I’d hoped. In fact, it had taken on a whole new shape that resembled a forward-facing tush.

When a woman realizes she now has two butts, the quest for perfection is clearly over.

The best thing about being a bad mother is

34 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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12/19/12 10:52 AM

READERS’ OPEN MIC

Always a battle

This month’s Q: What’s the biggest battle in your house?

Putting coats and shoes in the coat closet instead ead of all over the family ily room or hallway or even RIGHT

NEXT TO THE CLOSET!!

Tammy328 MY KIDS ALWAYS FIGHT HT

CRAYON COLORS. THERE ARE 64 OVER

COLORS, WHY DO THEY ALWAYS WANT TO USE THE SAME COLOR?

Pierresun Thavong PUTTING CLOTHES AWAY. I have threatened to stop folding the clean clothes since they end up in the same pile on the floor each time.

Julie

The number one battle in our house is who gets to decide what to do for

family night. We usually

pick one week to go out and one week to stay home but spend time together as a family.

Malvarado33

Bedtime!

With two working parents and our son in kindergarte kindergarten, we spend our evening evenings doing family fun, so s it’s hard to win wind down and m make sure everyone ggets to bed to get a g good night’s sleep.

Bear Mom B GETTING OUR KIDS G

TO EAT

IS THE B BIGGEST BATTLE SINCE GETTYS GETTYSBURG!

Toutlar T READER OF THE MONTH

Elda Lopez, Chicago Stats: Mom to David, 10, and Vivian, 6; married to husband David 11 years; CPA for a health insurance company.

Favorite thing to do on a Saturday night is to grab some pizza, watch a movie and take a trip to the bookstore.

Her answer: My iPhone, unfortunately! Everyone wants it, to the point where they ignore any calls coming in!

ChicagoParent.com January 2013 35

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12/19/12 2:20 PM

REAL PARENTS IN THE TRENCHES

@

Want more? Visit ChicagoParent.com/parentpanel

What’s the secret to having a happy life?

My philosophy is to be content with yourself and your family. Don’t compare yourself to anyone else because we have no idea what someone else’s life is truly like. The only thing we have control of is our own lives and we indeed have the power to choose to be content and happy.

Kerry Quirin, Downers Grove

I think it’s coming to the realization that you deserve to be happy. Once we set the course for happiness, that train cannot be derailed. Start small, smile when you would like to frown, laugh when you want to cry. A little Belgian chocolate works, too!

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Embrace love + Find laughter wherever possible, but never at someone else’s expense + Truly and wholly let go of all grudges + March to the beat of your own drum + Be assertive + Define your happy ending and make it your life’s goal = Secret to a happy life

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12/19/12 12:44 PM

VOICE: JENNIFER ROGERS

Bathtub parents Raising kids with true grit

W

expectations, chores, limits and a central authority.

The term is new, but the quality of character it hints at is not. Grit is commonsensical, a trait generally admired, one so essential it’s hard to imagine success of any kind without it. So much of modern parenting involves meticulously protecting children from discomfort and unhappiness, grit seems like a new discovery. It’s not. Frustration and failure always have been a part of the human experience.

Stamina always has been essential.

The problem for bathtub parents is that we find ourselves distracted by a niggling sense that our children are falling behind. Though we decided not to enter the Rug Rat Race, we end up hurrying to keep up with parents who are aiming for a different goal.

Thinking of grit gets us back on track.

These days my husband and I are trying harder to be the type of parents we admire. We suffer through the consequences of our children’s bad plays, bad decisions, missed shots and mistakes, but we try not to interfere in the ordinary course of discomfort. Some days we forget, some days we wimp out, but we stay the course.

Most parents didn’t set out to act like helicopters or tigers or marshmallows.

hen our children were very young, my husband bathed them every night in a pint-sized assembly line, one or two at a time. He strummed his guitar and sang lullabies, folk songs, goofy Woody Guthrie and Jerry Garcia tunes.

Now our children bathe independently. If they have had the grimy, backyard kind of day they love we have to empty the tub and start over with fresh water three times. The days we consider our best end with clean, sleeping kids and dirty footprints in the tub.

There usually is a ring of grime at the water’s edge. Foliage floats to the bottom sometimes; remnants of slidetackles, stolen bases, hide-and-go-seek and mud puddles. The residue in the tub reminds us that the kids played

These days my husband and I are trying harder to be the type of parents we admire. outside, unsupervised games that did not involve electronics or the Internet.

One of the trendiest words for parents is “grit.” For bathroom parents like us, it’s a mighty useful word. Children acquire grit in wide-open fields, campgrounds, neighborhoods and baseball diamonds.

They also can find it in those rare families and classrooms where there still are

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Parents dedicated and thoughtful enough to read and reflect on their interactions with their children do not need another reminder that we are screwing things up. We appreciate an earthy word like grit to give us traction and renew our confidence.

When our children enter the tub looking, in their proud grandma’s words, “filthy dirty!” we consider it a good sign. We did the best we could that day, hoping that our backyard brew of dirt, skinned knees and elbow grease produces the grit they will need as they move on to broader fields and tubs of their own.

Jennifer Rogers is a Northbrook mom.

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ChicagoParent.com January 2013 37

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12/19/12 12:20 PM

VOICE: JENNIFER WHEELER WOOD

My son is smarter than me:

And that is a good thing

I

expect my children will become smarter than me. Even if we all took trigonometry, most of us forgot it. So when our kids start talking tangents, we know the time has come for us to stop helping them with their homework.

We are of no use to them anymore.

But when high school is still far away and our children are still content to play Angry Birds and LEGOs all day long, we think we are still safely smarter than our kids. Until they date and drive, there is still a chance that we know more than they do. Or maybe not.

When our son, Wheeler, was 5, I happened to mention to my husband that “someour friend had I will never thing” been worried about was forget that “benign.” Our 9-year-old asked us what the word day, thinking meant. Our 13-yearto myself, old scolded him for not knowing. Then he “Geez, my replied, “I bet Wheeler baby boy knows.”

Sure enough, Wheeler knows way schooled us all.

Around that same more than I time, Wheeler explained to me. I was drivdo.” And then DNA ing and he was safely I realized, strapped away in the backseat or else I would “That. Is. have made him draw the structure he Awesome.” hexagonal was describing. Because the truth is, I was lost.

He was going too fast for me.

This was extremely humbling, if not

humiliating, for a mother enrolled in law school. Benign I understood. DNA I did not. I will never forget that day, thinking to myself, “Geez, my baby boy knows way more than I do.” And then I realized, “That. Is. Awesome.”

And other words like “scholarship” and “Harvard” came to mind. And then, even better thoughts surfaced like, “Wheeler cures cancer.” And then I didn’t care if I was a dope and if my son IS smarter than I am.

Imagine the results if we could harness his power for good. His spin on the world is unreal. When one kid is disgusted by dog poop, Wheeler will point out that it doesn’t emit any harmless greenhouse gases. When another kid complains about going to school, Wheeler is taken aback, “How are you going to learn everything if you don’t go to school?!” And when another kid is

symptomatic for the flu, only Wheeler will volunteer an explanation of small pox instead, complete with history, symptoms and treatment.

So, he’s pegged to be an environmentalist, a truancy officer, or a doctor, I suppose, but Wheeler will tell you he wants to be a scientist.

There may not be many 8-year-olds who want to hang out with my son right now and hear about how the Earth was formed, or how the lifespan of canines varies with body mass.

I do know he will have an audience one day who will be fascinated by his knowledge. Meanwhile, he can tell you how blood is made. I forgot it was made in the bone marrow. It took me a while to figure it out. Not my son. He’s already got it figured out. And my hope is that he can figure out the whole world someday.

Especially that cancer part.

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38 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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12/19/12 1:02 PM

DEATH BY CHILDREN

Attendance note politics My son misses school a lot. Or, he did, until I discovered the awesome power of sick notes.

Now he won’t stay home even if he’s bleeding and on fire. He’d rather expire in the nurse’s office than have to turn in one of these: “To whom it may concern—Please excuse Connor for his absence Nov. 1, CHRISTOPHER as he was working on his port de bras.

GARLINGTON Allow him extra time between classes as he will be practicing his battement fondu. Also, do you sell tutus in school colors? Go Tigers! Entrechat!”

“To whom it may concern— Please excuse Connor’s absence Oct. 9; Connor was severely ill after eating a significant volume of library paste.”

“To whom it may concern— Connor was absent Sept. 14 after

THE

receiving multiple needle gun wounds in Halo 3. He re-spawned later in the day, alas, too late to make it to school on time. ” “To whom yadda yadda yadda—Connor was late today because he was trapped in

school Thursday because of his the shower by a spider. I urge deep and abiding love for the caution when approaching him, music of Justin Bieber.” he’s kind of jumpy.”

“Connor was late Monday “People, listen: Connor after getting stuck in the was late Tuesday because ‘Downward Facing we couldn’t find a Dog’ pose during McDonald’s that had his morning cinnamon buns. disco yoga rouWe went to four tine. I tried to different driveuse a leash to thrus. Also, we bring him, but ran out of gas.” he bit my hand.

“To whom— His vet says to spiders again.” keep him away “Please excuse JA ILL from other kids for Connor for his DE UST RATIO N BY TOM a week.” absence Monday as he “Connor was not absent last was recovering. Early Monday week. He had his name legally morning, he went into his closet changed to Help me Rhonda, and was attacked by dirty jeans Help Help Me Rhonda but the and underwear. He held them off forms never made it to your as long as he could with a music school. Please change his name stand, but they finally outnumin your records and refer to him bered him and he went down.” by this name at all times.”

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ChicagoParent.com January 2013 39

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12/19/12 10:49 AM

SAY M A K E O V E R

YO U R

L I F E

GOOD BYE TO WHAT’S WEIGHING YOU DOWN Tips to start the new year off in a different way this time

A

BY

CHRISTY L. BONSTELL

t the turn of the new year, we see before us a crisp and clean beginning. We are full of nothing but hope for what will come and gratitude for what we are free to leave behind.

For one glorious moment, that is.

Within the next few days, we notice that clean slate isn’t so clean after all. What we thought was wiped away through the turn of a calendar page is, persistently, still there.

That humdrum day job? Still there.

Those outstanding bills? Still there.

That pesky difficult relationship? Still there.

These things were not, as we hoped, changed in that magic midnight moment.

So, how do we really move forward and leave the past where it belongs? We turned to a few local experts for advice.

Christy L. Bonstell is a Chicago freelance writer.

COLIN CHASE Founder, Mindful Money Financial Council “Our mental, physical and financial well-beings are all interrelated. A positive action in one category can bring positive change to the others and vice-versa. Just like practicing a good diet and exercise are the preventative steps we can take to achieve wellness, creating a plan to work towards financial independence can help you enjoy the present and stop a lot of money anxieties from your past. When one puts positive energy toward making their future brighter, it’s easier to overcome any pain from the past.”

KATE KLOTZ Mom and public relations manager, Whole Foods Market “I think using resources and educating yourself on what’s best for you is a great way to do it. I just finally lost the weight from having my baby and it took me a long time to not be mad at myself anymore and just accept that it had to change. Just embrace the change, move forward and don’t look to the past. I was just so mad for so long for letting my body go. But then I was just like, let’s fix it.”

40 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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12/19/12 10:49 AM

BLANCHE BLACKE

POLLY GAZA

“

Partner, Chicago Raw

People jump on the health bandwagon and

they feel like it’s gotta be all or nothing, and then they feel like a failure and they are back off it. One meal off doesn’t mean you’re completely slipping down the slope of success. You don’t want to get to a place where there’s so many restrictions in an exercise and diet routine that

”

you’re a failure. So set up a little more realistic goals for a life-long approach.

Owner, The Chakra Shoppe “The reason why New Year’s resolutions never work is because people are focused on the things that they are unhappy about themselves from the previous years. It’s like a self-whipping.

But (start with) a clean slate. I am not who I was yesterday and literally we have this opportunity every day. Today I can be a new me. Today I can literally forget about who I was yesterday and start fresh.”

SHERYL STOLLER Owner, Stoller Parent Coaching “Halt. Just stop. This is a great skill both for us and a child watching us. Are we hot, hungry, angry, lonely, tired?

By figuring out where we are in the present, we live the life we’re living instead of being in our heads in the past or following fears to the future. If I scream and react to my child now, I’m just making my life harder an hour from now. So if I figure out what this child needs in the moment, it will be done and that will be the end of it. Giving ourselves the present of being present also helps our future self.”

CAROL SOUTHARD

TRACEY BRIGGS Owner, Luminere Esthetics & Wellness “It’s kind of like a swinging door.

You want to move away from these negative things, but that door has to go somewhere. Usually you can do that by making it into a positive. If there was a relationship you want to move away from, make it into a positive. What qualities of that relationship that were negative can you learn from and adopt more positive things in the future?”

DR. AARON MICHELFELDER Professor of Family Medicine, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola “Not letting go of the past has very much been linked to depression.

There’s a whole method of living in the moment called Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. It teaches people to live in the moment. Pay attention to the here and now. When you put your clothes on in the

morning, within a few seconds we forget what it feels like that our clothes are touching our skin. So the idea is to start paying attention to all the sensations we encounter from m moment to moment and start paying attention tention to ourselves.”

KATIE THOMAS MAS Yoga instructor, r, Ray Meyer Fitness Center “In yoga we have this idea that we are not ot our thoughts or feelings. Those ose are things that justt happen to be affecting us in the moment. Begin n to separate your thoughts from who you are. That takes awhile. But through meditatation and being g more aware you ou can start to find nd that.”

RN, MSN, tobacco treatment specialist, Northwestern Memorial “I tell people to learn from the past and rather than feeling like a failure— those were practice sessions. Now do what’s best for yourself in the present.

Rather than thinking changing is something I have to do, look at it as something g I choose to do. One of my patients said ‘it’s the p power to let go of what feels familiar.’ So take it a step at a feeling guilty that stops time. It’s feelin people from m making a change.”

SIMONE T TARGO Empowerm Empowerment life coach, Aligned Inside “I keep k a gratitude journal journ and write down everything I’m thankful every for, no matter how small. something really small It could be som like coffee. It llets me see that I positive things in have a lot of p my life instead of dwelling on the re-read it, especially negative. I re-r when I feel like things are going wrong.”

ChicagoParent.com January 2013 41 ChicagoParent

CHIPAR0113_041.indd 1

12/19/12 10:48 AM

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12/19/12 10:48 AM

M A K E O V E R

YO U R

L I F E

...Daddy

style

BY CHRISTY BONSTELL PHOTOS BY ERIKA HILDEGARD JOHNSON

Time to get serious

Z

ach Alpert plays rugby. He has an infant son. He lives in Edgewater. He’s 28. He loves his wife.

These are the things that define Alpert—or so he hopes.

He hopes it’s not his clothes.

But he’s starting to realize his outfits might be speaking more loudly than his personality.

“I’ve never thought to look a certain way because I always felt that my actions and personality are the things that define me,” Alpert says. “But professionally, I’m not a 21-year-old college student anymore. You can’t wear jeans and a T-shirt in a professional environment and expect people to give you respect or take you seriously.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 44

Zach Alpert took his look from college-student style to professional with the help of a makeover team.

After

ChicagoParent.com January 2013 43

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12/21/12 1:41 PM

Before

With a kid in the picture, Alpert is looking to the future.

He’s going back to school to get his MBA, though he feels lucky to have his job as an area sales manager at Groupon.

“My wife has a Master’s and I don’t want to be the stupid one in the family,” he says with a laugh.

To move forward, he needed a new look.

“I always have this ridiculous beard. I’ll shear it down and after a few weeks it just explodes. It’s a Hagrid-like thing,” he says.

Enter stylist Eric Himel. His course of action? To get Alpert the haircut he needs and a crash course in men’s shopping at Bloomingdale’s.

“He’s just wearing things that are not very memorable,” Himel says. “They don’t really do anything for his body. There’s a fine line between comfort and just not looking good. The good thing about men is that they are pretty open to it.”

Before shopping, they stopped at Maxine Salon, where stylist Severn Dorre went to work on Alpert’s grooming.

“I’m not a 21-year-old college student anymore. You can’t wear jeans and a T-shirt in a professional environment and expect people to give you respect or take you seriously.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 45

44 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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12/19/12 12:46 PM

MAKEOVER DADS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 44

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Alpert has learned to put together the right outfits for casual, work and formal affairs.

