Chicago Parent November 2014 by Chicago Parent

NOVEMBER 2014

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connecting with families

A special fairy tale One mom makes dream come true

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136 ways to have fun

Kiddie Katniss Movie fuels family sport

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Connect your child...

to the most innovative education in Chicago.

Over

Welcome to GEMS World Academy Chicagoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Premier Junior Kindergarten through 12th Grade International School At GEMS World Academy - Chicago, our engaging curriculum is enriched by state-of-the-art technology and our innovative, purposebuilt vertical campus. Our students will experience rewarding relationships, mentorships, and externships through engagement with leading community and business partners. With over 50 years of leadership internationally, the GEMS Education experience offers new ways to learn and meaningful connections to other cultures across

900

awards recognizing excellence in academics, sports, and the arts.

Apply Now. Admissions Coffees & School Tours Available Weekly To Make a Reservation: Visit: gemschicago.org Call: (312)-300-6658 Email: admissions@gemschicago.org

our global network of schools.

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On select clearance and closeout items.

312-226-6666

629 W. Cermak, Chicago, IL 60616

Sale price and/or sales discount not valid on previous purchases.

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“one test of the correctness of the educational procedure is the happiness of the child.” – Dr. Maria Montessori

INSPIRING LEADERS OF TOMOROW

call 312.243.0977 TO aTTeNd aN UPcOMING eVeNT! Info coffee & ToUR Wednesday, November 12th 9:00 – 10:30am Tuesday, December 16th 9:00 – 10:30am

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The monTeSSoRI PRImaRy & elemenTaRy oPen hoUSe, KIndeRgaRTen aPPRoach To SleeP meeT & gReeT Wednesday, December 10th Thursday, December 4th 5:30 – 7:30pm 5:30 – 7:00pm

EDucAtionAL PRogRAmS BiRth – 8th gRADE 1335 w. randolph st. chicago, il 60607 www.montessoriacademychicago.org

2 November 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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British School of Chicago Lincoln Park â&#x20AC;˘ South Loop (Fall 2015)

The British School of Chicago opens a second campus in September 2015 The British School of Chicago is a vibrant international school that offers both local and international families a high-performance education for children ages 3-18. Our truly personalized approach and unique focus on learning enable our students to make remarkable academic progress, and our internationally acclaimed curricula, culminating in the IB Diploma Program, ensures that our students are well-prepared for university and beyond. We welcome all inquiries regarding new admissions and invite you to get in touch with us.

www.britishschoolofchicago.org

admissionsbsc@wclschools.org

773-506-2097

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4 November 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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h c u m fun snow

o... g OV. 1 a N c i S h N C E P n i O r ld! o of winte c n e u f h t e f h t o f e o All with non

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One-Two-Three /Uno-Dos-Tres By JENNI SORENSON Community Resource Director

incoln Park Preschool and Kindergarten constantly strives through reflection, self-assessment and experience to continue to improve and grow as a program and community. This fall we have expanded the scope of our Spanish language program. Each of our three schools staffs a full-time Spanishspeaking teacher. Formal large group lessons, informal small group activities, one-on-one interactions, and facilitated peer-to-peer conversations are opportunities for our students to involve themselves with the Spanish language on a daily basis.

Molly Rowan is the Spanish teacher at Lincoln Park Preschool & Kindergarten’s Germania school. She is a master's candidate in Bilingual/Bicultural Education at DePaul and has taught English abroad in both South Korea and Spain at the early childhood level. She believes the experience of language learning at a young age is invaluable. "Beginning language development at an early age when children still have the innate tools to form new sounds and structures is pivotal to future language success. By opening our students at LPP up to the sounds, vocabulary and phrase structure of the Spanish language on a regular basis, we are creating what I like to refer to as ‘flexible language brains’. Through this prolonged development, students with bilingual, in-person exposure at

young ages tend to have greater abilities for language development later. The development of these ‘flexible language brains’ provides for greater ease in future language learning.” The Director of our Belden school, Laura Clemmons, witnesses this in action daily. She shares, “It is incredible to see the way Spanish has enriched our environments. Not only is it spontaneous eruptions of counting in Spanish at the snack table, but it is the requests for “leche” instead of milk, or the children singing a new Spanish song as we trot out on our loops to the zoo that illustrate the acquiring of foreign language skills in our classrooms”. As a school community we are excited to more fully participate in the global trend of educating our students in a second language.

“Exposure to frequent and rich data (speech) through literacy, child-directed speech, song and games is consistently correlated with higher vocabulary volume and language processing ability. Second language learning is integral to this development. At LPP, the regular use of Spanish, provides a vast variety of language situations for children to collect and process new data and begin forming their own language output." Molly Rowan Spanish teacher Lincoln Park Preschool & Kindergarten

LPP Germania : 108 W. Germania Place, Chicago, IL 60610 • 312-482-9009 • info@lppgermania.com LPP Belden : 312 W. Belden Ave., Chicago, IL 60614 • 773-665-0110 • info@lppbelden.com LPP Webster : 2150 N. Lincoln Park West, Chicago, IL 60614 • 773-248-3381 • info@lppwebster.com

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contents IN THIS ISSUE E

NOVEMBER 2014 | VOLUME 30 | NO. 11

GOOD TO GO

BEST IN CHI

SELF-AWARE PARENT ARENT

GOOD SENSE EATING

WELL PLAYED

CRAFT

Noshing at a cartoon brunch, playing at the new Chicago Playpen and pizza making at Stella Barra 3 places to teach kids about giving Practicing gratitude ude Sauerkraut is good od for the gut 4 fun ideas for the family Chocolate pilgrim m hats

OVE THIS 128 WHY YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LL LOVE Go fish at Aquatic ic ExperienceChicago

FEATURES NOT JUST SKIN DEEP With each click of the camera, Palos Park mom changes the face of beauty

GIVING THANKS FOR FAMILY WITH YOUR TIME Five ideas to make this month more meaningful

ON THE COVER 4 NOVEMBER ER 2014

| FREE FREE R E

136 ways to have fun

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

Y VALUES OVER, 43 FAMIL 52 MOVE How to create the road map for KATNISS kids to follow for a lifetime

Kids flocking to archery and loving it

A special fairy tale

Kiddie Katniss

One mom makes dream come true

Movie fuels family sport

Cover Kids: (Top, left to right) Lila Napientek, Francesca Sotchi-Ghenr, Olivia Lipunski. (Front) Irelynn Daupert Cover Mom: Katie Driscoll

Photography: Liz DeCarlo

Design: Claire Innes

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EDITOR’S NOTE SPONSORED

Neighbors from around the world

Gratitude and goodbyes

Your neighborhood is home to you, but chances are that your grandparents, or your great-grandparents, came from somewhere far away. That’s true of many trees, too. People have carried trees to Chicago from all over the world. When you walk along the street, you may walk beneath a gingko, which comes from China. It’s very likely you will pass a Norway maple, which naturally grows in Europe. In the springtime, you might like the flowers of Kousa dogwood, which comes from Japan. Of course, only some trees can live here. Our winters are too cold for trees from warm places like Brazil or Africa. When you get chilly, you can go indoors, but trees can’t. Like all living things, trees are shaped by the places where they live and what those places are like. Over a long time, each kind of tree comes to have traits that help it do well in its place. If it’s taken away, a tree can live only someplace else where its traits fit. Trees from cold places need cold places. Of course, some trees don’t go far. Many of the kinds of trees along your street are native, meaning that they come from the area right around Chicago. You may find an American elm, a sugar maple, or a bur oak. Like you, they are right at home.

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)

Find your own adventures in nature at The Morton Arboretum. Check out our award-winning Children’s Garden!

THE MORTON ARBORETUM

CONNECT WITH US

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

#mortonarboretum

TAMARA L. O’SHAUGHNESSY

I don’t have many friends. It wasn’t so much a conscious choice but one driven by my desire to give my kids my complete attention. Because I have always worked long hours, taking time away from them, especially when they were younger, to hang out with friends just didn’t feel right. So my friends also tend to be co-workers.

Of the truly special people sitting with me in the Chicago Parent offices right now is someone I’ve spent the last eight years getting to know as a co-worker and a close friend. Senior Editor Liz DeCarlo has been working for the magazine for the past 10 years, starting as a freelance writer and then calendar editor. She was the first one I promoted when I arrived. Over the years, we have shared life’s highs and lows and watched each other’s kids grow up. We often argue like sisters—she is the most stubborn person I’ve ever known, but she’d say the same about me. (It’s nott true, by the way.) We are having a baby! Much of the success this Chicago Parent and Bump magazine has seen over the Club and Beyond have years can be credited to Liz, from m teamed up to create a new the wonderful covers she has magazine for expectant photographed to some of the best est and new parents. We can’t stories we’ve published. She hass wait for you to see Hey Baby brought true passion to everyChicago. Due date: Nov. 2. thing she touched. Together we launched Chicago Special Parent nt as co-editors, she helped modernnize the magazine she directly oversees, Going Places, and she has helped shape the calendar into a valuable go-to place for parents at ChicagoParent.com. Liz has been ready to make a job change for some time, but the timing hasn’t been right for her family. Until now. As this issue goes to press, Liz is leaving Chicago Parent to tackle the next challenge in her life, this time as managing editor of a trade magazine. They are very lucky to get her. She’ll be amazing, of course. While I am thankful for all Liz has done at Chicago Parent and so happy for her, one thought keeps replaying in my head: I will miss my friend. Happy November. I hope you make time for friends and family this month.

8 November 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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The region’s top pediatric specialists are right where you need them. Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago is the area’s highest ranked pediatric program as rated by U.S. News & World Report. Our nearly 10year affiliation gives you access to more than 120 Lurie Children’s physicians and surgeons in 24 specialties at Central DuPage Hospital and Delnor Hospital in the western suburbs. Proof that keeping your kids healthy is, and will always be, our top priority. To learn more visit cadencehealth.org/kids.

Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago at Cadence Health is a collaborative program between Cadence Health and Lurie Children’s. The physicians participating in this program are neither agents of nor employed by Cadence Health or any of its afﬁliates. © 2014 Cadence Health

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CONTRIBUTORS

How we plan to make the most of the time with family this month 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

Turning off the television and breaking out the board games! Samantha Schultz

I hope to go hiking at Starved Rock and to keep watching “The Voice” as a family—because it is such great fun. Samantha Sordyl

By being grateful. We all know this as a concept, but since it’s Thanksgiving month, I feel more inspired to appreciate the moments and share how I feel. Cathy Cassani Adams

Booting them off their screens! I want to spend more time playing board games and cards (Old Maid, anyone?) with my kids and catching up with my extended family. Kelly James-Enger

Adams, Megan Murray Elsener, Kelly James-Enger, Sara R. Fisher, Linda Marsicano, Christine Palumbo, Samantha Schultz, Samanth Sordyl, Meredith Sinclair, Marianne Walsh DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES

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

Walter Burden

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Jessica Doerr

ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER

Philip Soell

ADVERTISING DESIGN MANAGER

Andrew Mead

ADVERTISING DESIGN Debbie Becker,

Mark Moroney

CIRCULATION MANAGER Kathy Hansen DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR

Alan Majeski

CREDIT MANAGER Debbie Zari PUBLISHER Dan Haley VP/OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Andrew Johnston

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

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

COMPTROLLER Ed Panschar FOUNDERS Natalie Goodman,

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

chiparent@chicagoparent.com CALENDAR

calendar@chicagoparent.com TO FIND A COPY

circulation@chicagoparent.com ADVERTISING

dhaley@wjinc.com CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

classified@chicagoparent.com

Chicago Parent is published monthly by Wednesday Journal, Inc. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Chicago Parent, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL, 60302. © 2014 Wednesday Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

10 November 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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Music, Art, Dance and Pre-School classes for ages 0-5 NEW! Half-day Pre-School for age 3

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Ready to

Learn. Ready to Grow. Ready to Discover. Little GEMS International Pre-School in Lincoln Park is the place where your child can learn and explore, grow and develop, and enjoy discovering the world. As part of GEMS Education’s global network of award-winning schools, children at Little GEMS International Pre-School receive an early start on a world-class education in structured and safe learning environments. We may be the new kid in Chicago, but GEMS Education has been the world’s foremost provider of private education for children from birth through Grade 12 for over fifty years. www.lgipreschool-chicago.com

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

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

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ON THE WEB

Family fun for November Thanksgiving is about more than food. It’s family and friends that really matter more than whether the turkey is a little on the dry side. We’re all about Thanksgiving here. Come visit ChicagoParent.com/ editorial-topics/thanksgiving for fun activities in the city and suburbs, traditions, craft ideas and even yummy recipes (some come from the best chefs in Chicago!). Best of all, we’re adding new ideas daily.

Win for your family It’s all about family this month with our great giveaways! Win VIP tickets to the McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade on State Street (grandstand seats, continental breakfast and private restrooms all included) or tickets to see everyone’s favorite flying nanny at Paramount Theatre’s “Mary Poppins.” Or if you’re already thinking about holiday gifts, we’ve got one-year family memberships to the Chicago Children’s Museum—a favorite family destination among our readers.

Don’t forget your download. You can now read each issue of Chicago Parent on your iPad or iPhone.

Be in the know Get a jump on your weekend planning and get great values from our advertisers by signing up for our newsletters. Sign up at ChicagoParent.com/newsletters. Plus, you can get a jump on your holiday fun planning, too. Find all of the wonderful information that makes up our Holiday Going Places magazine online and watch for Going Places to hit stands Nov. 14.

Find us on Facebook Join the Twitter party! Follow us @ChicagoParent

is part of your favorite social networks

On Pinterest pinterest.com/chiparent

ChicagoParent.com November 2014 13

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a hit with kids

ou wouldn’t guess it by the name, but Max’s Wine Dive (and a “dive” it’s not) in Wicker Park offers one of the most kid-friendly brunches in the city in a hip atmosphere. While Scooby Doo mesmerizes kids on one television, parents can watch sports on another—or simply enjoy the candy mimosa bar, where grownups add a little sweetness to their bubbly. The menu can change, but the day we visited, the kids’ brunch specials included bacon pancake dippers, pizza bagels and the

Scooby stack: graham cracker pancakes with chocolate crunchies and marshmallow, which looked more like a decadent dessert than breakfast. Alas, my picky eaters chose plain pancakes that they gobbled up, declaring they were better than Mommy’s, which I will thoroughly concede. I went with the crunch steak and biscuits, chicken-fried flat iron steak with sausage gravy and house-made biscuits. Amazing. The vanilla bean French toast is also to die for. If you have the time (and with kids engrossed in cartoon mode, you should) order the Famous

Max’s Wine Dive 1482 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago maxswinedive.com

Good

Cartoon Brunch

Southern Fried Chicken despite the 20-minute wait time. It is served with home fries, collard greens and Texas Toast. Still not full? Give the kids a real thrill by asking for The Incredible Six-Person Ice Cream Sundae, priced at a cool $30. Linda Marsicano

ChicagoParent.com November 2014 15

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BEST IN CHI

See What Santa Is Up To St ra tfor Square! At Stratford Stra ratfor tfordd Square!

SARA R. FISHER

Photos With Santa November 15th – December 24th

Located on the lower level, center of the mall, near the Jolly Express Train (check mall website for Santa photo hours)

The best ways to give thanks

Celebrate The Arrival of Santa Claus at Stratford Square Mall Thursday, November 20th 5:30 - 7:30 PM Dance performances, balloon artist, face painter, dance party and more!

Join us for a special holiday lunch with Santa at Red Robin Sunday, November 29th

Donation: $3 per person. Proceeds will go to benefit Marklund School. Reservations are required, limited seating! Please call 630.351.9400 to reserve your spot.

More Than Milk, morethanmilk.org Join this group of more than 250 moms dedicated to helping young children understand the value of volunteering in the community. More Than Milk has a Kick Off to Holiday Giving event 1-6 p.m. Nov. 20 at Bubbles Academy to introduce young ones to giving back. Crafts and free play are available for the kiddos while parents learn how to make a difference to organizations such as the Academy for Global Leadership, Little Giraffe and House of the Good Shepherd.

2 Pet Photos, Bowling with Santa, Santa Movie Day and more this Holiday Season at Stratford Square

‘Tis the season to be giving. Just before holiday “me” time kicks in, teach your kid a thing or three about giving to others. Volunteer activities are abundant in Chicago regardless of kids’ ages or stages. Here are some thought-starters to get your kiddos to give more than they receive.

The Honeycomb Project, thehoneycombproject.org Started by two moms on a mission to connect their kids to issues bigger than preschool playdates,

The Honeycomb Project connects volunteers with organizations who serve at-risk, low-income families and neighborhoods. On Nov. 8, families can join in on two activities: Donate your leftover Halloween candy to troops overseas or spend the morning packing and distributing groceries to feed families on Chicago’s west side.

3.6x

Lakeview Pantry, lakeviewpantry.org Lakeview Pantry, one of the city’s largest food pantries, has been operating since 1970 to help eliminate hunger. Families can volunteer for a myriad of opportunities for the Thanksgiving season. The pantry just asks that volunteers 18 years or younger take a training session.

For more information, visit www.StratfordMall.com for event dates and times.

Located at the corner of Schick Rd & Gary Ave, Bloomingdale, IL | 630.351.9400 For more information please visit www.StratfordMall.com

16 November 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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GOOD TO GO

Fun play space meets

need on south side

city-sized play space with a big personality, Chicago Playpen caters to kids who love to have fun. Kids, typically ages 2 to 6, come to this Hyde Park storefront for open play, themed birthday parties, special events and afterschool care. Inside they explore themed exhibits designed to look like a boutique, hair salon, vet clinic, kitchen, grocery store and construction zone. In the center of it all, they meet at a large interactive play mat, where my 2½-year-old loved popping virtual bubbles and chasing interactive soccer balls. The mat is a big hit with

most kids and a great spot for babies to play, says owner Anika McNeill, who opened Playpen in summer 2013. Living in the Hyde Park area with three kids of her own, McNeill got tired of driving to find a fun place to play so she decided to create her own. Open play is noon-6 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays, unless a private party is scheduled. Play costs $12 for the first child and $8 for each additional child. Children must be supervised while visiting but with free Wi-Fi and seating areas, parents can take a needed break. Whether they’re here for open play or a party, children can hand-stuff, dress and name a stuffed animal

for $7.50 in the Playpen’s “create a pal” station. Outfits are $5 each. Special programs include dance classes, offered in 10-week sessions for 2½ to 4½ year olds; an afterschool program for ages 5 to 7; and a preschool readiness program for ages 2 to 4. Jennifer Pallay

Chicago Playpen 908 E. 47th St. (773) 268-2899 playpenchicago.com

Give them a childhood to remember. Highlights.com/Imagine

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GOOD TO GO

Pizza making time at Stella Barra

y 6-year-olds and I belly up to the bar and are presented with dough, flour and toppings. As we start rolling and kneading, we’re instructed how to shape the dough into a perfect circle before tossing it into the air. Alas, covered in flour, we realized we’d need more practice to master that trick, so we moved to loading sauce, cheese and pepperoni. Fifteen minutes later our creations arrive at our table, looking (and tasting) just like an expert made them. Kids can partake in this fun experience every night at Stella Barra in Lincoln Park from 4-6 p.m., a deal at $5.95 per personal pizza. Another kid was there who seemed

Stella Barra 1954 N. Halsted stellabarra.com to already have the hang of it (his dough didn’t land in his lap) and his dad said the pizza sessions were a weekly tradition. Have a child who doesn’t like pizza? The kids’ menu includes options such as spaghetti and meatballs, chicken fingers, and the crowd-pleasing “Breakfast for Dinner.”

