Chicago Parent July 2014

ONE

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JULY 2014

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CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

DRIVE-IN

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FUN IN THE

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If there were a vaccine against cancer, wouldn’t you get it for your kids?

HPV vaccine is cancer prevention.

Talk to the doctor about vaccinating your 11–12 year old sons and daughters against HPV.

#UCanStopHPV

ChicagoParent.com July 2014 1

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a new

perspective on learning

We are preparing students for life.

At GEMS World Academy – Chicago, every day brings a new experience. With established connections to classrooms around the world, we offer JK-12 students the opportunity to interact with their peers globally and build life experiences right in the heart of Chicago.

Opening Fall 2014. Attend an open house to find out more.

Scholarships are offered across a range of disciplines. www.gemsworldacademy-chicago.com | 312-300-6658

2 July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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women’s care

centered

around you Choosing what to do with your time may sound like a luxury, but it doesn’t have to be a fantasy. Introducing herDMG, the first all-in-one healthcare appointment for women from DuPage Medical Group. This annual visit helps you consolidate multiple needs such as a well-woman exam, lab testing or a mammogram. And with just a single call, even your scheduling is streamlined, freeing you up for the things that matter most.

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www.littlegreentreehouse.com 4 July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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

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

Schedule a pre-school tour today!

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WES

N BA

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IC AL CENT

2014

At the Irving & Margaret Houck Family Birthing Centre,

We Treat You Like Family.

We know that the birth experience should be one where you feel empowered, joyful, confident, and cared for. For those seeking low intervention options for delivery, our Alternative Birthing Center is home to one of the largest midwifery programs in the area where we offer patients a variety of choices, including: • Support for low intervention birthing • Home-like setting with a queensize bed, television, refrigerator, microwave, and free internet access • Tubs for water labor and birth • Telemetry monitory to allow free mobility labor • All private, labor, delivery, recovery, and postpartum rooms All our patients – whether choosing the Alternative Birthing Center or planning a delivery with one of our board-certified obstetricians – can take comfort in the superior level of care offered at West Suburban Medical Center.

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contents IN THIS ISSUE UE 15

19

25

GOOD TO GO

A trip to Summer House Santa Monica, A Baker’ss Tale and The Piggery BEST IN CHI

Great places to eat at outdoors with kidss THE SELFAWARE PARENT T

Make this a no-yell month 31

84

35 69

TRENDING

A dose of daring for mom FAILING WITH GUSTO USTO

One mom’s secret affair CALENDAR

Fun in the sun: 105 ideas

JULY 2014 | VOLUME 30 | NO. 7

FEATURES

ON THE COVER

Our summer how-to guide

40

HOW TO THROW A BIG SCREEN BACKYARD BLOWOUT Create a DIY drive-in for family and friends

50

HOW TO FILL YOUR SUMMER WITH FUN Four ideas that will put smiles on the kids’ faces and make memories

JULY 2014 | FREE

SECRET AFFAIR

DYI

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

DRIVE-IN

A

NO-YELL

Bulldog tee and shorts FUN IN THE provided by Preggers in 105 IDEAS Chicago, preggers maternity.com

SUN

STAND ON THE BLOCK The key: Real lemons and an old family recipe

Moms with large families dish on what works

ONE

MOM’S

MONTH

TO HAVE THE 43 HOW BEST LEMONADE

TO GET 46 HOW YOUR LIFE IN ORDER

Cover kid: Griffin Kubik, 19 months, Chicago

Photography: Thomas Kubik of TK Photography, Chicago

TO SAVE 52 HOW YOUR OWN LIFE

Chicago dad realized he needed to act quickly

EASY 55 SUPER SUMMER GETAWAY See Chinese warriors and endangered species in Indy

Design: Claire Innes

Coming this month

Specıal Parent CHICAGO

Available for print and tablet beginning July 15

ChicagoParent.com July 2014 7

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EDITOR’S NOTE SPONSORED

A flash of blue On a summer day, a lilting song fills the air. There’s a flit of blue.

Wooden boxes on fence posts at The Morton Arboretum in Lisle tell the story: Bluebirds are at home here.

These lovely little birds are not at home everywhere.

They have to compete with other birds for food and for places to build their nests and raise their families. Bluebirds, which are native to the eastern United States, have had a hard time holding their own against European sparrows, which take many of the best nesting sites.

One way people can help is to provide houses designed to invite bluebirds to nest. More than 100 have been built and installed by volunteers at the Arboretum in sunny open spaces at the edge of the woods.

When you are walking among the trees at the Arboretum and you see a flash of blue, look around for a tall wooden box. It may be the home of a bluebird family.

Time to relax As I hopped on the Green Line this morning, I felt incredibly jealous of all the people who got to sleep in and hang around the house in their jammies. I even mumbled aloud, “I just want a day to do nothing except sleep.”

This intense longing is a symptom of my overscheduled life—or, more TAMARA L. accurately, my kids’ overscheduled O’SHAUGHNESSY lives. I just get to be the driver to all things, then am left behind to sit in my car until the class/lesson/playdate is over. I try to make the most of the time, either reading or working, but lately I find myself nodding off, much to my great embarrassment.

Because I’m guilty of letting them sign up for everything under the sun that might interest them, it’s got to be me who changes how our month will play out.

So as the train rumbled its way to our Oak Park offices, I made the radical decision that July is going to be the one month for us all to catch our breath before e Join me every Friday getting back to school consumes uss night at Chicago again. While some classes continuee Parent’s Facebook for the month, we won’t be travelpage to discuss our ing for dance competitions or tennis is weekly parenting tournaments. dilemma.

I need to work on unplugging thee kids from their phones and computters and getting them outside shoot-ing hoops and drawing on the sidewalk lk with ith chalk. h lk We W will go for walks after dinner, barbecue in the backyard and play lots of Two Square and Running Bases.

I can’t wait.

I hope you take time to unwind this month, too. Send me photos at tamara@chicagoparent.com showing how you are relaxing with the kids and we’ll share them on our Facebook page.

Enjoy your time.

Find more adventures in nature at The Morton Arboretum.

Check out our award-winning Children’s Garden!

THE MORTON ARBORETUM 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL mortonarb.org • 630-768-0074

CONNECT WITH US #mortonarboretum

8 July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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ow! h S e h t f o r a t S e Where You’re th in center ring s d n ie fr r u o y w Wo mes, big-top with crazy costu d much more! n performances a mble, juggle, tu to ” e g ta s k c a Go “b ! balance and spin PLUS

DARING DEEDS FOR CURIOUS KIDS THROUGH

JULY 31

ChicagoChildrensMuseum.org AT NAVY PIER • Open daily at 10 am • (312) 527-1000 ChicagoParent.com July 2014 9

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CONTRIBUTORS

How I plan to make this the best summer ever

EDITOR Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy SENIOR EDITOR Liz DeCarlo ASSOCIATE EDITOR Elizabeth Diffin DIGITAL EDITOR Graham Johnston DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER Jackie

McGoey

ART DIRECTOR Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNER Jaquinete Baldwin,

Sky Hatter

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Cathy Cassani

I plan to do less and be slower. I always use summer as a reboot.

Cathy Cassani Adams

I always make a bucket list at the beginning of the summer. So far, I’ve got trips to the zoo, strawberry picking, pool days, splashing around Crown Fountain, water park, a few afternoons watching the Chicago Symphony at Ravinia, beach day ...

Danielle Braff

I have a tendency to overschedule and try to pack in every imaginable summer activity.

This year, my plan is to do LESS, have more down time and hopefully have more fun.

Caitlin Murray Giles

Now that my kids are older, I plan to give them more independence. My 10-year-old can ride her bike to the pool and meet up with her pals. My 7-yearold can play outside without me having to be there. We will cap it off with a family trip to Costa Rica!

Emily Paster

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DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR Specializing Alan Majeski CREDIT MANAGER Debbie Zari in Dentistry for Diplomates of the Children & PUBLISHER Dan Haley Specializing American Board VP/OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Adolescents of Pediatric Dentistry Andrew Johnston inDiplomates Dentistry of for the COMPTROLLER Dennis R. LaMonte, D.D.S., Ed M.S.Panschar Steven T. Kuhn, D.D.S. American Board Children & Specializing of Pediatric Dentistry FOUNDERS Natalie Goodman, Adolescents Carolyn Jacobs in Dentistry for Specializing Dennis R.Exceptional LaMonte, D.D.S., M.S. Steven T. Kuhn, D.D.S. Children & forGeneral & Cosmetic in Dentistry HOW TO REACH US 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Adolescents Children & Exceptional Dentistry

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Oak Park, Illinois 60302 (708) 386-5555 ChicagoParent.com EDITORS

chiparent@chicagoparent.com CALENDAR

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circulation@chicagoparent.com 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. © 2014 Wednesday Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

10 July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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Because this time you’ll be prepared with an Ultimate Back to School Combo from Mabel’s Labels. Complete with 108 custom labels, this combo is perfect for their backpacks, pencil cases, lunch bags and of course shoes.

ChicagoParent.com July 2014 11

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KIDS GO FREE to LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Chicago with paid adult ticket

This offer is valid for one free child admission with each full paying adult (paying the standard admission price) to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago.

This coupon can not be used in conjunction with any tickets purchased online. This coupon can only be used when paying the standard admission price. Please present the coupon when purchasing tickets. This discount is not valid with other discounts, coupons or offers and can not be used with online or prebooked tickets. Can not be used for birthday parties. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Duplication or sale of this offer is prohibited. No cash value. Not redeemable for cash or credit. Valid until 8/31/15. (GC: 201422) LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Brick and Knob configurations, the Minifigure and LEGOLAND are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2014 The LEGO Group.

12 July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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ON THE WEB

Summer fun central

V

JACKIE MCGOEY

isiting ChicagoParent. com should be on your to-do list before heading out to the beach, museums, downtown and suburbs this month.

You’ll find the most complete calendar of things to do with kids. Events are added daily, plus we have insider tips you need to know on the best places to

visit, play and eat.

You will also find fun crafts and kid-friendly recipes to try on rainy (or too hot) days, fun walking tours of great eat Chicago neighborhoods, bloggers who are out and about out finding fun new places to share, plus ideas for weekend nd getaways and even for ditching the kids for a romanticc night out.

Win big this month

We can taste the Meatheads burgers already, and one lucky winner will win a Burger Party for 10 at a Meatheads of their choice, plus a signed Chicago Bears Robbie Gould jersey. The contest begins July 3. Hint: Get your kids reading.

A family trip to see a summer blockbuster can get pricey, but our friends at Classic Cinemas have you covered. This month, we’re giving away family five-packs to the sure hits of the season, including Dusty Crophopper’s return in “Planes: Fire & Rescue,” superhero romp “Guardians of the Galaxy” y and “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.” tickets to see Adler Planetarium’s new live Plus, win ticke Destination Solar System. It’s the family vacashow, Destinat tion to space yyou’ve always dreamed about.

Giveaways appear in our newsletters, so Giveaw up to be among the first to enter. sign u

Featured blog excerpt: Milk n Honee

Charlotte Betts: Chicago shops for quality kids’ apparel As a parent, I’m always looking for ways to get my money’s worth. If you’ve been looking for new places in the city to shop for your children, then look no farther. Here are some of my favorites: Lilla Barn (lillabarn.com) $$ Lilla Barn, Swedish for “little child,” is what fun clothes are made of. If you’re CHARLOTTE BETTS looking for bold handmade goodness, then this familyowned business is perfect. This Etsy shop has quickly become one of my favorites and I’m

confident it will become one of yours, too.

PRSPR (prsprkids.com) $$ “Kid clothes for the kid life” is their mantra, and nothing says cool kid like the clothes from PRSPR. Quality clothes and affordable prices are what you will find here. PRSPR also carries California-based brand Mini & Maximus, as well as YPorque.

Urba Baby, 1751 W. Division St. (urbababy.com) $$$ Established in 2011, Urba Baby is the go-to destination for urban families. Not only do they carry a variety of unique American-based brands, but this Wicker Park shop also hosts classes and workshops.

Find more of Charlotte’s pieces at ChicagoParent.com/blogs.

>>

Don’t forget your download.

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

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ChicagoParent.com July 2014 13

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14 July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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C

alifornia

G

hicago

ot a taste for some West Coast fare but don’t want to hop on a plane?

No need. Summer House Santa Monica, a recent Lettuce Entertain You addition, brings the fresh food and ambiance of Santa Monica to Lincoln Park.

One feels transported to the beach immediately upon entering the large, open space with its white walls and lighted (and retractable!) roof. The atmosphere alone is worth a visit—there’s nothing quite like it in Chicago.

Early reviews of the food and service were slightly spotty, but this eatery has found its groove and our experience was as refreshing as the ocean breezes the venue evokes.

Leave the calorie-counting at home and start with the

table-sharing “hot mess of fries,” topped with braised pork, fried egg, blue cheese, truffle jus and chives, a dish that’s even more sinful than it sounds.

Then lighten up with food one might encounter at a seaside outdoor café: split the surfer style fish tacos with guacamole, fennel slaw and salsa verde or the smaller portioned hamachi tartare and green apple. In a word, yum.

Stick with seafood for the main course. The Maine lobster frites, grilled Atlantic salmon and wood-grilled swordfish are all excellent calls. Other options include wood-fired steaks, including a 32-day dry aged prime rib, pastas like the unique prime beef short-rib ravioli and “very special sandwiches” such as the double decker turkey burger.

For sides, our party enjoyed the

19 1954 954 5 N N. Halsted, Hals l te ted d Chicago Chi h cago go summerhousesm.com

Good to

uisine in

Summer House Santa Monica

roasted cauliflower and caramelized Brussels sprouts (and I thought I hated Brussels sprouts before this outing).

While there isn’t a separate kids’ menu, there are plenty of child-friendly menu items, like a classic hamburger, roasted chicken and baked-to-order biscuits served with honey butter.

Summer House also is a brunch hotspot, where kids go for the wide variety of pancake options like orange-chocolate chip and the “very nice caramelized French toast.”

Tip: It’s packed, even midweek, and can be a bit of a scene, so the earlier the better with children in tow. Make a reservation or plan to spend some time sipping cocktails in the hip bar area or at the adjacent Stella Barra Pizzeria.

Linda Marsicano

ChicagoParent.com July 2014 15

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GOOD TO GO

A tale of deliciousness

I

t’s hard to say whether the décor or the food is more enticing at A Baker’s Tale, situated along a bustling stretch of restaurants and cafes on Division Street in Wicker Park, because both are equally spectacular.

The whimsical design is fairytale-like, with a huge awe-inspiring tree sculpted out of book pages and comfy colorful chairs—lime green, pink, purple and sky blue— making for cheery décor to eat a treat. The outdoor patio is the perfect spot to plop your latte or Moroccan mint tea and do some serious people watching as hipsters hit the brunch scene.

There are a dozen flavors of Benjamin Teas, any specialty coffee concoction one can imagine and various flavors

of Vero water, both still and sparkling.

Now, the food. Where to start? One can spend hours gazing at the displays of artfully made goodies before deciding which to choose.

(I found out with three kids in tow that I basically had to drag out of there before our parking meter ran out.) We went for the salted caramel cupcakes and the banana

cupcakes topped with chocolate cream frosting served later to party guests who were raving and opting for seconds.

The children also tasted colorfully decorated cookies that generated a lot of murmurs of “yum” through the last bite.

The café is also known for its tarts like white chocolate passion fruit, pies such as caramel apple and coconut cream, eclairs including

banana split and vanilla bean, and cream puffs with peanut butter chocolate among the options.

Looking for some lunch before the sugar? Sandwiches include turkey and white cheddar, ham and pineapple, and caprese. The café also serves small salads: beet and arugula, Caesar and garden, along with a soup of the day.

Just in case you’re not sold yet (and if not, you’ll be missing out), the patio is pet friendly, so bring the pooch along on a family outing.

Linda Marsicano

A Baker’s Tale

2127 W. Division St., Chicago a-bakers-tale.com.

INSPIRING INNOVATORS OF TOMORROW Educational Programs Birth – 8th gradE At the Montessori Academy of Chicago, from birth through 8th grade, our goal is to develop engaged, academically accelerated, independent thinkers who embrace community responsibility and leadership.

call to attEnd an uPcoming EVEnt! 312.243.0977 info coffEE & tour: July 22nd, 2014: 9:00 – 10:30am

1335 w. randolph st. chicago, il 60607

www.montessoriacademychicago.org

16 July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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THREE TO SEE

Three things to do

before summer ends

L

abor Day Weekend will be here before we know it. Revel in summer while it’s here and try these.

1

Treat your family to a day at Centennial Family Aquatic Center in Wilmette. No membership required! The facility is perfect for all ages and includes two waterslides, two drop slides, two diving boards, a zero depth entry pool and a wading pool with a tot slide. lide. Wilmette residents pay ay $8.50 for a day pass; $15 for nonresidents. dents.

Children under nder 2 are free. wilmettepark. rk. org/pools.

2

Celebrate ate Christmas in July at Santa’s Village AZoosment osment Park.

Check in mid-year id-year with

Santa to find out your family’s status on the Nice or Naughty List. Plus there are rides, shows and reindeer. Open daily through Aug. 24, then weekends through October. santasvillagedundee.com.

INDOOR SKYDIVING

NOW FLYING

3

Have a little slugger in your clan? Take a behind-the-scenes tour of Wrigley Field through September. On non-game days, the tour includes the press box, the field, the Cubs’ Cubs clubhouse, the dugout and more. $25 pe per person. cubs.mlb.com/ chc/ballpark/tours.

Linda Marsicano

Fun for the whole family Perfect for birthday parties Safe for all ages 3 and up!

ChicagoParent.com July 2014 17

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GOOD TO GO

The Piggery offers pork and summer fun

W

ith a name like The Piggery, you might think it’s all about the pork.

And it kind of is. But this local Lakeview favorite also offers a large family-friendly patio, a sports theme and an extensive menu that even non-pork eaters will love.

Its signature dish is what the chef likes to call “Flintstone size, fall off the bone” ribs. And yes, I think Fred would appreciate the portions. The pork nachos, covered in guacamole, olives, sour cream and jalapeños, are another house favorite. An entire section of the menu is dedicated to “Things Wrapped in Bacon,” which include shrimp and jalapeño, a date stuffed with a whole almond,

jalapeño peppers stuffed with cream cheese, shrimp and artichoke hearts with sun-dried tomatoes served with blue cheese dipping sauce. Can’t decide which items wrapped in bacon sound best? Try the sample plate that comes with one of each.

In addition to other pork specialties like the pulled

pork sandwich, the Southwest pulled pork salad (humongous and amazing) and pork pot roast, there are plenty of dishes completely devoid of pork. Entrees such as fried chicken, blackened tilapia and Black Angus skirt steak are among them. The Piggery also serves a wide selection of burgers, wraps and pizza.

Skip the usual fries and opt for the onion strings, piled high and served with chipotle ranch or get creative and order a side of fried pickles.

Next up as they continue to “Piggify” (as they affectionately call it): The Pig Sty Deck that will offer additional outdoor seating.

Bonus: The Piggery has its own parking lot—no driving around looking for a spot or inflated valet charges. Plus there is a shuttle to Cubs home games.

Linda Marsicano

The Piggery 1624 W. Irving Park Road, Chicago thepiggerychicago.com

Empowering kids to be creative, curious, caring and confident at every age and every stage Highlights.com/Imagine 1814 ADVS-140701.indd July 2014 ChicagoParent.com 1

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BEST IN CHI

Great places to eat outdoors with kids

SARA R. FISHER

It’s that time of year where you can let the little things that bug you (and others) about dining with kids slide a bit. You can finally, almost positively (it’s July after all), eat outside with the little ones.

I checked out some of the city’s best spots to dine outdoors. So go out and relax a little! Spilled food definitely looks better on a brick patio.

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Big Bricks Chicago 3832 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 525-5022, reservations recommended, bigbrickschicago.com With what is most likely the biggest and quietest outdoor patio I encountered, Big Bricks Chicago also offers one of the most kid-friendly menus and service. Its patio boasts a huge stroller parking lot and the restaurant has a full kids’ menu and gummy pizzas for kids on the way out.

2

Stella Barra Pizzeria 1954 N. Halsted St., (773) 634-4100, summerhousesm.com Kids’ dining time might be the only time you can actually get into this new Lettuce Entertain You restaurant (with Summer House Santa Monica).

Enjoy oven-fired pizza and a great wine selection while dining alfresco on its new back patio. Kids can

pop inside to watch pizzas cooking and waitstaff can accommodate any picky eater.

Niles, Skokie, Park Ridge, Libertyville, Glenview, Grayslake, Highland Park and Hoffman Estates

3

El Tapatio 3400 N. Ashland Ave., (773) 681-9499, cafeeltapatio.com If margaritas and burritos are more your speed, rush on over to El Tapatio at the corner of Roscoe and Ashland. It sequesters you under lush trees and Christmas lights. It has ample highchair space and a menu that can be adjusted for kids.

4

Bistro Campagne 4518 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 271-6100, bistrocampagne.com The quiet courtyard offers a little slice of French countryside right in the heart of Lincoln Square.

Introduce your kids to kidfriendly France with items like Croque Monsiuer and Oignon Frites.

Katherine K. Hamming, M.D.

Kedar A. Kakodkar, M.D.

Robert P. Miller, M.D.

David L. Walner, M.D.

On Staff at: Lurie Children’s Hospital Rush University Medical Center Lutheran General Children’s Hospital To make an appt.

Call 312-266-6200 or 847-266-6200 www.pediatricentchicago.com

SKOKIE | CRYSTAL LAKE

ChicagoParent.com July 2014 19

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GOOD TO GO

Contra has all the right moves

Y

ou can click a remote and watch Dancing with the Stars or click a mouse and get tickets to the Joffrey Ballet, but you have to click your heels to enjoy the live music, new friends, and artsy aerobic workout known as contra dancing.