“I’ve never had a haircut like this. When he said he was going to put a fade in my hair, I thought I would look like Kid ‘n Play. When I first came home I was a little nervous. But my wife really liked it.”

At Bloomingdale’s, Himel helped Alpert put together three looks: casual, work and formal. He encouraged Alpert to concentrate on cut, possible clothing combinations and personality.

“It gave me a good idea of what clothes to look for. If you’re wearing jeans and a button-down, get the proper color jeans and the proper color button-down and make sure they fit right,” Alpert says. “Very simple articles of clothing can

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ChicagoParent.com January 2013 45

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12/19/12 10:47 AM

MAKEOVER DADS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 45

A new start

R

ichard Scruggs is in transition. On top of being a freelancer in uncertain economic times and the father of a teenager, he also is a recent widower.

Scruggs, 54, describes his style as “mid-90’s IT guy—a lot of Dockers and polo shirts.” Before this look? Dozens of Hawaiian shirts. For most of his life, that was just fine.

“Sometime, I may need to put myself out there romantically again. People notice appearance first. I mean, I’m charming as hell and I’m fun as hell, but you have to be able to get them on the hook,” he says. “I’m trying to lose some weight. I’m going to talk to a trainer. Now’s a good time for self-improvement because I don’t have much else going on.”

And if he had to pick a new style icon?

“George Clooney. The guy looks like a million bucks no matter what he puts on,” he says.

“Physically I’m not that dissimilar, aside from the giant bald patch and the 40 to 100 extra pounds. When I was younger I was more that type.”

Luckily for Scruggs, there were a couple of experts on hand to get him into tip-top shape, starting with Jeanette Kemble, owner of Robert Jeffrey Salon in Lincoln Park.

“He needed an update. He’s thinning a little on top, and hanging on to a little bit of length I think makes it look worse,” she says. “We’re going a little shorter and updating him a little bit. We’re also doing some gray blending.”

But the overall vision belonged to Jennifer Mahoney, owner of A Sharp Dressed Man. She headed off to Nordstrom.

“I thought I’d update his glasses with a frame (from Division Optical) that wasn’t so heavy on his face so you can see his

After

Richard Scruggs describes his former style as “mid-90s IT guy. “ With the help of a makeover team, he updated both his casual and business style.

Before

eyes a little more. The clothing, he just has no clue, so that was easy: Finding something that fit and looked right and was a little slimming, working with darker colors and layers.”

For Scruggs, the makeover was a success.

“I felt great about the experience. It was really fun,” he

says. “I should be wearing more jackets and blazers and sweaters. I’m not a good launderer.

So I need to pay more attention to fabrics.”

And he plans on keeping up with the gray “staining” that updated his hair.

“I don’t want to hide my gray,” he says. “I sort of earned it.”

“People notice appearance first. I mean, I’m charming as hell and I’m fun as hell, but you have to be able to get them on the hook.”

46 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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12/19/12 10:46 AM

T:4.625”

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ChicagoParent.com January 2013 47

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12/19/12 2:54 PM

M A K E O V E R

The new year,

YO U R

L I F E

style FAMILY

N

BY LAURA AMANN

ew Year’s is often seen as the last stop on the holiday train: a time of over-indulgence and annoying noisemakers or plain exhaustion. But it’s also a time of reflection and hope.

5 ideas to try

Meg Cox, author of The Book of New Family Traditions (Running Press, 2012), points out that New Year’s traditions cut both ways, allowing parents to have fun while creating some meaningful traditions.

“You can have a really happy, jumpup-and-down-and-make-a-lot-of-noise

Embrace the fun

1

There are plenty of ways easily and creatively to capture the silliness of a party mood.

The DeBoer family in Clarendon Hills has fun deciding who will be the first to do something in the new year. For instance, who will be the first to do a cartwheel or sing a certain song or eat a meatball.

“It seems strange but they can spend all night thinking of what they’ll do at midnight,” says mom Amy DeBoer.

Leslie Goddard of Darien held an Upside-Down and Backwards party for her nieces to welcome the new year. The kids would wear their clothes backwards, eat dessert first, sit under the table and hang signs upside-down.

“We had fun going into the new year backwards,” she says. “The kids thought it was hilarious to break all kinds of rules for one night.”

time but you can also, within that same holiday, have a time for quiet reflection on how you’ve evolved in a year.”

With that in mind, we asked some Chicago area families for their ideas on creating rituals and traditions that spark memories and enthusiasm.

Cultural traditions

2

Amy Engstrom Clugg’s two children were adopted from Russia and she and her husband incorporate Russian celebrations into their New Year’s festivities.

“New Year’s became a big holiday for Russia during Communism when they couldn’t celebrate religious holidays,” she says. “Even today, New Year’s remains their bigger celebration, with many Russians still putting up a New Year’s tree.”

Their family makes a big Russian meal and celebrates midnight for all of Russia’s nine time zones, especially their kids’ birth cities, as well as the Chicago New Year.

Linda Kelley of Elmhurst keeps a Greek tradition alive by baking a Vasilopita, a New Year’s cake. The cake has a coin, wrapped in foil, baked inside. When the cake is cut at midnight, whoever gets the piece with the coin in it is supposed to have good luck in the new year.

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Re-viewing the past year

3

As any parent will tell you, kids love watching movies of themselves or going through photo albums of when they were younger.

When Carrie Wujek of Naperville was growing up, her family pulled out old family movies. “We would have an appetizer dinner and watch family movies on our old reel-toreel projector with the big snap-down screen,” she says.

Watching home videos and flipping through albums also provides a good incentive to transfer video off the camera and onto a format where it can be enjoyed by everyone.

Capture the past year

4

As kids get older, use the memories stirred up by home movies and photos to look back on the past year.

Cox suggests making a Best and Worst List.

What is the best/worst thing that happened in the past year? What was the best/worst movie you saw?

Include books, TV shows and friends. You could also anticipate what current events of the past year will make history and three things you hope for in the coming year.

Alternately, consider an awards ceremony for memorable moments during the past year. Consider: Most Embarrassing Moment, Best Athlete, Most Improved Sibling.

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Predictions versus resolutions

5

Resolutions are the most common New Year’s tradition and they’re a fun way to get kids excited about the possibilities of the coming year. It’s always interesting to find out what family members see as areas of needed improvement. Save the resolutions to read the following year.

If you’re tired of resolutions, try making predictions. On New Year’s Eve, determine categories and then predict events of the coming year. On New Year’s Day, open the predictions from the previous year.

Our family did this and I’ve continued the tradition with my kids. Our categories include “Personal” (“I will get Mrs. Kulp for a teacher”), “Family” (“We will finally go to Florida”), and “World” (“The Bears will win the Super Bowl”).

Get involved in something special with your child.

Lincoln Park Cooperative Nursery School offers part-time programs for children 2.5 years through Junior Kindergarten. We respect children as explorers filled with wonder, and as powerful co-constructors in their own development. Highly-qualified teachers place special emphasis on social and emotional development, and offer experiences that promote intellectual dispositions in a secure and stimulating environment.

Call for a tour and submit an application by March 1.

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DEVELOPMENTAL DIFFERENCES RESOURCE FAIR

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50 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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M A K E O V E R

YO U R

L I F E

Best family apps

@

to kick off the new year

T

ime for those familiar family resolutions— save money, eat healthier and get a little techie! This year, resolve to try a few of these apps, certain to help you and your family reach your New Year’s goals! Most are free—or worth the cost of their few dollar fees.

Save money.

GasBuddy (iPhone, Android, Blackberry, free) locates gas stations near you to compare costs and find the least expense price at the pump. Kids Meal Deals (iPhone, Android, Blackberry, free) helps you find local promotions for dining out at your family’s favorite restaurants. Apples2Oranges (iPhone, Android, free) helps you compare price and quantity in the store and is perfect for figuring out the cost per granola bar during your trip to the big box store.

Eat healthier.

Fooducate (iPhone, Android, free) uses your phone’s camera to snap a photo of a food product and give it a grade from A through F, along with other nutritional notes. Munch 5-a-Day (iPhone, free) is a fun, interactive game that keeps track of

the number of fruits and veggies each family member eats.

Get active.

Eat-And-MoveO-Matic (iPhone, iPad, free) shows kids how long it takes to burn the calories they eat when they participate in activities they like. Kiddy Keep Fit (iPhone, free) encourages little ones to exercise to music.

Take a family walk together each day and use the MapMyWalk app (iPhone, iPad, Android, free) to set family goals and keep track of the miles.

Clear clutter.

Cut down on junk mail with the snap of your mobile phone!

PaperKarma (iPhone, Android, free) takes your photos and contacts the mailer to ask that you be removed from the mailing list.

HomeRoutines (iPhone, iPad, $3.99) helps you break your home into zones and manage your time to keep from getting overwhelmed by stuff.

Learn something new.

Combine time together with learning and fun. Weird but True (iPhone, iPad, free) offers hundreds of wild, wacky facts from National Geographic Kids.

Weird Word of the Day (iPhone, iPad, free) introduces families to less common words and their definitions. Fat Brain (iPhone, iPad, free) is a fun trivia game with facts from history, languages, sports and more.

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

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M A K E O V E R

YO U R

L I F E

Derby Lite combines fun and fitness in roller skating exercise classes Photos by ERICA BARRUCA

Women can build agility and strength, plus lose weight, during Derby Lite’s high-energy workouts.

Shape that booty

D

BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER

o you have fond memories of middle school parties at the roller rink, but likely haven’t laced up your skates since? Bored with your fitness routine? There’s a growing fitness trend that just might be the perfect fit.

With the motto of “roller skating for fun and fitness for women old enough to know better,” Derby Lite was created by retired

roller derby player Barbara Dolan. Fondly known as “Queen B” in the rink, Dolan says women build strength, endurance, balance, agility and flexibility while also building confidence, making friends and reducing stress.

Derby Lite’s weekly workouts are a high-energy 90 minutes filled with basic skills, skating drills, upper body exercise and stretching. With women ranging from

“It’s the one thing that had always been missing and I didn’t realize it was missing before.”

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18 to 65, there are beginner, intermediate and advanced sessions that create results for every participant.

At 53, Sharon Halperin, aka “Novakaine,” has been taking classes at Derby Lite for almost two years.

“Derby Lite is empowering and makes you feel strong, like you can do anything. It helped get me out of my old boring exercise routine and learn something new with a great group of women,” she says.

“Plus, when people find out you do it, they are amazed.”

Stacey Stern, aka “Hell Vetica,” started classes last fall and has lost nearly 40 pounds, thanks to Derby Lite, combined with changes to her diet.

“It’s an awesome form of exercise and it doesn’t even feel like I am exercising because it’s so much fun,” says Stern. “I cannot imagine my life without it now. It’s

derbylite.net Derby Lite Headquarters, D’Lite House (The ARC Building), 18 Chicago Ave., Oak Park Six locations the one thing that had always been missing and I didn’t realize it was missing before.”

According to Dolan, Derby Lite classes strengthen your bones, muscles and heart while releasing endorphins that make it good for your mind and spirit, too. In each class, women burn between 500 and 1,500 calories.

“It definitely will turn women into superheroes if they aren’t already. It changes bodies and changes lives,” Dolan says.

Added bonus: “You will have a new wardrobe of fishnet stockings, booty shorts and knee-high socks,” she says.

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Factory Tour · 4D Cinema · LEGO® MINILAND LEGO Rides · LEGO Jungle Expedition · Birthday Parties LEGO Shop and Café · and more!

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For more information visit www.LEGOLANDDiscoveryCenter.com

This o≠er is valid for one free child admission with each full paying adult (paying the standard admission price) to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago. This coupon cannot be used in conjunction with any tickets purchased online. This coupon can only be used when paying the standard admission price - it cannot be used with the Family Saver Pricing. Please present this coupon when purchasing tickets. This discount is not valid with other discounts, coupons or other o≠ers and cannot be used with online or prebooked tickets. Cannot be used with birthday parties. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Duplication or sale of this o≠er is prohibited. No cash value. Not redeemable for cash or credit. Valid until January 1, 2014. (GC: 1575) LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Brick and Knob configurations, the Minifigure and LEGOLAND are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2013 The LEGO Group. LEGOLAND IS A PART OF THE MERLIN ENTERTAINMENTS GROUP.

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS

OF COMMUNITY MUSIC

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Food adventures make family life delicious

Y

BY

ANDREA GUTHMANN

ou never run out of adventures living in Chicago, and I love taking advantage of all the city has to offer. My three kids, though, would often rather play video games and watch TV than go on family outings.

Luckily, I’ve found a sweet incentive to get them off the couch: food.

It can be tough to get my 12- and 14-yearold boys motivated to go on a tour of Chinatown or Devon Avenue’s Indian neighborhood, but if the payoff is a good meal, everyone’s suddenly hungry for the urban adventure I’ve planned.

Here’s what’s on my menu of fun family food trips in Chicago.

Next time your weekend’s a little bland, relish this: There are plenty of kid friendly adventures to be had in our own backyard.

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KLEZMER FUN CITY WINERY

1200 W. Randolph St., (312) 7339463, citywinery.com

LITTLE INDIA India.” Make sure to bring a hearty appetite when you visit, because the Indian restaurants are known for their buffets. A couple of our favorites are the popular Viceroy of India and Shera-Punjab, a hole-in-the-wall that has a terrific lunch buffet for $7.95.

My kids used to only eat the chicken tandoori and naan bread. When asked to try new Indian dishes, “No

VICEROY OF INDIA

2520 W. Devon Ave., (773) 743-4100, viceroyofindia.com

SHER-A-PUNJAB 2510 W. Devon Ave., (773) 973-4000 Years ago, Devon Avenue in west Rogers Park mainly was a Jewish community.

Today, this bustling neighborhood is known as “Little

way!” would be a kind way to describe their response.

Over the years, they’ve come to eat their words, along with second and third helpings of gulab jamun, doughnut holes soaked in a sweet syrup, now my son’s favorite dessert.

Of course, we never leave Little India without wandering a bit, enjoying the beautiful saris and Bollywood posters in the storefronts.

“What’s klezmer?” asks my 12-yearold. Ahhh, music to my ears. Our outing on a recent Sunday was the klezmer brunch at City Winery.

Located along long restaurant row in the former meat packing district, trict, City Wineryy looks like a microbrewbrewery inside, except they’re making king wine in the vats instead of beer. eer.

During the week it’s an adultt venue with a variety ety of musicians performing, erforming, but every Sunday unday City Winery pairs rs lively bands with breakfast ast in a klezmer brunch, perfect fect for kids.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 58

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FOOD ADVENTURES

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 57

CHINATOWN LAO SZE CHUAN

2172 S. Archer Ave., (312) 326-5040, tonygourmetgroup.com

JOY YEE’S SMOOTHIE BAR

2139 South China Place, (312) 328-0001, joyyee.com A visit to Chicago’s Chinatown, the fourth largest in the U.S., is like visiting another country without ever leaving the city. Our family enjoys visiting Chinatown Square, the two-story outdoor pedestrian mall selling everything from Chinese toys and trinkets to health food and teas. In the southwest corner of Chinatown Square is Lao Sze Chuan, restaurateur Tony Hu’s flagship eatery.

Hu’s dynasty of Chinese restaurants includes seven within Chinatown. If you want a taste of Hu’s empire, you’ll typically have to wait an hour for a table on a Saturday night; Lao Sze Chuan only takes reservations for parties of six or more. Best thing g to do is leave your name as soon as you arrive and begin your adventure visiting the surrounding gift shops.

No visit would be complete without stopping by Joy Yee’s Smoothie Bar for a bubble tea with tapioca balls—a sweet treat we only get in Chinatown.

MARKET WATCH GENE’S SAUSAGE SHOP & DELICATESSEN

4750 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 7287243, genessausageshop.com Where’s the beef? Gene’s Sausage Shop in Lincoln Square, of course.

Gene’s is a remarkable reincarnation of the once popular Delicatessen Meyer. This hip and aarchitecturally stunning space is far rremoved from the butcher shop that once stood here. Much like Lincoln Square, it’s changed with th the times, no longer catering only to Germans. Still, there’s German pedestrian-friendly a pedes block wh where you’ll find

signs of the neighborhood’s German roots, including Merz Apothecary, Cafe Selmarie and the Chicago Brauhaus.