Mt. Prospect Park District has the BEST birthday parties!

Foodies will appreciate the unique artisan flavors of pizza such as applewood smoked bacon with goat cheese. Too chichi for your taste buds? Then the margherita, Hobbs pepperoni or housemade sausage—all delicious—are good bets. The outdoor patio with a fireplace is a highlight. With

heat lamps, it’s a cozy place to hunker down while chowing down. On the way out, grab a cookie or brownie at the bakery in the lobby. My daughters are begging to go back; looks like pizza making at Stella Barra just might become a tradition for our family as well. Linda Marsicano

Teach your child to swim, it’s the gift that lasts a lifetime! Small Class Sizes for ages 6 months and up

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Professional swim instructors “I smiled so much, my face hurt” - Tricia, mom

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18 November 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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GOOD TO GO Does your child snore? Does your child have multiple ear or sinus infections?

r Remgbisert3e1 and pay by Nove

LITY NO FAFCEEI!*

Pediatric Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists of Illinois Visit us at any of our locations! In the city: 1460 N. Halsted St. Suite 506 680 N. Lake Shore Drive Suite 1207 In the suburbs: Niles, Skokie, Park Ridge, Libertyville, Glenview, Grayslake, Highland Park and Hoffman Estates

Forget the kids’ table! Rather than shooing the shorties away, intersperse the grownups with the children so relatives can break bread with the kids they haven’t seen in a while.

Take some shortcuts. Why should the host have to slave away in the kitchen all day? Get the stuffing and sides for easy preparation at a HoneyBaked Ham store (you don’t even have to tell anyone…).

Go for an even bigger shortcut and take the crew out downtown this year: no stress and no mess. For those feeling fancy, try The Lockwood at the Palmer Hilton or NoMi at the Park Hyatt. For a casual yet tasty feast, Harry Caray’s is a laid-back favorite. Linda Mariscano

Katherine K. Hamming, M.D.

Robert P. Miller, M.D.

Find out why Dolphin is

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

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

I CAN:

3 ways to make Thanksgiving special

* Some restrictions apply. New customers only.

To make an appt. Call 312-266-6200 or 847-266-6200 PediatricENTIllinois.com

ChicagoParent.com November 2014 19

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THE SELF-AWARE PARENT

Need to know

Practicing gratitude Searching outside of ourselves for happiness has become an epidemic. We buy things we don’t need to create feelings of happiness or self-worth. But of course, these feelings are fleeting, and we usually find ourselves in an endless cycle of needing more. The majority of happiness experts agree that happiness, or contentment, is not CATHY CASSANI ADAMS found in achievement or stuff. We may get an initial “hit” of good feelings, but it’s not the long-lasting, heart-expanding kind of happiness.

nk ha T

yo u

Experts also agree there is one thing that can make a real difference and actually create meaningful and longlasting change. Gratitude. Practicing gratitude has been proven to increase overall happiness. So instead of setting our sights on getting more, it’s about noticing what we already have. Being grateful for what we have is a mood booster and it increases feelings of self-worth. Seems like such a simple solution, but it’s not always easy. Our brain is like a computer, constantly trying to solve problems. We tend to view things from a perspective of what’s not working rather than what is working. We can hear 100 compliments and one negative comment and only focus on the negative. But Happiness Researcher Shawn Achor (author of Before Happiness and The Happiness Advantage) says gratitude can “retrain” your brain. The brain gets more than 11 million bits of information per second, but it can only process 40. Practicing gratitude can help you notice the positive bits and screen out the negative. It literally

helps your brain experience the world differently. Achor says gratitude has a ripple effect: the more it’s practiced, the more it grows. Not only does it become a habit, but your gratefulness also has the power to affect others. As parents, we can make gratitude a family affair. Before dinner or bed, we can share what we are grateful for and ask our kids to do the same. We can also find and share quotes about gratitude, keep a gratitude journal, or find children’s books that focus on gratefulness. We can use our creativity to bring gratitude into the home. This kind of practice has the power to shape the way our children experience their day, and it may create a sense of stability to deal with their own lives and challenges. We all know that gratitude defines this upcoming holiday season. It’s what reconnects us. But instead of just making it about one day or a few months, maybe we can take this opportunity to make it our daily experience, year round. Cathy Adams is an author, the host of Zen

Parenting radio and the mom of three girls.

ChicagoParent.com November 2014 21

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MOM OF THE MONTH How do you balance motherhood and family? What’s your best tip? Prioritizing is key. Evaluate and change your priorities over time so that you can be balanced. To really just do what works for you.

A difference maker mom Carrie Meghie

{M.O.M}

Husband, Terry; sons, Jackson Chance, Maxson J. and stepson Solomon Chicago Principal, Becker Entertainment, co-president of Becker Ventures, general manager of the Hard Rock Hotel Chicago Co-founder with her husband of the Jackson Chance Foundation, named after their late baby son. The biggest lesson you learned once you became a mom? I think I learned to just really appreciate each day and to cherish the little moments. Just my child smiling at me can make my day.

How did you survive Jackson’s death? I think I always thought of Jackson and I said, ‘what would he want for me?’ I always knew to the core of my heart that he would want me to celebrate him and his life and not have sadness or pain when I thought of him. So I always try to honor him in that regard. … It never occurred to me he wouldn’t live a long life with us until days before he passed. I was just focused on spending as much time with him and making him as happy and healthy in the moments we spent together. I never really looked forward. I don’t know how, but I had this ability to focus on each day with him. Do you look at motherhood differently now than you think you might have? I 100 percent look at it completely differently. I think I look at everything differently after a loss like that. My priorities are different. I’m a different business person. I come up with different programs and ideas. I’ve just changed in so many ways, all for the positive I think. ... It changed me to my core as a woman.

A ball to help moms For some parents, the cost of parking and transportation stands between them and their babies in the NICU. While her first son, Jackson Chance, was in the NICU, Carrie Meghie discovered that fact. After Jackson died on Sept. 2, 2012, Meghie and her husband Terry wanted to do something that would honor their happy little boy and help other families in their shoes. They created the Jackson Chance Foundation, which in partnership with the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital, provides every family with a child in the NICU free parking and transportation. The foundation hopes to help every NICU family across the nation. The Second Annual Playing It Forward Ping Pong Ball, the foundation’s main fundraising event, will be held Nov. 6 at the Hard Rock Hotel Chicago. Guests get to play ping pong with rock stars and star athletes. “I hope they are able to find the peace and happiness in such a difficult, stressful time. I hope that taking away that one stress of parking and transportation helps them,” Meghie says about NICU parents. Donations also are accepted at jacksonchance.org.

Put kids in charge In the past, I have spent money on elaborate tablescapes. Last Thanksgiving, I let go of my need for “perfect” and put my girls in charge of decorating. They grabbed art supplies, holiday decorations, pinecones and twigs. The table was economically resplendent with gold-painted pumpkins and turkeys made out of pinecones. My girls were proud, the table never looked more kid-friendly, and I loved how personal it all felt! Lisa Henthorn

22 November 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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PLUGGED-IN PARENT

A kids’ life in comics Q A

SHARON MILLER CINDRICH

What is the right age for a child to use Bitstrip? Bitstrip is a free comic bookstyle application that lets people make personalized cartoon strips. Users can create their own characters and scenes, choosing features such as hair, eyes and clothing, backgrounds and scenery and add clever conversation to make creative and funny comic strips of themselves and friends. Anyone can use Bitstrip. Kids under 13 are welcome with a parent’s approval. Parents must review the app’s terms and complete the activation process (a simple activation email) within 72 hours after their child creates an account. Here are a few things to know about Bitstrip. Share. Bitstrip comics can be shared with other friends in the Bitstrip community or on social media sites. Children younger than 13 without a social media account

can send the comics in an email. Monitor content. Bitstrip provides a list of inappropriate content but, like many other social media sites, it depends on community monitoring to help flag comic strips that cross the line. Discuss the content guidelines with kids so they can be prepared as creators and readers. Add personal information with caution. Keeping full names, addresses, phone numbers and other identifying information off the Internet is important. Remind kids to stay private and avoid sharing information in comics that include names of their school, sports team, family members and other friends. Be sensitive about creating characters of others. Tweens and teens especially can be sensitive

about how they are portrayed in a Bitstrip. Talk to kids about being kind, considerate and thoughtful about how a friend might react to the clothes, hair or other character features they use. Having fun is different than making fun. Learning the social nuances of comedy and sarcasm can take some practice and differ from friend to friend. Remind kids that making fun of another friend, a teacher, coach or someone else’s family might not be funny to others and could be seen as bullying. Create comics together. Families can guide their child’s use of Bitstrip by creating a family comic strip. The app is fun, free and can be a creative way for families to use technology to connect and have fun.

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GOOD SENSE EATING

Got sauerkraut? Good for the gut

As the temperatures plunge and sick days loom, did you know fermented foods can boost your family’s immune system? Fermented foods contain the beneficial bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus. This organism consumes the natural starches and sugars in foods. At the same time, it creates byproducts, including lactic acid, CHRISTINE the agent PALUMBO responsible for preserving those foods. As the bacteria work, they enhance the nutritional value of the food by increasing its digestibility, enzyme level and vitamin content. Fermentation can decrease the gas-producing compounds in legumes, increase the availability of certain nutrients like the Vitamin B group, preserve levels of nutrients like Vitamin C and decrease the level of compounds that may interfere with nutrient availability. If you or your child has taken antibiotics, try fermented foods. Fermented foods can reintroduce beneficial bacteria to rebalance the intestinal flora. They may also help treat diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome. You may already be enjoying fermented foods. Natural pickles, sauerkraut, miso, tofu, tempeh, kimchi, kombucha tea and fermented cheeses all fall under the fermented banner.

The real deal What are the basics of fermentation? Adding salt to fresh produce kills the harmful bacteria present while allowing the good bacteria to thrive. This preserves the food while developing a distinctive tangy flavor. But many commercial pickled

products are high in salt and lack beneficial bacterial cultures. Most jarred pickles are simply cucumbers in a vinegar solution. When buying fermented foods, look for “live cultured” pickles or sauerkraut. To be sure, call the manufacturer to ask if the product has live cultures. Shopping at a health food, ethnic or “fresh” store may be your best bet to find old-fashioned barrels of pickles or sauerkraut. Or look in the refrigerated section of your usual supermarket. Making your own at home can be a fun “kitchen experiment” with the kids this winter. Any vegetable can be fermented, including carrots, radishes, green beans, eggplant and cabbage. A terrific resource is the National Center for Home Food Preservation, as well as several books written by Sandor Katz. Christine Palumbo, RDN, FAND, is a nutritionist in Naperville. While growing up she loved sauerkraut and is inspired to make her own after

Homemade sauerkraut Ingredients 1 small cabbage head (1½-2 pounds) 1 Tbsp. salt ½ cup filtered water

Directions 1. Sterilize a one-quart sized wide-mouth Mason jar and all tools (knife, canning funnel, metal mixing bowl) by dipping into boiling water for one minute. Air dry. 2. Wash cabbage head and remove outer leaves, saving one of them. Quarter cabbage, cut out core, and cut into ½ inch (or thinner) slices. 3. Place cut cabbage into metal bowl and sprinkle with salt. Crunch up cabbage with your hands and allow it to sit for five minutes so the texture softens. 4. Using the funnel, stuff cabbage and any liquid that appears into the Mason jar, tapping it periodically to make it fit. Pour filtered water into metal bowl to get out any extra salt, then pour over cabbage. Top cabbage with reserved cabbage leaf. Keep the funnel in your jar to help press down the cabbage. 5. Take a quart-sized freezer bag and fill it with water partway. Place this bag in the funnel. This will act as a weight to keep the cabbage leaves pressed down under the liquid. 6. Store cabbage in a cool, dark place inside a bowl to catch liquid in case it bubbles over. Daily for the next couple weeks: 1. Press down leaves to ensure cabbage leaves are under water. If not, take ½ cup water and 1 tsp. salt and heat until salt dissolves. Cool liquid then add the water to the cabbage as needed. 2. Skim off any ny foam. 3. Every week k taste your cabbage. After two to four weeks when it has the desired sourness, discard the top cabbage leaf. Screw on the jar lid and store sauerkraut auerkraut in the refrigerator. Nutrients perr half cup serving: 120 0 calories, 8 g carbohydrate, 0 g protein and fat, at, 4 g fiber, 880 mg sodium, 24% DV vitamin C. Used with permisrmission by Wendy Jo Peterson, MS, RD, CSSD, Culinaryy nutritionist.

researching this column. Find her at Christine Palumbo Nutrition on Facebook, @PalumboRD on Twitter and Chris@ChristinePalumbo.com.

24 November 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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When your family is complete, consider Essure® permanent birth control. Essure is the only permanent birth control that’s: • Non-surgical • Over 99% effective* • Non-hormonal • FDA-approved and available in the US for over 10 years Essure can help you stop worrying about an unplanned pregnancy. It is a short, 10-minute procedure that can be performed right in your doctor’s oﬃce. There’s no downtime to recover—most women go home about 45 minutes after the procedure and return to their normal activities within 1 to 2 days. The Essure Conﬁrmation Test is given 3 months after the procedure to verify the inserts are placed correctly and your fallopian tubes are completely blocked, providing permanent birth control. Essure may be covered by your health insurance plan at no cost† To learn more about Essure and find a doctor, visit essure.com or call 1.877.ESSURE4 (1.877.377.8734)

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

Important Safety Information WARNING: You must continue to use another form of birth control until you have your Essure Confirmation Test and your doctor tells you that you can rely on Essure for birth control. • You can rely on Essure for birth control only after your doctor has reviewed your Essure Confirmation Test results. Your doctor will confirm that the inserts are properly placed and both of your fallopian tubes are blocked. If you rely on Essure for birth control before having your Essure Confirmation Test, you are at risk of getting pregnant. • Talk to your doctor about which method of birth control you should use for the 3 months after the procedure. Some women can remain on their current birth control. Other women, such as those using an intrauterine device or contraceptive (IUD or IUC), will need to switch to another method. • It can take longer than three months for the Essure procedure to be effective. In rare cases, it has taken up to 6 months. Make sure to continue using an alternate form of birth control up until your doctor has reviewed your Essure Confirmation Test results and confirmed that you can rely on Essure for birth control. Please see additional Important Safety Information about Essure on next page. *Based on 5-year clinical study data. †Some restrictions may apply. Visit essure.com/aca to learn more or contact your health insurance provider.

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Important Safety Information (continued) WARNING: Be sure you are done having children before you undergo the Essure procedure. Essure is a permanent method of birth control. The younger a woman is when she chooses to end her fertility, the more likely she is to regret her choice later. During the procedure: You may experience mild to moderate pain, your doctor may be unable to place one or both Essure inserts correctly, part of an Essure insert may break off or puncture the fallopian tube requiring surgery to repair the puncture, or your body may absorb a large amount of the salt water solution. Your doctor may recommend a local anesthesia which numbs the cervix. Ask your doctor about the risks associated with this type of anesthesia. Immediately following the procedure: You may experience mild to moderate pain and/or cramping, vaginal bleeding, and pelvic or back discomfort for a few days. Some women experience nausea and/or vomiting or fainting. In rare instances, an Essure insert may be expelled from the body. During the Essure Confirmation Test: You will be exposed to very low levels of radiation, as with most x-rays. In rare instances, women may experience spotting and/or infection. Long-term Risks: There are rare reports of chronic pelvic pain in women who have had Essure. In rare instances, an Essure insert may migrate through the fallopian tubes into the lower abdomen and pelvis. It may be necessary to surgically remove the migrated device if the patient is experiencing an adverse event. No birth control method is 100% effective. If you do become pregnant after Essure, the risks to you, the fetus, the pregnancy and childbirth are unknown. Women who have the Essure procedure are more likely to have an ectopic pregnancy if they get pregnant. Ectopic pregnancy is when the pregnancy occurs outside of the uterus. Ectopic pregnancies can be very serious or life-threatening. If you have the NovaSureÂŽ procedure, a procedure that removes the lining of the uterus to lighten or stop menstrual bleeding, after the Essure procedure, your risk of pregnancy may increase. The Essure insert is made of materials that include a nickel-titanium alloy. Patients who are allergic to nickel may have an allergic reaction to the inserts. Symptoms include rash, itching and hives. Unknown Risks: The safety and effectiveness of Essure has not been established in women under 21 or over 45 years old. The safety and effectiveness of reversing the Essure procedure, of in vitro fertilization (IVF) after the procedure, or to you and your fetus if you get pregnant after the procedure are not known. Adverse Events: During the procedure, the most common problem reported was mild to moderate pain (9.3%). Some of the women in the study reported moderate pain (12.9%) and/or cramping (29.6%) on the day of the procedure. A smaller percentage of women reported nausea/vomiting (10.8%) and vaginal bleeding (6.8%). Essure inserts do not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases. Talk to your doctor about the Essure procedure and whether it is right for you.

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

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XXX-XX-XXXX-XXX

Printed in USA

September 2014

10/16/14 2:04 PM

WELL PLAYED

4 fun ideas for the family 1

Play with your family

One of the most popular board games in history just got personal. With the MY MONOPOLY App or website, you can easily create your own personalized MONOPOLY game by customizing property spaces, game tokens, Chance Cards and Community Chest Cards to include your favorite people, places and things! Gather your images from Facebook, Instagram or your personal devices, print them out on MEREDITH SINCLAIR your personalized MY MONOPOLY game stickers, stick them onto the game pieces and position them as you choose around the MY MONOPOLY game board and you’re ready to play! A great way to get all those crazy relatives playing together this Thanksgiving Day.

Play with your look

Ever wish you had a personal shopper to help you style your work day or holiday looks? Yeah, me too. Well, now you can get seasonal clothing “sets” virtually chosen and styled just for you by two style experts. It’s called the Reign Effect and it’s fresh on the fashion scene. You pay a small monthly personal shopper fee, and then decide which sets or items you may want to buy from what your experts have curated for you each season. Leave the lines, crowds and brutally lit dressing rooms to the rookies. Find out more at thereigneffect.com

Play with your food

Thanksgiving Day is all about yummy food and family time. Here’s a simple DIY turkey day appetizer that combines the two— and will get your crowd stepping away from the chip dip and snuggling up to something a little healthier. I’ve made this with my boys and it’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Here’s the 411: One small pie pumpkin or melon Bamboo skewers Toothpicks An assortment of your favorite fruits, washed and cubed. Strawberries, melon, blueberries and grapes, all work great. Red, green and yellow pepper slices Cheese cubes One small pear 2 raisins or dried cranberries One small slice of red pepper (for the snood)

Stabilize the body by cutting a shallow slice off the rind to form a flat base. Using a section of bamboo skewer, attach the pear to the melon for the head, add raisin or cranberry eyes as shown. Cut a cheese triangle beak and red pepper snood. Attach both, along with raisin eyes, to the head with sections of tooth picks. For tail feathers, skewer cheese cubes and fruit, then insert the skewers as shown. Pin pepper feathers in place on the sides with toothpicks.