Contra is very popular in Chicago— one dance and you’ll understand why.

Someone once described contra dancing as making new friends set to music.

There’s a lot of truth to that, as most contra dancers are friendly folk who welcome newcomers.

Contra dance is descended from 17th century English country dance. It involves a caller who works with live musicians to guide new and experienced dancers through a series of moves.

Think square dancing, although the formation in contra is different. Square dancing pairs couples in squares; contra dancing couples start out facing one

another in long lines.

Anyone can participate because there are no special skills required.

Meg Dedolph, president of the board of the Chicago Barn Dance Company, plays for the Cosmic Otters, a popular local band.

“It’s a team sport; the success of a dance depends on everyone working together,” Dedolph says, adding that more experienced dancers are interested in seeing that everyone learns and has a good time. Most dances offer instruction a half-hour before the dance.

It’s best to dress casually in shortsleeved shirts paired with skirts or loose pants and soft-soled, comfortable shoes.

This summer contra will be featured at Chicago SummerDance on Sunday, July 27, in the Spirit of Music Garden at Grant Park. Join old-time band Steve Rosen and Friends and Dedolph, who will be the caller, for an evening of free

live music and quick-stepping ng fun for all Lessons ages. Lesson ns take place p.m. from 4-5 p.m m. and the dance from 5-7 p.m.

Kathy Woods

Chicago Barn Dance Company Visit chicagobarndance.org to find upcoming dances

CHIPAR ExpirEs 08/31/14

CHIPAR ExpirEs 08/31/14

CHIPAR ExpirEs 08/31/14

20 July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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When she says she wants to buy heR lunch, take it as a compliment.

School lunch is now something you’d be proud to put on your own table. That’s because the same Tyson® product quality you trust at home can be found on your child’s school lunch tray.

Learn more about the goodness of Kid Tested, Kid Approved TM school products at tysonschoollunch.com.

© 2014 Tyson Foods, Inc. Trademarks and registered trademarks are owned by Tyson Foods, Inc. or its subsidiaries.

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©/TM 2014 American Girl

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Join us for these limited-time programs, and make this her best summer yet!

American Girl Dinner and Dance Lesson at Ballet Chicago

American Girl Brunch and Seussical: the Musical

July 6; Aug. 17

July 17

1:30 p.m.

A fantastic introduction to dance for your girl, and a day you both will cherish.

Ballet Chicago is an internationally recognized professional-track school of ballet. The afternoon class will focus on creativity, group interaction, motor-skill development, and the joy of selfexpression. Then it’s back to American Girl for a delicious dinner in the Cafe.

Transportation to and from the dance lesson is included. Reservations required. (ages 6 and up) $50

Enjoy even more in-store events at American Girl!

American Girl at Blue Man Group Matinee and Dinner

Summer Fun Celebration

Reservations required. (ages 8 and up) $70

July 18; Aug. 1 Aug. 22

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For generations, Dr. Seuss has been bringing joy to children. What better way to delight your girl and relive happy childhood memories of your own than with this delightful excursion? It begins with brunch in the Cafe at American Girl Place Chicago. Then you’ll head to the Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier for the musical that brings the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss classics like Horton Hears a Who! and “The One Feather Tail of Miss Gertrude McFuzz” to life.

Following the performance, audience members are invited to meet the cast for autographs and pictures. Round-trip bus transportation to Navy Pier included.

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NEWS YOU CAN USE

New treats coming to Chicago

W

e hit the Sweets & Snacks Expo in Chicago recently and hunted down some choices in the kids’ aisle.

They’re healthy-ish and tasty— and the makers of these snacks promised us they’ll be available within a few weeks.

Bare Simply Toasted Crunchy Coconut Chips. This is a dessert or something that can be tossed into your child’s oatmeal.

The only ingredients are coconut, sugar and salt. While coconut is high in fat, it’s a good source of fat. baresnacks.com BuddyFruits Blended Fruit with Greek Yogurt & Berries. Greek yogurt is everywhere—and now it’s entered the “pouch” aisle. This doesn’t need to be refrigerated, so you can stash it in your purse in case hunger strikes. It’s made with real fruit and no artificial ingredients. buddyfruits.com

Three Works Apple Chips, Cherry Love.

They taste delicious. Each little tin has 100 calories and the first ingredient is Fiji apples. This is a great substitute for a bag of chips—and while it does have 19 grams of sugar (try to stick with less than 12)—it’s perfect for a midday snack. threeworks.ca SuperSeedz Gourmet Pumpkin Seeds, Coco Joe. These are going to be the dessert that you’ll fight over. Pumpkin seeds have 7 grams of protein per ounce, which is why they’re known as a protein powerhouse.

These are covered in sugar, though, which is why it’s dessert. superseedz.com Tasty Brand Organic Cookies There is just 3 grams of ssugar per pack, lower than most cookies. They contain m wheat flour instead of w white flour, agave instead w of sugar, sunflower oil and o ssweet potato, vanilla, baking powder and salt. tastybrand. p ccom Danielle Braff

Children’s museums exchange members Good news for members of the Kohl Children’s Museum and DuPage Children’s Museum who want to check out the other museum but not spend any money. On July 10 and Aug. 10, the museums are offering reciprocal admission for members at the ACM level of membership or higher.

Just show your membership card (ACM membership is indicated by a logo) upon arrival. Plus, ACM-level members at either museum always receive 50 percent off general admission at other participating children’s museums around the country (including nine in the Chicagoland area).

Check websites for membership details: dupagechildrensmuseum.org; kohlchildrensmuseum.org.

Xtreme Trampolines is the place for fun.

Whether you are looking to have a party, play dodgeball, exercise or just have some good bouncy fun, we’ve got you covered.

BUFFALO GROVE | 224-676-0660 CAROL STREAM | 630-752-1400 www.xtremetrampolines.com 24 July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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THE SELF-AWARE PARENT

YELLING CATHY CASSANI ADAMS

Need to know

Sharing without I spend a lot of time working with fifthgrade girls so I hear a lot of their opinions.

They share their perspectives openly, and sometimes they don’t consider how their viewpoints make others feel.

I talk to them about being themselves and offering what they have to share. But sometimes they think “being themselves” is a license to say what they want however they want all the time.

This belief can be typical for their age group. Too often they perceive saying whatever they want as confidence, but actually it’s a sign of broken-down communication.

True communication is listening and receiving. The most effective communicators can share what they feel and simultaneously allow another to do the same.

I encourage the girls to share their perspective, but also to recognize that their perspective is not the only perspective.

Talking extra loud and putting others down is not an effective way to tell a story. Instead of having your thoughts considered, your indifference to others will be the only thing that’s remembered.

Instead of making a point by screaming or demanding, we could consider listening first and then responding.

Consider honoring the perspective of another so when it’s our turn, we may be considered, too.

When I share this with fifth-graders they often say, “But nobody does that for

me, why should I do it?”

That’s the big question with a simple answer: Someone has to start.

Someone has to be willing to not compete or “win”; someone has to be willing to choose uplifting language rather than negative.

As parents, we are the first line of defense. We can practice allowing our children to share opinions without judging or negating.

We can practice sharing how we feel without yelling. We can practice communicating in a civil manner in order to role model what a respectful relationship looks like.

This doesn’t guarantee that all interactions will go smoothly. At least we can practice giving what we wish to receive and be at peace knowing we offered our true story.

Then our fifth-grade girls will appreciate the value of respectful interactions.

Not because of our lectures and demands, but because of what we demonstrate in everyday life.

Cathy Cassani Adams is co-founder of Be U Inc., author and mom to three girls.

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MOM OF THE MONTH value in that peer support. Having high expectations of your kids is really critical.

Those high expectations can go a long way in terms of furthering your child’s independence.

The accessibility mom Karen Tamley Husband, Kevin Irvine; daughter, Dominika, 8 Chicago

{M.O.M}

Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities How accessible is Chicago? Is there more work you want to do?

We’ve made significant progress in terms of accessibility. All of our buses are accessible, an increasing number of rail stations are accessible. We have installed more than 53,000 curb ramps since 2007. Our office is working really hard to make sure our events and city services are accessible for people with disabilities. There’s always work to be done. (The goal is to make Chicago the most accessible city in the country.)

What advice do you have for parents raising children with special needs in Chicago?

Be an advocate for your child. Seek out resources, make connections with other families. I think there’s tremendous

What has been the most surprising thing about being a mom?

It’s things that you don’t expect, it’s the joy, just the absolute joy of having a kid and raising them, seeing them grow. Just that there’s ups and downs, some days can be really hard. It’s hard to understand how great it can be until you are in the situation. I had no real expectation of what it would truly be like until I became a parent.

What has been the hardest?

I think being a working mom, it can be hard to balance everything and making sure you are everywhere you need to be and doing what you need to do. I think I have managed it pretty well, but sometimes it can be kind of stressful.

What is your favorite thing to do with your daughter and husband on the weekend?

One thing we really like to do is go bike riding. I have a hand cycle and my husband has a bike that attaches to hers and we love going bike riding and exploring new trails in and around the city of Chicago.

>>

Don’t miss AccessChicago

Looking for the best information on what’s available in Chicagoland for people with disabilities? Then make sure to attend AccessChicago 10 a.m.-5 p.m., July 17 at Navy Pier in Festival Hall. At the free familyfriendly event, expect to find 100 disabilityrelated vendors ranging from legal services to adaptive sports, free health screenings, emergency preparedness tips, an art gallery with works by members of the disabilities community and lots of fun.

Magicians, a climbing wall and petting zoo will keep the kids entertained while families network with others with special needs.

Visit cityofchicago.org/ mopd for details or in Chicago, call 311.

Travel tech: Keep in touch with kids face to face When I travel for business, my kids and I miss each other so much. But technology has made it easy to stay connected, face to face. Using tools like FaceTime, Google Hangout or Skype, I help my kids with homework, get/give feedback about their day or even just share a laugh. These moments mean so much, and always make us happy.

Without me knowing it, my daughter took a screen shot of us FaceTiming, and captured the joy we felt seeing each other after a long day apart. I love this memento of our long-distance connection!

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.”

26 July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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PLUGGED-IN PARENT

Kids selfie obsessed?

Q

My 5-year-old loves to take selfies using my mobile phone—she took more than 20 last night. Should I be concerned?

Taking selfies is a big part of today’s social culture. Photo apps like Instagram and Snapchat allow people to communicate quickly through photos and often consist of self-taken snapshots. Apps like “Baby Selfie” are designed to let tots capture a selfie at a very young age.

Children have always been interested in discovering their own image—consider a baby’s fascination with mirrors or a child’s interest in seeing a photograph where she ShARON MILLER is pictured. Exploring CINDRICH images of oneself can be part of healthy development, and as today’s children are raised in a world constantly captured in photos or video,

A

it’s natural for them to begin experimenting with photos of themselves at an early age.

So when should you be concerned? A child whose reactions are more critical than amused by a photo of herself or a child who poses in a way that seems inappropriate for her age should get your extra attention. Generally, however, there is no reason to be concerned, as long as you provide boundaries, limits and guidance.

You can start with some of these.

Look at selfies together. When you discover selfies taken by your child, scroll through the photos together and talk about each one, engaging in conversation, laughing and snuggling. Avoid judging or criticizing photos and instead, use openended questions to ask your child to talk about what she sees. “What’s the funniest part about this picture? How does this picture make you feel?”

Be aware of your own selfie behavior.

Most selfie-taking kids are modeling the

behavior of parents, siblings, teachers or other adults. Be conscious of how many selfies your child sees you take during an outing or at home. Make sure to spend more time enjoying moments together than trying to capture them in a picture.

Take plenty of “unselfies.” Take photos of things other than yourself and your children, and encourage kids to do the same. Ask your child to take photos of the dog, a flower, a picture she drew at school or her grandmother. Directing kids toward the world beyond themselves will help keep them balanced and provide an opportunity to make connections with their surroundings.

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Auditions Ballet Légere

John E. Nathan, DDS, MDS and Associates, Ltd.

will be holding auditions for its 30th Anniversary production of

Oak Brook • St. Charles Dedicated to Excellence in Pediatric Care since 1986

The Nutcracker.

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Auditions will be held on:

Saturday, Aug. 16th & Sunday, Aug. 17th

Legere Dance Centre 7377 W. North Ave., River Forest SAtuRDAy, Aug. 16

SuNDAy, Aug. 17

8:30 a.m.

Girls Heights: 45" & under Ages: 4½ yrs & up 10:00 a.m.

Girls Heights: 46"-48" 11:30 a.m.

Girls Heights: 49"-52" 1:00 p.m.

Girls Heights: 53"-57" 2:30 p.m.

Girls Heights: 58"-61"

9:00 a.m.

Boys 5-12 yrs old 10:00 a.m.

Male & Female Dancers Teen through Adult, Pointe & Non-Pointe Roles Dancers Must Bring a Photo gymnasts & tumblers Ages 8 thru Adult Call for Appointment All roles available

For information please call (773) 237-1874 or Email balletlegere@yahoo.com Visit our website at www.balletlegere.org

Callbacks will be held August 23rd through August 31st

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Lurie Children’s Hospital and Out Patient Services Hinsdale Hospital and Delnor Hospital

Dr. Nathan readily permits and encourages parents’ presence in the treatment area for all visits.

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

Trips available seven days a week.

First dental visits should occur at or before the first birthday.

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Personalized learning in a nurturing community Chesterbrook Academy offers outstanding private education, from preschool through eighth grade, with a curriculum that prepares students for success. Our preschools offer the perfect balance of learning and play. Our elementary & middle school in Naperville continues to foster a love of learning by providing challenging academics along with specialty classes.

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Open Houses Saturday, August 2, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm Contact us to RSVP or schedule a private tour!

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BARTLETT • CRYSTAL LAKE • LISLE • NAPERVILLE • OSWEGO • PLAINFIELD • SAINT CHARLES SHOREWOOD • SUGAR GROVE • WESTMONT • WHEATON 1 28CBA_ChicagoParent_Jul14_7.42x4.625.indd July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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6/13/14 12:30 PM

GOOD SENSE EATING

Hi Mom, I’m vegetarian!

CHRISTINE PALUMBO

Do you remember “The Simpsons” episode when Lisa—the politically active 8-year-old—became a vegetarian? It was the same day her mother served lamb chops for dinner after the girl had bonded with a lamb at the petting zoo.

What if your own child suddenly announces, “I’m a vegetarian now”?

“A parent should have a conversation with their child about what their reasons are, to be sure that their child is interested in vegetarianism for a legitimate reason,” says Rachel Meltzer Warren, MS, RDN, the author of The Smart Girl’s Guide to Going Vegetarian. “You don’t have to agree with the reason, but it’s important that your child has a responsible rationale for their choice.”

The majority of reasons are understandable. Kids are concerned about the environment, they think it’s a more ethical way to eat, or they simply do not like the taste/texture of meat.

Yet some young people mistake vegetarianism as an easy way to lose weight or to achieve perfection. These are red flags for disordered eating, which is best to address as soon as possible.

People often shy away from the term “vegetarian” if they’re not 100 percent meat-free all of the time. Warren says it’s extremely common for a teen to be “veg curious.” They experiment with different parts of the vegetarian spectrum without officially choosing one defined label.

For example, there are red meat abstainers, pescetarians who eat no meat but do eat fish, and lacto-ovo vegetarians who eat dairy and eggs, but no meat.

Peaceful coexistence There’s no argument g about the health benefits of shifting to a more plant-based nt-based diet, regardless of where re on the vegetarian spectrum your our child is.

How to survive urvive this change at the kitchen hen table without the muss and fuss uss of preparing two separate meals? eals?

The vegetarian can offer to make thee family’s dinner every so often. ten.

Take one recipe. Set some of it aside to be infused with plant-based d protein, and d then toss some meat,, poultry or seafood into o the remaining portions.

If a recipe ecipe calls for ground beef, try French ench green or brown n lentils. These se protein-packed legumes aree terrific for mimicking the texture ture of ground meatt in stews, chilies casseroles. hilies and casseroles s.

Tempeh peh is a good stand-in stand-iin for cubed meat in stir-fry and curries, or it can be crumbled and used in n place of ground meat in casseroles. sseroles.

Fignana Smoothie This sweet smoothie is a good source of iron and calcium, two nutrients that almost every teenage girl, veg or not, could use more.

Ingredients 1 medium banana, frozen 3 large dried figs, stems removed and soaked in water for at least 30 minutes 1 cup plain lowfat yogurt ½ cup lowfat (1 percent) milk 2 tsp. blackstrap molasses

Place all ingredients in blender and blend on high until smooth.

Veganize it: Replace vanilla yogurt and milk with nondairy substitutes such as soy, coconut or almond yogurt and milks.

Nutrients per serving: 390 calories, 6 g fiber, 18 g protein, 3.2 mg iron, 0.8 mg zinc, 371 mg calcium, 0.57 mcg vitamin b12, 59 IU vitamin D, 37 mg choline.

Used with permission from The Smart Girl’s Guide to Going Vegetarian by Rachel Meltzer Warren. Sourcebooks Fire, 2014

Christine Palumbo, mbo, RDN, FAND, is a nutritionist in Naperville. e. Connect with her on Twitter @PalumboRD, Facebook at Christine Palumbo Nutrition or Chris@ChristinePalumbo.com. ris@ChristinePalumbo.com.

ChicagoParent.com July 2014 29

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Joyful? Excited?

And maybe a little worried?

Having a baby should be a blissful time. You need the peace of mind that if anything happens, you are in the best place with all the medical professionals you need ready to help at a moment’s notice.

Presence Saint Joseph Medical Center has: + 24/7 “in-house” neonatology + Level II nursery with Extended Capabilities + Interdisciplinary medical professionals “in house” + High-risk OB/Maternal Fetal Medicine + A personal birthing consultant We hope your experience is joyful from beginning to end, and we are here to help make that happen.

Get in touch.

Call 877.737.4636 to arrange a meeting with a Personal Birthing Consultant.

Visit presencehealth.org/stjoseph-joliet-newmom to learn about other patients’ experiences. © 2014 Presence Saint Joseph Medical Center

30 July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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TRENDING

A dose of daring

MEREDITH SINCLAIR

It’s finally full-on summertime!

A whole batch of beautifully lazy days, carpool-free afternoons and easy breezy evenings means it’s the perfect season to leap out of your everyday mom wardrobe and get a little daring.

This month I’m sharing four of my personal favorite fashion risk-takers.

1

The seriously slouchy harem pant

A couple of decades ago, you may have referred to these baggy britches as “hammer pants.”

But I assure you, you CAN touch this. The key to making these pants work is the fit. They should hit midrise, be slightly loose without being super baggy, and either be scrunched up to the mid-calf, or hit right above the ankle. Match them with a more fitted tailored top and a sleek pair of heels and you’re ready for a trendy night ht out, or throw on a tailored white tee and nd flips for a stroll on the boardwalk. I own wn two pair in black and electric blue, and d find them to be mucho comfy and chic..

Indigo dye relaxed fit pant, $138, splendid.com

3

Patterns and prints and stripes...oh my!

This tricky trend of mixing stripes and prints goes against what all of us were taught as children about what “matches.” The Garanimals are totally freaking out right now. Nonetheless, stripes are the new neutral. When paired with delicate prints or florals, they catapult your look into a whole new high-fashion dimension. Start with a black and white or navy and dimensio top and partner it with a playfully white striped st patterned skirt or pair of shorts, and see what patter happens. happ

4

The jumpsuit

This one might be my favorite must-try for summer. It’s the perfect all-in-one-piece that can be dressed up or down and go day to night in a flash. I recently bought a black strapless jumpsuit made from a jersey material that ju makes me feel like I’m wearing jammies, but m llooks “all that.” You can find them in pretty prints and chic geometric patterns, and if p yyou’re feeling particularly pleased with your gams these days, give the shorts-jumper a go! g Simple, playful, fun.

S Sleeveless jumpsuit, $59.99, hm.com

2

All whitey, then

The thought of wearing all white, especially around kids, makes most of us cradle our OxiClean and shudder in stain-induced terror. So you might want to save this trip to trendville for when you’re doing date night. I gotta say, I love the look of white-on-white for sultry summer days. Add one colorful piece like a scarf, statement necklace or fun floral shoes, and BAM, you’re the most daring girl in the room.

ChicagoParent.com July 2014 31

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CRAFT

Patriotic

sand candles Salute the stars and stripes with thiss Fourth of July candle decoration

T

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER here can never be too much red, white and blue to celebrate our nation’s Independence ndence Day. These easy and inexpensive ensive sand candles create a patrioticc centerpiece for every Fourth h of July picnic, barbecue and fireworks reworks party.

Supplies Sand (red, white and blue) Clear glass vase or jar Drinking glass or smaller vase Votive candle Funnel Optional: Tempura paint powder or colored chalk to dye sand

Directions

1

Buy red, white and blue colored craft sand at your local craft store.

Another option is to color plain sand with tempura paint powder or colored sidewalk chalk.

2

Select a slender drinking glass or vase that will fit inside a larger clear glass vase or jar.

3

Fill the drinking glass with sand almost to the rim of the glass. Place a votive candle just below the rim inside the glass.

4

Place the drinking glass with the sand and candle centered inside the empty larger glass vase or jar.

5

Using a funnel, slowly fill the gap between the two containers with layers of w colored sand.

Create patterns of yyour choice with a vvariety of red, white and blue patterns.

Fill the outer gap to reach the height of the rim of the interior drinking glass.

6

Place the candles on tables for your Fourth of July picnics and light the votive candle for festive flickering light.