JOONG BOO MARKET

3333 N. Kimball Ave., (773) 4785566, joongboomarket.com Another one of my family’s favorite food stops is Joong Boo Market, a Korean grocery store, just off the Kennedy Expressway, on the city’s northwest side. Tucked in the back of the store is a small cafe serving authentic Korean dishes, as well as the best chicken wings in Chicago—ready for take-out.

Learn More About Morgan Park Academy Global Scholars Open House

Thursday, January 31, 2012 – 6:30 p.m.

Join us for an All-School Open House focused on our Global Scholars program. Our faculty and staff will discuss the program’s benefits for students of all ages, preparing them to succeed in a dynamic world. You’ll hear about our new Global Scholars initiatives including: expanded World Languages curriculum, with French, Spanish and Mandarin in all divisions, expanded opportunities to study abroad and expanded International Student program.

All-School Open House

Saturday, February 9, 2013 – 10:00 a.m.

You’ll hear from students and faculty, tour our historic campus, and learn why our graduates consistently succeed at the nation’s finest colleges and universities. See for yourselves the unique opportunities students are given to pursue educational excellence, leadership and global citizenship.

For full details about these events please visit our website at: www.MorganParkAcademy.org/Admissions.

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The Academy offers affordable transportation to and from many suburban locations and Chicago neighborhoods.

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58 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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Soup’s on!

W

inter and soup go hand-in-hand.

And since Chicago is so good at delivering nice cold winters, we

knew it would be great at bringing us nice hot soups. Here are a few of our favorite spots in the city.

Danielle Braff

Lobster-chicken-rice soup

Matzoh Ball soup

Lentil soup

Find it here Soupbox Why it’s so yummy It’s thick, creamy and rich—almost like the savory soup version of ice cream. We love combining two of our favorite soups, and they’re more than happy to mix them together to make one extraordinary soup.

Kids will love it Most of the flavors were meant to mix together, but it’s a little like a science experiment. Choose two of your faves, and see if they work well together.

A bowl will cost $7.09 for the regular and $9.14 for the bread bowl While you’re there, try this too Get the soup in a bread bowl, and have fun eating your bowl when you’re done.

Details 50 E. Chicago Ave., (312) 9515900; 2943 Broadway, (773) 935-9800

Find it here Manny’s Why it’s so yummy The salty, comforting soup comes with the biggest matzoh ball you’ll ever see. It’s soft, warm and tastes like home.

Kids will love it Pop the soup onto a tray, cafeteria-style, just like school. And it’s a challenge to finish the entire matzoh ball.

A bowl will cost $3.75 While you’re there, try this too Their corned beef sandwiches are so massive, you’ll have problems taking a bite. So be prepared to make a mess—and have leftovers that’ll take you through at least one more meal.

Details 1141 S. Jefferson, (312) 939-2855

Find it here Taste of Lebanon Restaurant Why it’s so yummy This thick lentil soup is a bowl of savory goodness, and it’s enhanced with some mild spices and lemon.

Even if you don’t think you like lentils, you’ll like this soup.

Kids will love it They’ll be able to dip their warm piece of pita bread into the soup—it’s almost like playing with your food.

A bowl will cost $2.49 While you’re there, try this too The falafel wrap is one of their signature items, and it’s huge, crunchy and messy.

Details 1509 Foster Ave., (773) 334-1600

Tomato soup Find it here Spicy Monkey Soup Company Why it’s so yummy It’s made from scratch daily and starts with a homemade vegetable stock base. Then the tomatoes and fresh ingredients are added (no sugar or cream in this yummy, healthy concoction) to become the perfect frosty weather soup.

Kids will love it It’s a DIY soup.

Add the following at no additional cost: chicken, meatballs, broccoli, peppers, pasta and rice.

A bowl will cost $5.50 While you’re there, try this too You can’t have tomato soup without grilled cheese. Get the apple pie grilled cheese sandwich, which comes stuffed with cheddar, bacon, brown sugar and granny smith apples.

Details French Market, 131 N. Clinton St., (312) 454-2991

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Top trends in

CHICAGO What you’ll fall in love with in 2013

B

BY CAITLIN MURRAY GILES eing a parent in 2013 isn’t that much different than it was a century ago. We parents are all working hard to do our very best for the little people in our lives. But family life is constantly evolving, and every year we are exposed to new innovations intended to make this parenting gig a little bit easier.

From genius online artwork organization to the greatest new thing in kids’ birthday bashes, we found the best in new parenting trends and innovations that Chicago area families can expect to see this year.

Here’s what is coming your way:

Fashion: Mini Me

1

When you head out shopping next year, plan to pick up one outfit for you—and something very similar for your “mini me.” “In 2013, look for little girls to be emulating what their moms are wearing, now more than ever,” says Kristine Prugh, Chicago mom of three and the

founder of Twinkleberry and Son showroom. “For spring, expect to see lots of maxi dresses, mint green paired with peach, and shoes with glittery embellishments—for both moms and their daughters.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 61

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TRENDS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 61

Fun: The proliferation of the photo booth

2

Photo booths have been around for years, but they were largely relegated to amusement parks.

But these machines (and the quick and funny photo strips they produce) are becoming prolific. Photo booths now

are readily available for rental, and families are incorporating this playful element into celebrations such as block parties, birthday bashes and more. Local companies like Shutterbox Photo Booth (shutterboxphotobooth.com) rent photo booths for any occasion (even if it is just to show your kids that you can still get your silly on!).

Play: Take your recycle bin building to the next level

3

“Everyone knows kids favor the boxes toys come in over the toys themselves, which is why these two new two companies have made such an impression on me,” says Lindsey Gladstone, editor of DailyCandy Kids and mom to two little ones. Makedo, mymakedo.com, sells kits that include tools (saw, hole puncher, connectors, hinges) to join together cardboard, plastic and fabric castoffs so kids can get seriously creative.

Toobalink, toobalink.com, adds

connectors to paper towel and toilet paper tubes to allow your little architect to build towers out of items that otherwise would end up in the recycling box.

Throwbacks: What’s old is new again (but it is a lot easier this time around)

4

Sure, you meant to send Grandma and Grandpa a postcard from your recent vacation. But the process of selecting a postcard from a rotating rack in a souvenir shop, penning a message, obtaining proper postage and popping said card into a mailbox feels like a lot of work when you could just send a picture from your smartphone. At the same time, there really is something special about getting an actual postcard in your mailbox. Enter Postino, postinoapp. com, you snap a picture, add a message (including your real signature), buy a stamp through PayPal and your real CONTINUED ON PAGE 62

Specıal Parent CHICAGO

A Chicago Parent EMPOWERMENT GUIDE

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

• 50,000 copies distributed in early intervention specialist offices, and local libraries • Expanded special needs resource directory online at ChicagoParent.com

Specıal Parent ChiCago Chi Cago SUMMER 2012

an EMpowERMEnt gUidE fRoM

The faCE of beauty ModEling beyond disability

Real life tales

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243 resources

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6/28/12 4:24 PM

Spring edition coming soon!

For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com ChicagoParent.com January 2013 61

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TRENDS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 61

postcard arrives in a real mailbox in just a couple of days.

Entertaining: DIY (with a little bit of help from the experts)

5

The days of kids’ birthday party extremes are over.

Parents no longer have to choose between outsourcing the whole shindig to the party planning experts or sucking it up and handling every last detail of the party themselves.

Piece of Cake Productions, pieceofcakeproductions. net, provides the tools to help families pull off firstrate celebrations for every occasion. These entertaining experts provide complete downloadable party plans and basics (party timelines, invites, menus, crafts and game directions, shopping lists, etc.) that make it possible for mom and dad to pull off the whole party themselves (while actually being able to enjoy the experience).

Taste: Tea party

6

Tea isn’t just for pretend parties with baby dolls or lazy afternoons with old ladies anymore. Take your tea parties to the next level in 2013. Tea drinking in the U.S. is on the rise, and kids can get in on this trend, too.

Families are realizing that caffeine-free, herbal teas offer numerous benefits for kids.

Retailers such as Teavana even have entire sections of their website devoted to tea for little ones (teavana. com/loose-leaf-teas/teas-forchildren). Choose a caffeinefree tea and mix with a bit of juice or honey to make

this warm offering more appealing to kiddos.

Efficiency: Outfitting your kids made easy

7

Kids require constant wardrobe updates. You get everybody set up with shoes, clothes and all the necessary outerwear only to discover that your son’s feet have grown overnight and your daughter’s brand new jeans are suddenly floods because of her serious growth spurt. Two companies are rethinking the way families deal with the constant in and out of kids’ clothing.

Whittlebee.com is a monthly kids’ clothing club. Sign up online, provide details about your kid’s sizing and style preferences and receive a box with $100 worth of clothing basics (retail value) for $39.99 a month. Parents can provide feedback to their stylist online and pause or cancel the membership at any time.

Of course, parents also have to deal with all of the clothing their kids have outgrown.

This is where Moxie Jean, moxiejean.com, comes in.

“Moxie Jean takes the hassle out of keeping up with highquality kids’ clothes so that your little ones always look great no matter how fast they grow,” says Sharon Schneider, founder and CEO of Moxie Jean. Here is how it works: Request a free mailer bag, fill it with the high-quality but too-small clothes and send the bag back to Moxie Jean. You can choose whether you want to use the credits you earned from your bag to buy new items through Moxie Jean or you can donate your credit to the families served by the Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.

Second City Improv Extravaganza Explosion

Technology: The new family photo album and an answer to kids’ artwork overload

8

Gladstone is always looking for the newest big thing for the 6 and under set—and their parents. One of her favorite innovations in apps is Artkiveapp.com. “Any parent who suffers from art project overload—and the accompanying guilt about throwing their kids’ artwork away—will appreciate Artkive. Photograph your kids’ masterpieces as they come home—and then toss them right in the trash. At the end of the year you can make a coffee table book of the art straight from the app,” she says. Use ThisLife.com to get a handle on your family photos.

“Digital photos are great, but I live in fear of our hard drive going haywire and losing all of our memories,” Gladstone says. This Life gathers all the digital images from your desktop, phone, camera, and

social channels and stores them safely in the company’s cloud.

Entertainment: Kidsized versions of the performances that mom and dad love

9

Why should adults have all of the fun?

Increasingly, local cultural institutions are offering more and more programming designed to engage younger audiences.

For example, Second City Improv Extravaganza Explosion, secondcity.com, now offers its signature brand of off-the-cuff sketch comedy show for families (read: you can count on the humor being clean). Similarly, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, cso.org, offers programs that kids and their music-loving parents can appreciate. Check out the Family Matinee Series or the Once Upon a Symphony program for preschoolers.

Caitlin Murray Giles is a freelance writer and Chicago mother of three.

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ChicagoParent.com January 2013 63

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Killing

DANGER IN PLAIN SIGHT

time

When prescription drugs and kids mix

W

hen Dan Katz glided off the ice after a skirmish in a junior high hockey game, it was the beginning of a meltdown that would snowball into a fatal overdose of prescription painkillers.

When coaches permanently benched him, his parents say, he began to numb his frustration with booze and marijuana.

Oxycontin became his drug of choice.

“From the time he walked out of that ice rink, the drugs gained more and more power over him,” his mother Gail Katz says. “Not every kid is going to get addicted. Dan was the one who was

BY ROBYN MONAGHAN going to be an addict.”

The Highland Park youth who started out as a gregarious, popular hockey star was in and out of rehab programs.

Drugs dogged him through high school and several attempts at college. Finally, buddies found him dead on the floor after a night of partying, a bottle of oxycontin with a stranger’s name on the prescription label near him. He was 25.

Like most parents of teenagers, David and Gail Katz had nightmares of beer and car crashes. But prescription drugs?

No. The prescription pill problem is a sneaky plague that’s tallying up tragic

numbers.

Ironically, it is the misuse of powerful painkillers that inflicts the most pain.

Teens say pain pills like Percocet and Vicodin are easier to come by than a six-pack of beer. One in six teens owns up to taking prescription drugs not for the help, but for the high, according to research.

About 200,000 Illinois teens and young adults abused pharmaceutical narcotics in 2010, the latest yearly data available, according to information from U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk’s office. Kirk CONTINUED ON PAGE 65

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KILLING TIME

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introduced a bill to beef up fines for doctors who recklessly prescribe medications and to make commonly abused drugs harder to come by.

Nearly two-thirds of teens who misuse prescription medication get them from family members and friends. The main source of drugs, from sleep aids to Ritalin? The family medicine cabinet or Grandma’s purse.

Ten percent of teens say they secretly lifted drugs from friends or relatives.

“Kids may love their grandparents,” David Katz says. “But a lot of times they love their medicine cabinet more.”

The other key source of misused drugs is “pill mills”—clinics that dispense prescriptions without physical exams or medical assessments. Pill mill doctors often treat ailments only with pain medication and direct patients to pharmacies that look the other way from suspicious prescriptions.

“One of the worst things parents can say is ‘This can never happen to my child.’”

Gail Katz

The Pill Mill Bill Since Dan died in June 2007, David and Gail Katz have converted their grief into a call to action. They launched the Save a Star Drug Awareness Foundation, with a mission of shining light on the insidious dangers of medicine gone amiss.

They are working with a bipartisan group of U.S. legislators to double prison sentences for pill mill operators—doctors,

@

ChicagoParent.com Where do kids get these prescription drugs? It just might surprise—and scare—you.

Plus, what you can do and where to dispose of unneeded prescription drugs before they end up in the wrong hands.

clinics, and pharmacies that dispense prescription narcotics irresponsibly for nonmedical reasons.

The “pill mill bill” would triple fines from $1 million to $3 million for illegal distribution of controlled substances.

Fines would be funneled to drug treatment programs and state drug-monitoring databases that collect information on prescription drugs prescribed and dispensed. Illinois already has a monitoring program that helps medical professionals ensure patients aren’t receiving prescriptions from multiple doctors.

Along with daughter Melissa Gold, the Katz family speaks at schools and law enforcement agencies across the Midwest to help families learn how to recognize and intervene when kids are at risk for abusing prescription drugs.

While drug awareness experts recommend locking up drugs, David and Gail Katz say being involved in your kids’ lives and keeping tabs on what they’re up to is the best way to prevent drug abuse.

Their mantra? Don’t be naïve.

“One of the worst things parents can say is ‘This can never happen to my child,’” Gail Katz says. “No parent wants to believe it can. Unfortunately, this is the reality we have to live with after this tragedy.”

Dan’s empty chair at the table is a reminder of their boy and the battle with painkillers he ultimately lost.

“When he died, he took a part of us,” his mother says.

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Great EDUCATION

8 at

Child advocates trying to make the most of the critical third grade

W

hen it came to making sure her kids mastered the Three R’s by the end of third grade, Palatine mom Jennifer DeFranco faced two completely opposite objectives.

She had to prod teachers into giving her perfectionist daughter Madisyn more challenging assignments. Three years later, she pressed for tests to prove son Devin needed reading intervention.

“You know your child better than anyone else, so you are their best advocates,” DeFranco says. “If I hadn’t been in constant touch, if I hadn’t kept asking over and over, they never would have gotten the attention they needed to be where they needed to be by the end of third grade.”

Third grade can be a make-or-break benchmark.

What’s so special about being

BY

ROBYN MONAGHAN

“Great at 8,” the age when kids usually finish third grade?

It’s at the end of third grade, says Paula Corrigan-Halpern, policy advocacy director at Voices for Illinois Children, that life is about to get a lot more complicated.

“It’s a shift from learning to read to reading to learn,” she says.

Third grade is also when children first face that sheet of little ovals on standardized tests, an experience that can shape a kid’s self-image for years to come.

“Where kids are in reading and math in third grade has a lot to say about where kids are in later years,” Corrigan-Halpern says. “If they are far behind then—it’s not that interventions don’t work—but, by and large, they tend to stay far behind.”

Studies show that third-graders who muster the skills of “grit, determination and resiliency” it takes to accomplish basic math and reading

skills in third grade have a better chance to get ahead in school and life, she says. Those who don’t get it before fourth grade are more likely to drop out of high school, to be victims or perpetrators of violence, to abuse drugs and alcohol and to work in low-wage jobs.