Play with your giving

We all long to instill a stronger sense of kindness, empathy and giving in our kids—and not only during this time of year. That’s why the new Kind Kids Club by The Kindness Connection is so brilliant. A monthly subscription provides easy ideas for service activities to do with your kiddos and quarterly service projects with all of the materials you’ll need to complete and donate to various charitable organizations. The starter includes tarter kit inc n lude d s your initial charitablee project and starter supplies, membership card and d a kindness journal. An amazingly simple and playful way to teach kindness and love for others. Check k out thekindnessconnection.org for all thee deets. ChicagoParent.com November 2014 27

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Offering a full-day junior kindergarten program starting September 2015

You belong at Latin Find out more at one of our upcoming information sessions NOVEMBER Tuesday, November 4 Monday, November 17 Tuesday, November 18 Thursday, November 20 Tuesday, November 25 DECEMBER Tuesday, December 9 Thursday, December 11 Tuesday, December 16 JANUARY Tuesday, January 13 Tuesday, January 20 Thursday, January 22 FEBRUARY Tuesday, February 3

Sessions begin at 9 a.m. Latin School of Chicago (lower school) 1531 N. Dearborn Parkway, Chicago

28 November 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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CRAFT

Chocolate pilgrim hats Make these sweet treats for your Thanksgiving feast

PHOTOS AND STORY BY MEGAN MURRAY AY ELSENER hanksgiving is about more than n just the turkey, and these adorable little le custom pilgrim hats give a nod to the history of the holiday. The hats can be ediblee treats, festive decorations or perfect name cards ards for your Thanksgiving kids’ table.

Directions

Take out a single chocolate wafer or chocolate fudge cookie (chocolate side up). Put a small dab of orange frosting directly in the center of the cookie. ookie.

Keep p the Reese’s Peanut nut Butter Cups in the freezer eezer until you are readyy to use them. Unwrap the miniature cup and gently press it upside down own on top of the frosting on the chocolate cookie. Let each cookie sit for 5-10 minutes for the frosting to dry.

Next use either a small piping tip or cut the corner of a Ziploc bag filled with frosting. Slowly and carefully pipe the orange frosting frostin around the bottom edge ed of the peanut butter cu cup.

Then pipe a squ square on the front of the cup to look like a hat ha with a buckle.

Materials Chocolate cookies (such as Nabisco Chocolate Wafers or Keebler Fudge Stripes) Miniature Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Orange frosting Piping tips or Ziploc bag

If using as place place cards, pipe the name along the front bri brim m of the cookie hat.

ChicagoParent.com Chic cagoP Paren are ar en nt.com November 2014 29 nt

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30 November 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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FAILING WITH GUSTO

Secrets of lifelong friends

Marianne: Right. Anyway, flights are tricky and I couldn’t find anything on Expedia, but you guys would totally visit for like Christmas, right? Jeanette: I am just going to hold onto your passport here for a bit, ‘kay? Jeanette has seen me through bad haircuts, bad boyfriends, and bad postpartum moments where I cried for hours. She remains the only friend who promises to change my diapers when I grow old. If that is not love, I do not know what is. It got me thinking about my

sons and the friends they have selected. They are about the same age I was when I met Jeanette. Would they choose as wisely? I began listening in on conversations in hopes of identifying integrity and loyalty amongst the grade school boyy set. My findings: Son #1: You wanna go to the park and see who’s there?

Friend #1: Nah. You got chips? Son #2: Who wants to play hockey? Friend #2: Not now. But is your dad home? If he is, ask if I can stay for dinner. If it’s just your mom, I’m sick of cereal. Hmmph. Apparently, the dynamics for boy relationships are mostly food-based. I started studying my husband, a guy who maintains decades-long friendships effortlessly. His chums continue to golf, bowl and argue politics on a weekly basis. I have seen them fight passionately, but then turn instantly on any stranger who attempts to take sides. “This is between friends, buddy,” they will admonish interlopers, “it has nothing to do with you.” Joe’s gang g g represents p a diverse cross-section of personalities, interests and temperaments. There are CEOs, firefighters, policemen, teachers and lawyers. Most bystanders would be amazed

they could get along for five minutes, let alone 30 years. I eavesdropped for secrets to the male bromance. Joe: You guys wanna do burritos after golf tomorrow? Friend #1: Sounds good. It’s not like your wife cooks. *Uproarious group laughter* Hmmph. In the end, I still cannot put my finger on how exactly one keeps friends for a lifetime. Is it happenstance? An innate sense of loyalty? A shared affinity for midnight burritos? No matter the impetus, I pray my sons will find forever friends who will stand with them without question or judgment. Friends who can lift them when they are down,, cajole them when j they are misdirected, and stand with them when the world does not. Most importantly, I hope my boys will offer the same thing right back.

Talk back

My best friend, Jeanette, and I go back 30 years. The fact that my pal did not ditch me in the early 1990s is astounding. I can be difficult and irrational while walking a fine line on this side of sanity. A recent conversation: Marianne: I think I want to move MARIANNE to El Salvador so the kids can learn WALSH fluent Spanish. I have Googled homes and found a charming little one-bedroom made of twigs. Minimalism is awesome. Jeanette: You’re having a manic episode again. Gimme all your credit cards.

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

ChicagoParent.com and webandofmothers.blogspot.com.

ChicagoParent.com November 2014 31

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VOICE: JULIE PARSON NESBITT

Reflections on parenting

back in the day

s an older parent, I’m raising my child in the midst of the “helicopter parents” generation. A neighbor cut down a thriving apple tree in their yard for fear that an apple might fall on the baby. Another mom didn’t trust strollers and wouldn’t use them.

I loved how my son eagerly took in the world while I strolled him through the neighborhood to a chorus of praise for his cuteness. I wouldn’t give up those blissful stroller rides for the world or cut down a flowering apple tree no matter where the fruit fell. I grew up in the 1960s and ‘70s, when many parents seemed lovingly oblivious to most of their kids’ lives. Like in “Mad Men,” when the mother, seeing her 6-yearold daughter with the plastic dry cleaner’s bag over her head, responds: “Sally, I hope you didn’t leave my dry cleaning on the floor!,” that’s how it was. Mandatory seatbelts were a new invention. Somehow, we survived. And thrived. When I was in early grade school, our backyard abutted a national forest. Although I was not yet 8, I spent days roaming the woods with my best friend. We had games for each part of the woods: a hilly field for rolling and sledding, a stand of slim trees we called bamboo, a secret ivy-covered grove crisscrossed by stone bridges. Years later, returning with my own 6-year-old son, we found the woods, the sledding hill, and the ivy grove, all exactly

as I remembered. I would not in my wildest dreams have allowed my son out of my sight in that forest. Yet, he was exactly the age I had been when I played there. The parents I know, including myself, start planning for summer in early February. We comb websites for the perfect summer camp; work extra hours so our kids can learn golf or build social skills. My mom’s perfect summer day was an afternoon at the beach with her friends and an evening picnic at Ravinia. We were expected to amuse ourselves. We organized endless games of neighborhood kickball, playing until it was too dark to see the ball. We didn’t learn Mandarin or scuba diving, but we played until we slept and reveled in our freedom. Our family was not a democracy and we were not invited to help make decisions. Almost every weekend, we piled into our station wagon and my father would take us somewhere. We never knew where until we arrived. It was always a place my dad wanted to go—an art gallery with abstract expressionist paintings, a piñatastrewn street fair in Pilsen, smoke-filled Turkish coffee shops where no women

We played until we slept and reveled in our freedom. were allowed. We went to the places the adults enjoyed. And that made us feel grown-up and at home in the larger world. If, as Buddhists say, children choose their parents, my sisters and I must have been first in line. While teen friends blamed their parents for problems, we couldn’t even come up with a good excuse for adolescent rebellion. As a result, I always listen to my mom as I raise my son. Her advice when he was a baby has become a mantra: “If he’s happy, don’t change anything.” When I’ve been stressed out over his behavior: “Don’t worry, it’s just a phase.” The distillation of all therapy: “He’ll behave because he wants to please you.” And because my son has special needs and some things are not just a phase, I remember my mom’s words: “Don’t worry, he’ll be fine. He’s your son.” Julie Parson Nesbitt is a Chicago mom and widely published author of poetry, book reviews and critical essays.

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32 November 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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VOICE: SARAH WATTS

Four things I learned from one month in the NICU

he scariest day of my life was when I learned our son, Henry, would need to be hospitalized immediately after birth. At a routine ultrasound, Henry was diagnosed with spina bifida, a defect of the neural tube where the spinal column fails to close. My husband and I wept as our obstetrician warned us of the multiple surgeries he would need to have, and the weeks (possibly months) that he would need to be observed in the NICU. Needless to say, we were terrified. Thankfully, although Henry did end up needing two surgeries after birth, our NICU experience was phenomenal. Our doctors were attentive, our family was well taken care of, and we all learned some invaluable lessons we couldn’t have learned anywhere else.

SOMEONE ALWAYS HAS IT BETTER, AND SOMEONE ALWAYS HAS IT WORSE.

Whenever I tell people that Henry was in the NICU for 25 days, the reaction is always the same—their jaws drop in horror. Back then, we envied those families “on the outside”—those who got to take their babies home straight from the recovery room, ones who didn’t have to worry about changing bandages and watching for infections. But as much as we envied them, we knew things could have been a lot worse. Henry was six pounds (a giant compared to the other NICU babies) and his condition was stable. Our situation may have

looked bleak to other people, but we were acutely aware of how lucky we were. Perspective is so important, and nowhere else could we have learned this valuable lesson than a hospital wing full of fragile babies.

YOU CAN’T BE EVERYTHING FOR EVERY CHILD, ALL THE TIME. I

was discharged from the hospital when Henry was four days old, and together my husband, toddler and I returned to our family home in suburban Chicago, over an hour away from him. To say my heart was broken would be a serious understatement. I remember sobbing to my husband, “Who will feed him? Will anyone have time to just hold him?” At the same time, I was bursting with excitement to finally be back home with my 2-yearold daughter, whom I had barely seen since Henry’s birth. It devastated me to leave Henry behind, but I left him behind anyway. There were two babies who needed us now, and so we learned, painfully, how

While not a sad place necessarily, the air in the NICU is tinged with loss. to delegate. Now, months later, I learn this lesson anew every single day. With two children, someone will always be short of attention. Someone will always be crying in a swing while the other one is being tended to, and vice versa.

NURSES DON’T GET ENOUGH CREDIT. The

prospect of leaving our precious baby with a team of “random people” was heartbreaking. Because I couldn’t be there every waking moment, I expected the nurses to fill in for me as a surrogate mother. My expectations of them were otherworldly. And they exceeded my expectations. As it turned out, this team of “random people” was the best thing that could have happened to our family. Never hostile, always unfailingly patient, our NICU nurses took painstaking care of Henry. They remembered

how he liked to be held. They called him by name.

YOU WILL GRIEVE, AND THAT’S OK. Every parent

in the NICU is grieving something—even the lucky ones. They’re mourning the loss of being able to dress their baby in newborn outfits because their baby is hooked up to too many wires. They’re mourning the loss of being able to pick up their baby without scrubbing their hands. Possibly, NICU parents are grieving the loss of the baby itself. While not a sad place necessarily, the air in the NICU is tinged with loss. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking you can’t grieve your losses because you have so much else to be thankful for. But grieving is essential in order to accept your losses and eventually move on.

Sarah Watts is a freelance writer and stay-at-home mom in the Chicago suburbs.

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VOICE: ALENA MURGUIA

An idol’s tumble

Mom: Adrian Peterson let my son down

AP,

you broke our hearts. September was a bad month for the NFL. Injuries, scandals and even arrests are nothing new for the multi-billion dollar sports/entertainment business, but this particular month seemed to tip the scales and, in

our home, broke one little boy’s heart. The news of Adrian Peterson’s arrest on charges of child abuse rocked our youngest son hard. His fascination with “AP” has become almost a private joke among family and friends. Certainly he’s withstood his fair share of jeers and comments about wearing #28’s jersey or the giant AP Fathead above his bed. He even has an AP pillow. We had no choice but to tell him the facts, at least as much as we knew. The news was crawling across every station. We wanted him to hear from us and be able to ask questions. My husband held him close as our little boy absorbed the story of a man he admired allegedly beating a child with a tree branch. It’s truly terrible. Later our son went up to his bed and just stared at Peterson’s image, his eyes filled with tears. I know there are people out there thinking “Shame on you” for letting a child idolize a sports star. (I know this because I philosophically agree.) It’s just not that simple. Of course we try to keep it in

perspective. We’re always talking about the irony that guys playing with balls are making millions of dollars while teachers and police and paramedics struggle to earn a fair wage. We don’t call athletes heroes. We talk honestly about cheaters and drug users and the culture of sports entertainment. But have you ever tried to dissuade a child from his passion? I don’t care if it’s dinosaurs or animals or spaceships or football, when a boy has an obsession, it’s tamper-proof. Years ago, our son watched AP run, and smile, and do his dance, and he decided on his favorite athlete. He has since waited through injury and withstood the haters to cheer

I don’t care if it’s dinosaurs or animals or spaceships or football, when a boy has an obsession, it’s tamper-proof. on AP week after week. Now he’s crushed. And he doesn’t want to talk about it. He’s in his own head and his own heart grappling with disappointment. I’ll leave it to others to write about the culture of violence surrounding football, the illusion of impenetrability

that accompanies celebrity, and the potentially deeper/ darker issues plaguing Adrian Peterson. The best I can do is offer open, loving arms to my hurting baby boy. Alena Murguia lives in Berwyn with her husband and three growing sons. She was a long-time Chicago Parent staff member.

On your desktop. In your pocket. On the go.

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REAL PARENTS IN THE TRENCHES

Want more? Visit ChicagoParent.com/parentpanel

Your kids’ amazing teenage babysitter attempted suicide recently. Do you tell the kids?

No! If they are young enough to need a babysitter, they are in no way mature enough to understand suicide. It would be a great time to start explaining mental illness in general terms. Anne Rezabek, Elgin

As difficult as it may be, honesty is best. An age-appropriate answer about sadness and choices followed by a discussion of the importance of talking with someone when you are that sad, and that you are grateful the babysitter is still in your lives. Aileen Robinson, Chicago

I would tell them something, based on their age and level of sensitivity. Then we would make get-well cards to send. Kate AtkinsTrimnell, Homewood

My children are younger and I believe the less they know about their babysitter’s suicide attempt the better at this point. I wouldn’t say anything until I spoke with the babysitter and his or her parents. Diane Oliver, Chicago

Ideally I wouldn’t tell them. If they would most likely hear about it in school or at the park, make sure you are the one to tell them. Speak to a social worker, school counselor or clergyman for guidance on how to hold this difficult conversation. Lisa Cheruff, Skokie

I would not, since I have young children under 5. However, I would take it as an opportunity to talk to my children about how to cope, who to talk to and how to express themselves when they are sad or angry. Gia Lee, Chicago

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Not just

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skin deep F With each click of the camera, this mom changes the face of beauty

STORY S TORY AND PHOTOS BY LIZ DeCARLO

airies are everywhere, their little wings hanging askew as they pose in front of a 100-year-old barn in a Palos Park backyard. But these are no ordinary fairies—some are in wheelchairs, others h ha have ave D Down own syndrome, they’re every ethnicity and aag age. ge. e. A And nd in n the midst of the fairy fray stands the pe p person errsso on n who who brings the magic to the photoshoot— ph p photographer ho otto og graph Katie Driscoll. Driscoll, a Palos Park mom of six children, is the force behind the Changing the Face of Beauty campaign, a grassroots project that aims to include children of all abilities in the media and advertising. Driscoll’s mission began when her youngest child, Grace, was born with Down syndrome. After having five boys, Driscoll was excited to start buying all the adorable hats and dresses and girly items she’d missed out on with her boys. But it began to dawn on her as she looked through catalogs and online advertising that none of it contained a child with special needs. She began working with Steve English, a Chicago dad of an adult son with special needs, who sells fair trade products and suggested Grace model some of his items. Once they got started, Driscoll and English decided they needed to find a way to get advertisers to include children of all different abilities in their catalogs, so they started Changing the Face of Beauty. “As I got into it and started thinking about it, I was disappointed with the advertising community and the media. The more I met people with disabilities, I became more frustrated,” Driscoll says. “With them being the largest minority in the world, they’re the least represented.” To get the campaign going, Driscoll began dressing Grace in clothing she bought off Etsy, taking a photo and then contacting the vendor to see if they’d be receptive to having Grace model their CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

ChicagoParent.com November 2014 39 C

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CHANGING THE FACE OF BEAUTY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 39 clothing. Late at night, after tucking her six kids into bed, Driscoll would be busy sending out letters to advertisers suggesting they include children with disabilities. Meanwhile, Lisa Schuh in Downers Grove had decided her daughter Teagan, who has Down syndrome, would make a great model. “From the beginning, when Teagan was born, I wanted the world to see her as I did,” Schuh says. “So it was always my mission to push her out there and have her be visible and have other parents understand the normalcy of having a kid with special needs.” It helped that Teagan loved to ham it up for the camera. When Schuh contacted a modeling agency in Hinsdale, they recommended Teagan, 9, have some modeling shots taken by Driscoll and they would see what happened.

Within a week, Teagan landed her first gig modeling for a Walgreens ad. She was also one of the fairies in the recent photoshoot for Mighty Acorn, which featured nine vendors from around the country who came together to create an inclusive advertising campaign. Mustard Pie Clothing and Jak and Peppar clothing, both local clothing lines designed and owned by Shannon Rihm, were part of the Mighty Acorn photoshoot. “Katie had posted a picture of a little girl with Down syndrome on our page wearing one of our outfits,” Rihm says. “So she contacted me and asked me if we wanted to contribute some clothes, which we definitely wanted to do.” “It’s close to my heart,” says Rihm, who has several family members with special needs. “We like to see all types of kids shine and feel good in the

“...Anything is possible if you work hard enough and creatively enough.” Katie Driscoll clothes they’re wearing.” Now Driscoll has decided to push her campaign even further. Recently she bought clothing from JC Penney and re-created one of their ads with Grace and some other kids with and

without disabilities. She created a video to show that it doesn’t take that much to include children with differences. “They were overwhelmed by the video and photos so they put together a look book. They took

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pics of my kids and their friends … and did a call out to moms of kids of all abilities, so parents from all over the country were sending in pictures,” Driscoll says. “They compiled those and created this look book with all their customers. That project changed everything for me. It showed me anything is possible if you work hard enough and creatively enough.” Across the country, people are taking note of Driscoll’s Changing the Face of Beauty campaign. She and Grace traveled to New York to appear on the Today show. She has been featured in People magazine, the Huffington Post and many other major media outlets. That’s not enough for Driscoll, who in addition to Changing the Face of Beauty, homeschools three of her six kids and works as a freelance photographer. She recently began collaborating with some of her fellow bloggers and they’ve decided it’s time to reach out to the

big box retailers. They were encouraged when they saw that Gap recently included a child in a wheelchair in one of its catalogs. “We hope to start a campaign for big box retailers to jump on board. Gap did it,” Driscoll says. “We’re pushing for 10 big retailers for 2015.” As it grows, Driscoll says the project has become so much bigger than just her. “People believe in it and once they know about it, they realize the importance. “We’ve gotta go to the next level and for me, our imagery, our media, is the biggest way. We see there what we believe is important and make conscious decisions about what we eat, wear and do from those images,” Driscoll says. “The more children with disabilities are included, the more our children are exposed.” Liz DeCarlo is senior editor at Chicago Parent and the mom of three.