ChicagoParent.com July 2014 33

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FAILING WITH GUSTO

MARIANNE WALSH

I was supposed to get it all together this school year. With three children finally in full-day programs, I planned to join the gym, do more freelance writing, and decorate my entire home.

I would be fit, with spending money.

My home would resemble a Pier 1 showroom. With hours and hours of free time, I could also volunteer, hold sick babies, and write research grants for hospitals.

Stop laughing.

Sadly, I quickly discovered that my chances of finding a cure for cancer were nil. No baby seal would be saved on my watch.

Instead?

I napped.

After years of rapid-fire baby production, potty training, colicky infants, pushing kids on swings, pulling kids in wagons and wiping everything that leaked, I was exhausted.

It was as though years of adrenaline and Red Bull had finally worn off and it was now time to crash.

And boy, did I crash.

Hard.

My new routine was established. Starting at 6 a.m., I would spend the better part of two hours readying my boys for school, making lunches, hustling people out the door, and driving to various drop-off locations. I would then arrive back at home, run the dishwasher and start a load of laundry.

After that?

I had a standing date with my Tempur-Pedic.

Or as I called him, “Javier.”

Javier and I knew what we were doing was wrong.

Stay-at-home moms weren’t

supposed to nap. Naps put us in the same category as slackers, loafers and members of Congress. No, we must never admit to our untoward affair, no matter how good it felt afterward.

Despite the initial guilt, I cherished these naps.

Other moms would call and try to get me on-board with their crack-of-dawn fitness regimens. Some moms suggested I needed to go back to work. Even my husband grew suspicious when I became systematically unreachable between 8:30 and 10 a.m.

But here’s the thing: I am not a slacker. My three boys have extremely active and full lives that require my participation, administrative aptitude, shuttling abilities and time. From the moment they get home until bedtime (about six hours), it is go, go, go.

I consider motherhood to be the best job I have ever had. Yet it took years of working in corporate America to realize that the non-stop worker bee approach is not the way to go. Worker bees inevitably become martyrs, clinging to the hope that their sacrifices will be celebrated and appreciated. Instead of achieving job satisfaction,

they become resentful and isolated. Their co-workers avoid them and nobody ever invites them to lunch.

I did not want to be a resentful worker bee mom. I wanted to go to Mr. Sub with my kids and have everyone happy to be there. I did not want to spend years groaning about how everything I did was for my children, and not for me.

And that is why I nap.

That is also why you should never ever call me between 8:30 and 10 a.m.

Javier wouldn’t like it.

Talk back

Caught napping with Javier

ChicagoParent.com July 2014 35

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VOICE: ERIN AIELLO

Adventures in potty training: Part one To avoid a life of therapy for her son, mom quits. For now.

“N

o taking off my diaper! No pooping on the kitchen floor! No pooping here!

Poop goes in the potty!”

This is my son Elliott, exclaiming all this with utmost exuberance ... as he’s pooping on the kitchen floor.

The following will likely sound familiar to many parents. Unless you’re one of the Lucky Ones.

So this is part one. I specify this because there may be many parts to this saga, unfortunately. Some kids take to potty training right away, with gusto, proud of their accomplishments and Big Boy/Girlness.

Not my Elliott.

At least, not quite. Not enough.

This past Saturday, we implemented Lora Jensen’s three-day bootcamp-style potty training program. I’ve helped potty train several kids of all kinds of personalities over my seven years of nannying and this all-or-nothing approach works the best, by far, for pretty much everyone. None of this “let’s try to sit on the potty every 30 minutes.” No Pull-Ups. No half-assing it. Just expect to spend three full days watching him like a hawk and knee-deep in pee. Good times.

We did cheat a bit and use the forbidden Pull-Ups. I’m sorry, Lora Jensen, but I don’t have a washer/dryer in our unit and I’m not spending the quarters washing sheets every day. Plus, I’ve witnessed that it takes longer for toddlers to control themselves at night.

It started out OK. We had talked about the potty for a while beforehand.

Elliott was interested in the books and especially his new packs of Thomas the Train and Sesame Street underwear.

As expected, he had a few accidents, and we ran to the potty. “Pee pee goes in the potty!” I repeated this all day, a broken record, trying to sound flat and not disappointed at all, but upbeat and

encouraging, like a Good Mom. Then, finally, in the afternoon THERE WAS PEE PEE IN THE POTTY! HUZZAH! BRAVO! There was much rejoicing, a cookie reward and an enthusiastic call to Grandma.

And then he had another accident.

And another. And another. “Put your pee pee in the potty. Pee pee goes in the potty. Please tell Mommy BEFORE you have to go pee pee.”

Day two: He peed in the potty twice!

I called my mother-in-law exclaiming with pride, telling her what a big boy he is. I put the phone up to his ear. He peed again.

I stayed calm. I was really, really calm, guys, I swear. So zen. The e-book says not to get frustrated, as it takes most kids to the end of the third day for everything to click. Elliott was ahead, then! It’s all fine. It’s all going to be OK and pay off in the end.

Day three: All out war. He cried every time I tried to put his underwear on. He refused to drink his juice and no matter how upbeat and positive I stayed, he threw several epic tantrums, scratching up his face in the process. I didn’t give in to the tantrums, and I dutifully reminded him that pee pee goes in the potty and tried to convince (not force) him to sit on the potty. I even broke out the bubbles and gaily pranced around the potty singing songs, in an attempt to make the potty less threatening, more

I don’t want to be a quitter, but I want to be a Good Mom. fun. Potties are FUN, right?

It didn’t work. For the rest of the evening, there was pee everywhere, all the time. “Please don’t pee on Thomas the train, he doesn’t like that. It isn’t nice.

Put your pee pee in the potty.” These words actually came out of my mouth.

Desperation.

Day four: Enough. This is way too much of a power struggle right now.

And what for? He’s not going into daycare or preschool yet. This morning there was crying about the underwear again, so I gave in and told him he could wear his blasted Pull-Ups. I don’t want this to be a huge fight. I don’t want him in therapy because he’s wetting the bed at 25 out of anxiety. I don’t want to be a quitter, but I want to be a Good Mom. I’m going to let him stay in the forbidden Pull-Ups for 30 days or so and try again, unless he suddenly expresses interest beforehand. We’ll still read the books, watch the videos. His potty will still be in the bathroom and I’ll remind him that it’s there for him to use.

Sorry, Lora Jensen. Some kids just aren’t ready. Can I have a drink now?

I think I’ve earned it, regardless of the outcome.

36 July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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@

REAL PARENTS IN THE TRENCHES

Want more? Visit ChicagoParent.com/parentpanel

Your spouse lets the kids get blistering sunburns and thinks it’s no big deal.

You think it is. How can you make him/her see your point of view?

Make your spouse hang out in the sun the same amount of time with the same protection and see how they feel.

Jeff Mezydlo, Chicago

I would get him to see my point of view by taking him to the doctor’s office with the kids to hear the importance of not letting that happen. Then I would leave him in charge of taking care of the blisters.

Hopefully he’d learn his lesson!

Tracie Guzolek, Chicago

Let the doctor examine the sunburn, tell you how to treat it, and share best practices for the future. Make the best practices the family’s gold standard.

Kate AtkinsTrimnell, Homewood

Make sure putting on sunscreen is your responsibility.

Don’t nudge your husband to do it.

If you think it’s important, do it yourself.

Lisa Cheruff, Skokie

Smother him with the facts! Take him to a pediatrician appointment so the doctor can explain the effects of sun damage and also remind said spouse how painful it is for the kids to have to suffer through a sunburn.

Cherish Walsh, Streamwood

Show him lots of pictures of skin cancer. If he still doesn’t get it, make sure you apply sunscreen to the kids yourself and make it part of their morning routine.

Teach your kids about the importance of protecting their skin.

Anne Rezabek, Elgin

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6/12/14 4:56 PM

DEATH BY CHILDREN

Heart-melting conversations

with my kids

CHRISTOPHER GARLINGTON

I know many parents spend a lot of time at work and worry about losing quality time with their kids. I work at home and spend an atrocious number of hours trapped talking with my kids. For those of you stuck at work and missing your spawn, I offer you these excerpts from heart-meltingly memorable conversations with my kids:

THURSDAY, FEB. 11, 2010 (My son is on the back porch doing his homework, singing to himself.)

“That, that’s beautiful, son. Is it Latin?”

“Dora the Explorer, dork.”

ILL US

to beg for wisdom, to listen as I list the things she can and can’t expect from life. I take my time.

I get my coffee ready. I walk into her room to see her legs sticking out from under her mattress.

“I’m stuck under the bed.”

JA I just wait there a DE TRATIO N BY TOM minute, stirring my coffee and letting the wisdom vent out SATURDAY, MARCH 4, of my ears.

2010 “DAD! DAD! DAD! OH MY GOD—DAAAAAAAAD!” my CHRISTMAS, 2006 daughter sobs loudly.

The girl snuggles up to I race into the bathroom me. She’d been up all night where she’s staring into the trying to catch a glimpse toilet: of the fat man. In a sleepy “I dropped my potato.” voice, she says quietly: “Hey Dad, can I tell you something?”

TUESDAY, JAN. 7, 2014 I brace myself. I know this “Dad, you know when you is one of those real truth told me to bother you only moments where she says when it’s an emergency?” something meme worthy.

I’ve been waiting for this.

“I didn’t get anything I Staying calm, I kneel down, wanted.” put a hand on his shoulder: “What is it, son?”

“There’s no ketchup.”

A SATURDAY MORNING IN 2008 MONDAY, MAY 20, 2013 [My Attorney] and I are in flagrante delicto when the I’m in the kitchen when my daughter calls me from kid walks in. her room. I know she’s been “OH MY GOD, THAT’S worrying about her friends SEX?” and I’ve been waiting for her He runs out, laughing.

38 July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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Go ahead,

BRAG Alaain na,, 2, C Ch hic cago aggo

Chacce, 6, Rive Ch verd rd dal alee Cruz, 3, Chicago

Jayyaan na, a, 2, Ch C ic caggo

Na ath than han Xav avieer, r, 6 moon nth ths, Chiica caagggoo

Daniel, 5 m mo ont nths hs,, St hs Stre tre r am mwo wood wood

Email: gallery@chicagoparent.com Mail: The Gallery, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302.

Bla lair ir, 3 months, Glenview

Check out Chicago Parent’s Facebook page for a new cute kid every weekday!

Please include the first names of everyone in the picture, your children’s ages, your hometown and telephone number for verification purposes only.

ChicagoParent.com July 2014 39

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A BIG SCREEN

BACKYARD

BLOWOUT THROW AN OUTDOOR MOVIE PARTY FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS

BY CAITLIN MURRAY GILES Throughout the city and suburbs, Chicago families can enjoy movies in parks during the summer months.

But what if you could bring this cinematic experience to your own backyard?

Outdoor movie parties can be elaborate (think: renting big screens) or simple (rigging up your own TV and equipment).

This concept works well for birthday parties, neighborhood get-togethers, back-to-school bashes or just for fun on a summer evening.

HOW

2

Here are some creative ideas and local resources to get you inspired to host your own backyard movie party.

Set the scene The Main Attraction. Take a look at your backyard space and decide the layout for the party. Choose a location where guests can spread out and all see the screen. You can go big or small with your screen.

Several Chicago-area companies offer big screen rentals. Prices start at around $299.

Other options include borrowing or renting a projector. A white sheet works well as a cheap screen option if you are using a projector.

Before guests arrive, have a quick runthrough to make sure your film is ready and check to be sure your sound is loud enough for guests to hear (but not so loud your neighbors call the police).

Consider adding a couple strings of twinkling lights, a fun bunting or some movie-themed decor to

create a festive atmosphere for your guests.

Offer guests a selection of blankets, large pillows and lawn chairs (or ask that they bring their own).

Make it a party!

Your guests will be thrilled to watch one of their favorite flicks under the stars. But you can really take the

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Party resources Screen and projector rentals: Fun Flicks: funflicks.com Starlight Home Cinema: starlighthomecinema.com Popcorn machine rentals: Chicago Moonwalks: chicagomoonwalks.com Free printable movie tickets: sweetdaisydesigns.blogspot.com/2011/08/ free-printables-home-movie-theatre. html How to make a “drive-in movie car”: craftymoods.com/2012/07/boxcar-drive-in-movie-perfect-party.html# How to make starry night flashlights: happyhourprojects.com/ make-a-starry-night

experience to the next level by adding in some additional “movie themed” elements.

Creative options include: Admit one. Offer each guest a “movie ticket” upon arrival. In addition, you can hand out drink, popcorn and candy tickets for guests to redeem. You can find free, printable movie-themed tickets on Pinterest.

Drive-in movies. Turn your backyard into a drive-in movie theater by repurposing plain cardboard boxes into customized wheels so your little guests can enjoy a “drive-in movie.”

Collect several large boxes (large enough for a child to comfortably sit in) and remove the top. Offer a variety of art supplies such as crayons, stickers and colored construction paper. When guests arrive, they can choose their “car” and add tires, a steering wheel, vanity license plate and

any other desired embellishments. Kids can “park” their individual “cars” right in front of the screen.

Light it up! As the evening grows dark, hand out individual “starry night” flashlights. Use a star punch to make several cutouts on a circular piece of black construction paper, contact paper or vinyl. Cut to fit the head of the flashlight.

Secure the “star filter” to the top of the flashlight with tape. Little guests can shine their star flashlights into the sky for added fun.

Sweets and treats Backyard movie parties lend themselves to lots of great food and drink options. But every backyard party must include popcorn!

Set up a popcorn bar. Start with a big bowl of popcorn and individual cardboard popcorn containers. Offer a selection of flavored salts and add-ins. Options include

salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, cinnamon, brown sugar, five-spice powder, cocoa powder, pretzel sticks, grated cheese, dried fruit, M&Ms, shredded coconut, mini marshmallows, chocolate chips or granola.

Rent a popcorn machine. Local popcorn rental options start at $75 (includes popcorn and individual bags for 50 people).

Of course, you can pop your own popcorn as well and serve it in individual popcorn bags or cardboard containers.

Pass a selection of candy. Go old school and offer guests a selection of candies. Use a cardboard box (such as an empty box from a 24-pack of canned soda or bottled water). Attach a sturdy ribbon on either side so the “candy vendor” can comfortably wear it around his or her neck.

Stock the box with mini candy bars and stroll the yard offering guests a yummy snack. If you want to skip the homemade candy vendor box, you can simply stack mini candy bars on a cute tray instead.

Cool drinks. Offer guests a variety of drinks in large tubs stocked with ice so everyone can self-serve.

Most importantly, remember that this party is all about having fun with family and friends, so don’t stress too much about any of the details. Choose a fun flick and get the party started!

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

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This free access online mathathome.org site provides you with printable lesson plans, videos, a blog and resources to help you with planning math activities for young children.

Questions? Write to info@mathathome.org

www.Mathathome.org a Free access online Professional Development Center for Family Child Care Home Providers, Center and school Based Teachers and Parents Math At Home is a National Louis University project funded by CME Group Foundation.

NaTioNal louis uNiversiTy www.nl.edu 42 July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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THE BEST

Real lemons and an old family recipe

STAND

ON THE BLOCK

BY EMILY PASTER As soon as the temperature passes 60 degrees, kid-staffed lemonade stands line the sidewalks of my suburban town. Dogwalkers, bikers and stroller-pushing parents are the prey and sickly sweet, powdered lemonade mix is the bait.

Hand over your 50 cents and what do you get in return? A minuscule cup of watery, chemically sweetened liquid.

HOW

2

It doesn’t have to be this way.

Imagine a lemonade stand that hearkens back to a simpler time— before the days of powdered drink mixes. Contemplate the satisfaction of serving your neighbors fresh-squeezed lemonade and homemade cookies hot out of the oven—lemonade and cookies that you and your children made together. In short, imagine having the best lemonade stand on your block.

When my children ask to have a lemonade stand, they know that it means, at the very least, making fresh-squeezed lemonade. I always keep my refrigerator stocked with plenty of lemons and I usually have simple syrup on hand as well. This easy-to-make concoction of equal parts sugar and water keeps for ages, so it’s worth it to make a big batch.

(You will also find that simple syrup has all kinds of uses, including in cocktails.)

With the help of an electric citrus juicer—a handy small appliance that shouldn’t set you back more than $30—fresh-squeezed lemonade comes together in a matter of minutes. (But

even squeezing the lemons by hand is not terribly difficult.) Real lemonade is only a little more work than the powder mix and the results are far superior, to say nothing of the benefit of knowing exactly what is in your lemonade: just lemon juice, sugar and water.

My family usually enhances our lemonade stand by selling cookies or Rice Krispie treats as well. I love to bake with my kids, but no family of four needs to eat that many desserts.

So selling treats as part of our lemonade stand lets me indulge my inner pastry chef without too much damage to my waistline.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 44

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THE BEST STAND ON THE BLOCK While this kind of a lemonade stand requires some effort and advance planning, it is a worthwhile project on many levels. By helping to make the lemonade and cookies that they sell, your kids will come a lot closer to earning whatever money they bring in.

And they will burst with pride when their efforts in the kitchen are met with lavish praise from their surprised customers.

My last piece of lemonade stand advice? Offer your homemade treats for free. In my experience, you will collect more in donations from your delighted neighbors than you will ever make by charging 50 cents or $1. And talk with your kids about donating at least part of their proceeds to a charity of their choosing. My kids are usually pretty amenable to donating their earnings to the local animal shelter, especially if it means we can deliver the donation in person.

Emily Paster is a freelance writer who lives in River Forest with her husband and two kids. She writes

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 43

HOW

2

Strawberry Lemonade For a special treat, make a seasonal berryflavored lemonade!

1 quart strawberries, washed and hulled 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 cup simple syrup* 4 cups cold water

Puree the strawberries in a food processor or blender.

Force the puree through a fine-mesh strainer to remove the seeds. Pour the strawberry puree into a pitcher and add the lemon juice, the simple syrup and the cold water. Stir to combine. Serve cold. Because this is a thick concoction, you can serve it over ice or thin it with more cold water. * To make simple syrup, combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan and heat it on the stovetop, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Simple syrup will keep for ages in your fridge, so make extra and save the remaining syrup for another use.

about fitting ambitious food into family life on her blog, West of the Loop.

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HOW

2

Halfway Cookies

These sinfully rich bar cookies are an old family recipe. While it may seem like extra work to make the meringue topping, the benefit of this recipe is that it makes one pan, rather than having to scoop out two dozen individual cookies. And these are truly irresistible.

2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp. baking powder ¼ tsp. baking soda Pinch of salt 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature ½ cup granulated sugar 1 ½ cups brown sugar 2 large eggs at room temperature, separated 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 bag semi-sweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350˚. Grease a jelly roll pan. Sift dry ingredients together in a bowl and set aside. In a standing mixer, cream the butter with the granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of the brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolks one at a time and the

vanilla extract and incorporate into the batter. Gradually add the dry ingredients. The resulting batter will be stiffer than a typical cookie dough. Press the dough evenly onto the greased jelly roll pan. Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the dough and press into it slightly. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff using a handheld mixer. Gradually add the remaining cup of brown sugar and beat well until the mixture is stiff. Spread the meringue over the top of dough. Bake for about 20 minutes until the top is golden brown.

Cool on a wire rack before cutting into squares.

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ChicagoParent.com July 2014 45

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GET YOUR

LIFE IN ORDER

BY DANIELLE BRAFF

Have you ever glanced over at those large families—the ones that topple out of the minivans as if they were clown cars—and wonder just how they function?

Turns out, it’s possible to have a large family (or a small one) and stay organized. And sane.

In fact, says Janeen Hayward, founder and president of Chicago-based parenting-consulting company Swellbeing, it’s essential that parents figure out how to stay organized.

“For some of us, it takes a significant amount of intention, but it is well worth it,” Hayward says.

“Children really thrive when there is a rhythm to the day, and they know what to expect, more or less. Taking the time to create this kind of rhythm will naturally lead to more organization and the feeling of being ‘with it’ versus being behind the ball.”

Not on the ball? These three relatively large families (they all have four children) shared their tricks and tips to getting organized ASAP.

HOW

2

In the kitchen

Make double or triple batches You’ll save time by doubling your batches and freezing them. Of course, it should be food that your kids really like and are likely to go through—and I wouldn’t try this the first time you try a recipe.

Get an extra freezer This will cost you more upfront, but I don’t know what I’d do without mine.

Sheri Davis and family

I actually have four. I have one big 21-cubic foot upright freezer in our playroom, and it comes with an alarm if the freezer is left open. Having an extra freezer allows me to stock up on things that go on sale, or things that I use a lot—so I’m spending less time at the store. It also allows me to freeze lots of things. When my kids are hungry, they often go straight to the freezer, not to the pantry.

Photo by Annie Giambri

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Moms with large families dish on what works for them

Double or triple your spice combinations I do this for taco seasoning, hamburger seasoning, red potato seasoning, chicken fajitas, garlic lime chicken, etc. When I go to make these, I cut down my prep time by not having to make the spice combinations right then and there.

This saves a lot of time and reduces the stress of making dinner. It’s just as easy as using a package of packaged seasoning.

Make ahead Anything you can make ahead of time, do it. If you can make a marinade for tomorrow’s dinner after the kids are in bed—and not crawling around at your feet or call- Amanda Cole and family ing for you to make them more juice—you will go faster Meal plan My husband or I and save time. Less interruptions will cook dinner every other means less time in the kitchen. day. We make enough to have I also do this during nap time. leftovers for dinner the next Although I won’t be making day. This is a great timesaver dinner for another couple of when juggling multiple kids, hours, I know this is the only homework and their activities. time I won’t have the baby, so I We also allow two days during get as much done for dinner as the week to eat out. With this I can. arrangement, we only have to Sheri Davis, a stay-at-home spend two-three days a week mother of four kids 3-13, Elgin actually in the kitchen cooking.