Far too few Illinois fourth-graders are ready to learn. Despite gains in the past few years, only 65 percent of Illinois fourth-graders were at or above basic reading level on the national Assessment of Educational Progress in 2009, and only 36 percent made the “proficient” mark.

What parents want What would Illinois parents buy if they had a million dollars to make their kids “Great at 8”?

CONTINUED ON PAGE 68

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EDUCATION

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Safe streets and parks Low-cost family counseling Bike trails and indoor playgrounds Nutritious food at prices they can afford, health insurance and access to doctors, dentists and social workers Those are the answers Illinois parents told policy makers in a survey.

“It’s important kids can say to themselves ‘I can do this.’ This is an important time for creating self-image.”

Jennifer DeFranco Parents know that stress from losing a home through foreclosure, dad yelling at mom, or fear of getting kicked out of the

country all follow kids to the classroom. They are well aware that children stoked up on junk food, choked up by asthma, and throbbing with toothaches have high absence rates and low concentration.

Kids who spend their free time doing fun activities with pals and have grown-ups who care about them take better attitudes and better skill sets to school.

Just ask But it doesn’t take a million bucks to put so many of those pluses to work for elementary school kids, says DeFranco, a self-described “education advocate” who has held a long list of positions on state and national PTA boards and writes a blog, advocatemomma.org.

All it really takes is the backbone to step up and tell teachers what your child needs to succeed.

DeFranco sends a letter of

with all these kinds of family problems,” DeFranco says. “But they can’t until they know the problem exists.”

introduction the first day of school to fill the teacher in on how her child best learns, what are the strengths and weaknesses, what she hopes they will accomplish in that grade.

Parents who are insecure about their own language skills should remember the writing doesn’t have to “be anything fancy.”

“Saying anything at all is better than not communicating,” she says. “It shows concern and that gets the teacher’s attention.”

Throughout the year, parents should keep teachers up to speed on what is going on with kids after they get off the bus—if a family member is in the hospital, if there are marital problems, if mom can’t find time to help with homework, if dad is struggling to put food in the lunch box or pencils and paper in the backpack.

“Most schools can put families in touch with programs to help

Check in DeFranco asks for (and gets) her own copies of textbooks at home so Devin has a head start on reading assignments.

“It’s important kids can say to themselves ‘I can do this.’ This is an important time for creating self-image,” she says.

It doesn’t matter how busy a mom is or what her own level of learning is, DeFranco says.

There’s always time to say “Is your homework ready for tomorrow? Do you have the supplies you need? How’s it going at school?”

“Regardless of what the home environment is, any parent can be their child’s best advocate for making it through third grade, if they are just willing to use their voice,” she says.

Join us for our Spring session kickoff event The Family Music Festival SUNDAY, JANUARY 27, 2013 Space is limited!

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

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special advertising section // Tips for 2013 from our advertisers Share your goals and dreams People who are able to put their goals and dreams into words are much more likely to see them fulfilled. The same is true at summer camp. As a camp director, I know that campers who tell their staff what they REALLY want to do at camp are much more likely to live that dream. Nothing is more rewarding to see than a huge smile on a child’s face that just fulfilled a dream.

- Lori Martin

Cub Creek Science Camp (573) 458-2125 www.MyAnimalCamp.com

GO kid Try a new sport or activity this winter. Whether your kids are seasoned athletes or just beginning, introduce a new active endeavor. If it is a sports or fitness class, note that many programs are willing to let you try the first class for free before committing to the season. This way you can make sure that the program provides a quality experience that allows for attention to instruction and/or form, well-qualified instructors or coaches, emphasis on important values, and fun.

If you have the opportunity, it is also a good idea to talk with families who have experience with the organization. Ideas for new sports can include karate, yoga, CrossfitKids, snow skiing, lacrosse and hip-hop. Need additional suggestions, call the Game On! Sports Camp 4 Girls office at 847-229-9959 or check out our blog for ideas atwww.gameonsportscamp.com/sportsgirltalk

- Sara Hokin

Game On! Sports Camp 4 Girls!

(847) 229-9959 www.gameonsportscamp.com

Unlock creativity Have leftover wrapping paper and boxes from your holiday gifts? Use the white side as painting/coloring roll! Use your old boxes and gift wrapping rolls to create and build endless possibilities!

- April Pingol

Make-A-Messterpiece (847) 730-5275 www.makeamessterpiece.com

Know the facts

Begin life with music

When looking for a camp for your child keep in mind that while the group ratios of your child’s camp group is important, it is equally as important to ask about the supervisory staff. A good camp should not only have a low camper/counselor group ratio, but also a low counselor/supervisor ratio with supervisors made up of working professionals in the area of youth development (i.e. teachers). You want to make sure that the camp is providing resources to the staff to make your child’s camp experience positive. When you are looking at a prospective camp for your child it is also important that you select an American Camping Association (ACA) accredited camp.

- Dave Thoensen

It’s never too early to introduce music to your child. Studies show that early music instruction positively impacts language and literacy development, improves pattern recognition and offers social and emotional benefits.

Plus, music is so much fun! This winter, enroll in a Musikgarten class (birth-age 7) with your child.

Besides getting everyone out of the house on long winter days, these music and movement classes offer a great shared experience.

- Mark George, President

Tamarak Day Camp (847) 634-3168 www.TamarakDayCamp.com

Music Institute of Chicago (847) 905-1500 www.musicinst.org

Plan ahead There’s nothing worse than completing all the research, hyping up all the fun, and then finally making that all-important decision about your child’s summer camp, only to register and find out the session you’d like is full.

NOW is the time, not April and

May, to figure out your child’s interests, determine summer schedules, and make that all important reservation for fun!

Plus, take advantage of early registration discounts offered by many camps.

Camp Anokijig (800) 741-6931 or (920) 893-0782 www.anokijig.com

Try something new What better way to kick off a new year than by trying something new and exciting! Release your inner diva with a musical theatre class, keep your toes tapping with a dance class, or learn to play your favorite rock ballad with guitar lessons. Discover amazing talents you never knew you had, and make some new friends along the way! Are you ready to give the performing arts a try?

Metropolis School of the Performing Arts )847) 577-5982 x221 www.MetropolisArts.com/sopa

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Tips for 2013 from our advertisers // special advertising section Do something fun

Upgrade yourself

Celebrate in a new way

Discover and explore

Want to be the hero in your child’s eyes and watch them light up in amazement? Great family entertainment offerings abound in Chicagoland including Disney On Ice presents Rockin’ Ever After (playing Jan. 23-Feb. 10), Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam (playing Feb. 8-10), Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Show (playing Mar. 15-17), Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic (playing Sept.

11-15), and Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Built to Amaze (playing Nov. 6-Dec. 1). Whether your girls love Disney Princesses or your boys love monster trucks, there’s bound to be something FUN for EVERYONE! Get your tickets today.

- Jonathan Troy

Want you see a different world for yourself? If you dare, invest a year to study these beautiful Martial Arts - You will amaze yourself! You will discover how great, how capable you truly are.

You will learn to unite your physical and mental strength. You CAN upgrade yourself to defeat your fears and recognize your potential. We believe in you!

(708) 383-3456 www.master-sh-yu.com

From Flat Stanley to Mr. Gorf and the students of Wayside School, celebrate your child’s birthday with some of his or her favorite storybook characters! Birthday groups of 8 or more receive ticket discounts, a chance to meet the cast after the show and even a performance of a very special song for the birthday boy or girl!

Visit our website for our winter and spring 2013 production titles, dates and times.

- Nichole Cooper

Children have an innate sense of curiosity. Kohl Children’s Museum offers 17 interactive, hands-on exhibits with opportunities to explore, investigate, discover and learn, all through the power of play! Our new Science Fridays program lets children become kitchen scientists by conducting simple experiments with common household supplies – a great way to take Museum learning home. Visit our website for the latest information.

Give everyone an opportunity

Theatre and Interpretation Center at Northwestern University

Kohl Children’s Museum

(847) 491-7282 tic.northwestern.edu/imagineu

Leap ahead this summer!

Field Entertainment (800) 745-3000 www.ticketmaster.com

Take care of yourself What is the best way for you to care for your child? Take care of yourself.

When the parents are healthy, happy and living life at 100% they can give even more to their child, plus they are setting a good example. Do something for yourself in the New Year and the whole family will benefit.

DeMaira Dance Studios, Inc.

Master S.H. Yu

Remember the fun, lasting memories and strong friendships from your own camp experience?

Youth with developmental disabilities have fewer opportunities for typical camp moments that build those memories, important life skills, and relationships. Camps such as that at The Center for Enriched Living (CEL), offer typical camp benefits while accommodating your 13-22 year olds’ special needs. CEL offers specialty camps based on the interests of our campers.

The Center for Enriched Living (847) 948-7001 TheCenterForEnrichedLiving.org

Prepare for summer Use winter to make your kids safer next summer. As soon as the grounds start to thaw, neighbors will open their ponds, the ice on that nearby lake will thin, and water safety will become essential. Don’t wait until the pools open. Make sure your kids know what to be safe around and their basic swimming skills like breath control, floating, and swimming a minimal distance.

Many programs are open yearround; so enroll now!

- Sara Batchelor Director of Operations

www.demaira-dance.com

Dolphin Swim Club

Donate to your local theater

(847) 854-1300

Looking to get rid of old possessions, clothes or building materials that are taking up precious space in your attic or garage? Donate them to a local arts organization or theatre company! They’ll be put to good use as props, costumes or set pieces, and your donation is tax deductible. or Cure most anything with a hug and a perfectly-placed band-aid! (from “The Musical Adventure of Flat Stanley” at WinnetkaTheatre.org) - Nancy Flaster www.Bignoisetheatre.org

(847) 832-6600 www.kohlchildrensmuseum.org Summer is the season to explore, discover, and have fun. Center for Talent Development’s Summer Leapfrog Program offers weeklong, half- and full-day enrichment courses at six sites across Chicagoland. Children explore a topic of interest, such as codes, rocket science, or comic books, through hands-on activities.

Courses challenge children age 4 through grade 3 who demonstrate strong math and verbal ability. Best of all, kids have a “hopping” good time!

- Ann Gadzikowski

Center for Talent Development at Northwestern University (847) 491-3782 ctd.northwestern.edu/summer

Find a great camp adventure Summer doesn’t have to be about wasting away the dog days laying around. Summer camp and overnight teen summer experience provide kids and young adult opportunities to learn skills, develop interests and explore their minds and interests in ways and directions that will influence them for a lifetime. Contact TOTS @ 312-909-1909 for information on opportunities for enriching summer programs for kids and teens.

- Faith Rosenstein Camp Consultant

Tips on Trips and Camps 312-909-1909 www.TipsonTripsandCamps.com

70 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section // DAYCAMPS Banner Day Camp 1225 Riverwoods Rd., Lake Forest (847) 951-8275 www.bannerdaycamp.com

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

Chicago Grammar School 900 N. Franklin, Chicago (312) 944-5600 www.chicagogrammar.org

Game On! Sports Camps 4 Girls Chicago (Walt Disney Magnet School) Lake Forest (Lake Forest College) (847) 229-9959 www.gameonsportscamp.com

Kiddie Academy Batavia (630) 761-4500 Bolingbrook (630) 679-9400 Carpentersville (847) 844-8600 Plainfield (815) 609-0900 Streamwood (630) 497-0200 www.kiddieacademy.com

One Hope United – Summer Camp 9375 Church St., Des Plaines (847) 824-5180 235 Beech Dr., Glenview (847) 998-7477 onehopechilddevelopment.org

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

Summer Lab 2013University of Chicago Laboratory Schools

SPECIALTY Adler Planetarium 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago (312) 322-0329 www.adlerplanetarium.org 280 Saunders Rd., Riverwoods (847) 948-7001 www.CenterForEnrichedLiving.org

Lakefront Children’s Academy

Concordia Language Villages Camp

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

901 8th Avenue S. Moorehead, MI (800) 222-4750 Concordialanguagevillages.org

Preschool and Childcare 118 S. Ashland Ave., Chicago (312) 492-9876 www.littlegreentreehouse.com

The Little Gym of Chicago 3216 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago (773) 525-5750 www.TheLittleGym.com/ChicagoIL

Make A Messterpiece 2010 Tower Dr., Glenview (847) 730-5275 www.makeamessterpiece.com

Montessori Academy of Chicago 1335 W. Randolph St., Chicago (312) 243-0977 montessoriacademychicago.org

Lakeshore Academy, Chicago 937 W. Chestnut, Chicago (312) 563-9400 lakeshoreacademy.com

Lakeshore Academy, Mt. Prospect

Language Stars

Center for Enriched Living

Little Green Tree House

“Come for the ORFF, Stay for the SUZUKI” 1148 West Chicago Avenue, Chicago (312) 738-2646 www.suzukiorff.org

Tamarak Day Camp and Country School

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

Summer at Latin 59 W. North Blvd., Chicago (312) 582-6080 www.latinschool.org/summer

1927 Skokie Valley Road Highland Park (847) 266-3677 1360 S. Milwaukee Ave. Libertyville (847) 680-7946 www.fossswimschool.com

520 E. Business Center Dr. Mount Prospect (224) 567-1211 lakeshoreacademy.com

Kohl Children’s Museum

Latin School of Chicago

Suzuki Orff

Adventure Kids Day Camp/ Summer School (773) 834-7766 www.summerlab.org

29370 N. Elm Rd., Lincolnshire (847) 634-3168 www.TamarakDayCamp.com

DeMaira Dance Get your kids moving Oak Park (708) 386-1833 Chicago (773) 283-3593 www.demaira-dance.com

camp 2013

Foss Swim School

Fun Immersion Camp Numerous locations throughout Chicagoland (866) 55-STARS (557-8277) www.languagestars.com

Lifeline Theatre Summer Drama Camps Ages 4-6 and Ages 7-12 6912 N. Glenwood, Chicago (773) 761-4477 www.lifelinetheatre.com

Lincoln Park Zoo 2200 N Cannon Dr, Chicago (312) 742-2000 Lpzoo.org/education

Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts and Fitness Associates 6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park (708) 383-3456 www.Master-SH-Yu.com

Metropolis School of the Performing Arts

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

Cub Creek Science Camp 16795 Hwy E. Rolla, MO (573) 458-2125 www.BearRiverRanch.com

FIELD TRIPS Adler Planetarium see Day Camps

Chicago Children’s Museum Navy Pier - 700 E. Grand, Chicago (312) 527-1000 chicagochildrensmuseum.org

GameTruck Patented. Reliable. Fun. (888) 602-4263 www.gametruckparty.com

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament Step back in time with epic battles, royal feasts, and romance 2001 N Roselle Rd., Schaumburg (888) 935-6878 www.medievaltimes.com

Monkey Joe’s 286 W. Geneva Rd., Wheaton (630) 653-5867 748 S. Rand Rd , Lake Zurich (847) 719-5867 4306 E. New York St., Aurora (630) 851-3040 6250 Northwest Highway, Crystal Lake (815) 477-3866 www.monkeyjoes.com

DePaul University School of Music/Community Music Division

Dance, drama, music, camps and performances 111 W. Campbell St. Arlington Heights (847) 577-5983 x221 www.Metropolisarts.com/sopa

Music instruction for all ages in a university setting 804 W. Belden Ave., Chicago (773) 325-7262 www.Music.depaul.edu/cmd

Music Institute of Chicago Evanston | Highland Park Lake Forest | Winnetka (847) 905-1500 www.musicinst.org

Party Fantasy

Dolphin Swim Club

2013 Summer Program: Northwestern University’s Center for Talent Development

Pump It Up Party

Crystal Lake, Schaumburg, Skokie (847) 854-1300 www.dolphinswimclub.com

(847) 491-3782 ctd.northwestern.edu/summer

342 Townline Rd., Mundelein (847) 837-0010 www.partyfantasy.net Elmhurst (630) 941-PUMP (708) 479-2220 Orland Park Chicago (312) 664-PUMP www.pumpitupparty.com

Camp Resources Tips on Trips and Camps A Free Advisory Service since 1971 (312) 909-1909 www.tipsontripsandcamps.com

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Arts Education // special advertising section Adler Planetarium Now BoardingDeep Space Adventure 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago (312) 922-STAR www.alderplanetarium.org

Chicago Chamber Musicians with the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre “Leave It To Ludwig” performance about Beethoven Navy Pier, 800 East Grand Ave., Chicago (312) 595-5600 www.chicagoshakes.com

Chicago Children’s Museum Unboxed-Adventures in Cardboard Exhibit Located at Navy Pier Chicago (312) 527-1000 chicagochildrensmuseum.org

Chicago Playworks for Families and Young Audiences DePaul’s Merle Reskin Theatre 60 E. Balbo Dr., Chicago (312) 922-1999 www.theatreschool.depaul.edu

DeMaira Dance Get your kids moving!