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How to create the road map for kids to follow for a lifetime BY KELLY JAMES-ENGER

ou’ve probably seen the popular “family rules” wall hangings that say things like, “say ‘I love you,’” “share” and “listen to your parents.” Our family has one that hangs in the kitchen of our house, and I love its continual reminders about how to behave. Yet I’ve realized that when it comes to family values, ours can be summed up in two words—respect and compassion. I’m always reminding my kids to treat themselves, other people, and even the planet with respect and compassion. I feel like if they do, they’ll grow up to be productive and hopefully happy adults who will make a positive difference in the world. That’s my hope, anyway. Whether you realize it or not, your words and actions are always communicating your personal values to your kids. However, every family’s values vary, and the key isn’t

what you choose as your values, but that you take the time to identify your own and talk about them with your kids.

What are family values, anyway? “Family values are the qualities or goals that matter most to families. They’re very personal and evolving things,” says Eileen Kennedy-Moore, PhD, a Great Courses professor of Social and Emotional Intelligence for Every

Child and author of Smart Parenting for Smart Kids (Jossey-Bass, 2011). “When our children are young, we may place a greater value on togetherness; as they get older, independence may come more into the spotlight, but love in all its forms tends to be a strong value for most families at all stages of life.” Your family’s values probably encompass what you think is important, and what you want your children to embrace. For Downers Grove resident and active Chicago Parent Parent Panel Member Kerry Quirin, those values include faith in God, gratitude and a strong work ethic.

“I really want to instill a solid moral code in them,” explains Quirin, the mother of three, Claire, 13, Brenna, 10, and Joe, 8. “I hope that (as they get older) they refer back to their relationship with God. I’ll say, ‘I know that you don’t understand why I want you to go to church every week, but it is something that you will understand when you are 30. …I want you to believe in something bigger than yourself.’” Quirin’s parents always emphasized the importance of a strong work ethic and now Quirin does the same with her kids.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 44

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FAMILY VALUES

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 43

“Every day isn’t going to be butterflies and rainbows—there are going to be days where you don’t want to do something, but that’s your job and your responsibility—other people may be counting on you,” she says. The family you grew up with has a powerful influence on the values you choose to emphasize with your children. “Inclusion is a very important value to us because we have three kids that are so close together,” says Winnetka resident Jessica Brosche, the mom of three young sons, Connor, 5, Oscar, 3, and Spencer, 19 months. “We always make it a point (to our boys) to ‘make sure that your brothers are included.’…It was the way I was brought up, that family came first and you wanted to make sure that your family’s needs and wants were taken care of before you started branching out to your friends.” The values of the O’Flaherty family of Downers Grove stem from two primary places—their faith and the Irish piece of their culture, says Peggy O’Flaherty, mom to five, Grania, 13, Enya, 12, Cillian, 10, Liadan, 9, and Orla, 5. Like the Quirins, the O’Flaherty family also emphasize the importance of doing

your best. “My husband moved here from Ireland (as a child), and his parents didn’t come from Ireland for him to have an ‘OK’ life,” she says. “We tell our kids that life is about choices, and you can choose to work hard or choose not to work hard.”

Honing in on your values So how do you identify your family’s unique values? O’Flaherty, who is a spiritual counselor and the owner and founder of Creating Space, LLC, suggests you start with a discussion between you and your partner. “I think it’s a good thing for you and your husband to sit down and talk about what you desire for your family, as individuals and as a whole,” she says. “What are your core values? What really matters to you, and how are you going to live that out as a couple and a family unit?” Do those values include service to others? Education? Family? Curiosity? Always doing your best? Living green? Exploration? There are no right or wrong answers; your values should reflect what you hold true, and what you would like

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kind thing to do here?’” says Kennedy-Moore. “We have to teach values by doing, rather than lecturing. When they see you being kind toward the checkout person, it makes them see that is the way we do it… you have to live your values, not just lecture (about) them.”

Communicating by example

to see your children embrace both now and in the future. The next step is to talk about those values—and live them. “We tend to lecture, but it’s better to get kids thinking, such as by asking, ‘what’s the

As Kennedy-Moore points out, you can’t simply announce your values and expect your children to absorb them. You demonstrate them and teach your children how to do the same. When it comes to learning to be grateful, for example, here’s what Quirin does. “I always kind of point out to my kids that a certain positive thing didn’t just happen,” says Quirin. “I’ll say, ‘let’s back it up a bit and look at the chain of events of things that happened …Things don’t just happen to you—someone

thought of you or of me, and this is what we got out of it.’” One of Kennedy-Moore’s self-proclaimed family values is kindness. “When my kids were younger, we would go around the table and they would report a kindness they had done that day,” she says. “As they got older and mouthier and w would ould ou ld ssay ay they hadn’t done one a kindness, I’d say, ‘well, well, you’ve got two hours before bedtime, so you’d ou’d better do something.. If you’ve spent the whole ole day and haven’t done one anything kind,, you’ve wasted your day.’” Brosche moddeled the value of inclusion from m the time her second son was born. “From the very

beginning, Connor was in the bedroom when we were feeding the baby,” she says. “He would sit and watch TV and he was a part of the whole process of going to bed. Now they sit together and read their books at night (while she feeds her youngest son)—they like that wind-down time together.” O’Flaherty Forr O’ Fo O Flaah Fl aher ahe erty and her erty teaching values husband, teach helping their kids involves helpin learn how to iincorporate them in their lives. “We talk k with our kids time all the tim m about what it means tto live our faith, and d what does that look like for our family,” she says. Because the Be e O’Flahertys O’F believe in be demonstratd iing their faith through love, CONTINUED ON PAGE 46

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FAMILY VALUES

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 45

“A ‘core value approach’ is useful because you can’t cover every situation that your kids are going to encounter,” says Kennedy-Moore. “When you teach them core values, that becomes their compass moving forward.”

each night she asks her kids about their day before they go to bed. “I ask, ‘when was the moment when you felt the most love—either you gave it or received it—or when did you feel the absence of love?’ We thank God that we had those experiences and then try to be more aware of it tomorrow … to enter into the next day looking to give and receive more love.

So think about the path you want your kids to take—and let your values help them navigate in that direction. Kelly James-Enger lives with her husband, son, daughter and maniac golden retriever in Downers Grove.

That’s how I try to incorporate the idea of prayer and love into a daily practice.” However you approach them, your family’s values serve as a road map for your children, not only now but as they grow into adults. Values help guide them through experiences that you won’t be on-hand to help them value, and that’s an essential part of parenting.

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Giving thanks for family w

BY SAMANTHA SCHULTZ

ith the hustle and bustle of everyday life and the craze of the holidays just around the corner, finding family time can prove to be a bit difficult. Whether you’re a working parent or a stay-at-home mom with a to-do list a mile long, making the most of the time you’re with family is important. In this season of giving thanks, take the time to soak in these years. Try these tips to keep family at the forefront this upcoming season and throughout the year.

Minimize technology use

Facebook statuses can wait and a laundry list of email responses and text messages can be tabled for the moment. Choose a day to go tech- or media-free and make it a weekly tradition for your crew. Everyone will get used to the idea of going electronics-free and you just might see the revival of traditional conversation in your midst. On the flip side, you might even consider learning more about the kids’ favorite game and figuring out how to use a game controller. After all, if you can’t beat them, you may as well join them! Use technology only to enhance, not replace, real life communication. Have older kids? Battle them in apps such as Words with Friends or break out the board games for some friendly family competition.

Take mental snapshots

Resist the urge to jump onto the Instagram train every time you see your kids do something adorable. Opt to take mental snapshots instead and really enjoy the moments for what they are rather than which filter makes them look best. Consider having kids draw their favorite things to do as a family. You just might be surprised by what they choose! Not to mention that you’ll have a unique keepsake to commemorate an afternoon of family bonding.

Five ideas to make this month meaningful

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with your time

Share the mundane everyday tasks

Whether you’re packing lunches or prepping for dinner, you do not need an abundance of free time to enjoy your crew. Little hands will love helping mix macaroni, stirring batches of cookies or folding napkins for the next day’s lunch. Kids love the opportunity to help with the cooking! We’ve included a fun fall recipe to get you started (see sidebar). Even better, household chores such as laundry and dusting

might also become a little more enjoyable if you have company with you. Understand that tasks may take a bit longer, but the memories made while doing so will last a lifetime.

Enjoy the love of reading together

Finding time to unwind can be difficult, but folding in relaxation with the typical day’s schedule can be the perfect opportunity to spend time together. From the time our boys were born, bedtime stories have been a significant part of our daily routine. Reading with your kids provides great areas for growth for them and increased familial connection for you. Looking for a few great book ideas? Share The Book with No Pictures by B.J. Novak of The Office fame or the classic Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak.

Orgaanize Organize and d prioritize i iti the family schedule

As my boys get older, I am continuously learning the value of setting family priorities and controlling what goes on and off the schedule. Limit activities so that you can still have time for homework and family outings and consider scheduling a day each week for uninterrupted family time. One of the biggest elements of this is learning the value of the word “No.” Whether you opt out of an upcoming parent volunteer opportunity or you nix plans with a friend, learn to say no to things in your schedule when you know your family is craving together time. Control the schedule so that it does not control you.

Spice things up This recipe is one of my family’s favorites. Everyone has fun making and eating these treats. I substituted in good-foryou ingredients—applesauce, Greek yogurt, whole wheat flour. I bet your family falls in love with these muffins, too! Amanda Fayne

Skinny Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins Yields 10-12 muffins Ingredients ¾ can of 15-ounce pure pumpkin 2 eggs ½ cup applesauce ½ cup white sugar 1 ½ cup whole wheat flour ½ cup nonfat vanilla Greek yogurt 1 tsp. cinnamon ½ tsp. nutmeg ½ tsp. baking powder ½ tsp. baking soda Pinch of salt ¾ cup chocolate chips

Directions Preheat oven to 350. Combine all ingredients in one bowl. Stir until smooth. Bake 40-45 minutes or until a fork through the middle of a muffin comes out clean.

ChicagoParent.com November 2014 49

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UniversiTy of illinois aT ChiCago College of edUCaTion http://education.uic.edu 50 November 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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BY SAMANTHA SORDYL

hen the next Hunger Games movie hits theaters later this month, young fans will flock to see it, imagining themselves with bow and arrow in hand navigating the Capitol. According to the National Sporting Goods Association, archery is on the rise, with 8.3 million participants nationwide in 2013. So what’s prompting kids? “I watch a lot of movies like The Hunger Games and I wanted to try it,” says Emma Potocki, 11, of Lake Zurich.

After a few lessons at Cabela’s in Hoffman Estates and a summer camp with Casey Fuller, owner of Chicago Archery Academy in Elmhurst, Emma says she’s hooked. “It just makes me feel happy,” she says about letting the arrow soar. “Even if you miss the center

of it, it still makes you feel happy because you hit the target.” A lot of people passionate about this niche sport, many of whom are certified instructors and owners of ranges and shops around town, are thrilled to see its popularity growing among kids and adults.

Terry Pryor, certified instructor and owner of Archery Custom Shop in Forest Park, says he has seen many more kids in his shop in recent years. “It’s a good thing. It’s the future of the sport.” Bill Munson, president of the Lincoln Park Archery Club and owner of Humbolt Park’s indoor shooting range Archery Bow Range Chicago, is one of the top 100 archers in the country. Munson’s tips for getting started: “Find a place where you can get a lesson, and get a lesson.” “Get familiar with the equipment. Don’t buy a bow the first day. A bow is a big investment.” An instructor can help guide your purchase, he says. A good age to start? “Eight is kind of the understood minimum age. With a lot of help from parents, they can do it younger.” “One thing that people find is that it doesn’t matter how big or small the kids are,” Munson says. “It’s more about concentration and focus and execution. Different sizes can compete equally,” he says. And you will get there.

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KIDS FLOCKING TO ARCHERY AND LOVING IT

“Everybody remembers their first bull’s-eye,” says Munson. Alec Kaplan, 15, who lives in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood, has practiced archery on and off since a sleepaway camp when he was 9. He practices with Munson at Archery Bow Range Chicago. Alec agrees with Emma: “It can be frustrating at some points, but it’s really satisfying watching the arrow hit the target.” Alec, who also plays tennis, says archery is a sport that’s all about you. “You are not competing against other people. Your main competitor is yourself.” Alec appreciates that archery can be peaceful, too. “It’s much more relaxing than other sports,” he says. You can compete in archery in regional and national tournaments. Or you can just practice to better your form and technique for the love of the game. Happiness. Satisfaction. Peace. These qualities also have attracted whole families to the sport. Brent Kiger of Plainfield, who has 8-year-old twin daughters and a 13-year-old son, says he and his wife Shannan truly enjoy “the challenge” of archery when they practice every

Saturday with Chicagoland Junior Olympic Archery Development at a range in Mooseheart. A big draw for the Kigers: “This is what we do all together,” Shannan says. But are kids and arrows really a good mix? “Archery is a safe sport if kids are first taught how to shoot safely by certified instructors,” Kathy Miller, director of Chicagoland JOAD, wrote in an email. According to the most recent data from the National Safety Council, very few kids get injured in archery. It is among the lowest, if not the lowest, injury sport in all age groups. “I’ve been shooting for over Interested in lessons and programs for kids, families and adults? Here are a few spots to check out: Chicagoland JOAD, chicago landjoad.org Lincoln Park Archery Club, lincolnparkarcheryclub.org Archery Bow Range Chicago, archerybowrange chicago.com Archery Custom Shop, archerycustomshop.com Chicago Archery Academy, chicagoarchery.com Cabelas, cabelas.com

20 years, and I have yet to see any injuries in archery,” says Munson. Add archery to the list of fun winter sports because you start inside, Munson says. When the weather warms up again (and it will!), Nadler suggests trying out his club’s unique outdoor space, a “dedicated 100-meter outside range.” People can shoot sunrise to sunset on the lake at Belmont Harbor in Lincoln Park. “Something l learned about archery is that it takes a lot of time to get better at it,” says Emma, who had been practicing in her basement the day she was interviewed. “And you need a lot of patience to just work on everything.” Bass Pro, basspro.com Chicago Bow Hunters, chicagobowhunters.com Wheaton Rifle Club, wheatonrifleclub.org Joliet Archery Club, joliet archery.com If interested in competitions for kids and adults, see: USA Archery, teamusa.org National Field Archery Association, nfaausa.com Samantha Sordyl is a writer and mom of three living in La Grange Park.

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How schools are using their progressive philosophy and technology to empower students By Shannan Younger

any independent schools in Chicago take a progressive approach to education that ensures students know that they are part of a wider community and empowers them to make a difference. These schools have found that innovation in the classroom and use of technology makes it more possible than ever to learn about the world and the issues facing it. “The idea of serving the world is important and integral to everything we do here,” says Hilary Holder, director of admissions at Baker Demonstration School in Evanston. “Part of Baker’s mission is that children learn

not just within the classroom but in the world beyond the classroom.” When fourth- and fifthgraders at Baker learned about economics, math and marketing, they learned about giving back as well in a business unit that had students develop their own business plan. The students pitched their idea to a venture capitalist panel comprised of teachers, administrators and parents and those selected were given start-up money. Their products sold at a fair for families and students donated their profits to charity. The project was a “great way for children to learn about real world economics with real life application” and

ties in with the school’s mission. At Chiaravalle Montessori School in Evanston, caring for others and empowering students to change the world is “always part of the conversation,” says Robyn McCloudSpringer, head of school. That begins at the toddler level where each toddler room has a class pet. Each student has the responsibility for providing food and feeding it. “Small things develop

photo courtesy of beacon academy

empathy, responsibility and language of caring that is important as kids get older,” McCloud-Springer explains. That sense of responsibility can be seen in upper grades, where students study the

continued on page 56

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school’s focus on innovation, creativity and thought about continued from page 55 community. “We want the children to think about how cycle of poverty. They see they can each do something. first-hand that it affects peoIt’s not about getting money ple in their neighborhood by from parents, but asking what visiting Hilda’s Place, a homecan you do. It less and transiis empowering tional housing for them to see “Let us remember: shelter. what they can One book, one “Kids natuaccomplish,” pen, one child, rally want to says Beth and one teacher help but in a lot Blaetz, direcof environments, can change the tor of teaching we can’t or don’t world.” and learning at capitalize on Quest. that. We underMalala Yousafzai “We are at estimate the a very pivotal independence time in educaand capability children have,” tion,” says Blaetz. “We have says McCloud-Springer. “If amazing opportunities with we recognize that and follow technology to make connecthose tendencies, it can be tions beyond our school and steered in a lovely way.” examine with our students Jeff Bell, head of school at how it relates to helping us as Beacon Academy in Evanston, a world and a community.” feels similarly. “Learning How to view and use doesn’t happen just in classtechnology is a focus at rooms. We have a different the Catherine Cook School approach in terms of the level in Chicago, but is just one of trust and confidence in aspect. adolescents as people who “We employ a variety of have a lot of offer.” schools of thought and doing, To meet its mission statesuch as design thinking, to ment of contributing to the learn with our students. world with compassion and Technology is often the confidence, Bell says it is vehicle for discovery, or the “absolutely essential to get byproduct of creativity, but kids out in the community.” never the sole purpose of the Beacon students not only educational experience at give back to the community, Catherine Cook” explains J.D. they are active participants in Pirtle, director of innovation. many of its institutions. The Pirtle says that students school has partnerships with “learn that systems, processthe Piven Theatre, Evanston es, and devices are something Art Center, McGall YMCA and they can design, understand, Northwestern University. and improve” and that tools, Progressive educational such as a 3D printer, are not philosophy helped further a simply mysterious ‘black great cause at Quest Academy boxes’ to throw away when in Palatine. There, a secondthey break. Instead, they fix grader used technology to them. give back as part of a project “As progressive thinkers on homelessness. He created and compassionate innovaa website that provided infortors, we are preparing them mation on the needs of hometo be global citizens and probless children in the area and lems solvers,” he says. “We a way to donate. The website teach our students to be proraised more than $400. ducers, not just consumers.” The project illustrates the

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www.lmais.org // special advertising section //

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are the world. We are the Lycée Français de Chicago - the premier international school in the heart of Chicago. We draw from the best of French and American education to create an academically challenging, culturally diverse school for students from all over the world and just around the corner. From preschool through high school, our students engage in a multi-language immersive education. Beginning with French, language becomes a tool that strengthens cognitive skills and allows our students to develop a greater capacity for creativity, adaptability and analytical skills.