I usually coordinate our leftover

exception). I started sorting socks into their separate pile, and it’s been nearly life changing. When socks get their own pile and their own time in the washer, they rarely get lost, and they are quicker to pair.

Sorting laundry by pants, shirts and towels helps organize your piles. My kids put away their own clothes, and when I tell them to put their pants away, it is more likely that they don’t put their pants in the linen closet with the towels now.

days with my kids’ practice days.

Therefore, when we get home, we don’t have to wait for dinner.

Amanda Cole, resource planning analyst for United Airlines and mom to four kids 7-13, Flossmoor

General organization Laundry Sort clothing according to articles of clothing rather than colors (whites are the

Repack your diaper bag Do this as soon as you get home. Restock the diapers you used, replenish the onesies, replace anything and everything while it’s fresh in your mind, because the next time you need to get out the door, your bag is right next to it ready for anything.

Babysitting competition I discovered that the most tedious task was communicating with prospective babysitters. Calling one, waiting to see if he or she could do it, then making my

CONTINUED ON PAGE 48

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GET ORGANIZED

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 47

way down the list. And then it dawned on me, I should simply text these babysitters. I took it one step further. I had a healthy list of 8-10 babysitters and I would text them all at the same time. The first one to get back to me got the job.

It became a competition for them.

And I had my babysitter within 90 seconds of me requesting one almost every time for years.

If there are any difficult assignments or homework, we help by re-teaching or explaining the subject matter. If a particular problem is giving them a challenge, they

will have to act as the teacher, and teach us an example problem. If you can teach it yourself, then you know it.

Cole

Danielle Braff is a regular Chicago Parent contributor and mom of two girls living in River Forest.

Get rid of the toys If the toys don’t fit into the dozen or so boxes or into the one shelving unit, some have to go. The answer was to never buy more containers, because inevitably, that meant more toys, not better organization.

Kate Butterly, part-time personal trainer and mom of four kids 6-9, River Forest Homework time Kids do their homework right after school or after practices. I typically circle around from kid to kid to make sure they understand the material.

Kate Butterly and family

Photo by John E. Burkowski

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ChicagoParent.com July 2014 49

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SKYDIVE WITHOUT

A PLANE

Skydiving is not on my bucket list.

Jumping out of an airplane and plummeting to the ground doesn’t sound appealing. Besides, I’m afraid of heights. So, when my family and I were recently invited to experience indoor skydiving at iFLY in Rosemont, I was a bit hesitant, but eventually agreed.

If it’s safe for 3-year-olds, I guessed it was OK for our kids (Julie, 8, and Johnny, 5).

And I guessed I’d just have to suck it up and try it.

Located at the MB Financial Park in Rosemont, iFLY looks like a giant blue warehouse. Inside the massive building, it feels a little like a warehouse, too. The kids and my husband Scott were more than excited to fly. I, on the other hand, couldn’t help but feel nervous. Ironically, a few days prior, I found out I was pregnant—so no flying for me. (Before flying, participants must sign

HOW

2

HULA HOOP

TO HEALTH Watching your kids Hula-Hoop through the summer brings back fond memories.

Ever wish you could grab a hoop and join them?

Hula-Hoops have taken a modern turn for grown-up

HOW

2

waivers and no one can fly if they are pregnant or have certain health conditions.) We were greeted by professional skydivers and informed that everyone had to suit up immediately.

This meant skydiving suits, helmets and goggles. My crew looked adorable. We were then whisked to a special room where we watched a training video and learned what to expect with our flights.

With training complete, we were ready to fly in the enormous vertical wind tunnel.

Four axial fans are mounted at the top of the building, channeling air down the sides of the tunnels into the basement and then up through the floor of the 14-foot-wide circular flight chamber, creating a strong upward draft.

Ranging in speeds of 80 to 175 miles per hour, this upward draft creates wall-to-wall air flow that pushes flyers aloft and makes it possible for them to fly.

Julie insisted on flying first. Our Ju brave little girl practically jumped b into the chamber with the skydiving instructor. For the first 60-second session, the instructor held 60Julie’s leg to keep her steady, but evenJulie tually she was flying on her own. For her second turn, the instructor grabbed onto both legs and he and Julie zipped practically to the top of the air chamber, flying up and was completely exhilarating. down. It w When it was Johnny’s turn, it was obvious thought he was some sort of superhero. he though he was a bit lighter, he seemed to Because h fly effortlessly to the top with the instructor.

Scott was entertaining to watch as he tried to stabilize himself and fly.

They were truly flying, but surprisingly, I wasn’t worried a bit. The instructor was there to catch them at any time and to give guidance and the wire netting at the bottom would prevent any falls. It’s an experience I know my kids will remember forever, and I promised the iFLY guys I’d be back for my turn. iFLY is located at 5520 Park Place at MB Financial Park in Rosemont. Hours are 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.11 p.m. Friday and Sunday, and 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday. Beginner-level packages, which include two 60-second flights and a personalized flight certificate, are $69.95 per person.

Kristy MacKaben

fitness. New Hula-Hoops are designed for adult waists, and Hoopnotica classes are popping up around Chicagoland.

Naturally, the first step in your hula journey is finding the right hoop. Lori Smerz, a St. Charles mom and certified Hoopnotica instructor, says that the height of the Hula-Hoop should be measured to your body. When held up, the hoop should reach between your navel and ribcage.

Also, the weight of the hoop needs to counter your own, so those kiddie hoops at Target won’t do you any good. Smerz recommends a hoop that weighs 1-2 pounds, since weighted hoops may cause damage to the spine.

Then it’s just a matter of letting your past Hula-Hooping take over: Swing your hips and make that hoop spin.

Kristina Lazzara

50 July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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SLIDE THROUGH

SUMMER

Every year right around the start of summer, I head to my favorite big box store and scoop up a couple of new Slip ‘n Slides. I have two boys who like to test the limits of those hose-powered plastic runways with their tricks and speed, so the slides never, ever live to see another summer. Sometimes I have to buy three.

Last year we decided to make our own sturdier, more customized version using inexpensive supplies from our local hardware store. It lasted all summer and is ready to be rinsed off and used again this year. Here’s how we made our awesome water slide: Start by clearing any debris from the ground beneath your water slide path.

This might be your most important step.

Nothing kills the fun like sliding over a

HOW

2

rock. Our boys helped us collect all rocks, sticks and other dangerous bits from the grass beforehand. It’s a MUST DO. Next, simply unroll the thick plastic sheeting and determine how long and wide you want your slide to be.

Cut off extra length if necessary.

About an inch from the top of the slide, secure the slide to the ground by pounding in garden staples along the edge so that they are completely flush to the ground.

Cover the top of the staples with a length of duct tape and wrap ends under plastic sheeting.

Finally, power up the garden hose and wet down the slide before you begin. Adding a squirt of sudsy dish soap every now and then makes it extra-crazy fun.

We like to use inexpensive pool doughnuts or rafts underneath us as we fling ourselves down, for added speed and cushion. This is especially nice for us parental units who just aren’t as limber and agile as we once were.

NOTE: It’s good to keep a grownup nearby to check on the action and make sure everyone is safe as they have some of summer’s best kind of fun.

Meredith Sinclair

Supplies Clear plastic tarp or plastic sheeting with a thick “gauge.” We chose the thickest gauge we could find. Plastic sheeting can be folded over so that you can customize the width.

One package of garden or lawn staples Duct tape Inexpensive pool “doughnuts” or very small rafts Basic garden hose Cheap dish soap

GET 2

Crank up traditional water fights on sweltering summer days by changing out the ammunition.

This calls for a summertime fave, mini marshmallows.

To create a mini marshmallow shooter, cut the lower third off a plastic cup. Next take a balloon and tie a small knot at the top and slice a ¼ inch off the bottom (the round part).

Then stretch the balloon over the top lip of the cup. Place a mini marshmallow inside, pull back on the balloon’s knot and Bam! Fire away.

Meredith Sinclair

HOW

YOUR

SWEET

ON! CHIPAR0714_051.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com July 2014 51

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SAVE YOUR

OWN LIFE

‘If I don’t do something, I’m going to die’

BY JERRY DAVICH PHOTOS BY FRANK PINC

On New Year’s Day 2012, Jack O’Donnell’s wife of more than 30 years fed him something different for breakfast—a distasteful newspaper story.

“Hey, read this,” Laurel said, tossing the paper at him.

The story profiled a West Loop gym called Downsize Fitness, 25 minutes from the couple’s home in the Sauganash neighborhood of Chicago’s northwest side. The specialty gym solely accepts members 50 pounds or more overweight, and it

HOW

2

INDOOR KART RACING

has frosted windows for privacy and custom equipment for bigger bodies.

“This is a gym for fat people,” Jack told his wife.

“You should call them,” she replied.

At 53, Jack weighed 260 pounds. His insulin-dependent diabetes was raging out of

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night thinking, “If I don’t do something, I’m going to die.”

So he finally did something.

That morning, he called the gym.

A trainer told him, “Come on down and try it.”

He tried it that day, surprising himself.

“I would have rather got hit by a bus. It was that hard for me the first day,” says Jack, a Bostonian who moved to Chicago in 1982.

He kept at it, though, eventually attending six classes a week, including a 60-minute strengthbased Downsize Total Body Conditioning class. Jack became a familiar face at the gym, typically in the early morning on his way to work.

Jack is owner and CEO of the OTECH Corp., a manufacturing firm in Rolling Prairie, Ind., 80 miles from his home. His already long commute became longer with his “workout detour” to that gym each day.

He didn’t mind. He just woke up earlier, usually around 5 a.m. to get to the gym around 6 a.m.

“My morning workout is the most important thing I do all day,” says Jack, who lost 20 pounds, then 40, then 60.

“The hardest thing was the first 90 days when the weight wasn’t coming off very fast,” he says. “But after I lost 60 pounds, I started feeling great after the workouts. I was energized instead of dead tired.”

Jack continues to join the conditioning class, which focuses on completing between 12 and 20 repetitions of moves with free weights, including lunges, pushups, overhead presses and bicep

curls. He’s also been prescribed a daily dose of jumping jacks and other cardio activity to keep his heart rate elevated and his blood pressure down.

He began eating more lean proteins and a variety of vegetables, and years of yo-yo dieting turned into a string of permanent lifestyle changes.

At the same time, he relied on running and circuit training, at least four days a week.

“When I get home at night these days, I’m certainly more pleasurable to be with,” Jack says.

He recently hit his target weight of 175, losing a total of 80 pounds since Laurel showed him that newspaper story. Think of it as eight 10-pound sacks of potatoes that he no longer hauls around each day. Or 20 bags of sugar attached to his once obese body.

“It was the dumbest thing I could have ever done,” he says, admitting the typical rationalizations for overweight parents.

“I’m too busy, too tired, and I have too many things to do instead of taking care of myself.”

“But is sitting on the couch at night as important as being around longer for your kids?” he asks. “Of course not.”

Jack no longer needs insulin for his diabetes. He’s off high blood pressure meds entirely.

And he recently climbed all the stairs of The Hancock Building, with his eyes on someday running the Chicago Marathon.

His last day without a workout of any kind? More than a year ago.

“It’s more important to me than breathing,” he says.

Join the fun all summer long with activities, including music and arts and crafts, for kids of all ages. For details, follow us on TWITTER and INSTAGRAM @MPFamilyFun and like us on FACEBOOK, MP Family Fun Festival.

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ChicagoParent.com July 2014 53

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Practical Learning Online Helping students to manage information through critical thinking Do video games influence violence in children?

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A SUPER

SUMMER

T R AV E L

EASY

GETAWAY See Chinese warriors and endangered apes in Indy

I

By CINDY RICHARDS t wasn’t all that long ago that Indianapolis was less-thanaffectionately known as “India-no-place” or Nap Town.

Both were apt monikers for Indiana’s sleepy capital city.

But the city sleeps no more. Indianapolis has undergone a stunning renaissance. The centerpiece of its downtown is the idyllic White River State Park, home to summer concerts, a canal, three museums, an IMAX theater, the charming Indianapolis Zoo and a minor league baseball stadium.

The renaissance has been so strong that Indianapolis ranked No. 34 on the New York Times’ list of 52 places to see in 2014.

The paper’s praise centered on Indy’s development of the eightmile bike-friendly Indy Cultural Trail.

There are two even better reasons you should plan a trek to central Indiana this summer: The Terra Cotta Warriors at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and the International Orangutan Center at the Indianapolis Zoo.

Terra Cotta Warriors The Children’s Museum is the only place in the U.S. where you can see China’s ancient but newly discovered Terra Cotta Warriors this year. Eight of the majestic statues are on display through Nov. 2.

It’s the second installment of

the museum’s “Take Me There” series (the first was a virtual trip to Egypt and King Tut). Four years in the making, this exhibit has two main components: the warriors themselves and a hands-on section that lets kids explore Chinese culture.

The 2,200-plus-year-old

warrior statues were created to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi. It is believed that the emperor ordered 8,000 of the life-sized clay soldiers, each with a unique face and hands, to be created and stationed to protect him in the afterlife. Only about 2,000

have been unearthed to date.

The soldiers were buried in a remote area of China for 2,000 years before being discovered in 1974 by farmers digging a well in search of water.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 56

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INDIANAPOLIS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 55

The exhibit features eight of the ancient statues and 118 other relics. Archeologists believe the clay statues were originally painted in vibrant colors. But as they were exposed to air for the first time in

two millennia, the paint flaked off. An educational component of the exhibit helps visitors explore the science behind the paint and learn about new technology that will be used to preserve the paint on

Terra Cotta Warrior statues unearthed in the future.

When I visited, the Terra Cotta Warriors exhibit was a bigger draw for adults than kids—although there are interactive features, including a life-sized Terra Cotta Warrior model that can be taken apart and rebuilt, costumes and replicas for photo ops, and the opportunity to mold and make your own mini terra cotta soldiers.

The kids were having more fun across the hall in the “Take Me There: China” section, which will remain open after the warriors are packed up and sent home to China. That section opens with a ride onboard “Take Me There Airways.” After “landing” in China, kids can explore Chinese culture through the arts, music, language, transportation, housing, food, tea, calligraphy, ancient medicine, and cuddly giant pandas.

“Take Me There: China” is included in the regular museum admission of $14.50 kids 2-17, $19.50 adults and $18.50 for 60 and older. The Terra Cotta Warriors exhibit requires an additional ticket: $5 for kids, $10 for adults and $7.50 for seniors. childrensmuseum.org.

MCRM_ChicagoParent_06_2014_Layout 1 6/2/14 11:33 AM Page 1

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56 July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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International Orangutan Center These apes seem too cute to be endangered. But they are. In fact, there are predictions that orangutans are in danger of becoming the first great ape species to become extinct.

The newly opened Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center at the Indianapolis Zoo is part entertainment and part education—of visitors and apes. The center houses eight orangutans, all of them raised in captivity in zoos or with private owners. One of them, Rocky, is the “George Clooney of orangutans”—at one time, he was the most-seen orangutan in commercials, movies and other media.

The center is the size of two football fields, which gives the orangutans plenty of space to play and show off for visitors, including the overhead “Hutan Trail,” a network of cables, platforms and bridges as high as 80 feet. During my visit, Rocky was having a great time swinging from the highest heights while we snapped his picture from below.

Visitors also can get a sky-high view of the Hutan Trail with a ride on the Skyline tram.

Inside the center, there’s an education space. If you get lucky, you can watch as scientists teach the apes to work on computers. It’s a relatively small space, so the training schedule isn’t posted.

Instead, those who happen to be inside the center when training is in session will be invited to pull up a chair and watch.

Even if you miss one of the formal training sessions, you can still be fascinated by these creatures who are just as fascinated by the humans on the other side of the glass. They like shiny objects and spend time in industrious pursuits like making their beds, running the “Beacon of Light” spotlight and posing for selfies with their guests.

The Indianapolis Zoo is the largest privately funded zoo in the country.

Admission prices vary by day of the week. Expect to pay about $20 per person for admission that includes access to the Orangutan Center. indianapoliszoo.com.

Cindy Richards is a Pulitzer Prize nominated journalist and former travel editor for Chicago Parent. She currently serves as editor of TravelingMom.com, an online family travel magazine.

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North Suburban Focus // special advertising section plaza orthodontics

North Shore Calendar of Events

dr. lihong lin dr. james kohl dr. jill danaher

supporting our community

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHICAGOLAND JEWISH HIGH SCHOOL

expert skincare advice at Advanced Dermatology and skinfo® Specialty Skincare Boutique in Glencoe on Saturday, July 19th from 11am-2pm.

275 Parkway Drive, Suite 521, Lincolnshire 716 Vernon Avenue, Glencoe advdermatology.com skinfo.com (847) 459-6400

Advanced Dermatology Pamper, Protect & Play: Family event and a mom’s dream day.

Saturday, July 19 11am-2pm

1625 sheridan road wilmette, il 847-251-3323 plazaorthodontics.com

Moms looking to get pampered with a piece of mind that their children and spouses are having just as much fun as they are, will find their serenity and

Gaiamed Dental Spa

Everyday you guard your family against GMO’s, environmental toxins and create a healthy life style. Remember to do the same with their dental care.

We are a family based, child friendly integrative dental office. Our focus has always been and will always be on your overall health.

Services Dr. Andie T. Pearson, DMD, RCST

Free School Exams for Kids thru Fall of 2014

• cleanings • gum care • braces

• non mercury fillings • crowns • implants

• natural facial rejuvenation • craniosacral

See our website HolisticDentalChicago.com for full services and details.

Like our face book, Gaiamed Dental Spa, for family friendly tips and updates

929 Ridge Rd, Wilmette, IL

847-977-1655

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special advertising section // North Suburban Focus Chicagoland Jewish High School events: Starved Rock Canyon State Park Camping Trip: August 14, 2014 Summer tours and informational meetings are available throughout July and August.

Contact admissions@cjhs. org to schedule today.

The First Tee of Greater Chicago Thursday, July 31, 2014 at 11:00am Harborside International Golf Course 11001 S Doty Ave, Chicago, IL 60617 Hosted by The First Tee of Greater Chicago Ambassador Council & Society to benefit The First Tee of Greater Chicago For more information go to TheFirstTeeGreaterChicago. org/GolfClassic Also at 11:00am at Harborside International Golf Course

Taping for The Dennis Walters Show Free and open to public 2901 W. Lake Avenue Suite A Glenview www.thefirstteegreaterchicago.org

COLLEGES CHOOSE CHICAGOLAND JEWISH HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

Highland Park Park District Summer Programs Free Junior Golf [Ages 11-18] Juniors of Highland Park, come try golf at Sunset Valley Golf Course. For juniors who have an interest in golf or just want to try it for fun. Tee times are available after 1pm.

To reserve a tee time, call (847) 432-7140.

Sunset Valley Golf Course June 15, July 13, August 10 Sun, 1pm and after FREE “Despicable Me 2”: Flick ‘n Float [Family] Watch this animated adven-

93%

Students who receive 3 or above on AP exams

13:1 Teacherstudent ratio

$7.7 million 18:1 Amount awarded College in tuition assistance since 2001

counselor to student ratio

29

Average verage ACT score

184

Number of different colleges and universities that have admitted CJHS students

Spots are still available for the 2014/2015 school year!

To learn more about our community contact us today at admissions@cjhs.org.

1095 Lake Cook Road •Number Deerfield, ILof 60015 • 847.470.6700 • www.cjhs.org A partner in serving our community, supported by the Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation

PHOTO COURTESY OF JENETTE RUNGE/HELLER NATURE CENTER

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North Suburban Focus // special advertising section You are not alone.

We are here to help!

ture while relaxing at the pool. This movie is rated PG. Flotation devices are allowed at the discretion of the staff. *All proceeds benefit S.M.I.L.E. For more information, call 847.433.3170.

Hidden Creek AquaPark July 26 Sat, 8:15pm, $5* Babies in Nature

Motherhood isn’t always the experience you hoped it would be.

We provide information and support for pregnant & new moms who are experiencing anxiety &/ or depression.

WWW.PPDIL.ORG

[Adult/Child, Ages 6 months-3 years] Take a stroll with a Naturalist and let nature engage the senses of your infants and toddlers. *Adult and child, $3/additional family member.

No pre-registration required.

Tuesdays, 10-10:45am, $6*: Jul 8, Jul 22, Aug 5, Aug 19 Full Moon Rising Campfires [All Ages] Take a short hike with a Naturalist, play games, and enjoy marshmallows roasted

PHOTO COURTESY OF LAKESHORE UNITARIAN SOCIETY

Lake Shore Unitarian Society’s Religious Explorations: an open-minded Sunday program for kids

over a campfire–all while watching the moon over Lake Michigan!

Children two and under are free. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Min/Max is 6/20.

Millard Park/Ravine Drive Sat, Jul 12, 7:30-9pm, $8 Sun, Aug 10, 7-8:30pm, $8

Old-Fashioned Campfires [All Ages] Take a short hike with a Naturalist, play games, and enjoy marshmallows roasted over the campfire!

Children two and under are free. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Min/Max is 6/20.

Heller Nature Center Wander Woods Our nature playspace lets your imagination guide you! Dig, Build, Crawl, Listen, Climb… a few of the many activities the playspace encourages. Open daily from dawn to dusk.

Come explore today!

Heller Nature Center • 2821 Ridge Road • Highland Park, IL just north of Half Day Road between Hwy. 41 & Waukegan Road 847.433.6901 • www.HellerNatureCenter.org • www.pdhp.org 60 July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section // North Suburban Focus Millard Park/Ravine Drive Wed, Jul 23, 7-8:30pm, $8 Summer Bees [Ages 6-Adult] Put on a bee suit to visit the hives. See what the bees are doing to get ready for honey harvest! Enjoy a taste of delicious Heller Honey.

Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.

All participants must wear closed shoes and tall socks to visit the hives.

Min/Max is 6/20.

Sun, Aug 3 , 3:30-5pm, $8 Lake Shore Unitarian Society Religious Explorations Program Spiritual & cultural Sunday program for kids of interfaith and secular families.

Special Preview, “Meet & Greet” Sunday, August 17, 10:30 a.m.

Winnetka Community House (620 Lincoln Ave.)

photo courtesy of karate can do

As featured on ABC 7, NBC 5, WGN-TV and WCIU-TV The Karate Can-Do! Foundation works hand-in-hand with North Shore Dojo, the area’s premier karate school, to provide personalized training to improve the lives of children who learn differently.

Sensei Jeff Kohn is the recipient of the 2011 United States Olympic Committee’s Paralympic Coach of the Year Award spf adventure back pack courtesy of advanced dermatology

847.729.0001 • www.NorthShoreDojo.net • 2081 John’s Court, Glenview Karate Can-Do! is a registered 501(c)(3)

Register at www.LakeShoreUnitarian.org Post Partum Depression IL Alliance Workshop Series Emotional Wellness For Moms is a workshop for pregnant and new moms, whether first-timers or more experienced, on how to nurture yourself and emotionally prepare for the adjustment of adding a new baby to the family.

To celebrate May being proclaimed Perinatal Mood Disorders Awareness month in Illinois the PPD Alliance is hosting a workshop for pregnant & new moms. Partners and babies are also welcome.

Next workshop: Wednesday, September 3rd, 2014 at 10am - 11.30am 3400 Dundee Rd. #245, Northbrook The workshop is FREE. Pre-registration required by Monday September 1st.

Call (847) 791-7722 to register or click here for more information.

SATURDAY JULY 19th 11 am - 2 pm

S UPE R S PF

Downtown Glencoe

Moms

stay to get pampered while your spouse and little ones go on a scavenger hunt through downtown Glencoe and get a SUPER SPF Adventure backpack!

RSVP for services or stop by and join the fun!

Refreshments 847.459.6400 Appetizers MAKEOVERS EYEBROW SERVICES HYDRODERMABRASION HAND TREATMENTS VISIA® COMPLEXION ANALYSIS SAVINGS ON SKINCARE PRODUCTS & TREATMENTS FACE PAINTER Advanced Dermatology

716 Vernon Avenue GLENCOE 847.459.6400 advdermatology.com

LIVE GUITARIST skinfo® Specialty Skincare Boutique

716 Vernon Avenue GLENCOE 847.459.2800 skinfo.com

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Back to School Health // directory of advertisers Advanced Family Dental, PC

Pediatric Dentistry

Dr. Russell S. Pollina

Fredrick S. Tatel, DDS

Crest Hill, Joliet, Lockport, Lombard, Plainfield, Romeoville and Shorewood.

2241 Theodore Street, Crest Hill (815) 905-9289 AdvancedFamilyDental.com

Christopher J. Morin, DDS 811 W. Wellington, Chicago (773) 871-4964 BigSmilesChicago.com Chrismorin5@yahoo.com

Kids are special people!

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

We take the fear out of dentistry for your child.

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

Assential Therapies, Inc. Pediatric Therapy Services Niles (in Golf Mill Mall) (847) 699-9757 atmfc.com

Dr. A.L. Burdick Family Medicine Center at West Suburban Medical Center By appointment, or walk-in physicals on 7/12, 7/19, 8/23, 8/30, 10/4, 9 to 11 am.

Professional Office Building 1 Erie Court, Suite 6160, Oak Park (708) 763-1490 westsubmc.com

Dentistry for Kids Dr. Cissy Furusho & Dr. Kirk Kollmann 4801 W. Peterson, Suite 410, Chicago (773) 790-4282 Dentistry4Kids.net

John E. Nathan, DDS, MDS & Assoc.

Dedicated to excellence in pediatric care since 1986 Oakbrook (630) 574-7336 St. Charles (630) 584-3624 Johnnathanddds.com

Pediatric Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists Does your child snore or have multiple ear, sinus infections?

City (312) 266-6200 Suburbs (847) 266-6200 pediatricentchicago.com

Plaza Orthodontics 1625 Sheridan Road #H Wilmette (847) 251-3323 www.plazaorthodontics.com

Presence Health St. Joseph Medical Center 333 N. Madison St., Joliet (815) 725-7133 provena.org/stjoes

Ned L. Savide, DDS, Ltd. Pediatric Dentistry; Practice Limited to Children & Adolescents 12001 S. Harlem Ave., Palos Heights (708) 448-6700 just4kidds.com

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

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

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

Sertoma Speech and Hearing Centers Homewood, Palos Hills & Romeoville (708) 599-9500 Sertomacenter.org

DuPage Medical Group Over 50 locations provide primary and specialty care for your entire family.

With offices in Bartlett, Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Geneva, Glen Ellyn, Hinsdale, LaGrange, Lisle, Lombard, Naperville, Oak Brook, Plainfield, St. Charles, Warrenville, Western Springs, Westmont, Wheaton, Willowbrook, Winfield, Woodridge (888) MyDMGDr dupagemedicalgroup.com

Every Tooth Counts Dr. Carmella Barrett Perry 2711 Flossmoor Rd., Flossmoor (708) 799-9755 everytoothcounts.com

Gaiamed Dental Spa 929 Ridge Road Wilmette (847) 977-1655 gaiameddental.com

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

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Directory to advertisers //

Summer Fun

Adler Planetarium Destination Solar SystemNow Boarding 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago (312) 922-STAR alderplanetarium.org

Avery Coonley School Summer Program 1400 W. Maple Ave., Downers Grove (630) 969-0800 ext. 122 averycoonley.org

Billy Boy’s Blueberry Barn Blueberries Promote Good Health 650 Freyer Road Michigan City, IN (219) 872-7477 billyboysblueberrybarn.com

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

Chicagoland Jewish High School 1095 Lake Cook Rd., Deerfield (847) 470-6700 cjhs.org

Chicago Children’s Museum Circus Zirkus- Where you’re the Star of the Show, now open Located at Navy Pier Chicago (312) 527-1000 chicagochildrensmuseum.org

Chicago Grammar School Full and half-day Summer program PreK-8th Grade 900 N. Franklin, Chicago (312) 944-5600 chicagogrammar.org

Chicago Kids Yoga Fest Practice for Peace with free music and fun Garfield Park Conservatory on 8.17.14 (Media Sponsor Chicago Parent) #chicagokidsyogafest Chicagokidsyoga.com

Chicago Public Library Rahm’s Readers 2014 Explore and Road Summer Learning Challenge Neighborhood locations throughout Chicago (312) 747-4780 chicagopubliclibrary.org

Highlights

Language Stars

Opens June 27 Pepsi ® Skyline Stage ® at Navy Pier (800) 745-3000 navypier.com/dragon

Grow with Highlights Empowering kids to be creative, curious and caring Highlights.com/imagine

Classic Cinemas

Indoor skydiving, ages 3-103 5529 Park Place, Rosemont (779) 368-4359 Chicago.iflyworld.com

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

Cirque Shanghai: IMMORTAL

Wednesday Morning Movie Series at a Location Near You Now thru August 6 classiccinemas.com

iFLY Chicago

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Deer Park Town Center

Karate Can Do at North Shore Dojo

20530 N Rand Rd, Ste. 133, Deer Park (847) 726-7755 shopdeerparktowncenter.com

2081 Johns Court Glenview (847) 729-0001 karatecando.com

Rides, 4D Cinema, top Lego attractions Streets of Woodfield 601 N. Martingale Rd., Schaumburg (847) 592-9700 Legolanddiscoverycenter.com/ Chicago

Dolphin Swim Club

K1 Speed

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

K1 Speed Buffalo Grove (847) 941-9400 K1 Speed Addison (630) 433-3700 K1Speed.com

The Little Gym of Chicago

The First Tee of Greater Chicago 2901 W. Lake Avenue Suite A, Glenview (847) 989-8551 thefirstteegreaterchicago.org

Foglia YMCA Young Leaders Academy 1025 Old McHenry Rd., Lake Zurich (847) 438-5300 fogliaymca.org/yla

3216 North Lincoln Avenue (773) 525-5750 thelittlegym.com/ChicagoIL

Mabel’s Labels

Lake Geneva Canopy Tours N3219 County Road H Lake Geneva, WI 53147 (262) 248-9271 www.lakegenevacanopytours.com

Lake Shore Unitarian Winnetka Community House 620 Lincoln Winnetka (847) 807-5787 LakeShoreUnitarian.org

Protect everything tha goes to camp!

(866) 30 MABEL (62235) mabelslabels.com

Master S. H. Yu Martial Arts Summer programs available: 12 week course, or one week Ninja Camp 6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park (708) 383-3456 Master-SH-Yu.com

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Summer Fun // Directory to advertisers Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament 2001 N. Roselle Rd., Schaumburg (888) WE-JOUST medievaltimes.com

Mid-Continent Railway Museum Return to yesteryear, ride the train for an educational experience E8948 Museum Road North Freedom, WI 53951 (608) 522-4261 midcontinent.org

Moraine Valley Community College Valley Learning Center Summer Classes & Camp 9000 W. College Pkwy., Palos Hills (708) 974-5735 morainevalley.edu/vlc

Morgan Park Academy Summer Camps 2153 W. 111th St., Chicago (773) 881-6700 MorganParkAcademy.org

The Morton Arboretum Summer Camp/Kid and Family Programs 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle (630) 719-2468 Mortonarb.org/sciencecamp

Mt. Prospect Park District

Quad Cities

Pools, Parties and More!

1000 W. Central Rd., Mount Prospect (847) 255-5380 mppd.org

(800) 747-7800 visitquadcities.com

New Traditions Riding Academy 10100 S. Kean Ave., Palos Hills (708) 598-7718/7719 newtraditionsridingacademy.com

Oakbrook Terrace Park District 1S325 Ardmore Ave., Villa Park (630) 627-6100 obtpd.org

Reed’s Canoe Trips Kankakee, IL (815) 932-2663 reedscanoetrips.com

Roscoe Village Burger Fest

Skokie Park District

Schaumburg Boomers

July 11, 12, 13 Family Fun and Music!

Lincoln Ave. between Montrose and Wilson SquareRoots.org

Tinley Park: I-80 & Harlem Ave. Naperville: I- 88 & Rt. 59 (708) 429-3800 Odysseyfunworld.com

Park District of Highland Park

The Second City Training Center

636 Ridge Rd., Highland Park (847) 831-8310 pdhp.org

Pump It Up Party Orland Park Chicago

(708) 479-2220 (312) 664-PUMP

See the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss come to life on stage, July 5 - August 17.

800 East Grand Ave., Chicago For tickets: (312) 595-5600 chicagoshakes.com

Don’t Miss the Burger-ific Kids Zone!

July 12 -13 Belmont between Damen and Oakley SpecialEvents.com Baseball Camps Learn from the champs 1999 Springinsguth Rd., Schuamburg (847) 461-3695 boomersbaseball.com

Odyssey Fun World

SEUSSICAL at Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier

1608 N. Wells St., 4th Floor, Chicago (312) 664-3959 secondcitysummers.com

9300 Weber Park Pl., Skokie (847) 674-1500 SkokieParks.com

Square Roots Festival

Taste of Lincoln Avenue Check out the Kids’ Carnival!

July 26-27 Altgeld between Lincoln & Halsted, enter on Halsted TasteofLincolnChicago.com

Theatre and Interpretation Center at Northwestern University presents The Hundred Dresses July 10-27 1949 Campus Drive, Evanston (847) 491-7282 wirtz.northwestern.edu

UIC Soccer Camp Check website for all programs and ages UIC Athletics Fields839 W. Roosevelt Road, Chicago (312) 996-6755 uicsoccercamp.com

Village of Chicago Ridge Ridgefest 2014 10455 S. Ridgeland Ave., Chicago Ridge (708) 425-7700 chicagoridge.org

Wisconsin State Fair 640 South 84th Street West Allis, WI 53214 (800) 884-FAIR wistatefair.com

Xtreme Trampolines The Place for Fun! Buffalo Grove (224) 676-0660 Carol Stream (630) 752-1400 xtremetrampolines.com

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DinoJump.com 1-888-877-3466

847-895-2340 Schaumburg

www.mypartyprincess.com 3Fully Insured 3Cleaned & Sanitized,

.com

before and after each rental

3 Free

Delivery & Reliable Service

Jumps, Slides, Combo’s, Obstacle Courses, Slip & Slides with Pool, Water Slides, Dunk Tank, Face Painting and Bean Bag Toss

Email: Gary@dinojump.com Also Av AvAilAblE: sno-Cone, Popcorn & Cotton Candy Machines!

Where Family Service is Not Extinct!

SuE’S Party AnimAlS

Book us for your next party or event!

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

You'll LOVE US!

Call Sue Johnson, Educator

847-215-8508

As seen on WGN, WTTW, and NBC Local!

Come experience the ultimate

Girly-Girl Party!

• Princess Tea Parties

• Diva/Glamour Parties • Spa Parties • All New! Doll Parties • All New Limo Service!!

• Ultimate Pajama Parties

• All-New FROZEN Parties - Elsa & Anna are HERE!

Award-winning magician with over 30 years experience!

All Birthday Shows include balloon animals and live rabbits!

Also offering Face Painting!

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

Magical Entertainment for all occasions!

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

www.kidzmagic.biz

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

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

847-672-6165

www.letsclownaround.net

Mrs. Newberry's Traveling Tea Party

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?

Call to make your event simply divine!

708-951-0351

www.mrsnewberrystravelingtea.biz

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#1 Birthday magician

Amazing Tim Adamz 3 Arrives Early

3 Amazes Kids 4-9

Rated

Perfect 5-star rating on Yelp Learn more: www.TheGreatScott.com

3 As Seen on WGN 3 Live Rabbit

HHHHH

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

Magic for children and families

Mary Macaroni

• • • • •

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

(847) 361-0924

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

BLING BY GLITZY GIRLZ Online Store sells our custom sequin transfers/clothing www.blingbyglitzy.com Birthday Parties: NEW Pajama Sequin Party

Children’s Parties!

Corporate Events!

GlamGlitz, Pop/Rock Dance, Spa Retreat, Pink In Paris, Funky Peace Dance, Princess/Pirates, Hawaiian Luau, VIP Diva Package

Event Classes run in 40 Park Districts

www.glitzygirlz.com Call Today:

773-774-3755

www.marymacaroni.com

(online schedule on website)

Girl Scouts/Mother/Daughter Events Custom Embellishing Apparel: Affordable & Unique Spiritwear/Cheer/Pom/Dance/ Organizations/Team Sports

847-873-2011 • wwwblingbyglitzy.com

Traveling Players presents

Aurora area

Diane Cloe Knight is

CLOE the Clown

Cloe Clown

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

Book your Birthday Parties Today!

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

the

for all ages 115 Cedar Street, Custom Auroradesigns IL 60506 503-867-9223 Chicagoland (630) 816-2288 www.cloeclown.com msAnnaArt.com Children’s birthday parties a specialty with balloon animals, face painting, silly story telling with to choose from:goodyTraveling puppetry, magic,Themes games, prizes, bags and more

HOUSE BOUNCE OF

Shaved Ice & Cotton Candy machines also available

Serving the greater Chicagoland area

Call Ron at 708-927-5455 www.houseofbounce.org

• Disney Princess • Scooby Doo • TMNT • Sports • Strawberry Shortcake • Plain • World of Disney 5 in 1 Combo • 30’ Dual Lane Obstacle • Water Slides • Slip ‘n’ Slides

Teddy Bears We come to you!

• Parties, Events, Block Parties & More!

• Portable Bear Stuffing Machine!

• Special Guest: Baxter The Bear!

773.934.5314 Find us on Facebook!

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Make your next Birthday Party a

• Hands-on • No mess fun • Ages 5-12!

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

North Cook and Lake

Chicago 773-227-3345

224-676-1635

Western Suburbs 630-393-3322

Magic & Juggling Shows Balloon Animals and Puppets

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

Video clips and party ideas are provided on the website.

www.IYQENT.com IYQ Entertainment

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

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

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

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

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

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

Indoor Center Highlights

Indoor Center Highlights

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

• Bouncers, Slides, Obstacles & More • Birthday Parties • Huge Play Area • Tons of Party Options • Field Trips/Group Rates • Toddler Area • Free WiFi

* Birthday Parties Please call (708) 388-2200 to yourArea party * schedule Huge Play

NOW OPEN!

& More

www.TheBusofFun.com

* Tons of Party Options * Field Trips/Group Rates * Toddler Area * Free WiFi

Now Open!

The Bus of Fun is fully insured.

Walk on the WildSide!

Please call or visit our website for reservations & current promotions

(773) 354-7720 (708) 862-2500 www.jumpnjamplayland.com

Located at: 1584 Huntington Dr. Calumet City, IL. 60409

Exotic Animal Programs Please call or visit our website for Bat Talks reservations and current promotions (708) 862-2500 School, (773) 354-7720

Libraries

W W W. J U M P N J A M P L A Y L A N D. C O M Located at:

& Birthdays...

1 5 8 4 Hwww.flyingfoxconservationfund.com u n t i n g t o n D r.

C a lu m e t C it y,773-823-1466 IL 60409 Low Rates !

Book Now !

708-620-HOPP • www.hippity-hop.com Local Delivery, Setup & Pick-up included

Planning a Party?

Look here for the perfect entertainer, party supply or service. Even more resouces at...

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calendar JULY

1

Science and sports usually ally go toge together ether like oil and water. Or maybe not. Swing! The Science of Baseball aims to change that perspective, thanks to science experiments that demonstrate how Newton’s Three Laws of Motion apply to the great American pastime. Kids in grades 2-8 can make objects hover, try a human gyroscope to experience G-force, and trick gravity with inertia. Afterward, stop by the Elmhurst Historical Museum to learn about Chicago’s age-old baseball rivalry at their summer exhibit. It’s all an educational home run if we’ve ever heard one. Free.

1:30-2:30 p.m. or 3-4 p.m. July 11. Elmhurst Public Library, 125 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 8331457, elmhurstpubliclibrary.org.

2

Colonel Mustard in the Conservatory with the candlestick? Not quite, but this Family Clue Game will get families with kids 8 and up thinking about local history in a totally new way. Teams must figure out who stole a valuable artifact from the museum—and the suspects are all Wilmette’s earliest settlers, and their tools and locales are also historically accurate. Better dust off your magnifying glass! $5 per team. 2-3:30 p.m. July 13. Wilmette Historical Museum, 609 Ridge Road, Wilmette. (847) 8537666, wilmettehistory.org.

3

Frozen’s Queen Elsa might be all the rage right now, but we have a soft spot for Tinkerbell and her fairy friends (Bonus: there’s no risk of frostbite!). At the new Flower Fairy Festival, kids can help make fairy furniture, listen to fairy folklore, and make a fairy wand to take home. Wear some wings for an extra-magical photo op.

And keep your eyes peeled: maybe you’ll spy some winged ones flitting among the trees. Free with admission. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. July 19-20. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

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3 | THURSDAY NATURE STORY TIMES. Nature-

inspired stories, crafts and activities for kids 3-5 with adult. $1 per child.

10:30-11:15 a.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

4 | FRIDAY FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION. Highlights include

patriotic music, a reading of the Declaration of Independence, and a children’s costume parade led by the World’s Tallest Uncle Sam. Following the festivities, the museum is open, noon-4:30 p.m., with free admission for Illinois residents. 10 a.m.-noon.

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

INDEPENDENCE DAY. Enjoy fun for

the whole family. $10. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Pump It Up Chicago, 821 W. Eastman St., Chicago. (312) 664-7867, pump itupchicago.com.

INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION. Kids enjoy the

inflatables and painting a 20-foot mural and can sign the Declaration of Independence. Revolutionary War reenactors will fire a real cannon and supervise 18th century games.

Includes a magic show and performance by the The U.S. Navy Band Great Lakes. Both museums are open.

$5 parking. Noon-4 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.

(630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

www.thevintagepearl.com Mt. Prospect Park District has the BEST birthday parties!

5 | SATURDAY SUBURBS STARRY STARRY NIGHT. Kids

7 and up step inside the Starlab portable planetarium and take a tour of the night sky. Learn to identify constellations and discover stories told about them for centuries, then head outside to practice identifying skills. Kids must be accompanied by a participating adult. $8. 8:30-10 p.m.

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

EXPLORE YOUR PRESERVES: BROOKFIELD PRAIRIE. Discover new trails and

scenic vistas on a monthly naturalistguided walk in local forest preserves.

This month’s walk is at Brookfield Prairie, near Brookfield Zoo. 1011:30 a.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc. com.

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

Back to School Education Guide Coming in August

6 | SUNDAY CHICAGO THE TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA. Set against the backdrop

of the 1896 Yukon Gold Rush, this play features prospectors, saloon gals

For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit chicagoparent.com ChicagoParent.com July 2014 71

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CALENDAR are featured each week, including raking miniature dry gardens, trying chopsticks and practicing calligraphy. $20 parking. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the August issue is June 30. All events are subject to change. Please call the event sponsor at the number listed to confirm before you go.

Events taking place on four or more dates during the month are listed in Ongoing Events, beginning on page 86.

8 | TUESDAY

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar and outlaws. Follow this zany troupe as they travel from Verona to Yukon to seek their fortune and find love.

The family-friendly, 90-minute play is a great introduction to Shakespeare as well as a new take on a classic comedy. Bring picnics, blankets and chairs. Donations appreciated. 5 p.m. Nichols Park, 1355 E. 53rd St. spectralia.org.