Oak Park (708) 386-1833 Chicago (773) 283-3593 www.demaira-dance.com

A Fairytale Ballet, Ballet D’Enfant “Where imagination and dance live happily ever after” Chicago/Lakeview

(773) 477-4488 Chicago/Irving Park

(773) 606-0318 Evanston (773) 477-4488 www.afairytaleballet.com

Kohl Children’s Museum 2100 Patriot Boulevard, Glenview (847) 832-6600 www.kohlchildrensmuseum.org

Lakeshore Academy, Chicago 937 W. Chestnut, Chicago (312) 563-9400 lakeshoreacademy.com

Lakeshore Academy, Mt. Prospect

Lifeline Theatre Big Stories, Up Close 6912 N. Glenwood, Chicago (773) 761-4477 www.lifelinetheatre.com

Make A Messterpiece 2010 Tower Drive, Glenview (847) 730-5275 www.makeamessterpiece.com

Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts and Fitness Associates We’ll help your child’s strength and confidence.

6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park (708) 383-3456 www.Master-SH-Yu.com

Metropolis School of the Performing Arts

520 E. Business Center Dr. Mount Prospect (224) 567-1211 lakeshoreacademy.com

Dance, drama, music, camps and performances 111 W. Campbell St. Arlington Heights (847) 577-5983 x221 www.Metropolisarts.com/sopa

Language Stars

Music Institute of Chicago

Fostering future generations of multilingual children Locations throughout Chicagoland (866) 55-STARS (557-8277) www.languagestars.com

Evanston | Highland Park Lake Forest | Winnetka (847) 905-1500 www.musicinst.org

School of the Art Institute of Chicago Classes for children thru adults all year long 280 South Columbus Dr., Chicago (312) 899-7458 www.saic.edu/summercamps

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

Suzuki Orff “Come for the ORFF, Stay for the SUZUKI” 1148 West Chicago Avenue, Chicago (312) 738-2646 www.suzukiorff.org

Theatre and Interpretation Center at Northwestern University 2012/13 Imagine U Family Series 1949 Campus Drive, Evanston (847) 491-7282 www.tic.northwestern.edu/ imagineu

Winnetka Theatre “The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley” Jan 12-27 620 Lincoln Ave, Winnetka (847) 604-0275 www.bignoise.org

DePaul University School of Music/Community Music Division Music instruction for all ages in a university setting 804 W. Belden Ave., Chicago (773) 325-7262 www.Music.depaul.edu/cmd

Disney on Ice Rockin’ Ever After Jan 23-27 - Allstate Arena Jan 30-Feb 10 – United Center (800) 745-3000 www.Ticketmaster.com

Dominican University Performing Arts Center Arts & Minds 2012/13 Season 7900 W. Division, River Forest (708) 488-5000 www.Dom.edu/pac

72 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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CP Marketplace

// ENTERTAINMENT

special advertising section

KidzMagic!

BY TRICIA DESPRES

Make your next Birthday Party a

L

ocal magician Andrew Noyszewski knows the exact moment when magic came into his life…and never left.

The setting was the eighth floor of Chicago’s famed retailer Marshall Field’s, and a magician decked out in a pristine black tuxedo was in the children’s toy department amazing onlookers with his tricks.

“I was just transfixed,” explains Noyszewski, who has been doing magic for over 30 years. “I fell in love with the whole idea of magic that day. Soon after, I received a magic set from my grandfather and when I was a freshman in high school, I joined a magic group. The rest is history.”

Indeed, after giving up a career in corporate America, Noyszewski chose to make magic a full time job. As head of the family owned KidzMagic, Noyszewski travels across the Chicagoland area delighting crowds with his unique blend of family entertainment infused with incredible magical skills.

Of course, sometimes those skills can only take one so far.

“There are many magicians out there that have phenomenal skills, but the kids are falling asleep just watching them,” laughs Noyszewski, who will perform during the upcoming Kane County Cougars "Sunday Fundays" this summer. “In order to succeed, you also must have a certain amount of personality and showmanship.

Magic itself hasn’t changed in 1000 years. It resides on many of the same principles it always has. Yet, how you present the trick is what is really cool.”

Noyszewski has worked professionally entertaining children at a diverse group of local venues, including schools, libraries, wedding receptions and corporate picnics. He has also done shows at both Brookfield and Lincoln Park Zoo along with Navy Pier. And while Noyswewski has a number of public events booked throughout the summer months, he still loves to perform at private parties for kids. “I have shows designed for everyone from preschoolers to highschoolers,” he says. “One of the biggest benefits of our shows is that we involve the entire audience. And no matter whether the audience is 2 feet away or watching me on a big stage, they truly feel a part of the act.”

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74 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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ENTERTAINMENT //

CP Marketplace

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:

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

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

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The Bus of Fun is fully insured.

AmAzing AnimAls by sAmAnthA

Entertaining and educational animal shows for all ages and occasions! Birthdays, bar mitzvahs, schools & summer camps! We have an animal program for everyone!

773.549.3357 www.amazinganimals.biz a huge variety of hands-on nature and live animal programs for kids and adults of all ages.

Perfect for schools, birthday parties, libraries and more!

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Magic, balloons, cartoon voices, music, magic tatoos, and more!

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Dahlings, what could be more pleasant than a tea party with friends complete with feathered hats, exquisite ball gowns, formal china, custom tables & chairs and a host for set up & take down?

Weekly Newsletters Be in the know about family events, coupons and great giveaways!

Call to make your event simply divine!

Find us on Facebook

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ChicagoParent.com January 2013 75

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CP Marketplace

// ENTERTAINMENT

Magic & Juggling Shows

847-895-2340 Schaumburg

www.mypartyprincess.com

Balloon Animals and Puppets

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

Video clips and party ideas are provided on the website.

Come experience the ultimate

Girly-Girl Party!

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Call Sue Johnson, Educator

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ROCK? Get a Print/Digital Package!

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76 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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ENTERTAINMENT //

ChicagoParent.com

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education babies

Traveling Players Face presents Aurora area Painting CLOE the Clown • Magic Tricks • Games

& Henna

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Book Your Birthday, Pre-School, Corporate, Library, & School Events Active Audience Participation!

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www.chicagofun.com/carolweston/ ChicagoParent.com January 2013 77

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CP Marketplace

// ENTERTAINMENT

• Our entertainment travels to your location • Affordable pricing beats competition • Youthful, trendy staff • Caters to girls & boys ages 4-12 • Goodie Bags, Invitations & Cookie Favors

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visit chicagoparent.com to explore our amazing & astounding directory of entertainers!

78 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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calendar JANUARY

1

You probably won’t ever get to watch the Iditarod, but you’ll feel like you have, thanks to the dog-sledding demonstrations at Polar Adventure Days. Pooches from Free Spirit Siberian Rescue show off their talents, as do wolves and birds of prey. Plus, perfect your own snowy skills with free snowshoe rental and create nature-inspired crafts. The first 400 visitors get free hot cocoa to help warm up from the arctic escapades. Noon-4 p.m.

Jan. 19. Free, $3 parking. Northerly Island, 1400 S. Linn White Drive, Chicago. (312) 745-2910, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

2

They may hail from Switzerland, but there’s no communication barrier when Mummenschanz performs. They speak the universal language of play, with actors cleverly disguised by common materials and everyday objects—think wires, tubes and boxes. You’ll be awed by the larger-than-life images, from silly neon faces to oversized hands. And the good news is, it’s a “no shushing allowed” show, so you don’t have to worry about expressing yourself (or your kid having an outburst). 2 p.m.

Jan. 19. Check website for cost. Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph h Drive in Millennium Park, Chicago. go.

(312) 334-7777, harristheaterchicago.org.

3

In a world where Barack Obama is president, some kids might have a hard time grasping the concept of civil rights—or understanding why they have a random day off from school in the middle of the month. Thankfully, the Chicago Children’s Museum takes kids back in time to learn about the fight for freedom and to meet Dr. King, Rosa Parks and other civil rights heroes. s.. IIt’s t s all presented through interactive theater and songs, so they th h won’t even realize rreeal a iz it’s educational! ti ion onal all! 11 aa.m., .m m 1, 2 and Jan. 21. Free with 3 p. p.m. Jan n. 21 2 admission.

700 aad dmiss ssio i n. io n 7 0 E. Grand 00 Pier, Ave.. aatt Na Av Navy vyy P i Chicago.

(312) 527-1000, (312 (3 12)) 52 527-10 000 chicagochildrensmuseum.org. h

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CALENDAR 1 | TUESDAY

3 | THURSDAY

CELEBRATE NEW YEAR’S DAY.

WINTER DISCOVERY CAMP. Kids

Balloon drop countdowns, sparkling grape juice, party music, build challenges, photo ops and the Quest laser ride. $19, $15 kids. Legoland Discovery Center, The Streets of Woodfield (next to Woodfield Mall), 601 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg. (847) 592-9700, legolanddiscoverycenter.com/chicago.

5-10 bundle up for a morning of playing outside. $30. 9 a.m.-noon. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

2 | WEDNESDAY NADA WINTER NATIONALS YOUTH INDOOR DODGEBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS. Teams compete

in a NADA-sanctioned event.

Multiple divisions available based on school grade (4-12). $105 per team of 6-10 players. 4 p.m. Sport Center, 1141 W. Irving Park Road, Schaumburg.

(847) 490-7020, parkfun.com.

About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the February issue is Jan. 1. All events are subject to change. Please call the event sponsor at the number listed to confirm before you go. Events taking place on four or more dates during the month are listed in Events, beginning on page 92.

4 | FRIDAY FAMILY CAMP-IN AT FALCON. An evening of camping on the turf at Falcon Park Recreation Center.

Games, crafts, movie and more. $68 family of four, $45 resident family; $6 each additional person. 7 p.m.-9 a.m.

Palatine Park District, 250 E. Wood St., Palatine. (847) 991-0333, palatineparks.org.

NIGHT SNOWSHOEING. Kids

6 and up hike through Lincoln Marsh on snowshoes and enjoy marshmallows, hot cocoa and a campfire. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar $13, $10 resident. 6:15-7:45 p.m.

Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Harrison and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. (630) 871-2810, lincolnmarsh.org.

5 | SATURDAY

Emancipation Proclamation with narration, dramatizations, music and interaction between the cast and the audience. 7 p.m. First Unitarian Church of Chicago, 5650 S. Woodlawn Ave. (773) 324-4100, firstuchicago.org.

CHICAGO SUBURBS EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION PAGEANT.

Celebrate the signing of the

ANIMAL TRACKING. Kids 5 and up take a look at how animals

Chicago Grammar School …experience the richness of a classical curriculum.

Opening 8th Grade Fall 2013 Northwestern University employees receive reduced tuition.

Details at chicagogrammar.org

Congratulations to our students!

On the Iowa Test of Basic Skills May 2012, the CGS class scores ranged from 92nd99th percentiles.

Follow us on Facebook

900 N. Franklin, Chicago, IL 60610

312-944-5600

www.chicagogrammar.org

80 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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CALENDAR walk as a clue to identifying their tracks, then search for tracks and prints. 10-11:30 a.m. Volo Bog State Natural Area, 28478 W. Brandenburg Road, Ingleside.

(815) 344-1294, dnr.state.il.us/ lands/Landmgt/parks/r2/ volobog.htm.

WINTER GAMES & OUTDOOR STORYTELLING.

Kids 8 and up join the American Indian Center and Latvian Folk Art Museum for winter games and storytelling. 1-3 p.m. Trickster Gallery, 190 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. (847) 301-2090, trickstergallery.com.

ANIMALS IN WINTER. Meet

live bugs and worms and help pretend animals find places that protect them from winter. Free with admission. 10 a.m.-noon.

Wonder Works, 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park. (708) 383-4815, wonder-works.org.

Celebrating ov

Ch C hic hic i ag ago Tr Trav ave ell & Adv Adve Ad vent ven ntur ure re Sh how w Se ee JJa an. 26

t. 1957

siness es er 55 years in bu

Begin life with music!

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

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

Early Childhood Music & Movement Classes Spring Classes begin January 28, 2013 Convenient Locations Evanston • Highland Park Lake Forest • Winnetka

Visit musicinst.org/musikgarten 847.905.1500 ChicagoParent.com January 2013 81

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Dennis Wise uses discarded Christmas trees along the edges of his backyard rink.

Backyards

ON ICE It’s easy to think of things to do with the kids when the weather is warm and outdoor activities abound, but the winter months can present more of a challenge.

This might be a good year to discover the pleasures of building your own ice rink.

With a few basic materials and a little knowhow, you can turn the backyard into a place the whole family will enjoy. Best of all, with a rink in the backyard, you won’t have to travel far to skate.

Chicagoans Paul Carrera and Dennis Wise have been building backyard ice rinks for more than 15 years. Carrera, a Chicago native, grew up helping his father build a rink every winter. Now he and his wife, Liz, are continuing that tradition with their own family. Carrera and Wise share step-bystep instructions for making your own rink.

82 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR0113_082.indd 1

1

If there is no snow on the ground, build a perimeter from wood (2-by-4-inch lumber works well) to the desired size. The pieces can be nailed together or laid end-to-end without fasteners.

2

Buy a piece of heavy plastic several inches larger than the wood frame. The plastic can be purchased from Menards or Home Depot for about $35.

3

Lay the plastic on top of the frame and tuck it down along the inside edge of the wood. It should resemble a shallow pool. Staple the plastic to the frame. Using a garden hose, fill it with about 3 inches of water.

Allow the water to freeze solid.

4

Add additional thin layers of water, one at a time, allowing each to solidify completely. Build up the layers until the ice is 3 to 4 inches thick.

5

If there is snow on the ground, you don’t need to use the perimeter form and plastic. Instead, using a garden hose, lightly spray the rink area.

Pack down the snow/slush until it is smooth and solid. A piece of plywood can be used, or the area can be flattened with a lawn roller. Or for more fun, have everybody pull on their boots and stomp down the snow together.

6

Cultivate the ice as in number 4 above.

12/19/12 2:43 PM

CALENDAR FEEDING TIME AT TRAILSIDE. See animals get fed

and learn about Trailside’s resident outdoor display animals such as a fox, coyote and red tail hawk. 1-2 p.m.

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest.

(708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

6 | SUNDAY CHICAGO EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION PAGEANT. See

Jan. 5. Today’s time is 11:45 a.m.

SUBURBS NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION WALK. Enjoy a winter walk, then

warm up with some hot cider. Not suitable for strollers. 1-2:30 p.m.

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest.

(708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

11 | FRIDAY DOZIN’ WITH THE DINOS. Kids

6-12 enjoy workshop activities, a snack and a self-guided tour of Inside Ancient Egypt. Sign up for Premium Package 1 ($75; $65 members) and reserve a sleeping spot in the Evolving Planet exhibition, or book Premium Package 2 ($87; $77 members) and reserve a sleeping spot and add a behind-thescenes tour with a museum scientist. $63, $51 members and groups. 5:45 p.m.-9 a.m. Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago.

(312) 922-9410, fieldmuseum.org.

12 | SATURDAY CHICAGO FAMILY MATINEE: GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS.

Show is designed for kids 3-5

and incorporates a performance by a small ensemble of CSO musicians and a storyteller with video projections, costumes and props. Preconcert activities begin 45 minutes before. $20, $10 kids. 10 and 11:45 a.m. Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 294-3000, cso.org.

STORY-TELLING. Kids 3-7 enjoy stories staged with puppets and drawings, while being exposed to the French language. Today’s story is about two bunnies who want to discover the world. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Alliance Francaise de Chicago, 810 N. Dearborn St. (312) 337-1070, af-chicago.org.

CELEBrATINg Our NEw ExPANdEd sTudIO!