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ChicagoParent.com November 2014 57

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i // special advertising section // www.lmais.org Extracurricular evolution for today’s kids Clubs and activities contribute much to the overall school experience, leaders say By SHANNAN YOUNGER

mprov class. Lego robotics. Swimming lessons. Treasure hunting. Comic Book Club. Those are just some of the exciting new extracurricular activities Chicago schools offer their students. Now, staying after school is no longer a bad thing, but rather an exciting opportunity for kids to try something new and spend time with classmates. They likely don’t realize just how much they are learning in the midst of all the fun. In recent years, schools have been adding an increasing number and variety of extracurricular activities for a variety of reasons.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SCIENCE & ARTS ACADEMY

“We recognize that families continue to need quality extended day options for their children. Our flexible program offerings are designed to meet the needs of today’s par-

ents and students,” says Abby Aloni, head of Lower School at the Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School in Chicago. Providing support and child care for parents is one reason

that Near North Montessori offers numerous after-school activities for kids of all ages, but Directress Audry Perrot says there are additional factors that the school considers when adding extracurricular activities. “We want to appeal to many different interests and give students a chance to try something in a safe environment, one where it’s OK to make mistakes. The stakes aren’t high and it’s a chance for students to put themselves out there a little bit,” Perrot explains. Many schools see their extracurricular programs as helping students explore their interests and possibly discover a passion for something

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Lakefront Landforms Chiaravalle Lower Elementary students walked to Lake Michigan for a geography lesson.

425 Dempster, Evanston, IL 847.864.2190 www.chiaravalle.org

Students worked in teams to shape capes, coves, peninsulas and ponds. What a fun way to explore the unique features of landforms. Parent/Child · Toddler · Early Childhood 3-6 · Elementary · Middle School

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www.lmais.org // special advertising section // new. “All the classes we offer support our desire to create students who can explore their passions, take risks and learn skills within the comfort of the school environment,” says Aloni. Extracurriculars are also a welcome break for kids. “They are an outlet for the students, something outside the rigorous academic curriculum that we offer,” says Diane Angelucci, admissions coordinator at the Science & Arts Academy in Des Plaines. Often, students are responsible for initiating extracurricular activities. “If enough kids want to form a team, we will,” Perrot says, citing the time students started a Frisbee Golf team. “It continues for a while and sometimes they fizzle out, sometimes not.” Similarly, at Roycemore School in Evanston, Sara Dreiling, coordinator of Student Life, says “most clubs’ activities come from students’

interest. Many activities spring from student interest that was sparked in the classroom. At the Science & Arts Academy, a teacher started the Coding Club after hearing about several students attempting to code during class time and seeing an essay a student wrote for class arguing that schools should include coding in the curriculum. Participating in extracurricular activities is certainly meant to be fun for the students, but enjoyment is just one of the many benefits. “Students who participate in after-school activities are more likely to experience academic and social success, and one of the tremendous benefits to small schools like ours is that opportunities to participate abound, while obstacles to participation are almost non-existent,” Dreiling says.

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Students often find more self-confidence as a result of their participation in extracurricular activities. That is true of the Science Olympiad team at the Science & Arts Academy, which finished second in the state and placed 14th at the national competition. National competition, however, is not always necessary for an extracurricular experience to significantly impact a student’s life. Dreiling recently read a college application essay by a current senior who said she did not view herself as an athlete prior to beginning at Roycemore. But in her years at the school she developed her skills, earning the spot of captain her junior year, and she now sees her athletic commitment and participation, not skill, as one of her strengths.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROYCEMORE SCHOOL

At the Science & Arts Academy, a student participated in his first after-school play in seventh grade. He discovered a passion for performing and went on to help found a theater company with some friends. He is currently a senior in high school and is applying to the country’s finest drama programs. One of Perrot’s favorite stories is about a sixth-grade boy who joined the school choir. “He literally found his voice, singing his heart out and just enjoying it. It was transformative.”

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The Avery Coonley School 1400 Maple Avenue Downers Grove, IL 60515 www.averycoonley.org admission@averycoonley.org 630-969-0800 Our students prefer complex challenges to simple tasks. They are perfectionists, voracious readers and have an insatiable appetite to learn. They are motivated children of high intelligence.

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i  // special advertising section // www.lmais.org Not the gym class you remember Schools taking a fresh approach to physical fitness to focus on lifelong fitness and fun By Shannan Younger

ou may remember gym class as a time for dodgeball and push-ups, but today’s students are more likely to do yoga and play new games while rocking out to their favorite tunes in physical education class. “PE has really changed,” says Curt Hanson, physical education and health teacher at the Wolcott School in Chicago. Schools are far more aware of how physical exertion during the school day benefits students not only physically but also mentally and academically. “Our focus is on movement

photo courtesy of wolcott school

and moving the body, which gives their brains the energy needed to help them focus

better in class,” Hanson explains. “Scientific research is constantly proving that stu-

dents and adults who move around during the day are able to focus and get more work done.” Brickton Montessori School in Chicago uses a similar approach. “We use gross motor as a strategy to refocus,” says Erica Lane, directress at Brickton. “In the middle of the work morning, we have a brain break when we take students out to run for five or 10 minutes. Getting that energy out with their whole body really helps them to focus on their cognitive work.” The brain break is separate from the school’s formal physical education classes. Those classes, however, also have benefits beyond developing

BZAEDS is

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www.lmais.org // special advertising section // sports skills. “While there is some skill building with dribbling, there is also a team building component,” says Lane. Gone are the days of gym class being a low point in the day for the children who were always picked last during team selection. Today, teachers are focusing on building up students of all abilities. “We have the ability to develop the self-esteem of each student, not just the most athletic students. Our activities encompass everyone in the school no matter their athletic ability,” says Hanson. Hanson also notes the social aspect of being active. “Sports and activities are a great way to meet people in college and outside of high school,” he says. “I feel that I can give each student the basics and tools for each sport so that when they go to

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photo courtesy of brickton montessori

college they feel comfortable joining a club team or joining an intramural team.” Classes are much more

inclusive and feature a wide range of options. Brickton features an eight-week yoga session, and students at Wolcott

Lake Forest Academy Character | Scholarship | Citizenship | Responsibility

play new sports, including some Hanson discovered in Europe and some he has created. He also ups the fun factor by playing popular music during class. Unlike previous generations, students today are much aware of the importance of being active and moving. “They recognize the importance of going outside and playing,” Lane says. That awareness is at the forefront thanks in part to Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move!” program. Hanson says it helped him develop the physical education curriculum at Wolcott, including assigning students homework outside of school if students miss class. “My hope is that each student can exercise with their family or friends and create an opportunity for more people to be physically active and live healthier lives,” Hanson said.

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Now accepting applications for the 2015 - 2016 school year: www.lfanet.org/applyonline Join us for our November Open House, Sunday, Nov. 9, 1 - 3:30 p.m. Application deadline: January 31, 2015 ChicagoParent.com November 2014 61

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Parlez-vous français, señor? Schools working to make sure students can communicate effectively By SHANNAN YOUNGER

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one are the days of verb conjugation worksheets for days on end in foreign language classes. Many schools today are focusing more on the ability to understand and speak the language rather than the finer details of grammar. “Our program focuses on the development of student comprehension and verbal abilities, mirroring the process of first-language acquisition,” explains Kasey Taylor, who is in her 21st year of teaching Spanish at The Latin School in Chicago. Similarly, at The Avery Coonley School in Downers Grove, all students in kindergarten through eighth grade take French. Teacher Denise Clivaz says the emphasis is on teaching students to effectively make their point verbally in French, and that means less focusing on minor grammar quibbles and more on the practical application of what students are learning. “You don’t have to be perfect to be understood. In fact, we often don’t speak our first language perfectly, so why should we expect them to be perfect in a second language?” she explains. Clivaz and a colleague at Avery Coonley have developed a curriculum that focuses on communicating and about 80 schools have adopted it. That same emphasis on practical application is evident at the Wolcott School in Chicago. “We don’t talk about the language, we use it,” explains Spanish teacher Elaine Winer.

For a final exam, students create original stories using the most frequently used Spanish words, and create a visual without words to support the story and tell it to the class. For students in these schools, foreign language lessons extend beyond the language. “The most powerful influence of early language learning, other than second language skills, is the ability to foster the growth of globally minded individuals,” says Taylor. “This is such an important aspect of 21st century learning – helping students become individuals that are open to understanding and appreciating diversity and have a desire to contribute to an inclusive and accepting world.” Both Winer and Beatrice Mazoyer, a French teacher at Lycée Français de Chicago, note that students learning a foreign language also gain empathy for those learning other languages, including English. Learning a language is not easy, but the struggle gives students a tenacity and resilience that they can apply to other classes and to challenging endeavors beyond the classroom. “Students also become more humble and more creative as they learn to communicate in new ways,” says Mazoyer. “Learning a language develops problem-solving skills because students are constantly figuring things out and asking questions,” she says. “Language students must ask themselves questions and that ability to

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question carries over to other subjects.” That isn’t the only crossover between subjects. Learning a world language often ties into different academic classes, such as history, art, and music. “We wrote our Spanish curriculum one year at a time to intentionally incorporate as

many cross-curricular connections as possible,” says Taylor. For example, when second graders study immigration in social studies that lends itself to numerous tie-ins with Spanish class. “Other teachers also work with us to find collaborative opportunities such as music and art and even P.E.,” she adds.

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From the day we first opened our doors 50 years ago, we made a commitment to every student that here they will discover an extraordinary place to learn. This is a place that will give them not just challenging academics but the skills that will strengthen their humanity and set their moral compass in a committed, compassionate direction. Near North Montessori is a school where kids can soar.

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Beacon Academy 622 Davis St., Evanston (224) 999-1177 beaconacademychicago.org Prospective Parent Coffee: Tuesday, November 11th from 9:30-10:30. Please visit www.beaconacademychicago.org for more information. Open House: Saturday, November 15th from 1-4PM.

Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School

Avery Coonley School Pre-K - 8th, gifted 1400 Maple Ave., Downers Grove (630) 969-0800 averycoonley.org

3751 North Broadway Street, Chicago (773) 281-1858 www.bzaeds.org Open House Sunday, November 9th 1:30pm

Brickton Montessori School

Accelerated curriculum; comprehensive technology and arts program; and a nurturing faculty that understand the unique needs of gifted students. Open Houses, Nov. 5, and Dec. 3, Jan. 7 & 21, Feb. 11 & 25.

8622 W. Catalpa, Chicago (773) 714-0646 brickton.org

Baker: The Progressive School

Chiaravalle Montessori School

201 Sheridan Rd., Wilmette (847) 425-5800 bakerdemschool.org Baker Interactive Family Open House Saturday, November 15 from

Open House Sunday, November 9th 10am12:30pm.

425 Dempster, Evanston (847) 864-2190 Chiaravalle.org Tour dates: Nov. 4 (Elementary &

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Middle School) November 6, 13, 18 December 2, 11 All tours are 9-11 am, rsvp to the Director of Admission

Chicago Academy for the Arts

12th Grades Saturday, November 22 | 10 am fwparker.org/openhouse Application Deadline Monday, December 1 fwparker.org/apply

Lake Forest Academy

1010 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago (312) 421-0202 chicagoartsacademy.org

1500 W. Kennedy Rd., Lake Forest (847) 615-3264 lfanet.org

Open House: Saturday, November 8th 9AM-1PM Meet The Academy’s entire community—from faculty and students to current parents and Department Chairs. We invite you to see why The Academy is Chicagoland’s best high school for young artists. Please register online at chicagoartsacademy.org. Parent Admissions Coffee: Tuesday, November 18th 9:30 - 11AM Parents who attend this event will hear from The Academy’s principal about our unique learning philosophy and will receive a tour of the building by current Academy Parents. Online registration for this event is required.

Open House Sunday, November 9, 2014, from 1- 3:30 p.m.

Francis W. Parker School Serving JK–12th Grades 330 W. Webster Ave., Chicago (773) 797-5107 fwparker.org/admission Upper School Open House for 9th–

Lycee Francais de Chicago 613 W. Bittersweet Pl., Chicago (773) 665-0066 Open House Saturday, November 22 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Register at lyceechicago.org

Quest Academy Independent day school, gifted and talented students prechool-8th

500 N. Benton, Palatine (847) 202-8035 questacademy.org Lower School Open House &Middle School Info Night: Wednesday, November 5, 2014 (5:30 - 7 p.m.) Thursday, February 19, 2015 (5:30 - 7 p.m.)Preschool and PreKindergarten Play Dates: Saturday, February 28, 2015 (9 - 10:30 a.m.)Saturday, April 18, 2015 (9 – 10:30 a.m.)

Be A Baker Child for the Day! Please join us for an Interactive Family Open House unlike any other. Saturday, November 15 | 2 - 4 pm

OPEN HOUSE Tuesday, November 11, 2014 at 6:30 pm You’ll tour the school, meet with teachers and students, and discover why the Woodlands experience is so transformative and unique!

RSVP admissions@bakerdemschool.org

847.234.4300 | WOODLANDSACADEMY.ORG

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Photo by G. Yoshioka

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photo courtesy of beacon academy

Roycemore School

Join us for Admissions Coffees: Wednesdays, 9:15am to 11am November 5, December 10 January 14, February 4

1200 Davis St., Evanston (847) 866-6055 roycemoreschool.org Tuesday, November 11 - 8:30-10 a.m. Tuesday, December 9 - 8:30-10 a.m. Sunday, February 22 - 1:00-3:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 17 - 8:30-10 a.m. Tuesday, April 14 - 8:30-10 a.m.

Redefining Smart.

At Brickton Montessori School we measure our students’ abilities to THINK critically, MAKE responsible decisions, and SOLVE problems creatively. Call 773.714.0646 today or visit www.brickton.org.

edefining Smart. Please join us for an Open House Sunday, November 9th 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Sacred Heart Schools The Academy for Girls and Hardey Preparatory School for Boys 6250 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago (773) 681-8436 shschicago.org

Science & Arts Academy Independent day school for gifted students in preschool through 8th grade 1825 Miner Street, Des Plaines (847) 827-7880 scienceandartsacademy.org Open House: Saturday, November 8th 10:00am-Noon Pre-Register for Open House at www.scienceandartsacademy. org/open-house.html

Specıal Parent CHICAGO

A Chicago Parent EMPOWERMENT GUIDE

rickton Montessori School we measure our ents’ abilities to THINK critically, Located just South of I-90MAKE between Cumberland East River Road onsible decisions, andand SOLVE problems atively. Call 773.714.0646 8622 West Catalpatoday Avenueor in visit Chicago w.brickton.org. Ages 2-14 (Toddlers do not need to be

Summer edition now available!

trained) ed just South oftoilet I-90 Fully accredited een Cumberland and by the Independent River Road Schools Association of the Central States

West Catalpa Avenue and the American cago Montessori Society.

Good Thinking

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

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i  A closer look at Independent Schools

www.lmais.org // special advertising section // Avery Coonley School

Brickton Montessori School

1400 Maple Ave., Downers Grove (630) 969-0800 averycoonley.org

8622 W. Catalpa, Chicago (773) 714-0646 brickton.org

The Avery Coonley School is a pre-K through 8th grade independent school for academically bright and gifted children. ACS provides depth, pace, and complexity of curriculum for gifted learners; a like-minded peer group; comprehensive technology and arts programs; and a nurturing faculty that understands the unique social and emotional needs of gifted students.

Brickton Montessori School is fully accredited by the American Montessori Society and ISACS. We offer extended day, year-round programs for students ages 2-8th grade (Toddlers do not need to be toilet trained – partial week option available for 2 & 3 year-olds). A handson, individualized learning experience is enhanced by low student-teacher ratios, excellent enrichment classes, and a variety of on-site extracurricular activities. Located on the Northwest side of Chicago, just south of the I-90 in between Cumberland Avenue and East River Road. Please join us for an Open House Sunday, November 9th 10:00 a.m. -12:30 p.m. or schedule your private tour today! info@brickton.org

Baker: The Progressive School 201 Sheridan Rd., Wilmette (847) 425-5800 bakerdemschool.org A Baker child loves to learn! From the classroom to the playgrounds; the gymnasium to the indoor pool and music studio…Baker children enjoy a uniquely well-rounded education. And we take great pride in being their partners on this journey. Join us for our Interactive Family Open House and experience a day in the life of a Baker child. Baker Interactive Family Open House Saturday, November 15 from 2-4pm

Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School 3751 North Broadway Street,

photo courtesy of roycemore school

Chicago (773) 281-1858 bzaeds.org BZAEDS is a place where students love to learn. Innovative methods, hands-on exploration, and an unrivaled 6:1 student-to-teacher ratio inspires students to excel in a curriculum of rigorous general studies and comprehensive Jewish learning. Join us for an Open House on Sunday, November 9th at 1:30pm.

Beacon Academy 622 Davis St., Evanston (224) 999-1177 beaconacademychicago.org

Upper School Open House, Grades 9–12 Saturday, November 22 | 10 am

Beacon Academy brings together independent school best practices and challenging curriculum with the independence, freedom, and student-centered methods of Montessori. Students experience a learning community that inspires self-motivation and celebrates cultural and socioeconomic diversity. Beacon students master the skills, knowledge, and habits of mind necessary to offer the world their intelligence, confidence, and compassion. Join us for an Open House November 15th from 1-4PM or a Prospective Parent Coffee. Please visit www.beaconacademychicago.org for more information.

Catherine Cook School Preschool – 8th Grade 226 W. Schiller St., Chicago (312) 266-3381 catherinecookschool.org Catherine Cook inspires children in a nurturing environment, providing challenging, project-based experiences using computational thinking. Motivated learners focus on social development and personal excellence. The result is a confident, ethical student ready to succeed in high school

Admission Events

2015–16 Application Deadline Monday, December 1 Apply at: fwparker.org/apply Financial Aid Available Based Upon Need

Francis W. Parker School

330 W. Webster Ave., Chicago, IL 60614

773.797.5107

fwparker.org

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and beyond. Tours: Sept.-Jan. Open House: Nov. 2, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

in a challenging but non-competitive environment. Qualified Upper School students take classes at nearby Northwestern University.

Chiaravalle Montessori School

Sacred Heart Schools

425 Dempster, Evanston (847) 864-2190 Chiaravalle.org

The Academy for Girls and Hardey Preparatory School for Boys 6250 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago (773) 681-8436 shschicago.org

Chiaravalle has been inspiring children’s sense of discovery and creativity since 1965. We ignite empathetic, self-directed and effective thinkers by offering an education as unique as each child. Our children range in age from 6 months to 14 years, with full and partial-day options for young children.

Mr. Nat Wilburn, Head of Schools Educating Chicago children since 1876. Independent, Catholic, Single Gender, Coed Campus, K-8, Extended Care. Join us for Admissions Coffees: Wednesdays, 9:15am to 11am November 5, December 10 January 14, February 4

Chicago Academy for the Arts 1010 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago (312) 421-0202 chicagoartsacademy.org

Science & Arts Academy

The Chicago Academy for the Arts is the city’s only Independent Arts School providing high school students with the opportunity to study professionally each day within an artistic discipline. The Academy’s school day consists of six 45-minute academic periods followed by a three-hour immersion in one of six arts departments: Dance, Media Arts (animation, filmmaking, and writing), Music, Musical Theatre, Theatre, and Visual Arts. Find out what happens when art isn’t just after school, it is school.

ing and day students located on 150 acres on Chicago’s North Shore. LFA enrolls students from around Chicago as well as 17 states and 34 countries. LFA offers over $4.4 million in financial aid to students annually. Our Open House is Sunday, November 9, 2014, from 1- 3:30 p.m. Learn more at Lake Forest Academy is an independent, coed, boarding and day school located north of Chicago in Lake Forest, Illinois.