KIDICAL MASS. A free bike ride for kids and their families. The

DARTING DRAGONFLIES. Kids

Roscoe Village ride is held the first Sunday of every month, rain or shine.

10 a.m. Audubon School, 3500 N. Hoyne Ave. chicagokidicalmass.org.

3-5 investigate the lives of the fastest insect in the world, then hike, play games and make a dragonfly craft. $25, $18 members. 9:30-11 a.m.

Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

BABIES IN NATURE. Take a stroll

SUBURBS MALOTT JAPANESE GARDEN FAMILY SUNDAY.

Enjoy hands-on activities related to Japanese gardens and culture, and make a take-home project.

Different projects and activities

with a naturalist and let nature engage the senses of infants and toddlers. No pre-registration required. $6 adult and child, $3 additional family member. 10-10:45 a.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

SUMMER COLOR CREATIONS.

Kids 2-4, with adult, create prints, sculptures and textured works of art using colors from the hot side of the color wheel. Spray, mix and squish for a sensory experience. $23 pair; $17 member pair. 9:30-10:15 a.m.

DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 6378000, dupagechildrensmuseum.org.

9 | WEDNESDAY DARTING DRAGONFLIES. Kids

18-35 months, with adult, investigate the lives of the fastest insect in the world, then hike, play games and make a dragonfly craft. $22, $15 members. 9:30-10:45 a.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

10 | THURSDAY BASTILLE DAY 5K RUN/WALK AND BLOCK PARTY. Features 5K

run/walk, post-race block party, food and live music. Run: $30-$37. Block

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CALENDAR Party: $5. Start of run: 7:15 p.m.

Block Party: 8:30-10 p.m. Cannon Drive and Fullerton, Chicago. (773) 868-3010, chicagoevents.com.

STORIES IN THE WOODS. Kids

3-6, with adult, enjoy story time with a naturalist, play a game, take a short hike and make crafts to take home. $8 adult/child, $3 additional child.

10-11 a.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

11 | FRIDAY

Fourth of July Celebration

ADVENTURE DAY. Cabela’s provides kayaking demos and brings a variety of tents to explore. The portable climbing wall is available for rock climbing and Above and Underwater Scuba facilitates snorkeling demos.

Free with admission. 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Seascape Family Aquatic Center, 1300 Moonlake Blvd., Hoffman Estates. (847) 310-3626, heparks.org.

Seee Ju Se July lyy 4

12 | SATURDAY

and shops and meet various characters. $10, $5 kids 4-17. Includes museum admission and parking.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Lakewood Forest Preserve, Route 176, west of Fairfield Road, Wauconda. (847) 968-3400, lcfpd.org/civilwar.

FULL MOON RISING CAMPFIRE.

CHICAGO THE TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA. See July 6. Today’s

location is Ravenswood Manor Park, 4626 N. Manor Ave. SECOND SATURDAYS. Imagine

what Chicago looked like before it was a city. Investigate the prairie plants that used to grow here, through interactive activities, make-and-take crafts, music, performances, and more. Free with admission; free kids 12 and under. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St. (312) 642-4600, chicagohistory.org.

Take a short hike with a naturalist along the trails, play games with family and friends and enjoy marshmallows roasted over the campfire while watching the full moon rise over Lake Michigan. $8, free kids 2 and under. 7:30-9 p.m. Millard Park, 35 Ravine Drive, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

PAWS, CLAWS AND MORE! Visit with exotic live animal friends from all parts of the world and learn about what they eat and how they live in the wild. 2-3 p.m. Morton Grove Public Library, 6140 Lincoln Ave., Morton Grove. (847) 929-5102, webrary.org.

FAMILY TROLLEY TOURS.

JUNIOR TOUR DE NAPERVILLE.

Professional tour guide Josh Eisenberg leads family-friendly urban exploration in an open-air trolley.

Today’s theme is Sports. $25, $10 kids; $20 members, $5 member kids. 10 a.m.-noon. Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St. (312) 642-4600, chicagohistory.org.

Kids 3-8 ride bikes, tricycles and big wheels on a path that is 1.246 miles long. Each child receives a yellow T-shirt and there will be “SAG stops (support and gear)” for snacks and drinks. $24, $16 resident. 9-11 a.m.

Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 8485000, napervilleparks.org.

SUBURBS CIVIL WAR DAYS. See large-scale battle reenactments, explore camps

WALK WITH DRAGONS AND DAMSELS. Learn to identify

dragonflies and damselflies by color

and behaviors. Bring binoculars; a limited amount of binoculars are available to borrow. 1-2 p.m.

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

(708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

WINFIELD CRITERIUM. A competitive bike race that attracts locals, national and international pro-ranked cyclists and offers spectators an opportunity to experience championship-style bike racing.

Food, drink and entertainment for racers, spectators and visitors. 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Oakwood Park, Winfield. winfieldcriterium.com.

13 | SUNDAY CHICAGO

SPECIAL NEEDS NIGHT AT CENTENNIAL BEACH. Families

with individuals who have special needs are invited to enjoy a quiet, relaxing evening outside normal hours. The shallow end and shallowend slide will be open. No registration required. Visit the website for details. $3, members may use passes. 6:30-8 p.m. Centennial Beach, Naperville Park District, 500 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

15 | TUESDAY DARTING DRAGONFLIES. Lisle.

See July 9.

16 | WEDNESDAY DARTING DRAGONFLIES. Lisle.

THE TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA. See July 6. Today’s loca-

See July 8.

tion is Ravenswood Manor Park, 4626 N. Manor Ave.

WALK ON THE WILD SIDE FAMILY PROGRAM: REPTILES. The staff of

SUBURBS CIVIL WAR DAYS. Wauconda. See

July 12. Today’s times are 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

PARENT/CHILD WOODLAND RAMBLE. Join a guided parent/

child nature walk in the woods to look at trees, wildflowers and creatures. No strollers. Registration required. 1-2 p.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

Willowbrook Wildlife Center in Glen Ellyn demonstrate how reptiles differ from other terrestrial vertebrates through discussion, activities and a presentation of live animals. $3, free parking. 6 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 6685161, cantigny.org.

17 | THURSDAY ACCESSCHICAGO. Test products, services and connect with community organizations to learn about available disability-related

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CALENDAR social services. Take part in various adaptive sports and recreational demonstrations; learn about legal rights of people with disabilities; participate in a free health screening; and enjoy fun activities for kids. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. cityofchicago.org/mopd.

DARTING DRAGONFLIES. Lisle.

See July 8.

WATER WONDERING. Kids 15-24 months, with adult, spray their way into art, measure into math, and tap into scientific inquiry and curiosity. $20 pair, $14 member pair. 9:30-10 a.m.

DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 6378000, dupagechildrensmuseum.org.

18 | FRIDAY GRANDPARENT/GRANDCHILD BINGO & PIZZA. Kids 6 and up,

with grandparent, enjoy 12 games of Bingo, a snack, pizza and a drink, and prizes for everyone. $22, $15

Fam Fa Fami miily y Sum Su mm mer er C mp Ca mp SSeee Ju July ly 19

Intercultur a l Montessori Language School Two Locations: Oak Park (708) 848-6626 Chicago-West Loop (312) 265-1514

Dual Language Montessori Programs • Chinese/English • Spanish/English

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

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

FOR CHILDREN AGES 4-14

For the 2014 Program Guide or Course Description call or write

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

(630) 969-0800, option 2 fax.(630) 969-0131 www.averycoonley.org

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Photo by JH Fusion Photography

RIDE LIKE A CHAMPION New Traditions Riding Academy, LLC located at the Palos Hills Riding Stables, 10100 S. Kean Avenue, Palos Hills, IL 60465

www.newtraditionsridingacademy.com Riding in the new traditions of world class instructors

GROUP AND PRIVATE LESSONS….SUMMER CAMPS…..SCOUT GROUPS….PARTIES

boarding/training/professional care (708)598-7718 NTRidingAcademy@aol.com

www.newtraditionsridingacademy.com ChicagoParent.com July 2014 77

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CALENDAR resident. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Community Center, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville.

(630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

THE TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA. See July 6. Today’s location

DOG DAYS OF SUMMER DOG HIKE. Bring well-mannered, leashed

is Touhy Park, 7348 N. Paulina St.

dogs on a one-hour guided hike on the trails in the Forest Preserve. 10-11 a.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

SUBURBS SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK: A MIDSUMMER’S NIGHT’S DREAM. Midsummer

Theater Troupe presents an all-ages performance of Shakespeare in a park setting. Park opens at 6 p.m., performance begins at 7 p.m.

Central Park, 104 E. Benton Ave., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

19 | SATURDAY CHICAGO DISABILITY PRIDE PARADE.

Annual event to generate national visibility for the disability community. Parade marches west on Van Buren to Dearborn and north on Dearborn to Washington. Postparade celebration takes place at noon. 11 a.m. Daley Plaza. disability prideparade.org.

SILK & STEEL. Aerial Dance

Chicago presents a shared concert with Elements Contemporary Ballet. $26-$46. 7 p.m. North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie. (847) 673-6300, northshorecenter.org.

ACTIVE AT THE ARB. A day of

outdoor activities, featuring seminars on all the ways to be active at the arboretum. Free with admission. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 9680074, mortonarb.org.

FAMILY SUMMER CAMP. Includes hiking, fishing, a picnic and toasting s’mores over the campfire for families with kids 4 and up, all while exploring the favorite spots of the arboretum. A picnic lunch and bait are provided. A fishing pole is required. A state fishing license required for those 16 and older. $32, $25 members. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 9680074, mortonarb.org.

WINDY CITY PET EXPO.

BEAUTIFUL BAUBLES: BEADING JEWELRY. Kids 4-12

make beaded jewelry, from bracelets and necklaces to barrettes. 1-3 p.m.

DuPage County Historical Museum, 102 E. Wesley St., Wheaton. (630) 510-4941, dupagemuseum.org.

Check out a special appearance

by Shorty Rossie and his pit bull, Hercules, star of “Pit Boss” on Animal Planet, pet-friendly exhibitors and rescue groups, see live demonstrations, giveaways and prizes, talent contest and costume

contest and fun for the whole family.

Plus, an adoption event and low-cost immunizations and micro-chipping.

Pets are welcome. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

The Odeum Sports & Expo Center, 1033 N. Villa Ave., Villa Park. windy citypetexpo.com.

20 | SUNDAY CHICAGO CHINATOWN SUMMER FAIR. Iconic annual celebration of

Far East culture includes the Dragon & Lion Dance Procession, artisans, food vendors and more. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Wentworth Avenue and Cermak Road. (773) 868-3010, chicago dragons.com.

GET IN, GET ART DAYS.

Today’s theme is “Get Messy.” This outdoor event invites artists of all ages to enjoy summer-inspired, hands-on art projects. 2-4 p.m. Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St. (773) 4453838, beverlyartcenter.org.

Discover the Ideal Place for Your Child Childcare and Early Head Start

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Information, tours and screenings

708.235.7300 www.govst.edu/children

Family Development Center • 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL 78 July 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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JULY 11, 12, 13

IN LINCOLN SQUARE

LINCOLN AVE BETWEEN MONTROSE & WILSON

FEATURING MUSIC & DANCE ALL DAY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY:

LAURA DOHERTY & THE HEARTBEATS • LINDSAY & THE SHIMMIES • TWO MEN & A MONSTER • FAMILY BARN DANCE WITH YOUTH MUSICIANS • BATERIA BRAZILIAN PARADE (EVERYONE JOINS IN THE FUN!) • YOUNG STRACKE ALL-STARS • THE JAZZETTES PLUS: MOCOLOCO THE CLOWN, KIDS ART TENT, SWING SET DRUM KIT, FAMILY GAMES, AND MUCH MORE!

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CALENDAR THE TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA. See July 6. Today’s location

is Touhy Park, 7348 N. Paulina St. STORIES & SONGS WITH SHANA HARVEY. Chicago-based

teacher and singer/songwriter Shana Harvey leads kids 6 and under, with adult, in an interactive sing-along with folk songs from all over the world. Snacks, blankets and musicmakers welcome. Pre-registration is required. 11 a.m.-noon. The Lurie Garden in Millennium Park, Columbus Drive and Monroe Street.

(312) 228-1004, luriegarden.org.

SUBURBS MALOTT JAPANESE GARDEN FAMILY SUNDAY. Glencoe. See July 6.

SUMMER STROLL NATURE WALK. Join a naturalist for a

guided nature walk, and experience the beauty of summer on the Forest Preserve trails. No strollers.

Registration required. 1-2:30 p.m.

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

(708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK: “A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM.”

The Midsummer Theater Company presents an outdoor Shakespearean play. $10, free parking. 6 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.

(630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

CARIBBEAN BLOCK PARTY.

Live music on two stages, family fun for all and a mini-Taste of Tinley Park. Noon-7 p.m. 171st Street to Hickory Street along Oak Park Avenue, Tinley Park. (708) 444-5678, downtowntinley.com.

ROOT FOR THE HOME TEAM LAWN PARTY. A family-friendly event

featuring food, games and tours of the Cubs vs. Sox exhibit. Complimentary snacks, including ice cream, provided.

Hot dogs available for purchase. 1-4 p.m. Elmhurst Historical Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 8331457, elmhursthistory.org.

WOODSTOCK FOLK FESTIVAL.

Folk music festival features folk

He H errb b Gar a de den We W eeken nd Seee Juuly 266 Se

acts. Visit website for performance information. $15, $10 seniors and students, $25 family. 12:30-6 p.m.

Woodstock Square, Woodstock. woodstockfolkmusic.com/folkfestival.

21 | MONDAY STROLLER TOURS IN THE PARK.

Take a stroller tour of Chicago’s historic parks with public historian and stay-at-home dad Josh Eisenberg.

Today’s location is Millennium Park. $20, $15 members; free kids in strollers. 9:30-11 a.m. Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., Chicago.

(312) 642-4600, chicagohistory.org.

22 | TUESDAY CHICAGO WHITE SOX DAY.

Current White Sox players and Southpaw the mascot sign autographs during the celebration of the South Side’s favorite team. Guests will be allowed to have one item signed and should bring their own

item. Free with admission. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. (708) 688-8000, czs.org.

RAPTORS IN THE GARDEN.

Observe majestic birds of prey up close and learn about their habitat, adaptations and the challenges that they face in an urban environment. 6-8 p.m. The Lurie Garden in Millennium Park, Columbus Drive and Monroe Street, Chicago. (312) 228-1004, luriegarden.org.

BABIES IN NATURE. Highland

Park. See July 8.

23 | WEDNESDAY OLD-FASHIONED CAMPFIRE.

Take a short hike with a naturalist along the trails, play games with friends and family, and enjoy marshmallows roasted over the campfire.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. $8, free 2 and under. 7-8:30 p.m. Millard Park, 35 Ravine Drive,

Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

LINE, SHAPE, AND SYMMETRY IN ART. Kids 4-6, with adult,

explore the lines, shapes and symmetry artists use every day.

Children will experiment with a variety of creative processes that include works by renowned artists. $23 pair, $17 member pair. 4-5 p.m.

DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 637-8000, dupagechildrensmuseum. org.

24 | THURSDAY SEUSSICAL NIGHT. Includes a short program followed by an opportunity for visitors to interact with cast members from Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s Seussical. 6 p.m. Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 527-1000, chicago childrensmuseum.org.

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CALENDAR STORIES IN THE WOODS.

SUBURBS

Highland Park. See July 10.

HERB GARDEN WEEKEND. FAMILY NIGHT OUT: GOLF.

Tonight’s theme is golf. Guests can expect a few fun surprises that all ages will enjoy. No golf experience necessary. $2 parking. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org

25 | FRIDAY FAMILY FUN FEST. Win prizes at fun fair games, plus face painting, spin art, sandy candy, tattoos, inflatables and more. $10 for punch card. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Community Park, 1825 Short St., Lisle. (630) 964-3410, lisleparkdistrict.org.

MOTHER/SON BEACH PARTY.

Enjoy an afternoon “Beach Party” at Centennial Beach complete with Beach Blanket Bingo, limbo, hula hoops, water balloon toss and more.

Also, enjoy swimming, games, playing in the sand and a picnic dinner. $22, $15 resident. 4:30-6:30 p.m. Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

26 | SATURDAY CHICAGO THE TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA. See July 6. Today’s loca-

tion is Skinner Park, 1331 W. Adams St. WORD WEEKEND. A day of interactive performances, collaborative art making, and ‘live literature’ experiences exploring the role of words and language in contemporary art and culture. Features partnerships with the local literary community. Local artists lead art experiences, and visitors can participate in workshops and contribute to a collaborative chalk drawing. The day concludes with a silent film screening in the sculpture garden. Free with admission. Noon-10 p.m. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave. (312) 280-2660, mcachicago.org.

An herbal expert will answer herb gardening questions, and a number of family-friendly activities will be set up to help teach the difference between herbs and spices. The youngest kids can use cups and spoons in the “Herb Sandbox” to find dried petals and herbs in small tubs. Visitors can take an herb seedling home (while supplies last). $20 parking. 11 a.m-4 p.m. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

KIDS’ CONCERT: MISS JAMIE AND THE FARMHANDS.

Miss Jamie and her puppet friends from the farm will take the audience on a magical barnyard adventure in a sing-along, dance-along show that’s fun for kids and grownups alike. Lawn seating; chairs and blankets welcome. $5 parking. 2 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

27 | SUNDAY CHICAGO THE TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA. See July 6. Today’s location

is Skinner Park, 1331 W. Adams St. TOUR UNION STATION WITH THE CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUM! Explore the architecture

above street level, the action of the rails below, and the stories of one of America’s last grand railway stations. The walking tour runs 90 minutes to two hours. $25, $20 members. 1 p.m. Union Station, 210 S. Canal St. chicagohistory.org.

SUBURBS PUBLIC TOUR. Explore the sculpture park with trained docents.

Kids get a bit of culture and art education, but aren’t expected to sit still, be quiet and never touch anything. 1-2 p.m. Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park, McCormick Boulevard between Dempster and

Media Sponsors:

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CALENDAR Touhy avenues, Skokie. (847) 6794265, sculpturepark.org.

Park, 4400 Elm Ave., Brookfield. (708) 485-3357.

FAMILY DAY: WHO AM I? EXPLORING IDENTITY THROUGH ART. Families

REPTILES REVEALED DROPIN. Enjoy an up-close visit with some

with kids 4-14 can explore not only appearances, but internal characteristics and traits through facilitated, art-based activities during this special program presented by the Illinois Holocaust Museum and the Anti-Defamation League. Reservations required. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center, 9603 Woods Drive, Skokie. (847) 967-4800, ilholocaustmuseum.org.

local reptiles at this drop-in program.

1-2:30 p.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest.

(708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

HERB GARDEN WEEKEND.

Glencoe. See July 26.

2 9 | T U E S D AY WEEKDAY NATURE WALK.

Join in a casual guided hike to explore nature along the trails. 1-2 p.m.

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

30 | WEDNESDAY

SPECIAL NEEDS NIGHT AT CENTENNIAL BEACH. Naperville.

See July 13.

CZECHOSLOVAK AMERICAN PICNIC FESTIVAL. Includes music,

food and refreshments, dancers, arts and crafts, and more. Cost for refreshments. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Elhert

MCCORMICK DAY. Vintage games for kids, special tours, exhibits and much more at this annual parkwide celebration. Enjoy a slice of birthday cake, too, in honor of Robert R. McCormick (1880-1955). 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

Chic Ch icag ic ag go Wh Whitte Whit Sox So x Day Da ay Seee Ju Julyy 222

⎯ Save the date ⎯

WILL COUNTY FAIR 2014 Aug. 20-24

Buford Bear

• Free ping pong ball drop on opening day for children.

LEARN FROM THE CHAMPS

BASEBALL CAMPS

• Free Petting zoo!

• Buford Bear and his miniature truck!

• The Nation-Wide Demolition Derby!

willcountyfair.org Located 1/4 mile east of I-57 at Peotone exit.

708-258-9359

SESSION TWO: Thursday, July 24 and Friday, July 25 To sign up Call 847.461.3695 Ext. 2207

TICKETS START @ $7

FREE PARKING HEAD TO THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO ON GAME TIMES AND PROMOTIONS!

BOOMERSBASEBALL.COM 847.461.3695 ChicagoParent.com July 2014 83

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Four returning

FAVORITES

S

ummertime represents the return of many things: hair-frizzing humidity, trips to the beach, dinners on the grill. But at Chicago Parent, the season also means the return of some of our favorite exhibits.

Here are four to check out.

1

BUTTERFLIES & BLOOMS.

The bright colors of butterflies’ wings seem to scream “summer.” And this outdoor butterfly garden is a great spot to see species from as far away as Africa and Asia. For a little education (the kids are out of school, after all), use the field guide to identify different species, and check out the pupa emergence room. $6, $5 seniors, $4 kids 3-12. 10 a.m.5 p.m., weather permitting, through Sept. 1. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic. org.

building a no-girls-allowed treehouse is an age-old summer pastime, but you don’t have to leave the ground (or be a boy) to explore these treehouses, which include a castle and a ship. The village of six treehouses is open yearround, but perfect for the summer. And it teaches kids new facts about the trees, such as dogwoods and silver maples, that populate our world. Free with admission.

7 a.m.-sunset. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 9680074, mortonarb.org.

4

STINGRAY TOUCH.

2

CIRCUS ZIRKUS. Barnum

& Bailey doesn’t make its return until November, but kids can get in on the circus act a little early. Circus Zirkus’s first visit to Chicago was in 2012, but kids were so excited about the chance to swing on the trapeze, dress up as a clown and work the lights and sound that it’s made a return trip. Free with admission. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through Sept. 7. Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 527-1000, chicagochildrensmuseum.org.