FAMILY CINÉ-WORKSHOP. Kids 5-12 enjoy movies in French with English subtitles followed by an activity and a “goûter” (snack). Today’s movie is “U.” Family Pass (2-4): $10 one movie, $25 series. 1:30-4 p.m.

Alliance Francaise de Chicago, 810 N. Dearborn St. (312) 337-1070, af-chicago.org.

hip hop/Jazz BallEt tap ChEErlEadiNg BoogiE BaBiES tiNy tumBlE

performance troupe Now Enrolling!

1511 w. Barrie 773-606-1345

SUBURBS

ChiCago/lakEviEw www.StarbrightChicago.com

SHREK THE MUSICAL. In a far-

away kingdom, things get ugly when an ogre—not a handsome prince— shows up to rescue a feisty princess. $29.50-$54.50. 8 p.m. Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 968-2722, coronadopac.org.

KIDVENTURE-WINTER FUN! Kids

put out pretend fires, drive a fire truck and explore an ambulance, plus dress up as a firefighter, slide down the pole, interact with real firefighters and create a firefighter craft. $9, $4 adult, free kids under 1. Noon1:30 p.m. FireZone, 1100 National Parkway, Schaumburg. (877) 5973473, firezonechicago.com.

WORLD’S WINTER: NEW YEAR’S REFLECTIONS.

Kids 10 and up join a conversation on New Year’s reflections with the GermanAmerican and

A beautiful beginning to ballet with cherished childhood literature, costumes, props & classical music each week!

18 Months-12 Years Ballet & Tap Fall Camps & Classes

AFB Academy Classes for 5-12 years Ballet * Tap * Pre-Pointe

Birthday Parties too!

Now ENrolliNg! Chicago/Lakeview 773-477-4488

Chicago/ Old Irving Park 773-606-0318

North Evanston 773-477-4488

www.AF air yt aleB alle t .c om ChicagoParent.com January 2013 83

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CALENDAR Japanese-American communities. 1-3 p.m. Trickster Gallery, 190 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. (847) 301-2090, trickstergallery.com.

Pierce avenues, Wheaton.

(630) 871-2810, lincolnmarsh.org.

13 | SUNDAY

WINTER WONDERS. Kids 4 and up look for muskrat lodges, animal trails and ice formations, then enjoy marshmallows and hot chocolate around a fire.

Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. $12, $9 resident.

1:30-3 p.m. Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Harrison and

18 | FRIDAY SLEEP UNDER THE SKYSCRAPERS. Families with kids

WINTERFEST. Live music, snow-

WHAT’S IN YOUR LUNCH BOX?

sculpting contest, photo contest, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and hiking. Hot drinks and cookies available for a donation. $5, $2 kids suggested donation. Noon-4 p.m.

Volo Bog State Natural Area, 28478 W. Brandenburg Road, Ingleside.

(815) 344-1294, dnr.state.il.us/lands/ Landmgt/parks/r2/volobog.htm.

Includes a demo in the kitchen, Magic Mike balloon magic and puppets, root beer kegger and ice cream floats, video gaming competition and a lunchbox raffle. $15. Game Pazzo, 2011 63rd St., Downers Grove.

(630) 337-7491, cookingwithkidz.org.

5-12 have dinner, explore the nightlife of the zoo’s residents and enjoy a movie and bedtime snack. Choose just the evening activities or sleep over. Includes dinner and continental breakfast. Evening Encounter: $42, $35 members; Overnight: $70, $60 members. 6 p.m.-8:30 a.m.; 6-10 p.m. evening only. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago.

(312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

17 | THURSDAY

4TH-6TH GRADE SPORTS NIGHT.

SUBURBS

THE GREAT WINTER WORKOUT.

Learn how to get a good outdoor workout while helping Irons Oaks’ restoration efforts. Includes skiing, rock climbing and hiking. $5. 8 a.m.-noon. Homewood Flossmoor Park District, 3301 Flossmoor Road, Flossmoor. (708) 957-0300, hfparks. com.

Terry Lynch. $6, $5 students, youth and members in advance; $7, $6 students, youth and members. 4-5 p.m.

Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville. (630) 420-6010, napersettlement.museum.

HISTORY SPEAKS LECTURE SERIES: THE HINDENBURG DISASTER. Learn

about one of the greatest disasters of the 20th century during a first-person presentation on the Hindenburg by veteran actor and historian

TODDLING ON THE WILDSIDE.

Toddlers 18-35 months, with adult, experience textures, sounds, movement, smells and tastes of natural materials. Today’s theme is “Wild About Winter.” $6 pair, $4 resident pair. 10-10:45 a.m. Irons Oaks, 20000 S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields.

(708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

Kids 9-12 get out of the cold and get active with table games, relay races, basketball and a DJ. Concessions available for purchase. $14. 6:308:30 p.m. Sport Center, 1141 W. Irving Park Road, Schaumburg.

(847) 490-7020, parkfun.com.

FROSTY FAMILY FUN. A night on the ice at Community Park with

imaginative ¼ intelligent ¼ involved ¼ well rounded ¼ confident ¼ independent “Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world, and all there ever will be to know and understand.”

—Albert Einstein Nobel Prize Laureate & Innovative Thinker

Join us for a tour & orientation:

Jan. 10 ¼ Mar. 28 ¼ May 2

Tours are 8:30-10:30am & include classroom visits

RSVP to Lisa Payton 773-465-2371 1300 West Loyola Avenue ¼ Chicago, IL 60626

773.465.2662 ¼ chicagowaldorf.org

early childhood ¼ grade school ¼ middle school ¼ high school

lighting the fires of learning

84 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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CALENDAR CALENDAR music, cocoa, games and skating.

6:30-9 p.m. Palatine Park District, 250 E. Wood St., Palatine.

(847) 991-0333, palatineparks.org.

MOM & SON COUNTRY WESTERN DATE NIGHT. Boys 4-12, with mom,

enjoy a night of games, dinner, dancing and surprises. Each child takes home a goodie bag and a photograph. $45 couple, $22 additional child; $30 resident couple, $15 additional child. 6-8 p.m. Schaumburg Park District, 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg. (847) 490-7020, parkfun.com.

19 | SATURDAY CHICAGO ARTISTS AND AUTHORS: LINDA GORHAM. Celebrate Dr. Martin

Sllee S eep ee Un U nde de err th he Sk ky ys scrap ape errs rs

Luther King Jr. Day with storyteller Linda Gorham, then stop by the art studio to create a self-portrait. Free with admission. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Field

See Jan. Se Ja an 18

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ChicagoParent.com January 2013 85

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Celebrate snow

S

now is a reality of life in Chicago, and you might as well embrace it. Start digging out now: Snow much fun is waiting for you!

Improve your aim You can throw a baseball, but how do you do it when your hands are frozen? Find out at HomewoodFlossmoor’s Celebration of Winter, which includes a snowball accuracy throw. Free. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Jan. 5. H-F Ice Arena, 777 Kedzie Ave., Flossmoor.

(708) 957-PARK, hfparks.com.

See a sculpture Professional artists show off their skills at Snow Days Chicago by turning 10-foot blocks of snow into fantastical figures. Plus, if Mother Nature cooperates, we can enjoy the sculptures into February. Free. Jan. 25-27. Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave.,

Chicago. (312) 595-7437, navypier.com.

Chart a course Test your own snowshoeing savvy at Northbrook’s Winter Carnival, where you can navigate an obstacle course through the snow. And be sure to treat yourself to a s’more, especially if you fall on your face. Free. 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Jan. 12. Meadowhill Park, 1479 Maple Ave., Northbrook.

(847) 291-2995, nbparks.org.

Make believe If bundling up isn’t your thing, you can always head to Chicago Children’s Museum, where the snowy fun is of the indoor variety. Kids can build snow forts, have a snowball fight and dress up a snowman. Free with admission. Jan. 1-6. 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago.

(312) 527-1000, chicagochildrens museum.org.

201 3 Summer School Full Day: 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Morning: 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Afternoon: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. mentary Compli ide Bus! S h Nort

Children ages 3 to 18 may choose from a stunning array of enrichment and for-credit activities on the Hyde Park campus of the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools.

While Summer School at Lab is guided by the teaching philosophy of the Laboratory Schools, enrollment is open to all students. The continuing challenge to which our distinguished faculty members rise is to keep their material fresh, relevant, and truly engaging for their students. Their ability to do so is one key element—among many—that sets Summer School at Summer Lab apart.

Meet a princess Why not take advantage of the season to see the fairest of them all, Snow White?

The story comes to life with songs, dances and puppetry. Who couldn’t use a happily-ever-after? Opens Jan. 20. $8 advance, $10 online and at door. Northbrook Musical Theatre for Young Audiences, 3323 Walters Ave., Northbrook. (847) 291-2367, northbrook theatre.org.

Elizabeth Diffin

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

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

86 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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CALENDAR CALENDAR Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive.

(312) 922-9410, fieldmuseum.org.

FAMILY COOKING CLASS. Kids

7-10 learn how tasty, simple and pleasant French cooking can be.

Today’s recipe is Le clafoutis aux poires. $35 parent/child pair; $50 family pass (maximum 4). 2-4 p.m.

Alliance Francaise de Chicago, 810 N. Dearborn St. (312) 337-1070, af-chicago.org.

FAMILY HIP HOP. This high-energy,

beat-powered class teaches kids 6-13 and their parents one of the most exciting forms of contemporary dance. $20 family. 11 a.m.-noon.

Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, 1147 W. Jackson Blvd. (312) 850-9744, hubbardstreetdance.com.

TREKKIN’ FOR TRACKS. Uncover

the mysteries of animal tracks, then enjoy hot chocolate around a fire. $6, $4 resident. 10:30 a.m.-noon.

Irons Oaks, 20000 S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields. (708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

SNOWSHOEING. Kids 6 and up take

a snowshoe hike, followed by hot cocoa, marshmallows and a campfire. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Snowshoes are provided. $11, $9 resident. 11 a.m.12:30 p.m. Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Harrison and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. (630) 871-2810, lincolnmarsh.org.

20 | SUNDAY SUBURBS

FAMILYDANCE MATINEE: DOUBLE EDGE THEATRE. One-

hour family-oriented performance follows free parent/child movement workshops with the artists. Call for cost and time. Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago, 1306 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 369-8330, colum.edu/dancecenter.

SUBURBS CHARLOTTE’S WEB. Stage production presented by American Eagle Productions. $6. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Palatine Park District, 250 E. Wood St., Palatine. (847) 991-0333, palatineparks.org.

MUSEUM DISCOVERY DAY: ANIMAL ADAPTATIONS. Includes

thematic stories, art project, self-guided activities and hot chocolate. 1-4 p.m.

Irons Oaks, 20000 S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields. (708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

PRINCESS PARTY. Enchanted ballroom with arts and crafts, desserts and dancing, hosted by Belle, Cinderella, Jasmine, Snow White and Tiana. All princesses are encouraged to wear ball gowns and bring tiaras. $20, $15 resident. 2-4 p.m. Oakbrook Terrace Park District, 1 South 325 Ardmore Ave., Oakbrook Terrace.

(630) 627-6100, obtpd.org.

FEEDING TIME AT TRAILSIDE. See Jan. 5.

21 | MONDAY

Splashtacular

BIRTHDAY .com PARTIES & EVENTS! community calendar

Call and book your all-fun, no-work-for-Mom-or-Dad birthday party today!

education

babies web extras

family museums party planning

special needs

travel Weekend Scoop

A HOOTIN’ GOOD TIME. Kids 6

and up visit Heller to meet live owls, hear their stories and see what makes them so fascinating. Children must be accompanied by an adult. $6. 1-2 p.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

CP rEwards ...and much more!

Visit us today.

AFRICAN-AMERICAN HISTORY LIVE! Kidworks Theatre

re-creates famous moments in history: journey by boat from the West Coast of Africa to America, escape slavery with Harriet Tubman, free slaves with Abraham Lincoln, sit on the bus with Rosa Parks and march with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 2-3 p.m. Morton Grove Public Library, 6140 Lincoln Ave., Morton Grove.

(847) 929-5102, webrary.org.

SKOKIE | CRYSTAL LAKE New! SCHAUMBURG

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Make a

splash this winter W

BY DANIELLE BRAFF

ater parks are so much fun that it’s a shame most people only experience them during the summer months. Thankfully, we live in Chicago—and we are inundated with indoor water parks within four hours from home. The hardest part: Choosing which one to enjoy.

P.S. We didn’t include prices since they all have plenty of specials throughout the winter, so call about their current deals.

turous teens and parents, along with multiple smaller slides and a lazy river.

When we checked it out on a Monday afternoon, it was practically empty.

Restaurants They’ve got a few grill and ice cream spots, but we suggest you hop into your car instead. Within a fiveminute drive, you’ll hit about a dozen restaurants.

Need to know When you’re done splashing around, check out the massive arcade area. Most rooms in the hotel have a microwave and a fridge.

More information keylimecove.com

parks, so there’s tons to do. They’ve got great water slides for the swimmers and tons of shallow areas for the tots.

Restaurants Everything from burgers to pasta to sandwiches to please even the pickiest eaters. You also could rent a condo, which comes with a small kitchen if you want to BYO meals.

Need to know During the off-season, they usually close one of their water parks. Also, due to the sheer size of the water park, expect to do lots of walking, so bring a stroller if necessary.

More information wildernessresort.com

Key Lime Cove, Gurnee

Wilderness Waterpark, Wisconsin Dells

Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells

Drive time from Chicago 45 minutes Reason to go It’s a small water park, but it’s got something for everyone: Three super-scary slides for the adven-

Drive time from Chicago 3½ hours Reason to go It’s one of the largest water parks in the Midwest, and it’s spread out into three separate water

Drive time from Chicago 3½ hours Reason to go They’ve got everything you’ll need for a great staycation, so you’ll park your car and won’t return to it till it’s time to go home. We’re obsessed with the really crazy slides that drop you, free-fall style, into the water and the baby area, which will entertain even the tiniest babies.

Restaurants We love their cheesy options: Cheese curds made onsite or pizza are the way to go here.

Need to know When you’re tired of the water activities, let your kids blow off the rest of their energy at the bowling alley or the climbing wall. Hire a sitter, and relax at their movie theater after the kids go to bed. Feel free to BYO food, since each room has a microwave and a refrigerator.

More information kalahariresorts.com

The Water Works, Schaumburg

Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.

Drive time from Chicago 40 minutes Reason to go It’s close, it’s cheap and it’s an easy way to do a water park without making a huge commitment.

The many shallow areas make it great

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for tiny tots, but the slides guarantee that your slightly older child (under 10 is probably best) also will enjoy their day here.

Restaurants Leave the water park to go to all the chain restaurants nearby.

Need to know This is a bare bones park.

It’s operated through the park district, so there’s no hotel or other amenities.

More information parkfun.com

Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark, Lake Geneva, Wis. Drive time from Chicago 2 hours Reason to go It’s perfect for children ages 0-10. They’ve got a wading pool, plus a pool that maxes out at less than 4 feet.

Your older children can entertain themselves by playing water basketball, going down a massive water slide or checking out the lazy river.

Restaurants A food court and a barbecue restaurant are available. You also can drive five minutes to dozens of restaurants in the Lake Geneva area.

Need to know When you’re done with the water park, check out the arcade, the movies, crafts and pajama storytime. If you plan on bringing your own food, you can request a suite with a full kitchen.

More information timberridgeresort.com

Wilderness Waterpark in Wisconsin Dells.

CALENDAR BUILD A BIRDFEEDER WORKSHOP. Kids 6-12 build a

birdfeeder, then venture outside to explore and find winter birds. $18, $12 resident. 10 a.m.-noon.

Irons Oaks, 20000 S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields. (708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

ANIMALS IN WINTER DROPIN PROGRAM ON MLK DAY. Learn

where snakes go in winter and where tracks are in the snow, plus more about local animals in winter. 1-2 p.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

SCHOOL’S OUT – FIZZY, GOOEY, SOARING SCIENCE. Kids in grades

1-5 become kitchen chemists and learn to make ice cream, explore how things float and how static electricity makes hair stand on end, turn a film canister into a rocket and make slime to take home. $45 (includes snack and supplies). 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster

Fami Fa mily ly Mat atin ine ee e: Go G oldil ld dililo oc cks cks ks and d the he Thre Th ee Be Bear ear ars ars See Jan See Se JJa an n.. 12

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CALENDAR SUBURBS

St., Naperville. (630) 420-6010, napersettlement.museum.