Chicago City Day School

Latin School of Chicago

541 W. Hawthorne Place, Chicago (773) 327-0900 chicagocitydayschool.org

Pre K - 12th Grade 59 W. North Blvd., Chicago (312) 582-6000 latinschool.org

The Chicago City Day School is an independent, elementary school with an academic program that is rigorous, yet sensitive to the individual needs and abilities of children. To begin the application process, fill out the inquiry form on the School’s website or contact the Admissions Office at 773 327-0900. Once the School has received the completed application, the Admissions Office will contact you to schedule a private visit and tour of the campus.

Francis W. Parker School Serving JK–12th Grades 330 W. Webster Ave., Chicago (773) 797-5107 fwparker.org/admission Parker is a school where inspired teachers, dynamic curriculum and a diverse community of learners thrive. Instilling a passion for learning and developing the capacity for independent inquiry are central to a Parker education. Our discussion-based courses encourage a love of learning that has proven to last a lifetime. Upper School Open House for 9th–12th Grades Saturday, November 22 at 10 am Application Deadline Monday, December 1 facebook.com/parkerchicago twitter.com/fwparker

Lake Forest Academy 1500 W. Kennedy Rd., Lake Forest (847) 615-3264 lfanet.org Lake Forest Academy is an independent, co-educational, grades 9-12 college-preparatory school for 435 board-

photo courtesy of near north montessori

Latin School has set standards for academic excellence in Chicago and is committed to developing lifelong learners who succeed in college and beyond. Serving 1,113 students in Pre K – 12 from 70 neighborhoods and 16 suburbs, Latin is a community where every student is known and valued. Please visit our website for information session dates.

Lycée Français de Chicago 613 W Bittersweet Pl, Chicago (773) 665-0066 Lyceechicago.org Lycée Français de Chicago offers the best in French and American education from PreK through grade 12, and a one-of-a-kind, rigorous, High School International Baccalaureate program that emphasizes critical thinking, adaptability and creative learning. Multi-language acquisition, an international student body, and trips abroad prepare Lycée students to become global citizens.

Near North Montessori School 1434 West Division St., Chicago (773) 384-1434 nnms.org Established in 1963, Near North Montessori serves parent/infant through 8th grade and provides before and after school care as well as summer camp programs. Fully accredited, NNM offers a challenging academic

environment while fostering community, intellectual growth, independence and responsibility. New physical education facilities along with an urban farm, student-run sandwich shop and international outreach programs create a supportive and diverse environment.

Quest Academy Independent day school, gifted and talented students prechool-8th 500 N. Benton, Palatine (847) 202-8035 questacademy.org Lower School Open House & Middle School Info Night: Wednesday, November 5, 2014 (5:30 - 7 p.m.) Thursday, February 19, 2015 (5:30 - 7 p.m.)Preschool and PreKindergarten Play Dates: Saturday, February 28, 2015 (9 - 10:30 a.m.)Saturday, April 18, 2015 (9 – 10:30 a.m.)

Rogers Park Montessori 1800 W. Balmoral, Chicago (773) 271-1700 rpmschool.org RPMS believes that all of its students carry within them the adults they will become; our mission is to create an environment where all children are inspired to reach their highest potential, as individuals and learners, following the Montessori philosophy of education; which at its core is to produce vital members of the global community. Guiding all our practices is the education and promotion of peace within self, in relationships and within the world.

Roycemore School 1200 Davis St., Evanston (847) 866-6055 roycemoreschool.org From age three through Grade 12, Roycemore School combines rigorous college prep academics with a welcoming, positive and energetic school culture. Students, teachers, administrators and parents form a community that reflects Roycemore’s core values of respect for others, appreciation of differences, and a commitment to academic excellence

The Gifted Choice ® 1825 Miner Street, Des Plaines (847) 827-7880 scienceandartsacademy.org Science & Arts Academy is an independent day school for gifted students in preschool through eighth grade. SAA provides intellectually and creatively talented children a stimulating and supportive environment designed for their unique abilities. Differentiation, acceleration, enrichment, problem solving and creative thinking are all concepts common to the everyday intellectual and artistic experience for the SAA student. To learn more about SAA, please attend our Open House on November 8th at 10:00am, or call to schedule a tour.

Wolcott School 524 N. Wolcott Ave., Chicago (312) 610-4900 Wolcottschool.org Wolcott School offers an exemplary high school program for students with learning differences, tailored to the strengths and aspirations of each student. Employing best practices, our expert faculty is dedicated to helping students gain self-awareness, confidence and resilience as well as the academic, social and communication skills to flourish in college and beyond. Priority Application Deadline is December 15. Applications available at wolcottschool.org Open House on Wednesday, November 12 at 6:30PM. RSVP to rspiro@wolcottschool.org

Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart 760 E. Westleigh Rd., Lake Forest (847) 234-4300 woodlandsacademy.org Located in Lake Forest, Ill., Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart is a Catholic day and boarding college-preparatory high school for young women in grades nine through 12 that promotes academic, artistic and athletic excellence along with global awareness, social responsibility and strong faith. Woodlands Academy is part of a worldwide network of Sacred Heart Schools that spans the United States and 40 other countries. Opportunities for student exchanges are abundant.

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www.lmais.org // special advertising section //

i

2014-15 Open House Schedule

An independent school for gifted children from Preschool through Eighth Grade. Wednesday, November 5, 2014 and Thursday, February 19, 2015 Lower School Open House (Grades K – 5) 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.

The Heart of the Matter Find out why Sacred Heart is ranked among the top schools in Chicago. ■ K-8th Grade • Independent • Catholic ■ Co-ed campus • Single-gender classrooms ■ 9:1 student teacher ratio ■ Outstanding curriculum • Extensive athletics • Rich extracurricular program ■ Diverse, welcoming and involved community ■ Twenty percent of students receive need-based scholarships ADMISSIONS COFFEES:

Wednesdays, 9:15am to 11am November 5, December 10 January 14, February 4 April 15, May 6 To register call 773.681.8418

Wednesday, November 5, 2014 and Thursday, February 19, 2015 Middle School Information Night (Grades 6 – 8)* 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. Saturday, February 28, 2015 and Saturday, April 18, 2015 Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten Play Date (Ages 3 - 4)* 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. * Reservations required for these events. Contact Director of Admission, Leslie Kovich at leslie.kovich@questacademy.org or call 847.202.8035, ext. 438 today.

6250 North Sheridan Road, Chicago, Illinois 60660

shschicago.org

questacademy.org 500 North Benton, Palatine, IL 60067

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EMPOWERED. Book Smart AND Life Smart From preschool through 8th grade our engaged students learn to make good decisions. Nurtured in a climate of creativity and computational thinking, they explore problem solving in fresh and useful ways. They graduate as empathetic, culturally competent students able to confidently adapt to an ever-changing world.

OPEN HOUSE

November 2, 2014, 11am –2pm 226 West Schiller – 2 miles from the loop 312.266.3381 catherinecookschool.org 70 November 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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Photo by Jade Albert

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Learn more at

autismspeaks.org/signs Some signs to look for:

No big smiles or otherLearn joyful more No babbling at by 12 months expressions by 6 months

No words by 16 months

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Some signs to look for:

No big smiles or other joyful expressions by 6 months

No babbling by 12 months

No words by 16 months

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

2014

CH O S OL S P O T

PHOTOS COURTESY OF (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT): MONTESSORI ACADEMY OF CHICAGO, GEMS WORLD ACADEMY, BENNETT DAY SCHOOL, ST. STANISLAUS KOSTKA SCHOOL

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Top Schools

Schools create well-rounded students through enrichment The result is greater self-confidence and social skills By CARRIE RODOVICH

hether it be volunteering in a nursing home or hospital, or taking advantage of one of the many museums the city of Chicago has to offer, educational leaders around Chicagoland believe that providing numerous enrichment opportunities will create wellrounded students. At Northside Catholic Academy in Chicago, Principal Mary Stachura says the school believes in educating the whole child. “It’s more than math and science,” she says. “We focus in on the arts to help do that.” Students in middle school take trimesters of ballroom dancing, drama and storytell-

PHOTO COURTESY OF BREHM PREPARATORY SCHOOL

ing. They also participate in art and music programs and have after-school fine arts activities, including voice, piano, and stringed instrument lessons. In the classroom, teachers

are challenged to find creative ways to teach to different learning styles and offer different opportunities within the classroom, she says. “We want them to be wellrounded and be exposed

to as much as they can be in the arts,” she says about Northside’s students. “We want them to reach their full potential, whatever that may be.” Brehm Preparatory School strives to empower students with complex learning abilities and help them reach their full potential, says Charity Finley, the school’s director of communications. The Carbondale school helps students who might not succeed in traditional public schools, she says. In addition to instruction in core academic areas, students get organizational strategies, social skills development, health and wellness education and career and college

continued on page 74

INTRINSIC MOTIVATION ACADEMIC PREPARATION 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: Wednesday, November 12th: 9:00 – 10:30am Tuesday, December 16th: 9:00 – 10:30am

1335 w. randolph st. chicago, il 60607

www.montessoriacademychicago.org

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special advertising section

Enrichment continued from page 73

A Catholic & Benedictine College Preparatory High School for Boys

ACADEMY You and your family are invited to our

FALL OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, November 2, 2014 at 1 PM

1000 Butterfield Road in Aurora. No registration necessary. Please enter through the Regole Field House.

SCHOLARSHIP QUALIFYING

ENTRANCE EXAM

Saturday, December 6, 2014 at 9 AM

All 8th grade boys can apply online at marmion.org/admissions Call 630-897-6936 or visit MARMION.ORG for more information.

3748 West Montrose Ave. Chicago, IL 60618 GatewayMontessoriSchool.org Phone: 773-539-3025 • Email: info@GatewayMontessoriSchool.org

Nurturing the potential within each child Parent-Child Program: For parents with children up to 18 months. Children’s House: For children 3 to 6 years old.

Community: For children 15 months to 3 years old. Elementary: For children 6-12 years old.

exploration. Many also participate in the Arrowsmith Program, which is based on neuroscience research and helps students stretch their brain through cognitive exercises. “Our ‘family-style’, 24/7 boarding school is uniquely designed to foster independence and responsibility,” she says. “Brehm students go on to college, find fulfilling careers and become successful entrepreneurs. Nothing is more satisfying than the breakthroughs we make here.” At Detour 2 Discovery Day School in Chicago, even the smallest students are offered enrichment activities to help them reach their full potential, says Jennifer Heim, the founder and executive director of the school. “Our students, infant through kindergarten, are surrounded by a lot of extras that we feel are absolutely necessary for a well-rounded curriculum,” she says. “Things like an artist-in-residence program, which includes visits of creativity, art and music. This gift to our learning community keeps giving as we are all touched by the artistic light.” Another way the school separates itself, Heim says, is not charging for the enrichment programs. “We feel enrichment is absolutely necessary,” she says. “Yoga is something we recently added to the long list of our enrichment plethora. We chose to add yoga because it teaches us about our bodies. When we practice asanas (postures) we learn to move more freely with greater awareness. It also teaches us to breathe better and use our prana (life force energy) so we can bring peacefulness

photo courtesy of the gardner school

or energy to our bodies.” The Gardner School has five schools around the Chicagoland area, including one in Naperville, that offer enrichment classes for students starting at 18 months old. Classes include music, Spanish, soccer, fitness and computer-based learning, says Kerry Finnegan, the executive school director of the Naperville school. “The music class encourages the children to sing, dance and use their imaginations, while also helping with gross motor, brain and language development,” she says. “Foreign language classes are taught through social interaction so that the children learn conversational language in addition to vocabulary. In all of our classes we stress the importance of teamwork and encourage the students to support each other.” The school offers small groups to ensure individualized attention and instructors are trained in the area they are teaching. “We encourage parents to explore our enrichment classes, because each class serves a similar purpose: to promote self-confidence, to accelerate learning in a specific area, and to assist in social development,” Finnegan says.

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Top Schools

BLACK BEAR ACADEMY CHICAGO PRIVATE Find out why we’re just what you’ve been looking for!

1801 West Byron Avenue • Chicago 773-244-0700 www.blackbearacademy.com Pre Academic and Academic programs for children 18 months – 7 years • Half day and Full day programs available • Low student/teacher ratio • Highly educated teaching staff • Music, Theater, Art, Foreign Language, Cooking, Movie Making, and more!

Join us for our Open House: November 5th 6:00pm • Learn more about our programs • Take a tour of our classrooms • Find out about our flexible extended day schedule & summer camp RSVP by November 3rd to: events@blackbearacademy.com or call the school at 773-244-0700 ChicagoParent.com November 2014 75

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Students must be ready for ever-changing world Tops schools preparing kids to lead us all into the future By CARRIE RODOVICH

oday’s world is constantly changing, and students need to be able to be prepared not only for what is going on right now, but to be able to adapt to what might come in the future. “It’s difficult to know exactly what the future will look like,” says Kate Cicchelli, principal at Bennett Day School in Chicago’s West Loop. “Tomorrow’s leaders will need to be nimble, adaptive and strong collaborators.” She says a project-based approach like the one offered at Bennett will empower young leaders for an unpredictable future. The school uses a progressive, Reggio Emilia-inspired

program that believes children learn through questioning, exploring and discovering. The school emphasizes social awareness and participation, and builds a strong sense of community. “With carefully crafted activities, materials and questions, we find our students taking increasing, developmentally appropriate risks,” Cicchelli says. “Great leaders lead by listening, understanding, empathizing and innovating methods for change and growth.” One way the sense of community is fostered is through weekly all-school morning meetings, where students of different levels have different responsibilities. The older students are encouraged to take responsibility for younger

Faith. Excellence. Leadership. Service.

You'll find them in all we do. Visit us stjamesschoolah.org

students, and work together to solve school issues. “The (older) students brought to the attention of all students at Bennett Day that they felt the indoor play space was too noisy of an environment and suggested ways they could improve this,” she says. “This is now a quieter space. This is a powerful example of real-world problem-solving for young children.” Teaching young children to be leaders is something that’s infused into every facet of the educational experience at Montessori Academy Chicago, says Head of School Fosca Shackleton White. Students learn to work collaboratively not only with their classmates but with students in other grades, she

says. “(Older students) work in the nursery level reading to the children and assisting the younger children with their routines,” she says. “They also have community jobs like doing laundry, shopping for snacks and helping with the morning car line.” Students also act as escorts for visitors to the building and help with monthly open houses, she says. Older students are responsible for planning their own field trips and doing community service work, she says. “These might not sound like leadership activities, but it requires cooperation and accepting ownership of a task,” she says. “They also need to learn to be a leader at one moment and a follower at

Inspire. Prepare. Connect.

GCE Lab School pioneers a student-centered model of education that unites the classroom with the real world and technology with collaborative learning for students who want to think for themselves and make meaningful change in the world.

Please join us during our OPEN HOUSE January 25, 2015 • 12:30pm-2:00pm

Start your journey today. ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS NOW

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St. James School offers PK3-8th grade. Please contact the school office for more information 224.345.7145 820 N. Arlington Heights Rd., Arlington Heights, IL 60004

312.643.0991 | admissions@gcechicago.com

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special advertising section another, and be able to shift back and forth.” At British School of Chicago, all students have the opportunity to be leaders. At the secondary school, students have the opportunity to serve on the student council and work with school officials to discuss topics including school uniforms, clubs, activities and charity events. “Student Council is a powerful tool to not only raise student voices in our school, but it also teaches children how to speak publicly, think outside the box for ways to further improve their environment and gives them an opportunity to lead their peers,” says Danielle Stone, primary student council leader at British. In middle and high school, students elect head students to represent them. They have house captains who lead their members in school competi-

tions and spirit events. Other opportunities include mentoring programs, clubs, and music productions. Leadership qualities including personal values, respect, communication, thoughtfulness and cooperation are incorporated into the curriculum. PHOTO COURTESY OF MONTESSORI ACADEMY OF CHICAGO “We use these children with adaptable skills skills to solve problems in our to use in all of their future daily interactions with othendeavors through to high ers, and prepare our students school, college and beyond.” to interact positively within Chicago Grammar School the world community,” says uses a holistic approach to Demelza Wheeler-Ozanne, teaching students how to primary international primary be good leaders, says Phillip curriculum leader. “This curJackson, the school’s execuriculum also teaches history, geography and society lessons tive director. The school’s curriculum by focusing on skills-based learning which provides the is based around a classical

Top Schools

education, focusing on history and literature. “Inherent to a classical education is to teach the values that we hold strongly here in Western civilizations,” he says. That means studying issues like individual rights and the dignity of man and discussing how those ideas started and why they are valued. “We start history in first grade, looking at things and how they interconnect,” he says. The subject matter is tailored to the grade level, with older grades building upon the foundations they learned in earlier years. The school teaches logic and skepticism and developing critical thinking skills. “It’s very intellectual and heady, and the kids might not totally understand that’s what we’re doing, but we’re planting the seeds for later in life, so they can be a leader, as opposed to a follower,” he says.

azareth Academy 1209 W. Ogden, La Grange Park www.nazarethacademy.com

Chicago Parent’s annual resource guide for Chicago area schools.

MAKING GRADE

Making theGrade

JANUARY 2014

Coming in January!

THE

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Your best guide to

CHICAGOLAND schools

Get to know Nazareth

Open House Dates:

Sunday, November 9, presentations at 1 & 2 p.m. Thursday, December 4, presentation at 7 p.m. Sponsored by the Congregation of St. Joseph

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT EDUCATION GUIDE

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Learn More! 0 aM Sat. nov. 1 at 1

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9 aM tueS. nov. 18 at d Fo SeSSion an in

Bennett Day School is a new PreK – 8th Grade progressive school that provides a collaborative culture to help nurture a child’s innate sense of inquiry and curiosity.