3

TREE HOUSE TALES.

Climbing trees and

You won’t find these unusual-looking creatures in Lake Michigan! Kids (and adults) can dip their hands into a shallow pool and actually touch cownose stingrays to discover their unique texture. Shedd staff also provide interesting facts about stingrays, including how Chicagoans can help protect them in the wild, in the 15-minute experience.

Price included in Total Experience Pass. 9 a.m.6 p.m. through October.

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

Elizabeth Diffin

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Specıal Parent CHICAGO

A Chicago Parent EMPOWERMENT GUIDE

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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

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SUMMER 2013

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5100 Museum Drive, Oak Lawn, IL 708-423-6709 Check our web site for programs and hours www.cmoaklawn.org Have your birthday party or Field Trip with us!

Call for more details!

6/27/13 10:02 AM

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

The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to positively impact a child’s potential in life through play-based education.

“A Community of Self-Directed Learners” For more information and a schedule of open houses go to:

apogeeacademy.org or call 773-956-6188 Apogee Academy 3801 N. Keeler in the Irving Park United Methodist Church

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ONGOING EVENTS FAIRS & FESTS EYES TO THE SKIES BALLOON FESTIVAL. Features hot air balloon

launches, as well as musical entertainment, a special kids’ area, an arts and crafts fair, fireworks, a large carnival and an assortment of daily events. $7, free kids 7 and under. Visit website for schedule. Carnival runs July 2-6; festival runs July 3-5. Community Park, 1825 Short St., Lisle. (630) 7691000, eyestotheskies.org.

INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF LIFE. Features international and

local acts on two stages, arts and crafts, food, games and entertainment for kids. $15, $5 kids 6-12 and seniors 65+, free kids under 6; $20 at gate; $40 pass. Noon-10 p.m. July 3-6. Union Park, 1501 W. Randolph St., Chicago. (312) 427-0266, festival oflife.biz.

NAPERVILLE RIBFEST. Features a

BBQ contest with several rib vendors, food ranging from ribs and hot dogs to salads, snacks, desserts and drinks,

two live music stages, special events, and fireworks. Family area features carnival rides, inflatables, circus tricks, magic show, face painting, petting zoo and live performances.

Admission varies by day; visit website for information. Noon-10 p.m. July 3-6. Knoch Park, 700 S. West St., Naperville. ribfest.net.

WINDY CITY RIBFEST. Features live music, lots of ribs, arts and crafts, and kids’ area (on Saturday and Sunday afternoons). $5. Noon-10 p.m. July 4-5; noon-9 p.m. July 6.

Lawrence Avenue and Broadway Street, Chicago. windycityribfest.com.

BRISTOL RENAISSANCE FAIRE.

More than 1,200 performers, artisans and merchants take visitors on a trip through Elizabethan England. Kids Kingdom is an enclosed play area filled with oversized sand boxes, a climb-aboard pirate ship, games, crafts and other child-friendly diversions. $19.95, $9.50 kids, free kids 4 and under. Visit the website for discounted tickets. 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

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ONGOING EVENTS weekends. July 5-Sept. 1. West of I-94, exit Russell Road and follow the signs, Kenosha, Wis. (847) 395-7773, renfair.com/bristol.

CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN ART FESTIVAL. Guests

can stroll the Esplanade and shop for botanic-themed art and art made from plant materials. More than 100 juried artists will display their work. Artist talks and family activities also featured. $20 parking.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 5-6. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

TRAVEL AMERICA SUMMER FESTIVAL. Explore the diversity

of American culture and trees with regional foods, live music, demonstrations, games, tram tours of the tree collections and more. Free with admission. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. July 5-6.

Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

ory

TASTE OF CHICAGO. A massive foodie fair complete with live music and activities for the entire family. Popular features include a three-course fine dining experience prepared by a notable Chicago chef at Celebrity Chef du Jour, Pop-up restaurants, food trucks and more.

Additional cost for food and seating at Petrillo. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. July 9-11; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. July 12-13. Grant Park, 331 E. Randolph St., Chicago.

(312) 744-3315, tasteofchicago.us.

WEST CHICAGO RAILROAD DAYS. Music, food, fireworks, carni-

val rides, parade, 5K Run/Walk, community art show and beer garden.

5-10 p.m. July 10; 5-11 p.m. July 11; noon-midnight July 12; 3-10 p.m.

July 13. Reed-Keppler Park, Arbor and National Street, West Chicago.

(630) 231-3003, sponsorchicago. com/west-chicago-railroad-days/ index.html.

WINDMILL CITY FESTIVAL.

Features carnival, entertainment,

music and demonstrations. Visit website for schedule. July 10-13. Batavia Riverwalk, Houston Street and Island Avenue, Batavia. (630) 879-5235, windmillcityfest.org.

THE IRISH AMERICAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL. Features more than 100

performers, plus Irish and American food and drink, shopping, Irish dancers, cultural exhibits, children’s activities, a raffle for a trip to Ireland, the Mashed Potato Eating Contest and Sham-ROCK Stars singing contest for kids. $10-$20, free kids 10 and under. 6 p.m.-1 a.m. July 11; noon-1 a.m. July 12; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. July 13. 4626 N. Knox Ave., Chicago. (773) 282-7035 ext. 10, irishfestchicago.com.

SQUARE ROOTS FESTIVAL. More than 70 acts including music, dance parties, jams and family activities.

Features the best local and regional craft breweries and Lincoln Square restaurants. $10, $5 seniors and kids, $20 families. 5-10 p.m. July 11;

noon-10 p.m. July 12; noon-9 p.m.

July 13. 4400-4560 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 728-6000, square roots.org.

CHICAGO TRIBUNE NORTH MICHIGAN AVENUE ART FESTIVAL. A wide variety of original

artwork will be on display and for sale. Enjoy the eclectic displays, live music and register to win the free art giveaway. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

July 11-12; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 13.

Pioneer Court, 435 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago. artfestival.com.

WINDY CITY SMOKEOUT. Enjoy southern-inspired fare from premiere Chicago BBQ restaurants and have the opportunity to interact with chefs and their culinary teams. Plus country music and a Family Day on Sunday. $30; free kids 12 and under before 4 p.m. Sunday. 3-10 p.m. July 11; noon-10 p.m. July 12; noon-9 p.m. July 13. Corner of Rush Street and Illinois Street, Chicago. windycitysmokeout.com.

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Bonciel Griffin-Burress DDS

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George Lin, D.D.S. Anjali Talati, D.M.D. Kyung-Hong “Cal” Kim, D.D.S. Buffalo Grove Business Park 195 Arlington Hts Rd., Suite 150 Buffalo Grove, IL 60089

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ONGOING EVENTS Features the United States Air Force Thunderbirds, a twilight show with fireworks, kids’ zone, military displays, beer garden, food and novelty vendors. 5:30-9:30 p.m. July 11; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. July 12-13. Fair Oaks Farms, 856 N. 600 E., Newton County, Ind. (219) 989-7770, south shoreairshow.com.

SOUTH SHORE AIR SHOW.

BUFFALO GROVE FINE ARTS FESTIVAL. Features works from

VERNON HILLS SUMMER CELEBRATION. Includes live music,

ST. HARALAMBOS BIG GREEK FOOD FEST OF NILES. Features

more than 160 artists, including youth art division and special needs division, and kids’ art activities. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 12-13. Buffalo Grove Town Center, corner of Lake Cook Road and Route 83 (McHenry Road), Buffalo Grove. (847) 926-4300, buffalogroveartfestival.com.

carnival rides, food, bingo games and kids’ activities. Check website for schedule. July 17-20. Century Park, north of U.S. Route 60 on Lakeview Parkway, Vernon Hills. (847) 3618979, vernonhills.org.

ROSCOE VILLAGE BURGER FEST. Celebrate America’s favorite

BUCKTOWN TREE AND GARDENWALK. Features a garden

Greek food, cooking demonstrations, live Greek music and dancing. Kid’s Korner is a secure area where kids can enjoy face painting, crafts and more. $2, $1 seniors, free kids 12 and under. 5 p.m.-midnight July 18; 3 p.m.-midnight July 19-20. Holy Taxiarhai and Saint Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church, 7373 Caldwell Ave., Niles. (847) 647-8880, biggreekfoodfestofniles.org.

sandwich at a festival featuring music acts, burgers from top local eateries, arts and crafts and Kids’ Zone. $8.

11 a.m.-10 p.m. July 12-13. Belmont and Damen avenues, Chicago. (773) 868-3010, chicagoevents.com.

walk, tree walk, trolley rides, live music and petting zoo. $10 donation.

11 a.m.-5 p.m. July 12-13. 1824 W. Wabansia (starting point at Club Lucky), Chicago. (773) 486-4353, bucktown.org/gardenwalk.

SUMMER ON SOUTHPORT.

WEST FEST. Features live music on three stages, plus Kid Fest, Pup Fest, and an array of vendor booths from neighborhood retailers, restaurants and artists. $5 donation. Noon-10 p.m. July 12-13. Chicago Avenue between Damen Avenue and Wood Street, Chicago. (312) 850-9390, westfestchicago.com.

Showcases the work of 100 juried artists for the first time. In addition to the artwork, festivalgoers enjoy food from neighboring restaurants and live musical performances. $5 donation.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 12-13. 3700 N. Southport at Waveland, Chicago.

(773) 665-4682, starevents.com.

BENFEST. Highlights a large menu

of food and drink, beer selections, live music, and family entertainment. The children’s area features live music and dance for all ages, games, water slide, costumed characters, inflatables, arts and craft area, train rides and more. $5 donation. 4-10 p.m. July 18; 1-10 p.m. July 19; 1-7 p.m. July 20.

St. Benedict Church, 2215 W. Irving Park, Chicago. benfest.com.

TASTE OF RIVER NORTH. Enjoy

cuisine from River North restaurants, merchants, artists, music and a Kids’ Zone. $5 donation. 5-10 p.m. July 18; noon-10 p.m. July 19; 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

July 20. Ward Park, Kingsbury Street and Erie, Chicago. tasteofrivernorth. com.

OREGON TRAIL DAYS. Visitors

experience everything from cultural dances with American Indians in full regalia to cowboys performing shootouts on horses and bank robberies. Annie Oakley, KG and the Ranger, and the Whip Guy are just a few of the performers. Pioneers, Mountain Men, blacksmiths, and an authentic log cabin round out the event. Visitors can camp in an authentic tipi. $7 includes parking; some activities cost extra; $79 per night for tipi camping. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. July 19; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. July

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ONGOING EVENTS 20. Lowden State Park, 1411 North River Road, Oregon. (815) 732-2435, oregontraildays.org.

SHEFFIELD GARDEN WALK & FESTIVAL. Features self-guided

tours of gardens, architectural tours and Kids’ Corner, located on Sheffield between Webster and Belden, with entertainment and activities. $7-$10 suggested donation.

Noon-10 p.m. July 19-20. Sheffield Avenue, Chicago. sheffieldgarden walk.com.

Lake La ke Cou ount nty nt y Fair Fairr Fa

EVANSTON ETHNIC ARTS FESTIVAL. Features more than 100

nations represented through the work of visual artists, two venues of continuous performances and entertainment, children’s art activities and ethnic food booths. Noon-7 p.m. July 19-20. Dawes Park, Sheridan Road at Church Street, Evanston. (847) 4488260, cityofevanston.org/ethnic.

DUPAGE COUNTY FAIR. Entertainment includes monster

ory

Seee th Se t iss pagge

trucks, rodeo, demolition derbies, Michael Lynch from “The Voice” and more. Plus carnival rides, community service projects, craft fair and horse shows. Visit website for ticket information. July 23-27. 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-6636, dupagecountyfair.org.

LAKE COUNTY FAIR. Features four

stages of live entertainment, Chicago Flower & Garden Show exhibit, professional rodeo, lawnmower races, demolition derby, motocross, livestock barns and auction, competitive exhibits, horse show, carnival midway, petting zoo, great food, and

more. $5-$10; free kids under 5. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. July 23-24; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. July 25-26; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. July 27. Peterson and Midlothian roads, Grayslake. (847) 680-7200, lcfair.com.

PIEROGI FEST. Features food,

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ONGOING EVENTS

Foglia YMCA

The Oakbrook Terrace Park District has lots of summer time fun for everyone!

Paddle Boat Rentals at Terrace View Park

YOUNG LEADERS ACADEMY Where Children Learn, Grow and Thrive

1 Parkview Plaza, Oakbrook Terrace Wednesdays (10 am-2 pm) & Saturdays (Noon-4 pm) June 14 - August 30

All day child care options for ages 6 weeks-5 years, Half Day Preschool & Full Day Preschool opportunities.

Little Cheerleaders class at the Fitness Center 1 Parkview Plaza, Oakbrook Terrace Saturdays, July 12-August 2 11 am-11:45 am Age: 3-5 years old • $17 R/$22 NR

The Flying Fool Stage Show at Heritage Park Friday, July 18 • 1 pm • Free

Kiddie Carnival Heritage Park Thursday, July 31 • 11 am-2 pm • Free

National Night Out & Touch A Truck Heritage Park Tuesday, August 5 • 6 pm • Free Oakbrook Terrace Park District Heritage Park: 1S325 Ardmore Avenue Villa Park, IL 60181 (630) 627-6100 • www.obtpd.org

fogliaymca.org/yla FogliaYMCA 1025 Old McHenry Road, Lake Zurich, IL 60047 847.438.5300 | /FogliaYMCA

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entertainment, kids’ play area, polka parade and pierogi-eating contest. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. July 25-26; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. July 27. Downtown Whiting on 119th Street, Whiting, Ind. (888) 659-0292, pierogifest.net.

TASTE OF LINCOLN AVENUE.

• Lite Brite Wall • Climbing Wall • Transportation Station • Engineering Mega Station • Tubes and Tunnels • Water Play • Dress up Stage • Toddler Area • Private Birthday Parties

SkokieParks.org

4701 Oakton Street, Skokie • (847) 674-1500, ext. 2700

Features 250-plus vendors, food and nearly 40 acts on five music stages.

Afternoons feature a stand-alone “kids’ carnival” on Altgeld (with art activities, pony rides and more), and the “Lill Street Craft Fair” showcasing handmade and DIY art. $10 donation. Noon-10 p.m. July 26-27.

North Lincoln Avenue between Fullerton and Wrightwood, Chicago. tasteoflincolnchicago.com.

GENEVA FINE ARTS FAIR. Features more than 150 artisans and a kids’ art area with special activities.

Visit website for information. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 26-27. Third Street, Geneva. (630) 232-6060, genevachamber.com/geneva_art_fairs.php.

including spin art and an art scavenger hunt. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 26-27.

Westfield Old Orchard, 4999 Old Orchard Center, Skokie. (847) 9264300, northshorefestivalofart.com.

WICKER PARK FEST. Features live music and food and expanded arts and crafts and kids areas. $5 donation. Noon-10 p.m. July 26-27.

Milwaukee Avenue, between North Avenue and Paulina, Chicago. (773) 384-2672, wickerparkfest.com.

EAA AIRVENTURE OSHKOSH.

Features 10,000 aircraft, 2,500 show planes, world-class daily air shows plus two night air shows featuring pyrotechnic and fireworks, evening entertainment, 800 exhibit areas, 1,000 forums and workshops, onsite camping, and KidVenture with hands-on activities. Gates open at 7 a.m. Visit website for schedule and prices. July 28-Aug. 3. Oshkosh, Wis. airventure.org.

FIESTA DEL SOL. Includes Aztec

NORTH SHORE FESTIVAL OF ART OLD ORCHARD. Features

more than 120 juried artists, food, live music and kids’ activities,

dancing, local art exhibit, craft workshop, a children’s area, free books, games and educational activities, Civil Rights of Immigrants Booth,

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FAIRS & FESTS

5 WAYS TO

ENJOY Chicago’s urban oasis

T

his summer, Lurie Garden in Millennium Park celebrates 10 years as a little oasis in our city of hustle and bustle. We talked to Lynn Petrak of GreenMark PR and came up with five ways to celebrate right along with the garden.

1

Dip your toes. On a hot summer day filled with lots of walking, there’s no greater relief than cooling your tootsies.

Take a snack break at the Boardwalk pool, and give your feet a little rest in the water. Bonus: it’s also a great spot for people-watching!

2

Get counting. How many different types of plants can you spot? In the summer season, the garden boasts 45 varieties of plant life. Make it a game to see how many of those your kids can find. Later, visit luriegarden.org to learn some of their names.

3

Be a little bird-brained.

You can see birds of prey up-closeand-personal, thanks to the free Raptors in the

Garden program (6-8 p.m. July 22). Plus, volunteers talk about raptors’ habitat, adaptations, and the challenges these birds face in an urban environment, making it secretly educational for kids.

4

Learn fun facts. Did you know the 15-foot “hedge” is an homage to Carl Sandburg’s description of the “City of Big Shoulders”? If you’ve got older kids, consider a free tour to learn more about the garden’s history and design. Tours are offered 11 a.m.-1:30 ThursdaysFridays and 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Sundays.

5

Go artsy.

Gardens might make you think science, but music and drawing are equally fitting.

Register for the free program

Lurie Garden Millennium Park, Columbus Drive and Monroe Street, Chicago (312) 228-1004; luriegarden.org

Stories & Songs with Shana Harvey (11 a.m.-noon July 20), which includes nature-based stories and music, plus an interactive folk song sing-along. Or check out “Draw Our Garden in a City” (2-4 p.m. Aug. 10), which uses playful activities to help kids draw their own vision of the garden.

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ONGOING EVENTS College Fair, live entertainment, Pilsen School Expo, indoor soccer tournaments, free health screenings and food vendor. Check website for schedule. July 31-Aug. 3. 1400 W. Cermak Road, Chicago. (312) 6662663, fiestadelsol.org.

EXHIBITS DESTINATION SOLAR SYSTEM.

Live show takes adventurous space explorers on an immersive tour of the Solar System in under 30 minutes with Jesse, an enthusiastic tour guide, and MAX, a fully integrated onboard computer. Included in All Access Pass. Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 922-STAR, adlerplanetarium.org.

SOX VS. CUBS: THE CHICAGO CIVIL WARS. Exhibit highlights the

longtime rivalry between the fans of the two teams. Free with admission.

Elmhurst Historical Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 833-1457, elmhursthistory.org.

OPENING THE VAULTS: WONDERS OF THE 1893 WORLD’S FAIR. Visitors

will see items that thrilled fairgoers 120 years ago. Included in Discovery and All Access passes. Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago.

(312) 922-9410, fieldmuseum.org.

THE MACHINE INSIDE: BIOMECHANICS. Using real speci-

mens, life-like models, amazing video footage, and interactive displays, the exhibition investigates how organisms function as machines in order to survive, move and discover.

Presented in English and Spanish.

Included in Discovery and All-Access passes. Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 9229410, fieldmuseum.org.

80 AT 80. Special exhibit showcases

80 rarely displayed artifacts. Free with admission. Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PRESENTS: EARTH EXPLORERS.

Journey to the wildest places on the

globe. $9, $7 kids, plus admission.

Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago.

(773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

THINK. Explore some of the major

scientific and technical advances of the last 100 years. This exhibit engages guests through a unique combination of experiences. A short film inspires guests to think about humankind’s quest to build a better world and how technological progress is made possible. Free with admission.

Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago.

(773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

TREASURES OF THE WALT DISNEY ARCHIVES. The exhibit

showcases the creative accomplishments and innovations of Walt Disney. $9, $7 kids 3-11, plus admission. Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 684-1414, msichicago. org.

MODEL RAILROAD GARDEN: LANDMARKS OF AMERICA.

Garden-scale trains traverse bridges and trestles, past miniature scenes of America’s best-loved landmarks and gardens planted to scale. $6, $5 seniors, $4 kids 3-12, free kids under 3; $1 discount for members.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Wednesdays. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicago botanic.org.

DANGER 101: DARING DEEDS FOR CURIOUS KIDS. Kids gain

confidence through healthy, smart risk-taking (like licking a battery, mastering a power tool or becoming a human wrecking ball). Free with admission. Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 527-1000, chicagochildrensmuseum.org.

OTHER EVENTS BEGINNER’S ART STUDIO.

Children and adults can explore their creative sides in this fully engaging, open-ended art experience. Materials change daily, and trained facilitators

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ONGOING EVENTS assist with the artistic process.

10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday and Wednesday-Saturday; 12:30-4:30 p.m. Sunday. Free with admission.

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

SUMMER FUN & GAMES. Kids

3-12, with adult, can drop in at the Elmhurst Historical Museum for crafty fun. July 8: Flying Pennant Flags; July 15: Wonderful Washcloth Animals; July 22: Colorful Baseball Caps; July 29: Galloping Stick Horses. $4, $2 member. Noon-2 p.m. Tuesdays. Elmhurst Historical Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., Elmhurst.

(630) 833-1457, elmhursthistory.org.

TUESDAY FAMILY PICNICS.

Families are encouraged to bring a blanket and a picnic lunch to enjoy on the museum grounds before or during the Summer Fun & Games program. The museum will provide lemonade and a sweet treat. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesdays. Elmhurst

Historical Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 833-1457, elmhurst history.org.

ORGANIC GARDEN. Kids can plant, weed, water and more in the garden, maintained by The Organic Gardener. Special activities include crafting seed packets, edible necklaces, and window greenhouses.

2-3 p.m. Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Westfield Old Orchard, 4999 Old Orchard Center, Skokie. (847) 6747070, westfield.com/oldorchard.

5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

WILD WEDNESDAYS. Hear stories, enjoy a special hike, and learn about the featured animal. Borrow a fishing pole, or rent a paddle boat.

10 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesdays. Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 9418747, obtpd.org/lvnc.