22 | TUESDAY CINDERELLA. The State Ballet

Theatre of Russia brings Cinderella to life. $38-$48; $28 kids 12 and under.

7:30 p.m. Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet. (815) 726-6600, rialtosquare.com.

23 | WEDNESDAY LITTLE NATURALISTS. Explore the

topic of “Snow Fun” with activities, stories, games or an art project. $6, $4 resident. 9:45-11 a.m. Irons Oaks, 20000 S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields.

(708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

24 | THURSDAY SPOTLIGHT AT NIGHT. Enjoy a performance, then take to the stage to sing, dance or play a musical instrument. 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago.

(312) 527-1000, chicagochildrens museum.org.

25 | FRIDAY

Fall 2012

Get your groove back

Now available

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

MOM

tO MOM Tips for baby’s first year

Untitled-1 7

Chicago Baby

see dance performances and hear foreign songs. Attractions include Sea World’s Antarctic Experience, a heated scuba tank and a rock wall. $15, $9 online, free kids 16 and under.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. (847) 692-2220, rosemont.com.

CINDERELLA. Cinderella is presented by The State Ballet Theatre of Russia. Tickets can be purchased at the box office, all Ticketmaster outlets, at (800) 982-2787 or ticketmaster.com. $32.50-$52.50. 7:30 p.m.

Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. (847) 263-6300, geneseetheatre.com.

KIDS FARE: BAND ILLUSIONS. The Northwestern University Symphonic Band celebrates a variety of music and sound. $6, $4 kids.

10:30 a.m. Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music, 50 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. (847) 467-4000, pickstaiger.org.

THREE FRIENDS OF WINTER: BONSAI SILHOUETTE & FAMILY ACTIVITIES. A silhouette

THREE FRIENDS OF WINTER: BONSAI SILHOUETTE & FAMILY ACTIVITIES. Glencoe. See

bonsai show, featuring trees that are in their dormant phase. Includes family activities on Saturday and Sunday. $20 parking. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

Jan. 25.

26 | SATURDAY

A RESOURCE GUIDE FOR NEW MOMS AND MOMS TO BE

CHICAGO TRAVEL & ADVENTURE SHOW. Taste international cuisine,

FAMILY WINTER WONDERS. Search

for signs of wildlife and hidden spring leaves, learn interesting facts about snow, and enjoy hot chocolate around a fire. $6, $4 resident.

CHICAGO FAMILY COOKING CLASS.

See Jan. 19. Today’s recipe is Le croque-monsieur.

FAMILY CINÉ-WORKSHOP. See Jan. 12. Today’s movie is “Kérity, la maison des contes.”

10/9/12 1:02 PM

90 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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CALENDAR 10:30 a.m.-noon. Irons Oaks, 20000 S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields.

(708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

families with kids 6 and up. $22, $11 kids 18 and under. 7 p.m. Fermilab, Kirk Road at Pine Street, Batavia.

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

BIRD HOUSE WORKSHOP.

Families with kids 2-10 receive a wooden bird house to decorate and take home. Plus, take a short walk through the woods. $17, $10 members. 10-11 a.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle.

(630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

HUSKY HEROES. See Siberian husky

sled-pulling and speed demonstrations, meet the dogs and take a photo of them and an authentic dog sled, and sign up to foster or adopt a husky without a home. Plus, watch the film “The Last Great Race.” Free with admission. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

TOMAS KUBINEK: CERTIFIED LUNATIC AND MASTER OF THE IMPOSSIBLE. One-man show for

27 | SUNDAY CHICAGO

Area, Harrison and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. (630) 871-2810, lincolnmarsh.org.

FAMILY MATH FESTIVAL. A day of math fun for kids 5-10 starts with a stage performance of “Alice in Wonderland,” followed by math games of twister, estimation and more. $5 play and festival; $8 festival only. 1 p.m. play; 2-3 p.m. festival.

Willard Elementary School, 1250 Ashland Ave., River Forest.

WINTER SCAVENGER HUNT. Enjoy a hunt for signs of animal activity and winter plant life, then warm up with snacks by a campfire. $1. 1-2:30 p.m.

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest.

(708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

ANNUAL AON STEP UP FOR KIDS.

Climb 80 floors to the top of the Aon Building to benefit K.I.D.S.S. for Kids, an affiliated organization of Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. 8 a.m. Aon Center, 200 E. Randolph. luriechildrens.org/stepup.

SUBURBS CHICAGO TRAVEL & ADVENTURE SHOW. Rosemont. See Jan. 26.

Today’s times are 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

THREE FRIENDS OF WINTER: BONSAI SILHOUETTE & FAMILY ACTIVITIES. Glencoe. See

Jan. 25.

HUSKY HEROES. Lisle. See Jan. 26.

JIM GILL. A child development specialist, Gill has been educating and entertaining children for more than 20 years. $11, $8 members. 4 p.m. Wonder er Works, 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park.

(708) 383-4815, wonder-works.org.

SNOWSHOE GEOCACHING. Kids 6

and up explore on snowshoes using a GPS unit, then enjoy hot cocoa, marshmallows and a campfire. GPS units and snowshoes provided.

Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. $13, $10 resident.

1-2:30 p.m. Lincoln Marsh Natural Got Tots...Get

Peace of Mind

Professional services Directory ORTHODONTICS

pediatric dentistry

Children’s Dentistry Trust your children’s dental needs to a specialist

Childproofing Custom Hardwood Safety Gates

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Bonciel Griffin DDS

773-239-7696

10019 S. Western Ave., Chicago, IL 60643

www.bgriffinorthodontics.com Complimentary Orthodontic Evaluations Most Insurances Accepted • Flexible Payment Plans Dr. Griffin is a member of the American Association of Orthodontics Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontists

Pediatric eye care

Where Kids Have Fun at the Dentist!

1129 S. Harlem Ave., Forest Park (708) 386-5437 • (708) FUN-KIDS www.little-teeth-big-smiles.com

Pediatric Ophthalmologists

Medical and Surgical Eye Care for Infants, Children and Teens

Deena F. Leonard, M.D. Dana L. Kolton, M.D. Kathy Anderson, M.D.

• Practice Limited to Infants, Children, Adolescents & the Disabled • Hours by Appointment

Muscle Imbalance (Lazy Eye) • Blocked Tear Ducts • Premature Infants • Routine Eye Exams

Call for your winter appointment

www.eyesbypremier.com

Buffalo Grove 847-459-6060 • Barrington 847-382-4116

ChicagoParent.com January 2013 91

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SPECIAL NEEDS NETWORK & RESOURCE MEETINGS. Parents, caregivers,

educators, therapists and professionals can learn more about apraxia and associated issues. Meeting locations vary. Contact chicagoapraxia@comcast. net with questions. Jan. 3. The Windy City/Chicagoland Apraxia Network, 1541 Springside Place, Downers Grove.

(630) 881-0666, groups.yahoo.com/ group/windycityapraxia.

THE DAY OF THE THREE WISE KINGS (EL DIA DE LOS TRES REYES MAGOS). Crafts, games, activi-

ties, ASL story, Latin foods and gifts for children. Event is held in English, Spanish and American Sign Language.

RSVP to vicepresidentidla@gmail.com or (773) 273-6477. $10, $3 kids 11 and under, $7 IDLA member. 4-9 p.m.

Jan. 5. Anixter Center, Polk Conference Room, third floor, 2032 N. Clybourn Ave., Chicago. (773) 973-7900, anixter. org.

FUN AND GAMES. Afterschool

ory

programming for kids 4-10 with special needs that includes a healthy snack, arts and crafts, physical activity, and socialization. $10 for 10 weeks for Chicago residents, more for suburban residents. 4-6 p.m. WednesdaysThursdays. Jan. 9-March 21. Vittum Park, 5010 W. 50th St., Chicago. (773) 284-6022, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

SPECIAL OLYMPIC TRAINING. Seasonal sport training and competition in gymnastics, basketball and track. $15 for 10 weeks for Chicago residents, more for suburban residents. 5-7 p.m. and noon-3 p.m.

Fridays-Saturdays. Jan. 11-March 23. Vittum Park, 5010 W. 50th St., Chicago. (773) 284-6022, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

SOCIAL CLUB. Program uses the

5-point scale, social stories and other visual aides to increase socialization for tweens and teens. Ideal for individuals with autism. $10 for 10 weeks for Chicago residents, more for suburban residents. 5-7 p.m. WednesdaysThursdays. Jan. 9-March 21. Vittum Park, 5010 W. 50th St., Chicago. (773) 284-6022, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

ARTS AND CRAFTS. Class promotes sensory integration with various textures and visual sensory. 3-5 p.m. Fridays. Jan. 11-March 22. Vittum Park, 5010 W. 50th St., Chicago. (773) 284-6022.

RESPITE CARE FOR FAMILIES. Childcare for families of

children with special needs. Volunteers are trained to care for children with a variety of disabilities and their siblings. To register, email or call Amy Giacalone, churchinroscoevillage@ gmail.com. 5-8 p.m. Thursdays.

Christian Fellowship Church, 3425 N. Damen Ave., Chicago. (773) 299-8126.

“SENSE”-ATIONAL SCIENCE.

Classes are designed for children with autism, sensory processing disorder or Asperger’s to encourage them to develop questions about the natural world. Topics include the movement and motion of objects, the growth and development of living things, weather and climate, and dinosaurs.

Mondays are for kids 3-5; Wednesdays are for kids 6-8. $160. 3:30-4:15 p.m.

Mondays; 4-4:45 p.m. Wednesdays.

Jan. 14-March 4. LEEP Forward Developmental Clinic, 400 N. May St., Suite 202, Chicago. (773) 255-8155, leepforward.com.

SENSORY STORYTIME. Geared toward kids 2-6 with special needs, especially those who may have a hard time sitting still or focusing in big groups. Followed by a playgroup with sensory activity stations for kids and caregivers to explore together. No advanced registration required. Individual schedules, fidget toys, and bean bag lap weights are available. Caregivers must attend. For information, email sharris@oppl.org. 4 p.m. Tuesdays. Oak Park Public Library, 834 Lake St., Main Library, Oak Park. (708) 383-8200 ext.

2, oppl.org.

Professional services Directory Pediatric dentistry

Pediatric dentistry

Pediatric dentistry

Fred S. Margolis, D.D.S., P.C. Pediatric & Laser Dentistry Dentistry for Special Needs

Office Hours

By Appointment Days Evenings Saturdays

Ned L. Savide, D.D.S., Ltd. 1770 First Street, Suite 360 Highland Park, IL 60035 224/927.9321 Saturday Appointments Available!

24 Hour Answering Service

www.fredmargolisdds.com

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY Practice Limited to Children & Adolescents Diplomate American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

12001 South Harlem Ave. Palos Heights, IL 60463 Tel. (708) 448-6700 24 Hours

2nd Office in Crystal Lake February 2013!

PEDIATRIC DENTAL ASSOCIATES, P.C.

George Lin, D.D.S. Anjali Talati, D.M.D. Buffalo Grove Business Park 195 Arlington Hts Rd., Suite 150 Buffalo Grove

847-537-7695

Ask us about our NO SHOT & NO DRILL Laser fillings!

www.kidsmyl.com

92 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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ONGOING EVENTS EXHIBITS SEASON OF WONDER. Through

Jan. 6. A live show that explores the connections between the sights and sounds of the holiday season and the night sky. Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago.

(312) 922-7827, adlerplanetarium.org.

EXTREME MAMMALS. Through Jan. 6. Exhibit examines the ancestry and evolution of numerous species. $22-$29, $18-$24 seniors and students, $15-$20 kids 4-11; included in Discovery and All-Access passes.

Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 922-9410, fieldmuseum.org.

MAGIC. Through Jan. 6. Take a be-

hind-the-scenes glimpse at the world of magic and its roots in Chicago. Features a multimedia object theater experience, artifact display and live performances.

Free with admission. Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., Chicago.

(312) 642-4600, chicagohistory.org.

BACKYARD MONSTERS. Through

Jan. 22. Guests communicate, move and live like bugs at interactive stations and see live insects and larger-than-life robotic creatures. Free with admission. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (773) 755-5100, naturemuseum.org.

HOW PEOPLE MAKE THINGS.

Through Jan. 27. A new traveling exhibit inspired by Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood that links familiar childhood objects to a process of manufacturing combining people, ideas and technology. Free with admission. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville.

(630) 637-8000, dupagechildrens museum.org.

SWEET HOME CHICAGO: THE HISTORY OF AMERICA’S CANDY CAPITAL. Exhibit includes

numerous artifacts, photographs and other documentary items that tell the story of Chicago’s iconic candy makers,

Th T hre ree e Fr F ie end ds of of Wiintter W er: Bo ons sai Siilh S houettte & Fam milily Ac A cti tivi vitiies s including Snickers, Lemonheads, Butterfingers and Cracker Jack. Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St., Chicago. (312) 747-4898, chipublib.org.

THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ. Exhibit features the illustrations

of W. W. Denslow and provides a variety of learning opportunities and hands-on activities. $9.50, $8.50

Professional services Directory Pediatric dentistry

Pediatric dentistry

Pediatric dentistry

We take the fear out of dentistry for your child.

• Shots and drilling are no longer necessary • Computer x-rays reduce your child’s exposure to radiation • We use smaller chairs and instruments • We welcome patients with special needs • Pleasant, comfortable surroundings

Christopher J. Morin, DDS 811 W. Wellington Chicago, IL 60657

(773) 871-4964 e-mail: chrismorin5@yahoo.com

Evenings and Saturdays available.

Practice limited to infants, children and adolescents.

4801 W. Peterson Ave • Chicago, IL 60646

773-545-0007

Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

16345 S. Harlem • Tinley Park

708-633-8700 • www.kidsdds.net ChicagoParent.com January 2013 93

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ONGOING EVENTS seniors. Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org.

DICKENS: 200 YEARS OF CELEBRITY. Hundreds of objects

and documents from the exclusive private collection tell the story of how Charles Dickens and his characters became enduring cultural icons.

Free with admission. Lake County Discovery Museum, Lakewood Forest Preserve, Route 176, west of Fairfield Road, Wauconda. (847) 968-3400, lakecountydiscoverymuseum.org.

BLACK BEAR EXHIBIT. Crawl into the bear’s den, compare your senses to that of the black bear, feel his fur and come face to face with a black bear mount. Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 941-8747, obtpd.org/lvnc.

CHARLIE BROWN AND THE GREAT EXHIBIT. Exhibit explores

Schulz’s personal history and his role as the inspiration and artistic

ory

talent behind Peanuts and its unique characters through original cartoons, reproductions and related Peanuts products. $5, $3 kids 3-11, plus admission. Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago.

(773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

THE SPIRIT OF THE MARATHON: FROM PHEIDIPPIDES TO TODAY.

Learn and connect to the history of the Marathon. Kids can participate in a Race for Pheidippides scavenger hunt to redeem a prize. Free with admission. National Hellenic Museum, 333 S. Halsted St., Chicago. (312) 6551234, nationalhellenicmuseum.org.

OINK, BAA, MOO: FARM FUN. Interactive learning centers

include a barn slide, apple orchard and chicken coop, plus Maggie, a life-sized fiberglass milking cow that features a working udder that recirculates the water that children “milk.” Waukegan Public Library, 128 N. County St., Waukegan.

(847) 623-2041, waukeganpl.org.

OTHER EVENTS CHICAGO WINTER DANCE. Free, introductory one-hour dance lessons by professional instructors followed by music and dancing. 6-9:30 p.m. Jan. 4-5; noon-3 p.m. Jan. 6.

Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago. explorechicago.org.

PROGRESSIVE INSURANCE CHICAGO BOAT, RV & OUTDOORS SHOW. Find the best deals on boats,

RVs, camping equipment and fishing gear. Hands-on activities include scuba diving, a trout fishing pond, paddlesports and FloRider. $12, $10 seniors, free kids 15 and under.

2-9 p.m. Jan. 9; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Jan. 10-11; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Jan. 12; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 13. McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. chicagoboatshow.com.