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telephone: 312.BENNETT email: info@bennettday.org address: 657 W. Fulton St. WWW.BENNETTDAY.ORG

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Top Schools

STEAM curriculum broadens the horizons for students These top schools are preparing kids for a successful future no matter their career choice By Carrie Rodovich

one are the days where students learn the basics of reading, writing and arithmetic solely through lectures and rote memorization. Schools across the country, including many independent schools around the Chicagoland area, are finding innovative ways to incorporate STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) programs into their school activities, both inside the classroom and away from it. At Nazareth Academy in La Grange Park, for example, students can participate in a variety of honor societies and

clubs, as well as explore their interests in drama, arts and music. In one innovative program, students in the AP Physics class and EPICS group are learning through hands-on experience and helping others at the same time. The school’s physics teacher, Roberta Zasadzinski, attended a week-long EPICS (Engineering Projects in Community Service) workshop and brought it to the Catholic, co-ed high school. This year, the students also are partnering with the MidAmerica Service Dog Foundation and making tennis ball throwers that can attach to wheelchairs of service dog owners. That way,

dog owners with limited mobility can still play catch with their dogs. “Our mission is to educate the whole person, and we have four pillars as part of our mission: scholarship, service, spirit and unity,” says Principal Deborah Tracy. “Having a project that can support several of those pillars is amazing. Having

photo courtesy of nazareth academy

a female lead this project, as well, helps us show our young women that girls can be attracted to science, math, engineering and technology.

continued on page 80

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STEAM continued from page 79 EPICS really draws in a lot of things we’re about.” Although GEMS World Academy schools have been operating around the world for more than 50 years, the 2014-2015 school year is the first one for the school’s Chicago campus. Head of School Geoff Jones believes his school has a unique approach to the STEAM curriculum due to the interaction his Chicago students have with students at other campuses around the world. Students at the school, which serves children in prekindergarten through sixth grade, have already been regularly Skyping with students in Switzerland, he says. They are planning interactions with students in places including Nairobi, Kenya and Dubai, he

says. The school also plans to use the city of Chicago as its campus, using its downtown location to take advantage of the international businesses, museums and cultural centers. All students will learn Spanish, and study history, culture and the arts through interactions with people. “You can hear Spanish spoken (here) every day,” he says. “We need to shift the focus from learning the language to communicating and learning how to make authentic communications to people. You do that through learning and understanding their culture and history, what their value structure is and how that’s developed.” Students also will focus on learning how systems work and how they impact people. For example, Jones says, teaching about how water

moves through pipes, pumping stations and reservoirs can lead to discussions about politics, and social justice and has other implications. “We focus on having our students prepared globally, taking a role in leadership and working and thinking about the larger world,” he says. “We are developing an inquirybased model of learning and developing knowledge and understanding.” At Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart in Lake Forest, the disciplines of science, technology and math are a large part of the science curriculum. Teachers develop lessons that combine teaching essential core content with specific science and engineering practices, says Cheryl Breckinridge, science department chair at the academy. “When a student has completed her science education, she will be able to use her understanding of scientific

concepts to explore and investigate the natural world, engage in scientific argumentation and answer meaningful problems that confront society today,” she says. “Many students (also) participate in our competitive Robotics club, where they design, build and program a robot to solve specific problems.” Rocco Gargiulo, math department chair at Woodlands Academy, says instructors use real-world examples to teach students how to analyze and interpret data. “Our students leave Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart prepared to tackle the challenges they will face in college and in life,” Gargiulo says. “Not only do they know math and science, but our education empowers the students to be able to speak and to write about these academic topics eloquently.”

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Time-management skills essential to success By Carrie Rodovich

t St. Stanislaus Kostka School in the Wicker Park/West Town neighborhood of Chicago, educators know that good time management and scheduling skills help their students succeed. So teachers focus their curriculum around Stephen Covey’s Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, says Principal Marjorie Hill. “St. Stan’s is on the forefront of innovative approaches to teaching and learning, and has embraced this approach since 2010,” she says. Students are taught to act with integrity on their priorities, she says. “This mindset results in higher productivity, greater life balance and often

photo courtesy of St. Stanislaus Kostka School

increased motivation,” she says. “We call this putting our

big rocks first. In other words, work, then play.”

“Big rocks” can be different for different people, Hill says. Big rocks are established based on a student’s personal mission statement, the roles they have in life, and measurable and timed goals, she says. The school also uses a Gantt chart to help students keep themselves organized. The chart is a bar graph that breaks down the steps of a project. “We use this set of steps for both school-wide and personal goal setting,” she says. “As students grow older, the level of sophistication with the tool increases. But we believe starting with this mindset as early as possible will help our students develop habits that will allow them to be productive, reliable and stress-free.”

Be a part of something greater. At Northside Catholic Academy, you’ll ﬁnd a challenging and diversiﬁed curriculum from Preschool through 8th grade within a nurturing learning environment. Our dedicated and experienced faculty inspire NCA students to grow in intellect and character. We invite you to be a part of something greater – the Northside Catholic Academy.

A 2013 National Blue Ribbon School Preschool - 8th Grade Join us for an unparalleled educational experience that includes. . . . . • • • • • • • • •

Christ–centered Technology integration Service Opportunities Academic Learning Teams Athletic Program in Grades 5-8 Spanish in Grades K-8 Fine Arts Program Chicagoland Field Trips Before and After School Care

Top-ranked Academics + Test scores consistenly rank above national average + NCA students transition into top Chicago high schools Renaissance Programs + Art, Music, Foreign Language, Computer Technology Enrichment Programs + Athletics, Chess, Guitar, Band, Strings, Piano, Visual Arts, Math Club, Student Council, Readers Theater, etc. Affordable Before & After Care + Flexible drop off as early as 6:30 a.m. & pick up by 6 p.m. Recipient of the 2013 National Blue Ribbon School Award presented by the U.S. Department of Education

Contact us for a tour or information today! WWW.STPETERMYSCHOOL.COM 847-253-6638 111 W. Olive St. | Arlington Heights Bring in this ad to receive a tuition discount Offer for new families only

JOIN US FOR OUR OPEN HOUSES: 10/28 @9am, 12/5 @9am, 1/25/15 @10am-1pm To ﬁnd out more about our primary & middle schools please call 773-743-6277 or visit www.northsidecatholic.org.

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Now you have the chance to let your little star shine as a featured child in the December issue of Chicago Parent Magazine, and win a free photo shoot for your child and family. Entries will be accepted November 1-30, 2014. Voting will take place December 1-31, 2014. Visit www.chicagoscutestkid.com to enter your child today, and encourage friends and family to vote!

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Bennett Day School

Chicago Grammar School provides a rigorous classical curriculum fully integrated with the arts for the 21st century. Information Nights: Oct. 23, Nov. 11, and Dec. 10 or call for a private tour.

PreK – 8th 657 W Fulton, Chicago (312) BENNETT (236-6388) bennettdayschool.org

Council Oak Montessori School

Bennett Day School is a new PreK to 8th grade independent school founded on the Reggio Emilia approach to learning by doing. Faculty and students collaborate as children take an active role in directing their education. Visit now to learn more about 2015-16 admissions for three to six year olds.

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

Black Bear Academy 1801 West Byron, Chicago (773) 244-0700 www.blackbearacademy.com Open House: Wednesday 11/5/14 at 6:00pm Black Bear Academy offers a variety of flexible class options for children ages 18 months through Kindergarten. All teachers hold a degree in education and are committed to meeting the needs of each individual student through creative lessons and play. Curriculums include Wright Skills, Handwriting without Tears, Breakthrough to Literacy, Everyday Mathematics, and Foss Science. Join us for our open house on Wednesday, 11/5/14 at 6pm to experience the excellence of Black Bear Academy.

Brehm Preparatory School 950 S. Brehm Lane, Carbondale (618) 457-0371 brehm.org

photo courtesy of bennett day school

Brehm School is a coed family-style boarding school for students, grades 6-12, with complex learning disabilities. Brehm offers a unique holistic program that addresses each student’s academic, emotional and social needs. The curriculum is college-preparatory with emphasis placed on becoming independent learners and developing selfadvocacy skills.

British School of Chicago 814 W. Eastman, Chicago (773) 506-2097 www.britishschoolofchicago.org admissionsbsc@wclschools.org Elementary School open house on November 22 from 9-12.

Truly an international school, we promote a culture of global awareness and celebration. An engaging curriculum, coupled with our high expectations and academic standards, enables our students to meet and exceed their potential, performing well beyond expectations for their age. As partners in their education with teachers and parents, our students learn how to actively participate in their present and acquire skills for the future.

Chicago Grammar School Pre-K – 8th grade 900 N. Franklin, Chicago (312) 944-5600 chicagogrammar.org

A classic Montessori school, Council Oak Montessori has been educating children since1990 with an extensive array of age appropriate Montessori materials for all or students, from 3 to 14 years of age. Our well-seasoned, dedicated staff provides a superb learning environment. The curriculum includes physical education, art, drama, camping, small business experience and work internships for older students. In the historic Beverly Hills/ Morgan Park neighborhood of Chicago, it is conveniently close to I57.

Detour 2 Discovery Day School 2001 South Wabash Ave., Chicago (312) 949-CARE (2273) detour2discovery.com Loving & creative programming for children ages eight weeks through six years old. Detour 2 Discovery has been at the forefront of Early Childhood Education for more than twenty-two years. We are best known for our progressive philosophy, appreciation for cultural differences and having

Discover more for your child at Ginsburg Solomon Schechter Early Childhood Center

Information Open Houses: Wednesday, November 12, 2014 at 7:30pm Monday, November 17, 2014 at 9:30am

Join Us to Learn About the ECC

Call today to RSVP or to schedule a tour! 847.674.3206

• Learn about our educational philosophy and programs for 2, 3 and 4-year-olds

Contact Irene Sufrin, Principal at 847.674.3206 or irene.sufrin@schechter.org for more information.

• Tour our joyful, stimulating, and inspiring learning environment

Ginsburg Solomon Schechter Early Childhood Center 4500 Dempster Street Skokie, IL 60076

• Ask questions and get to know ECC Principal Irene Sufrin 84 November 2014 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section the lowest child-to-staff ratios in the Midwest. Call today to schedule a tour!

selves in relationship building, and augment the skills and knowledge they’ve built in the classroom with insights from established industry leaders in Chicago every week. By dissolving the boundary between classrooms and the real world, our students are engaged, accountable, and future ready—with 80% of graduates earning college merit aid. Join us to see GCE students in action at Fall Term Final Presentations on Thursday, October 30th at 10:30am. Email admissions@gcechicago.com for more information.

ExceleRate Illinois Preparing Children for Success Excelerateillinois.com/cpad ExceleRate Illinois is a new quality rating and improvement system that helps parents find programs that actively emphasize quality. To find out how this program can help you make the best school choice for your child, please visit our website.

The Gardner School Chicago - West Loop Campus (312) 229-4299 Chicago - Bucktown Campus (773) 661-0151 Chicago - Lincoln Park Opening Fall 2015 Naperville (630) 657-5029 Glenview-Northbrook (847) 770-6260 Oak Brook (630) 576-4740 The Gardner School is an academically focused preschool for ages 6 weeks through 5 years old. With state-of-theart facilities, four-year degreed teachers, focused enrichment programs, a kids cafe and an indoor play area, our schools provide a nurturing and stimulating learning environment. Our research-based curriculum prepares each child for a lifelong love of learning and academic success.

Top Schools

GEMS World Academy Chicago

photo courtesy of nazareth catholic academy

Gateway Montessori School Nurturing the potential within each child 3748 West Montrose, Chicago (773) 539-3025 gatewaymontessorischool.org Gateway Montessori is a nonprofit education center for young children, dedicated to quality education based on the principles of Dr. Maria Montessori. Montessori education is a non-traditional and holistic approach to working with young children. More than just academics, Montessori education aids the natural development of children, beginning from birth. Gateway

offers The Parent- Infant Program, ages 3 months to 18 months; The Community, ages 15 months to 3 years; and Children’s House, 3-6 years.

GCE Lab School 1535 N. Dayton Street, Chicago (312) 643-0991 admissions@gcechicago.com www.gcelabschool.com 9th-12th grades GCE’s project and inquiry-based curriculum exposes students to real-world environments. Through corporate and nonprofit partners, students engage in hands-on experiences, invest them-

350 East South Water St., Chicago (312) 300-6658 admissions@gemschicago.org gemschicago.org Grades: JK-12, now enrolling for JK-6th for 2014-2015 School Year and JK-7th for 2015-2016 GEMS World Academy, a premier private school, brings a new model of education to Chicago based on an international curriculum and transdisciplinary approach that prepares students for leadership roles in careers, community, and the broader world. GEMS’ four core values — global citizenship, growing by learning, pursuing excellence and leading through innovation — are woven into an international curriculum. With over 50 years of leadership internationally, the GEMS Education experience offers new ways to learn and meaningful connections to other

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cultures across a global network of schools.

JUF Right Start™ (312) 357-4513 juf.org/rightstart rightstart@juf.org Help your child’s Jewish education get off to the Right Start! JUF Right Start provides monetary vouchers toward the tuition of the first child in your immediate family to attend a participating Jewish preschool. Check online to view eligibility requirements, apply for a gift voucher, and find a Jewish preschool that’s right for your family.

Lincoln Park Preschool & Kindergarten

312 W. Belden Ave., Chicago (773) 665-0110 108 W. Germania Pl., Chicago (312) 482-9009 2150 N. Lincoln Park West, Chicago (773) 248-3381 lppschools.com Play is the foundation for learning at NAEYC accredited Lincoln Park Preschool & Kindergarten. We believe that through play, children experience the joy of learning thus developing self-confidence and a passion for school. Our teachers have degrees in early childhood related programs and use their experience and knowledge to create dynamic, discovery based activities that nurture and grow each child

individually. This growth is communicated daily and is essential to developing a strong home/ school connection. (LPPBelden ages 2-5; LPP-Germania ages 2-K; LPPWebster ages18 months - 5)

Little Gems International Lincoln Park 2301 N. Clark St., Chicago (312) 361-3532 LittleGEMSInternational/ lincolnpark.com Little GEMS International is a preschool for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. It is the first GEMS Education preschool to open in the U.S. Our stateof-the-art facility features learning environments carefully designed for every stage of a child’s early development and capacity for learning. A child’s literacy and numeracy skills are developed in the classroom, on stage or strolling through the indoor park. ‘Little GEMS’ are also acquainted with world languages and cultures at an early age.

Marmion Academy 1000 Butterfield Rd., Aurora (630) 897-6936 Marmion Academy, a CatholicBenedictine college preparatory high school for young men, provides an education dedicated to spiritual formation, academic excellence and leadership development. Marmion offers students a unique leadership track in addition to their college prep curriculum. The Academy, owned and operated by the Benedictine monks of Marmion Abbey, strives to build a community of skilled and dedicated educators as well as talented and receptive students.

Montessori Academy of Chicago

Please join us at our November 19th and January 14th “Coffees.”

Northside Catholic Academy 2013 National Blue Ribbon School Award Winner 6216 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago 5525 N. Magnolia Ave., Chicago (773) 271-4310 www.northsidecatholic.org NCA is the right choice for families who are looking for a challenging curriculum within a nurturing environment. We value small class sizes and differentiated instruction. In addition to our core curriculum, we teach Music and Art starting in Preschool and those plus Spanish Language, P.E. and Computer starting in Kindergarten. We offer a flexible, affordable and stimulating Extended Care and Summer Camp. Our students consistently score high above the national average and our graduates attend Chicago’s top high schools.

Saint James School Arlington Heights (224) 345-7145 stjamesschoolah.org Saint James School provides an environment where faith, family, and educational excellence reinforce one another throughout the school day. You’ll find faith, excellence, leadership, and service in all we do. With a strong foundation in academics, moral values, and leadership, our graduates are prepared to face the challenges of a larger world – with confidence and faith. Visit our Open House, January 25, 2015 from 12:30-2:00pm.

Solomon Schechter Day School 4500 Dempster, Skokie (847) 674-3206 www.schechter.org

It is our mission to provide authentic Montessori education to the children of Chicago from birth through Eighth Grade. The Academy is committed to academic excellence and is designed to develop the leaders of tomorrow. Join us and experience the advantage our Academy brings! Informational Coffee Sessions: 11/12 or 12/16, 9:0010:30AM. Open House: 12/4, 5:307:00PM.

Discover more for your child at the Ginsburg Solomon Schechter Early Childhood Center in Skokie, where we offer a joyful, stimulating and nurturing environment for children from 2-5 years old to learn, discover, and grow. We value and nourish the individual qualities that each child brings into the classroom. We guide our lessons to tap into children’s sense of wonder and joy about the world. Early-care and After-care options. Call us today. 847.674-3206. Visit our Open Houses: Wednesday, November 12, 7:30 p.m. and Monday, November 17, 2014 9:30 a.m.

Nazareth Academy

St. Peter Lutheran School

1209 W. Ogden, La Grange Park (708) 354-0061 nazarethacademy.com

111 W. Olive St., Arlington Heights

Birth – 8th Grade 1335 W. Randolph St., Chicago (312) 243-0977 montessoriacademychicago.org.

Celebrating 25 years of Montessori Education

ties at Naz.

Nazareth Academy is a Catholic, coed, college prep high school dedicated to living Jesus’ mission of unity and committed to educating the whole person. Nazareth invites middle school students and families to get to know Nazareth at one of our Open Houses. Visit us Sunday, November 9, presentations at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. or Thursday, December 4, presentation at 7 p.m. Attending Open House provides you with an opportunity to learn about students, faculty, classes and activi-

A good education begins with an inspiring place where a child can grow. A place that fosters academic, emotional, spiritual, and social growth. That place is St. Peter Lutheran School in Arlington Heights. We’ve been an inspiring place for Christ-centered, family-oriented academic excellence since 1864. Whether you’re a parent seeking a preschool for the first time or looking for an alternative to other schools, you’ll discover at St. Peter everything your child needs to grow in mind, body, and spirit.

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Chicago Grammar School

Celebrating Student Achievement: 2014 CGS Honor Wall 1st Place 2014! CGS Certamen Team wins Chicago Regional Junior High Division

US Kangaroo Math 2014 Winners - CGS students place 16th and 17th nationally!

National Latin Exam 2014 - CGS students receive Outstanding Achievement Awards

The CGS Class of 2014 will be attending North Side Prep, Jones College Prep and St. Ignatius in the Fall. Best wishes for their continued academic success!

CGS Student wins Top Prize in UK Based 2014 Minimus Mythology Competition

Illinois Kangaroo Math 2014 Winners CGS students place in the Top 15 in the State

900 N. Franklin, Chicago, IL 60610

The

ACHIEVEMENT LIKE THIS BEGINS WITH PRESCHOOL Come to a Fall 2014 Information Night and discover CGS. Nov 11 & Dec 10. Call to reserve.

312-944-5600

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Congratulations to our students! On the Iowa Test of Basic Skills May 2014, CGS class scores ranged from the 98th to 99th percentiles.

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. • Active learning

Join us for our information nights: Nov. 11, Dec. 10 Follow us on Facebook

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

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

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A fun Exotic Educational Animal Show for kids & adults of all ages! Serving the Chicago land area for over 10 years!

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calendar 2 NOVEMBER

With apologies to Beethoven, Bach and their ilk, we should have known it would be Pixar that would finally figure out a way to get kids into orchestral music. At CSO at the Movies: Pixar in Concert, our city’s famous orchestra performs selections from 14 Pixar films including Up, Monsters University and all three Toy Story movies. The accompanying film clips will help keep little ones’ attention—and singing “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” all the way home. $50-$199. 8 p.m. Nov. 28-29; 3 p.m. Nov. 30. Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 294-3000, cso.org.

People have been playing checkers—or something that looks a lot like it—for thousands of years now. Head to Ancient Games Day, where you can learn more about its origins, plus other games that have been around for quite a while. For little kids, there are coloring and craft activities. Here’s hoping these low-tech mainstays will inspire some simplified wish lists this holiday season. Free. 2-5 p.m. Nov. 15. Oriental Institute Museum, 1155 E. 58th St., Chicago. (773) 7029514, oi.uchicago.edu.

Don’t know what to do with your Thanksgiving scraps once the food is on the table? Try feeding them to somebody who will appreciate it: worms! Families can learn how to Make a Worm Bin for composting kitchen waste—just in time for the biggest kitchen waste holiday of the year. Plus, discuss the benefits of vermicomposting, learn some worm bin care, and find out tricks to keep your wiggly “pets” happy (our money’s on sweet potato skins). $15, $10 resident. 10-11 a.m. Nov. 8. Irons Oaks, 20000 S. Western Ave., Olympia Fields. (708) 481-2330, ironsoaks.com.