TREE POSE YOGA. Kids 4-6, with

WILD WEDNESDAYS. Kids

3-10 enjoy hands-on nature exploration through games and crafts. Each week has a theme. $5 parking. 1-3 p.m. Wednesdays. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.

(630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

DANCIN’ SPROUTS. Children may get up, dance and sing during these lively evenings created just for them. Picnicking is permitted on the Esplanade only. $20 parking.

adult, learn about the environment while stretching, moving and breathing like the creatures around them with a certified YogaKids instructor. $17, $10 members. 10-11 a.m.

Wednesdays, plus July 12. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

SEUSSICAL CRAFTS. CST partners with the Chicago Children’s Museum to offer hands-on craft activities in the theater’s lobby. 10-11

a.m. Wednesdays; 12:15-1:45 p.m.

Thursdays. Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 595-5600, chicagoshakes.com.

ACORN EXPRESS ADVENTURES.

Kids 2 and up take an open-air tram ride adventure through the arboretum. Plus, make a craft and explore new topics each week. $5, $4 member, plus admission. 11-11:45 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays.

Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

SUMMER FLOWER ANKLET CRAFT. Girls 8 and up create a tropi-

cal anklet using colorful paper flowers, plus an anklet just for dolls. 11 a.m. Thursdays. American Girl Place, 835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (877) 247-5223, americangirl.com.

HISTORY ALIVE! Kids 6-12 learn about a different war each week. Dress in the uniform of a

A LIFETIME LOVE OF LEARNING STARTS HERE. • Toddler (2 yr old) space available 8:45 - 11:15 • Daycare option until 3:15PM Please email Julie Einstein at jeinstein@rpmschool.org to learn more.

established in 1966

www.rpmschool.org | 1800 W. Balmoral Ave. Chicago ChicagoParent.com July 2014 93

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ONGOING EVENTS soldier, and interact with artifacts, games and crafts from the time period. July 3: WWII; July 10: Vietnam; July 17: Persian Gulf War; July 24: Modern Conflicts; July 31: American Revolution. $5 parking.

1-3 p.m. Thursdays. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.

(630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

PARENT AND TODDLER YOGA.

Put on your super cape… it’s time for an adventure! Our all-new Super Kids’ Quest Summer Camp is full of exciting, creative Put on your super cape… it’s time for an adventure! Our missions where kids will exercise their muscles, imaginations and all-new Super Kids’ Quest Summer Camp is full of exciting, creative missions where kids will exercise their muscles, imaginations and flexible scheduling options allow you to sign your Super Kid up for several weeks, a single week or even just a day at a time! flexible scheduling options allow you to sign your Super Kid up for several weeks, a single week or even just a day at a time!

It's not too late to join in on the fun. Call today!!

It's not too to join in on the fun. Call today!!

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

Come Play With Us!

Toddlers practice fun animal yoga poses and engage in activities like guided nature exploration, reading storybooks and more. After class, visit animals that inspire this unique, animal-themed yoga class. $20.

10-11 a.m. Thursdays. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago.

(312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

THURSDAY FAMILY NIGHTS.

Families can enjoy live music, kidfriendly fare and entertainment after hours. Free with admission; admission discounted to $5 per person after 4:30 p.m. 5-8 p.m. Thursdays.

Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

CHICAGO SUMMERDANCE.

Free one-hour dance lessons by

professional instructors and two hours of live music and dancing are presented as a part of the largest annual outdoor dancing series in the U.S. 6-7 p.m. dance lessons, 7:309:30 p.m. live music and dancing Friday-Saturday; 4-5 p.m. dance lessons, 5-7 p.m. live music and dancing Sunday. Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park, 601 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 742-4007, chicago summerdance.org.

SUMMER SATURDAYS. Family

programs, such as sun prints, Lego architects, Art Glass Done Wright, origami and family printmaking, facilitated by a youth educator, encourage children to explore Robie House to inspire their own creativity. $5 children, free adults. 10 a.m.noon Saturdays. Frederick C. Robie House, 5757 S. Woodlawn Ave., Chicago. (708) 848-1976, gowright. org.

Now O pen

CRAFTS FOR KIDS. Kids 3 and

up enjoy free crafts at all Lakeshore locations. July 5: Silly Summer Cap; July 12: Count & Decorate Octopus; July 19: Wiggly-Eyed Glitter Fish; July 26: Make & Shake Noisemaker.

11 a.m.-3 p.m. Lakeshore Learning

5100 Museum Drive, Oak Lawn, IL 708-423-6709 Check our web site for programs and hours www.cmoaklawn.org Have your birthday party or Field Trip with us!

Call for more details!

The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to positively impact a child’s potential in life through play-based education.

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ONGOING EVENTS

Space Available in Early Childhood & Toddler

Parent/Child · Toddler · Early Childhood 3-6 · Elementary · Middle School

Discover the simple power of learning by doing Da D an an nc ciin n’ Sp Sprout ro outts

Understand how the learning process at Chiaravalle Montessori is designed to connect how and what children learn.

SSeee pa page ge 92

425 Dempster, Evanston, IL 847.864.2190 www.chiaravalle.org Store, 2255 W. 95th, Chicago. (847) 705-5052, lakeshorelearning.com.

SETTLEMENT SUNDAYS. Includes free sundaes with do-it-yourself toppings and a variety of hands-on family activities, games, demonstrations and tours of historic buildings.

Free with admission. 1-4 p.m.; ice cream 2-3:30 p.m. Sundays (except July 13). Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville. (630) 4206010, napersettlement.com.

DOLLAR DROP-IN DAYS.

Participate in crafts, demonstrations and farm-related activities. Activities change daily and include public milking demonstrations at 4:30 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; costumed interpreters 10 a.m.-3 p.m. MondaysSundays; and storytelling at 4 p.m.

Tuesdays and Thursdays. $1. 10-11 a.m. daily. Wagner Farm & Heritage Center, 1510 Wagner Road, Glenview.

(847) 657-1506, glenviewparks.org.

FLOWER FRENZY. Look around at

all of the flowers in the Children’s Garden and find your favorite to paint. Free with admission. 11 a.m.-4

p.m. daily. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 9680074, mortonarb.org.

GRUNSFELD CHILDREN’S GROWING GARDEN FAMILY DROP-IN ACTIVITIES. Get close

to nature and discover where food comes from with activities. Learn about plant parts, the life of a bee, different types of seeds, how to plant a rainbow garden, worm composting and more. $20 parking. Noon-4 p.m. weekdays; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends.

Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 8355440, chicagobotanic.org.

KLEINMAN FAMILY COVE FAMILY DROP-IN ACTIVITIES.

Explore the plants and animals in aquatic habitats. Use scientific tools to look at tiny critters living underwater, find out what makes water plants different from land plants, and more. Activities vary from week to week. $20 parking. Noon-4 p.m. weekdays; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends.

Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 8355440, chicagobotanic.org.

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SPECIAL NEEDS TH LIVE ON STAGE

IS SUMMER

PIER Y V A ON N

music by

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co-conceived by

LYNN AHRENS, STEPHEN FLAHERTY and ERIC IDLE

JULY 5–AUFRGUI STSA1T7

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based on the works of

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18 Children

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PERFORMANCES SEUSSICAL. Opens July 5. The musical is based on the stories by Theodor Seuss Geisel and narrated

by The Cat in the Hat. $28, $18 kids.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago.

(312) 595-5600, chicagoshakes.com.

THEATRE HIKES. Follow the story

of “Alice in Wonderland” and watch as performers search for the white rabbit and enjoy a spot of tea with the Mad Hatter. Low-impact hike suitable for strollers, walkers and wheelchairs offered July 6. Each performance lasts about three hours.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing and bring a chair or blanket, water bottle and insect repellent. $20, $10 adult members; $10 kids, $5 kid members. 1-4 p.m. SaturdaysSundays. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 9680074, mortonarb.org.

MATINEE PERFORMANCE. Enjoy a performance of the Tempel Lipizzans set to classical music. The program follows the horses through varying stages of development and training. After the performance, take a self-guided tour through the stallion stable and visit foals in the pasture.

Riders, trainers and handlers will answer questions. $25, $15 kids 4-14.

1-3 p.m. July 6, 9, 13, 23 and 27.

Tempel Farms, 17000 Wadsworth Road, Wadsworth. (847) 623-7272, tempelfarms.com.

A Midsumme merr me Night’s Dr Drea eam m S e thhis Se i pag age

ILLINOIS SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL. Opens July 8. Festival

produces full productions of Shakespeare and other plays, as well as a family-oriented 45-minute version: Shake, Shake, Shake Your Shakespeare, performed Wednesday and Saturday. Visit the website for schedule and tickets. Ewing Manor, 48 Sunset Road, Bloomington. (866) IL-SHAKE, thefestival.org.

CHARLOTTE’S WEB. Opens July

11. When Wilbur is saved and sent to live on a farm, he finds a new unexpected family. Follow the piggy hero as he grows from being the runt of the litter to “Some Pig” with the help of a remarkable spider. Call for cost.

Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago.

(800) 775-2000, broadwayinchicago. com.

OLIVER! Opens July 11. Brings to

life the story of the young runaway orphan, colorful Artful Dodger, infamous Fagin and his gang of pickpockets, sinister Bill Sykes, nurturing and lovable Nancy and a host of memorable characters. $14, $12 kids. Overshadowed Theatrical Productions, 210 S. Walnut St., Itasca. (630) 250-7518, over shadowedproductions.com.

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING. This Midsommer

Flight show runs in partnership with the Chicago Park District at 6 p.m. Saturdays and 2 p.m.

Sundays. Recommended for all ages.

Performances will be July 19-27 at Schreiber Park, 1552 W. Schreiber Ave., Chicago. midsommerflight.com.

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM. Chicago Shakespeare

Theater brings Shakespeare to community parks across Chicago. Visitors enjoy a 75-minute, daylight production of Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer

Night’s Dream.” For information and performance locations, visit website.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago.

(312) 595-5600, chicagoshakes.com/ parks.

JUBA! MASTERS OF TAP AND PERCUSSIVE DANCE. The oldest

and most comprehensive festival of American tap and contemporary percussive arts in the world culminates with this performance, which features foot drummers and percussive arts masters. Recommended for families with kids 6 and up. Performance

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PERFORMANCES location to be determined. 7:30 p.m.

July 30-31 and Aug. 2. $25-$32.

Chicago Human Rhythm Project, 410 S. Michigan Ave., Suite 464, Chicago.

(773) 281-1825, chicagotap.org.

GRANT PARK MUSIC FESTIVAL. Presents more than

20 concerts. Visit website for concert schedule and information.

Millennium Park, Chicago. grantpark musicfestival.com.

CIRQUE SHANGHAI. Cirque Shanghai returns to Chicago’s Navy Pier with a brand new show, “Cirque Shanghai: Warriors.” Performances held at the Pepsi Skyline Stage, a 1,500-seat, canopied, open-air theater. Call for cost. Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. (312) 595-PIER (7437), navypier.com.

CHICKEN LITTLE. Performances are

recommended for families with kids 2-12. $12. Chicago Kids Company, Beverly Arts Center, 111th and Western, Chicago. (773) 205-9600, chicagokidscompany.com.

LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD.

Brand new show! Through sepTemBer 1

pepsi skyline sTage, navy pier Tickets start at just $15.50 Kids | $19.50 Adults* ®

Tickets

®

Performances are recommended for kids ages 2-12. Check website for days and time. Chicago Kids Company, Stahl Family Theater, 5900 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. (773) 205-9600, chicagokidscompany.com.

THE TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC.

Performance includes gentle sound and lighting effects that create a full sensory experience, building a simple story through repetition and participation, a shoe-free experience for parents and kids. The show lasts about 45 minutes and is recommended for families with kids 4 and younger. $14, $7 kids under 1. Emerald City’s Little Theatre, 2933 N. Southport Ave., Chicago. (773) 529-2690 ext. 810, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

GO, IMPROV, GO! This show is based off audience suggestions, so it’s new every time you see it. Go, Improv, GO! caters to an audience of all ages. 11 a.m. matinees are held in June and July. Check website for specific dates. $12. UP Comedy Club, 230 W. North Ave., 3rd Floor, Chicago. (312) 662-4562, upcomedy club.com.

HOGWASH: AN IMPROVISED TALL TALE. Interactive kids’ show

where the audience helps guide the story from scene to scene and song to song with the improvisers. Kids create backdrop of the story and pick out the costumes. Recommended for families with kids 3-10. For tickets, email shelby@bughousetheater.com.

10:30 a.m. Bughouse Theater, 2054 W. Irving Park, Chicago. hogwash kids.com.

Call 800.745.3000 or Visit ticketmaster.com/shanghai Groups 10+ call 773.327.3778

* facility fee applies

Gran Gran Gr a t Pa Parrk k Musi Mu sic Fe F est sti tiv ivall ival Seee this pagge Se

is part of your favorite social networks Find us on Facebook Join the Twitter party!

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Back to School Education Guide Coming in August

ADAPTED BY RALPH COVERT & G. RILEY MILL BASED ON THE BOOK “THE HUNDRED DRESSES”

BY ELEANOR ESTES DIRECTED BY RIVES COLLINS

JULY

10-27

HAL AND MARTHA HYER WALLIS THEATER 1949 CAMPUS DRIVE, EVANSTON FRI 7:00PM

SAT 2:00PM

SUN 2:00PM

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Special opening night performance on Thursday, July 10 at 7:00PM

TICKETS: (847) 491-7282 WIRTZ.NORTHWESTERN.EDU

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

The Hundred Dresses is published

by Harcourt Children’s Books, an imprint of Houghton Mifflin Harcout Publishing Company Produced by special arrangement with THE DRAMATIC PUBLISHING COMPANY of Woodstock, Illinois

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Summer

at Chicago Grammar School

…experience the richness of a classical curriculum.

Enjoy daily Academic Enrichment, Sports Camp and Creative Art Projects!

SUMMER 2014 Week

Grades K-6 (Themed Program)

Standardized Test Prep Grades 6 -8

June 30-July 3

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American Revolution II

Standardized Test Prep - Reading & Vocabulary

July 14-18

American Folk Tales I

Standardized Test Prep - English

July 21-25

American Folk Tales II

Standardized Test Prep - Math

Chicago Grammar School 900 N. Franklin Chicago, IL 60610 312.944.5600 www.chicagogrammar.org

The

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.

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We buy and sell gently used clothes, toys, & equipment Splash into low prices on everything your kids need for Summer! Amazing savings on toys, clothing, furniture and equipment. Once Upon A Child will also pay you on the spot for the items your kid’s have outgrown. How refreshing is that?

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Large, safely equipped playground Field trips Nature walks Neighborhood park outings

Two Separate Locations

3000 W. Montrose • 3023 W. Montrose • Chicago, IL 60618 773.539.7422 • Fax: 773.539.5265 earlylrningcntr@aol.com • www.IPELC.com

Why be a surrogate through The Center for Egg Options?

• We have worked in OB and Infertility for 30+ years as RNs • We accompany you to the first appointment and others as requested • We are available 24/7 through the cycle as needed • Other agencies refer their clients to CEO • We are trusted by physicians worldwide

Who is the ideal surrogate?

• • • • •

Between the ages of 21-38 Has had at least one uncomplicated pregnancy Resides in a legally “surrogate friendly” state Non-smoker and healthy Has been thinking about how surrogacy could enhance her life

info@egg411.com (847) 656 8773 www.egg411.com

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Nanny Services

Summer

Tutor Services

We specialize in active role models who support your family’s lifestyle.

Flexible Care Solutions Individualized sessions to your child’s needs by a certified tutor.

www.collegenannies.com Lincoln Park • 773-697-9326 | Glenview • 847-998-5657 Rescuing Sleep Deprived Families

Surrogate Mothers with a big heart

Specializing in Night Time Infant Care

needed to help infertile couples. Must be 21-37 and have had a child. $25,000 to $35,000+ and expenses paid.

Services Include: • Baby Nurses • Registered Nurses • Postpartum Doulas • Lactation Support • Parenting Classes • Sleep Training • Temporary Daytime Services

Private insurance preferred.

For more information call:

Parenting Partners 847-782-0224

www.parentingpartners.net

(708) 429-BABY • SweetDreamsInfantCare.com

Peace of mind

Week-Long Summer Camp Explorations Week-long explorations of new discoveries both in the world around and within your child’s imagination. This summer, unlock your child’s love for learning with our schedule of engaging curriculums and hands-on activities.

Exciting weekly themes include:

Earn Income At Home Safe, Sensible, Simple

Science • LEGO Art • Spanish

& Solid Business

“I am a Mom who left the corporate world to Work From Home! I now earn a secure residual income with a car bonus !”

Looking for 2-3 motivated individuals that want the same.

www.CEOmoms.biz

to learn more!

Wanna

power up?

Reach a wider audience with our Print/Digital Marketplace Package!

Call Walter 708-613-3357

wburden@chicagoparent.com

World of Enrichment • 708-249-4008 18035 Dixie Hwy., Homewood, il 60430 • worldofenrichment.com

here we come TRANSPORTATION

We Need Your Help!

Do you care about kids?

Need additional income?

Enjoy helping others?

Visit BusinessThatMakesSense.com

Member, Chicago Better Business Bureau

We have part-time and full-time opportunities working with unique, educational toys, books and games.

For more information, call Sherre Brutzkus 847-905-1293 sherre311@gmail.com

1-847-991-4242

BOOK EARLY for our 12 passenger van for proms. We can provide transportation for all your family needs: summer camp, proms, family reunions, after school programs, Girl Scouts & Boy Scouts outings and much more. FREE transportation service for MEDICAID-COVERED customers.

H E R E

HERE WE

COME

C O M E TRANSPORTATION

www.discoverytoyslink.com/sherre

Licensed, Bonded & Insured • Car Seats Provided • Safe Drivers Reasonable & Affordable Rates • Available 7 Days a Week Wheelchair Accessible • 12 & 7 Seat Vans Available State of ILL/MBE Certified • Courteous & Professional Drivers

773-812-6359 or 708-244-7277 PO Box Matteson, IL 60443 • overcomer2@sbcglobal.net

We provide service for adults & children With special needs

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A Grantee of the University of Chicago Medical Center & the University of Chicago Childcare Initiative in Hyde Park serving a diverse group of children ages 2 to 5 years old.

ARR Alternative Reproductive Resources One of the first agencies in the country and Chicago’s premier agency is looking for interested:

Egg Donors:

Gestational Surrogates:

$7,000 to all healthy, $30,000+

to women nonsmoking women between the ages of 21-38 and between ages of 20-29. delivered at least one child.

To learn more, Contact ARR:

773.327.7315  info@arr1.com www.arr1.com

Quality Rating System StAR LEvEL tHREE Illinois Department of Human Services

Quality Counts

• We offer high quality, creative, full-day childcare from 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

• Accredited by NAEYC • We accept subsidy child care (child care initiative)

5467 S. University Ave., Chicago, IL 60615 773-643-0452 / www.cccsociety.org

Infant and Toddler Care Preschool Afterschool Care Summer Camp visit us on-line @ kidwatchplus.com 3901 N. Ridgeway • Chicago, IL 60618

773-539-5431

Become A Fan On Facebook & Follow us onTwitter

27th Birthday Sale • July 1st - July 26th

50% off July 25th* only - 75% off July 26th* only Closed July 27th & 28th Fall Opening July 29th • *Cash only July 25th & 26th

Infant & Children’s Clothing • Maternity Wear • Equipment Mon-Sat 10-6 Sun 12-5

954 W. Armitage • Chicago (773) 883-0880 • www.2ndchild.com

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WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS

Say goodbye to summer boredom

L

et’s be honest: At some point this summer (if it hasn’t happened already), you will look at your messy house and bored kids and way-too-hot backyard and think, “What now?”

That’s where the Target Family Fun Festival comes in, a sanity saver for moms and dads when another trip to the pool is just not going to cut it. Each day, the free festival includes sing-alongs, circle dances and musical fun with Wiggleworms instructors at 10 a.m., story time at 11 a.m., and live music and interactive dance performances at 1 p.m.

If you’ve got kids who are always on the go, Movement Mondays, which feature unique wigglebusters like hip-hop yoga, tap dance and hoopnotics at 1 p.m., are a safe bet. Little bookworms should stop by at 11 a.m. on Wednesdays, when Read All About It! features readings of favorite books like A Cat in the Hat, Corduroy and Chicka Chicka Boom Boom! And you just might go home with a new addition to your family library: the first 50 families receive a free book.

And did we mention we’ll be there? Chicago Parent joins other wonderful local institutions like the Museum of Science and Industry and Barrel of Monkeys to sponsor a week in the Activity Zone. We’ll be there July 14-20, so stop by and say hi—and do a fun Chicago-themed craft while you’re there.

So while we can’t do anything about the stifling heat or siblings who are getting on each others’ nerves, we can help with the whole “I’m bored” problem. In a nutshell, that’s what the Target Family Fun Festival is all about.

Elizabeth Diffin

Target Family Fun Festival Free 10 a.m.-3 p.m. June 23Aug. 24 Millennium Park, Chase Promenade North, 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago http://bit.ly/TargetFamily FunFestival

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!

E E R F E D I R S D I K Summer fun starts with a train ride…and Metra’s having a summer sale! We extended our Weekend Family Fares to include weekdays, which means a fare-paying adult can bring up to three kids 11 and under along for FREE!* And as always, on weekends you can ride on both Saturday and Sunday for just $7 with Metra’s Weekend Pass. So enjoy the stress-free way to travel and the kids will enjoy the fun and excitement of a train ride.

To locate your rail line, find a station or to check fares and schedules, visit metrarail.com. *Purchase a ticket or use your 10-Ride, Weekend or Monthly Pass as the adult fare.

MAKES YOUR LIFE

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easier!

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NOW BOARDING

Presented by:

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