Walk or drive the one-mile route through the park to see sculptures. Sunrise-11 p.m. Jan. 16-19.

Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. Second St., Rockford. (815) 987-8800, snowsculpting.org.

STRICTLY SAIL CHICAGO. The larg-

est indoor sailboat show in the U.S. The Kids Yacht Club is where junior sailors can play with remote control sailboats, learn the ropes aboard a sailing simulator, enjoy crafting toy sailboats, or meet Skipper, the sailing dolphin. $12 weekday, $15 weekend, $24 two-day pass, free kids 15 and under with adult. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Jan. 24-25; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Jan. 26; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan 27. Navy Pier, Festival Halls A & B, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. strictlysailchicago.com.

SNOWFLAKE’S LEARN TO SKATE CLINIC. An introduction to skating

ILLINOIS SNOW SCULPTING COMPETITION.

Watch snow-sculpting teams form frozen art from giant blocks of snow.

for kids 2-11. Includes 30 minutes of instruction and 15 minutes of free time. There is a public session following the clinic and everyone

Professional services Directory

cyoournAdnveretiscintg.

Ask About our Print/digitAl PAckAges

Educational assEssmEnt & consultation

special needs dentistry

McK Educational Associates

At Southwest Dental we take special care of

psychoeducational evaluation academic assessment gifted program identification advocacy consultation For information, please call: 773-613-9106 • 773-779-4945 or email: mckeduassc@sbcglobal.net

special needs.

Pediatric theraPy Assential Therapies, Inc

Pediatric Therapy Services: Speech/Feeding Therapy Occupational Therapy Physical Therapy Developmental Therapy Located in Niles, IL (in Golf Mill Mall) Call: (847) 699-9757 x0 for more info.

www.atmfc.com

Exceptional care and patient comfort go hand in hand at Southwest Dental Group. This gives special needs children and adults an experience they can feel good about - with the option of IV sedation for situational anxiety.

We believe there’s no need too special.

(708) 403-3355

16600 South 107th Court, Orland Park, IL Dr. Tentler holds diplomate status in the American Society of Dentist Anesthesiologists.

Dr. Robert L. Tentler and Associates, General Dentistry

94 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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can stay to skate. (Regular admission fees apply.) Jan. 2-5. $12 per clinic; $3 skate rental. 10:30-11:15 a.m. Rink Side Ice Arena & Family Entertainment Center, Gurnee Mills Mall, 6152 W. Grand Ave., Gurnee.

(847) 856-1064, rinksidesports.com.

ART ON THE RUN. Fun and

educational arts project for kids.

Projects change bi-weekly. Free with admission. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays.

Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S. Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 834-0202, elmhurstartmuseum.org.

EXPLORATION STATION. Docents help children and others learn through interactive displays and games in the showrooms. January’s theme is Urban Wildlife. 10 a.m.-noon Saturdays. Oak Park Conservatory, 615 Garfield St., Oak Park. (708) 386-4700, oakparkconservatory.com.

form at the main office. Irons Oaks, 20000 S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields.

(708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

BIKE, SKI AND SNOWSHOE.

With small solar lights to guide their way, hikers, skiers and snowshoers can traverse the 1.3-mile fitness trail at Old School Forest Preserve or the 1.65-mile hilly section of the Millennium Trail at Lakewood Forest Preserve. Trails and parking lots remain open until 9 p.m. daily.

Lake County Forest Preserves, 2000 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville. (847) 968-3321, LCFPD.org.

GNOME HUNT. Kids search for gnomes in the Children’s Garden using their “I Spy” skills. Checklist provided. Free with admission. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle.

(630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

SNOWMAN CONTEST. Build

a snowman out of biodegradable and natural items to win. Fill out an entry

COOL KIDS WINTER PLAY. A guided glimpse into the world of

Cool Co o Kid ids s Wint ntter e Pla lay y

outdoor play. Possible activities include snowman and snow fort building with natural materials or a garden scavenger hunt for natural

objects. Free with admission. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. daily. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle.

(630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

Educating children ages two through six Year round program: 2, 3, or 5 day schedules.

Individual family tours given daily.

call today and schedule a tour LPP Germania

LPP Belden

108 W. Germania Place Chicago, IL 60610 312-482-9009 info@lppgermania.com

312 W. Belden Ave. Chicago, IL 60614 773-665-0110 info@lppbelden.com

www.lppschools.com

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You can snowshoe!

A

ny snowshoe enthusiast will say if you can walk, you can snowshoe. It’s that simple. This winter might be the perfect time for you and your family to strap on some snowshoes and step into the woods. It’s inexpensive, fun and a great way to get outdoor exercise. And we know a few good places to get started.

Kathy Woods

Downtown Northerly Island is a manmade peninsula projecting into Lake Michigan near the Museum Campus. Snowshoe rental is $5 for two hours on weekends through February, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (312) 7452910.

North Crabtree Nature Center in Barrington is open for snowshoeing every day, except Friday, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. It offers three miles of woodland trails. Snowshoe rental is free. (847) 381-6592.

The Chicago Botanic Garden

in Glencoe allows snowshoeing 8 a.m.-sunset. Rental snowshoes available at the REI store in Northbrook. Admission is free; $20 parking. chicagobotanicgardens.org.

West Lyman Woods in Downers Grove offers 2½ miles of trails. Snowshoe rental is $6 for three hours. Open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Fridays 9 a.m.-noon; and Sundays 1-4 p.m. Offers free guided snowshoe hikes. dgparks.org.

Springbrook Nature Center in Itasca features three trails for snowshoeing on Satur-

days and Sundays between noon and 4:30 p.m. Snowshoe rental is $5 for two hours. (630) 773-5572.

Morton Arboretum in Lisle offers snowshoeing from 7 a.m.-sunset daily. Snowshoe rental is available on site 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Parking is free, but there is an admission fee. mortonarb.org.

South

Are you brand new to snowshoeing?

Monee Reservoir has 2½ miles of wooded trails. Snowshoe rentals are $10 per day with a $10 deposit. Offers guided snowshoe programs for $3, includes snowshoes. reconnectwithnature.org.

Helpful tutorials for beginners can be found at snowshoemag. com/first-timers and rei.com/ learn/expert-advice/snowshoeing-first-steps.html.

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icians The Chicago Chamber Mus and Target速 in collaboration with

ater Chicago Shakespeare The proudly present

LEAVE IT TO G I W D U L

by Bruce Adolphe

312.595.5600 www.chicagoshakes.com All performances at er on Chicago Shakespeare Theat e.

Navy Pier, 800 E. Grand Av

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PERFORMANCES MARY POPPINS. Through Jan. 5. $40-$48. Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. (847) 634-0200, marriotttheatre.com.

KNUFFLE BUNNY: A CAUTIONARY MUSICAL. Through

FREEDOM TRAIN. This performance

follows the story of Harriet Tubman.

Jan. 14-18. $9.50, $7.50 kids. Theatre at the Center, The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Ind. (219) 836-3255, theatreatthecenter.com.

Jan. 6. $16, $13 kids, limited number of $10 tickets. Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 935-6100, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

THE MUSIC MAN. Jan. 16-Feb.

CINDERELLA. Through Jan. 6. Call

THE COMEDYSPORTZ CREW MEETS THE SNOW QUEEN.

for cost. Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago. (800) 775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com.

POTTED POTTER: THE UNAUTHORIZED HARRY EXPERIENCE. Through Jan. 6. Call

for cost. Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago. (800) 775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com.

THE ADVENTURES OF ROSE RED. The story of Snow White’s less-

famous sister. Jan. 6-26. $15, $10 kids.

Steel Beam Children’s Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. (630) 587-8521, steelbeamtheatre.com.

ALICE AND WONDERLAND.

Performances are at Lewis University in Romeoville Jan. 7-11 and Jan. 14-18. Call for cost. AlphaBet Soup Productions, P.O. Box 85, Lombard.

(630) 932-1555, absproductions.com.

BUD, NOT BUDDY. The journey of

a young African-American orphan as he searches for his father. Jan. 12-Feb. 24. Recommended for kids 8 and up.

Chicago Children’s Theatre, The Ruth Page Center for Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. (872) 222-9555, chicagochildrenstheatre.org.

THE MYSTERY OF THE PIRATE GHOST. One hour before each

performance, for an extra $10, kids can participate in an interactive storytelling session. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Jan. 12-Feb. 17. $15. Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago.

(773) 761-4477, lifelinetheatre.com.

3. $34.90-$46.90. Paramount Arts Centre and Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. (630) 896-6666, paramountaurora.com.

Through Jan. 19. $10, $7 kids. 11 a.m.-noon Saturdays. ComedySportz Theatre, 929 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. (773) 549-8080, comedysportzchicago.com.

YO GABBA GABBA! LIVE! GET THE SILLIES OUT! Interactive

show. $23-$73. 2 and 5 p.m. Jan. 19-20. Akoo Theatre, 5400 N. River Road, Rosemont. (847) 671-5100, rosemonttheatre.com.

LEAVE IT TO LUDWIG. The one-

hour concert introduces families with kids 4 and up to live performance. 10 and 11:30 a.m. Jan. 19-20. Call for cost. Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 595-5600, chicagoshakes.com.

Bud, Bu d, No ott Bu B ud dd dy

LIZZIE BRIGHT AND THE BUCKMINSTER BOY. 10 a.m.

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2 p.m.

Saturdays. Jan. 19-March 2.

Recommended for kids 9 and up. $10. Chicago Playworks, Merle Reskin Theatre at DePaul University, 60 E. Balbo Drive, Chicago. (312) 922-1999, theatreschool.depaul.edu.

ANNUAL TRIBUTE TO DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING. 3 p.m.

Jan. 20 at Wentz Concert Hall of North Central College, 171 E. Chicago Ave., Naperville and 7:30 p.m. Jan. 21 at Orchestra Hall of Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. Tickets are $40-$50 at Wentz and $26-$50 at Symphony Center, with $10 pricing for students. (312) 236-3681 ext. 2, chicagosinfonietta.org.

SNOW WHITE. Songs, dances and puppetry. 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays. Jan. 20-Feb. 23. $10 online and at the door, $8 in advance. Northbrook Musical Theatre for Young Audiences, 3323 Walters Ave., Northbrook. (847) 291-2367, northbrooktheatre.org.

DR. SEUSS’S THE CAT IN THE HAT. Opens Jan. 26. $16, $13 kids,

limited number of $10 tickets.

Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 935-6100, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

THE FROG PRINCE CONTINUED. Opens Jan. 26. $16, $13 kids, limited number of $10 tickets. Emerald City

Theatre Company, Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 935-6100, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

BUGS BUNNY AT THE SYMPHONY. Warner Bros. cartoons

are on the big screen with their original scores played by a live symphony orchestra. 3 and 7:30 p.m. Jan. 26 and 3 p.m. Jan. 27. $35-$110. Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago.

(312) 294-3000, cso.org.

PETER PAN. Cathy Rigby takes flight Jan. 30-Feb. 10. $18-$85. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago. (312) 977-1700, broadwayinchicago.com.

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Media:

PROMOAD (Chicago Parent AD)

Section:

Insertion Date(s):

It’s a

Penguin Party!

Dress the part. There’s no easier way to celebrate penguins than to dress like one. In lieu of a tuxedo, DIY a costume for your kiddos in basic black and white. Or head to Shedd’s Polar Play Zone (there’s reduced admission that day) to try on a costume kids can wear while climbing rocks and sliding down slides.

Try some seafood. A penguin feast is in order! Penguins eat a variety of seafood, including squid. But not all seafood at the grocery store is penguin friendly. Check out Shedd’s website for the Right Bite wallet card, an easy guide to buying fish caught or farmed using environmentally friendly practices.

Tweet your questions.

Penguins don’t exactly tweet, but you can! Hit up @shedd_ aquarium with your penguin queries and an expert will tweet the answer. Visit Shedd’s website to learn which day will be penguin-focused.

Watch and learn. Shedd has a 4-D theater, which means you

© Disney, © Disney/Pixar.

n’t just watch a movie, you don’t perience it through all your experience senses. nses. Planet Earth: From Pole to Pole explores the life of polar creatures, including emperor penguins, with gusts of wind, rain and a few other surprises.

And it’s only 15 minutes long, perfect for a quick breather at the large aquarium.

Get up-close-and-personal. At Shedd, you can come faceto-face with rockhopper and Magellanic penguins in the habitats. And if you’re feeling especially adventurous, check out the 30-minute Penguin Encounters, an opportunity to meet a penguin, touch its feathers and learn about the birds from one of Shedd’s trainers. Penguin Encounters fill up quickly, so register early!

Elizabeth Diffin

FAMILY PACKAGE OFFER!

Buy four (4) $26 tickets and get four (4) FREE concessions meal packages including food and beverage!

A savings of over $35!

Use offer code: FAMILY*

JAN. 23 - 27 JAN. 30 – FEB. 10 *Valid on all performances Monday thru Saturday at 7:00 PM and Saturdays at 11:30 AM excluding the opening night performances. No double discounts. Additional fees may apply.

FREE PARKING in all official arena parking lots.

Visit arena website for more information.

Additional fees may apply.

Buy tickets at Ticketmaster.com, Retail Locations, Arena Box Offices or call 1-800-745-3000 219268

I

t’s hard not to love a penguin—it must have something to do with that tuxedoed look. Jan. 20 is Penguin Awareness Day, and it’s a great time to learn about penguins and the threats they face, such as oil spills, warming ocean temperatures and depleted food sources. We’ve got the perfect place to spend the day: Shedd Aquarium, where general admission is free on Jan. 20 to Illinois residents.

We talked to those experts for some ideas to celebrate our penguin pals.

disneyonice.com ChicagoParent.com January 2013 99

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ENTE

2012–13 Season

Fun for audiences of all ages!

2012–13 Season

November 9–11, 2012 2012–13 Season Friday, January 25, 2013 7:30pm

RENT

By Jonathan Larson November 9–11, 2012 2012–13 Season

RENT that rock, of and a story that resonates with Bella Fun for audiences allGaia ages!

RENT By Jonathan Larson power and passion.

9–11, 2012with songs ANovember pop cultural phenomenon

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By Jonathan Larson 9–11, 2012–13 Season

A pop cultural phenomenon with songs

RENT ASaturday, Leahy Family Saturday, December 1, 2012 RENT December 1, 2012 RENT 7:30pm By Jonathan Larson 7:30pm Christmas Saturday, February 9, 2013 Larson AByAJonathan Leahy Family 1:00pm Leahy Family Saturday, December 1, 2012 7:30pm Christmas Christmas A Leahy Family Saturday, December 1, 2012 dom.edu/pac ZooZoo Saturday, December 1, 2012 7:30pm 7:30pm from Imago Theatre Christmas Leahy dom.edu/pac AA menagerie like noFamily other, Imago’s A Leahy Family ZooZoo fills the stage with wit, wonder Christmas Christmas and mesmerizing mayhem.

A pop cultural phenomenon songs Take a spectacular journey around Saturday, 1, with 2012 that rock, andDecember a story that resonates with that rock, and a story that resonates with co un ts planet Earth with brilliant NASAdis images power and passion.

7:30pm fo r kids By Jonathan Larson power and passion.

November 9–11, 2012 & se ni ors and live music by Kenji Williams.

November 9–11, 2012 A pop cultural phenomenon with songs that rock, and a story that resonates with power and passion.

A pop cultural phenomenon with season songs Embrace the spirit of the holiday A pop cultural phenomenon with songs that rock, and a story thatdance resonates with with music, and vocals. diswith thatfiddle-driven rock, and a story that resonates co un ts power and passion. fo r kids power and passion. & se ni ors Embrace the spirit of the holiday season Embrace the spirit of the holiday season with fiddle-driven music, dance and vocals. with fiddle-driven music, dance and vocals.

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WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS

ROSS DETTMAN/CHICAGO WOLVES

Chicago’s Wolves

W

ith the Blackhawks sidelined—at least temporarily—by the NHL lockout, it’s the perfect time to check out our other hockey team, the Chicago Wolves. The Wolves, who play at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, are all about family fun.

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For more information, visit chicagowolves.com.

Elizabeth Diffin

104 January 2013 ChicagoParent.com

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Media Sponsor: The Adler Planetarium gratefully acknowledges The Grainger Foundation for its leadership in transforming the historic Sky Theater.

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