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CALENDAR 1 | SATURDAY CHICAGO DAY OF THE DEAD. Includes art,

games and a special snack for kids 3 and up, in honor of the Day of the Dead holiday in Mexico. $15, $25 two kids. 10:30 a.m.-noon. Language Stars Lincoln Park, 1741 N. Elston Ave. (866) 557-8277, languagestars.com.

YOUNG PLAYWRIGHT’S CONTEST.

Li’l Buds Theatre presents the first annual Young Playwright’s Contest using 4-5 minute plays written by second grade students at The Frances Xavier Warde School which will be performed by professional actors. The audience votes and gives suggestion on how to expand the winning play, which will be performed as part of the 2016 season. Recommended for

About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the December issue is Oct. 27. 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 112.

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar

families with kids 7 and older. $5 suggested donation. Li’l Buds Theatre Company, 1206 W. Rosedale. (773) 334-4543, lilbudstheatre.org.

SUBURBS NATIVE AMERICAN DAY. Play traditional Native American games and listen to stories in a reproduction wigwam. View atlatl throwing and fire-making demonstrations. $3 to create a beaded necklace and a cornhusk doll. 1-4 p.m. Elk Grove Historical Museum, 399 Biesterfield Road, Elk Grove Village. (847) 439-3994, elkgroveparks.org/ Elk_Grove_Historical_Museum. CERAMIC WORKSHOPS. Kids

6 and up join Richard Cohen in a one-day workshop. Today’s project is Coral Reefs. $35. 1-4 p.m. Jewett Park Community Center, 836 Jewett Park Drive, Deerfield. (847) 9450650, deerfieldparks.org. NIGHT OF STARS. A fun-filled,

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social event which gives individuals with autism spectrum disorder an opportunity to celebrate their progress, talents and abilities in the presence of family, friends and supporters. $50, $30 kids 17 and under and all with ASD. 6-11 p.m. Hilton Oak Lawn Conference Center, 9333 S. Cicero Ave., Oak Lawn. (773) 3290375, chicagoautism.org.

2 | SUNDAY CHICAGO JUNIOR ARCHAEOLOGISTS.

Kids 5-12, with adult, learn how archaeologists work in the field and discover artifacts, then take part in excavating a simulated dig in the Kipper Family Archaeology Discovery Center. $14, $10 member; $7, $5 additional. 10 a.m.-noon. Oriental Institute Museum, 1155 E. 58th St. (773) 702-9514, oi.uchicago.edu. KIDICAL MASS. Bike ride for kids and their families is held the

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CALENDAR first Sunday of every month, rain or shine. 10 a.m. Audubon School, 3500 N. Hoyne Ave. (773) 534-5470, chicagokidicalmass.org.

SUBURBS HALLOWEEN PARTY. An after-Halloween party with a costume contest at 2 p.m. $10 kids; $5 adults. Noon-3 p.m. C&A Robot Factory, Inc., 326 Peterson Road, Libertyville. (847) 996-0123, carobotfactory.com. SMASHING PUMPKINS. Unwanted pumpkins become parking lot projectiles when flung from a giant trebuchet. Bring a pumpkin, create a catapult and learn how to lob. Free with admission. 1-4 p.m. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 963-6769, discovery centermuseum.org. FROM HOG HOUSE TO SMOKEHOUSE. See how 19th

century farm families preserved meat and other food for the long winter.

Features authentic demonstrations, craft activities, wagon rides and refreshments. $3 person, $12 family. Noon-4 p.m. Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm, 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. (847) 985-2100, parkfun.com. TOY SOLDIER SHOW. Toy soldier enthusiasts display collections of small-scale soldiers and armaments. $5 per car, $2 per car after 4 p.m. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 6685161, cantigny.org.

4 | TUESDAY TODDLER TUESDAYS. Legoland

opens early on the second floor exclusively for toddlers and their parents. Guests enjoy returning favorites like story time and free play, plus play-based, foreign language story time, music class, make-your-own wrapping paper, water art, exotic animal adventures and discovery stations with sand and

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DISCOVER THE PLACE WHERE AWESOME LIVES. Blocks are classic timeless toys. Put a new spin on an old favorite by exploring 10 different and unusual types of building blocks in a single space in our Build It! exhibit opening November 25. Kids can explore their inner architect while learning basic math and engineering skills.

underwitten by

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CALENDAR

Kinder Karate New Classes Now on Saturday Afternoons – Max 10 students per class Sign-up today!

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water sensory tables. Free coffee and pastries available. $7. 10 a.m.noon. Legoland Discovery Center, The Streets of Woodfield (next to Woodfield Mall), 601 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg. (847) 5929700, legolanddiscoverycenter.com/ chicago.

5 | WEDNESDAY NATURE NUTS. Every class has a different nature theme; today’s is Fall Leaves. Little nature-lovers ages 2-4 can sing, take hikes, visit the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven and more. Kids learn and discover through coloring, puzzles, sensory and water tables. Parents or caregivers participate in each class with their child. $15 pair; $10 member pair. 10-11 a.m. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (773) 7555100, naturemuseum.org. KING TUT DAY. Learn about the boy

king, pyramids and mummification. $6, $3 members. 6 p.m. Midwest Museum of Natural History, 425 West State St., Sycamore. (815) 895-9777, mmnh.org. SWEET TARTS FROM TREES. Kids

18-35 months discover all of the delicious fruits that grow on trees, plant a fruit tree seed and make a mini pie. Hike, listen to stories and play games in this interactive sensory based class. $25, $18 members. 9:30-10:45 a.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

6 | THURSDAY NATURE STORY TIMES. Natureinspired 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.

7 | FRIDAY DINO WORKS! See and touch real

fossils, play dinosaur games, find dinosaurs hiding around the museum, create dinosaur crafts and more. Free with admission. 10 a.m.-noon. Wonder Works, 6445 W. North Ave.,

Oak Park. (708) 383-4815, wonderworks.org. JUST THE GUYS OVERNIGHT.

Dads and sons listen to nighttime creatures on a hike to Lake Marmo, then relax with s’mores around the campfire. The next morning, enjoy a light breakfast before a bird hike. $51, $40 members. 7 p.m.-9 a.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

8 | SATURDAY CHICAGO FAMILY DAY: CHANGES.

This Family Day inspired by the exhibitions “David Bowie Is” and “Body Doubles” invites families to explore transformation, change and different points-of-view. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave. (312) 280-2660, mcachicago.org.

SUBURBS DINO WORKS! Oak Park. See Nov. 7. KIDS FARE: EXTRAORDINARY ORCHESTRA. Young audience mem-

bers experience the sounds of strings, brass, woodwinds and percussion in this vibrant program. Audience members are encouraged to arrive early for a pre-concert “instrument petting zoo” (9:45-10:15 a.m.) in the lobby, featuring Educational Strings provided by William Harris Lee & Co. $6, $4 kids. 10:30 a.m. PickStaiger Concert Hall, Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music, 50 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. (847) 467-4000, pickstaiger.org. FEEDING FRENZY: THANKSGIVING DISSECTION. Kids 8 and up

dissect some of the most popular Thanksgiving fruits and veggies just in time to wow their family with amazing facts at Thanksgiving dinner. Check website for cost. 12:30 p.m. Midwest Museum of Natural History, 425 West State St., Sycamore. (815) 895-9777, mmnh.org. GEOCACHING. A real-world outdoor

treasure hunt among the trees around Lake Marmo. Participants

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CALENDAR

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try to locate hidden containers, called geocaches, using a GPS or smartphone. Use a hand-held Garmin GPS unit to find hidden caches on the West Side, and learn about woodlands and wetlands during this guided adventure. Enjoy hot chocolate under the spruces. $24, $16 member. 1-3:30 p.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb. org.

9 | SUNDAY CHICAGO FAMILY FUN DAY. A day full of interactive activities and hands-on experiences highlighting the history of the landmark theater. Learn about the theater during family-friendly tours, design a stained glass creation, see a demonstration of the Palmer House’s famous brownies and hear some of the oldest stories of the theater, including ghost stories. Plus, a scavenger hunt, musical petting zoo, dance lessons and comedy

demonstrations. 1-5 p.m. Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E. Congress Parkway. (312) 922-2110, auditoriumtheatre.org/wb. GISC LATERNENFEST AND ST. MARTIN’S PARADE. Features

lantern-making and other kidfriendly activities and concludes with a lantern parade at dusk. Admission includes a lantern kit that children can use to personalize their own lantern, plus free crafts, face painting, storytelling, and a sing-along. Baked goods, juice, water, beer and glühwein available for purchase. Tickets must be purchased in advance. $7, free kids under 2. 2:30-5:30 p.m. DANK Haus German American Cultural Center, 4740 N. Western Ave. (773) 561-9181, dankhaus.com.

SUBURBS

husk or yarn doll. Witness harvest activities like the baking of bread in the wood-burning cookstove and making candles for the wintertime. Tour the historic farmhouse to learn more about its restoration, or visit with a cavalry sergeant and his horse as they demonstrate the weapons of the era used to protect these frontier lands. Noon-4 p.m. Glacial Park Conservation Area, Lost Valley Visitor Center, Route 31 and Harts Road, Ringwood. (815) 678-4532, mccdistrict.org. CHILDREN’S STORY TIME.

Enjoy part of a Sunday afternoon listening to a book, taking an exploratory hike, and making a craft to take home based on the story When Winter Comes by Nancy Van Laan. 2-3 p.m. Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake. (815) 479-5779, mccdistrict.org.

HARVEST GATHERING OF 1858. Step back in time to the

DINO WORKS! Oak Park. See Nov. 7.

1850’s Powers-Walker House at harvest time. Try corn shelling, grinding corn into flour or making a corn

CERAMIC SUNDAY CELEBRATION. Enjoy a fun

afternoon painting pottery and making something special. The ceramic piece will be food and dishwasher safe, and the paint is non-toxic. $24, $16 resident. 1-4 p.m. Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 8485000, napervilleparks.org. ON THE TRAIL OF THE WHITE-TAILED DEER. Explore

the history of this native animal and touch real deer artifacts. 1-2:30 p.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

10 | MONDAY VETERANS DAY ZOO CAMP: ANIMAL ATHLETES. Learn about

the record-holders of the animal kingdom. Kids in Pre-K-grade 4 can meet some of the fastest, strongest, and smartest creatures on the planet. $67, $57 members. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

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CALENDAR Limited Engagement

BEGINS NOVEMBER 12

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DINO WORKS! Oak Park. See Nov. 7.

Family groups of 8 or more

11 | TUESDAY

Adapted and Directed by

STOCKINGS FOR OUR TROOPS. Decorate holiday stockings

save up to 20% David Catlin

From the works of Lewis Carroll In association with the Actors Gymnasium Production Sponsor: Allstate

Call 312.337.0665 or visit LookingglassTheatre.org

for the troops overseas. A letter writing station is also available to write a note of thanks or encouragement to be included with your stocking. Donations of stocking stuffer items (cards, small shampoos, razors, sunflower seeds, etc.) are accepted. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Oaks Recreation & Fitness Center, 10847 LaPorte Road, Mokena. (708) 390-2401, mokena park.com. ECO-EXPLORERS: WILD TURKEY DAY. See if you are as tall

as a wild turkey, learn about snoods, wattles and beards, touch turkey

feathers, create a Thanksgiving craft and try using a turkey caller. 1-4 p.m. Knoch Knolls Nature CenterPrairie Room, 320 Knoch Knolls Road, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org. SWEET TARTS FROM TREES.

Lisle. See Nov. 5.

12 | WEDNESDAY SWEET TARTS FROM TREES.

Kids 3-5 discover all of the delicious fruits that grow on trees, plant a fruit tree seed and make a mini pie. Hike, listen to stories and play games in this interactive sensory based class. $22, $15 member. 9:30-11 a.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

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November 21, 2014 through January 3, 2015* Doors open: 5:00 p.m. Last entry: 8:30 p.m. Lights out: 9:30 p.m.

See trees in a different light. Don’t miss the return of this groundbreaking, interactive spectacle Stroll over a mile of innovative lights and projections Experience trees that respond to your hug or voice Enjoy the new Symphony Woods with music from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra “Prepare to be dazzled... Illumination is something Share this one-of-a-kind family entirely new.” activity or romantic date

– Chicago Tribune

Tickets are limited. *See website for full schedule. Advance purchase recommended: mortonarb.org/illumination 630-725-2066 Visitor Center

THE MORTON ARBORETUM 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL 60532 mortonarb.org • 630-968-0074

CONNECT WITH US #mortonarboretum #illumination

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CALENDAR Nurturing early development, socialization, and exploration. Nurturing early development, Otherwise referred to as, socialization, and exploration. Otherwise referred to as,

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13 | THURSDAY SWEET TARTS FROM TREES.

Lisle. See Nov. 12.

14 | FRIDAY MOTHER DAUGHTER COOKIE NIGHT. Girls 4-8, with adult, enjoy

an evening with pastry chef Kelly from the Café. Participants decorate cookies and bake specialty items. There will be some time for “baking” games and refreshments will be served. $14. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Sachs Recreation Center, 455 Lake Cook Road, Deerfield. (847) 945-0650, dfpd.org. CINDERELLA’S BALL. Come

dressed in a princess gown to sing and dance with Cinderella and all her princess friends. Includes music and activities led by a DJ, royal crafts and dancing with the princesses. A buffet dinner will be served. To receive the sibling discount, register in person or over the phone. $49 couple, $34 resident couple, $14 sibling. 6:30-7:45 p.m. Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, naperville parks.org.

SLEEP UNDER THE SKYSCRAPERS. The evening begins

with dinner, followed by opportunities to explore the nightlife of the zoo’s residents. Hear stories from zoo experts and wind down with a movie and bedtime snack before turning in for the night. Families with kids 5-12 can choose to attend just the evening activities or they can stay for the entire program and sleep over at the zoo. Includes dinner and continental breakfast. Evening Encounter: $42, $35 members; Full Overnight: $70, $60 members. 6 p.m.-8:30 a.m.; 6-10 p.m. evening only. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

The Little Gym helps children reach their greatest potential. months through 12 their years,greatest classes The Little From Gym 4helps children reach promote development and build confidence during potential. From 4 months through 12 years, classes each stagedevelopment of childhood.and build confidence during promote each stage of childhood.

Discover your kid's happy place with our Introductory Experience Discover your kid's happy place with our The Little Gym of Chicago Introductory Experience www.TheLittleGym.com/ChicagoIL The Little Gym of Chicago (773) 525-5750 www.TheLittleGym.com/ChicagoIL (773) 525-5750

15 | SATURDAY CHICAGO DAN ZANES AND FRIENDS. Dan

Zanes brings his family-friendly folk tunes and pop favorites to the Harris Theater Family Series. Call for cost. 2 p.m. Harris Theater for Music and Dance, Harris Theatre Box Office, 205 E. Randolph Drive in Millennium Park. (312) 334-7777, harristheater chicago.org.

STORYBOOK COOKS: THE NIGHT BEFORE THANKSGIVING. Kids

FAMILY WORKSHOP: BOOK MAKING: RECYCLED PAMPHLET STITCH BOOKS. Using cereal boxes

4-5 bring stories to life through the recipes featured in both old and new beloved tales. All recipes are provided. Bring an apron. $29, $19 resident. 9:30-11:30 a.m. 95th Street Center Culinary Arts, 2244 W. 95th St., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

along with other recycled cardboard parts, participants create a variety of pamphlet stitch books that can be used for multiple purposes. This basic stitching process serves as an excellent introduction to the tools, materials and methods of the book arts. 2-4 p.m. The Lurie Garden in

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

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CALENDAR Millennium Park, Columbus Drive and Monroe Street. (312) 228-1004, luriegarden.org.

SUBURBS CINDERELLA’S BALL. Naperville.

See Nov. 14. Today’s times are 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

takes home a turkey. Basketball hoops and ball sizes are age appropriate. Adults can partner with more than one child. $9, $6 resident. 6:15-8 p.m. Homewood Flossmoor Park District, 3301 Flossmoor Road, Flossmoor. (708) 957-0300, hfparks.com. TODDLER TUESDAYS.

Schaumburg. See Nov. 4. CERAMIC WORKSHOPS. Deerfield. See Nov. 1. Today’s project is Animal Habitats.

16 | SUNDAY CHICAGO

NATURE STORY TIMES. River

Forest. See Nov. 6.

through games and a short exploratory hike. $5, free resident. 2-3 p.m. Pleasant Valley Conservation Area, 13315 Pleasant Valley Road, Woodstock. (815) 479-5779, mccdistrict.org.

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

20 | THURSDAY

Light up the winter by making hand-dipped candles. Plus create paper heart baskets and Christmas ornaments and learn how to make a traditional Swedish Christmas treat. Bring a pair of sharp scissors. Coffee and sandwiches will be served. $15, $10 members. 10-11 a.m. Swedish American Museum & Brunk Children’s Museum of Immigration, 5211 N. Clark St. (773) 728-8111, swedishamericanmuseum.org.

TURKEY TALK. Learn about this bird

Planning a Party?

NATURE NUTS. Chicago. See Nov. 5. Today’s theme is Turkeys.

CHRISTMAS CRAFT WORKSHOP.

SUBURBS

Don’t miss this great exhibit!

19 | WEDNESDAY

AFTERNOON ADVENTURES.

Spend a Sunday afternoon learning and creating at the Des Plaines History Center. Families learn a little history about traveling and how people communicated with others before cell phones and texting and design a postcard, craft a message and send it to someone special. $3, $2 members. 1-4 p.m. Des Plaines History Center, 781 Pearson St., Des Plaines. (847) 391-5399, desplaines history.org.

18 | TUESDAY TURKEY HOOPS. Adults and kids

pair up in this team free throw contest. The winner from each age group

21 | FRIDAY HEJSAN - CHILDREN’S STORY AND CRAFT HOUR. Read

Every Autumn Comes the Bear by Jim Aronsky and create paper plate bears. Reservations are requested. 11 a.m. Swedish American Museum & Brunk Children’s Museum of Immigration, 5211 N. Clark St., Chicago. (773) 728-8111, swedish americanmuseum.org. WINTER LIGHTS HOLIDAY WALK. Enjoy a fireworks display and

a special holiday parade with celebrities like the Paramount Theatre’s Mary Poppins, Town Band, Aurora’s “Grinch” and Santa and Mrs. Claus. The twinkling streets will be filled with live music, costumed characters, ice sculpting, local art, food vendors, photo-ops, live reindeer, trackless train and Christkindlmarket. The official City of Aurora holiday tree will be illuminated by Mayor Weisner, Miss Merry Christmas and Mr. Jack Frost. After the tree lighting, Santa will listen to Christmas wishes and Mrs. Claus has a special treat. 5-9 p.m. Downtown Water Street Mall, 44 E. Downer Place, Aurora. (630) 896-6666, aurora-il.org. TODDLER EXPLORATION TIME. Parents and kids interact

during guided activities, facilitated by a docent, and highlighting a different topic each month. 10:30-11:15 a.m.

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CALENDAR (18-30 months); 12:15-1 p.m. (3-5). Oak Park Conservatory, 615 Garfield St., Oak Park. (708) 725-2400, oakparkconservatory.org.

22 | SATURDAY CHICAGO CHICAGO TOY & GAME FAIR. This fair offers families, teachers, toy and game enthusiasts the chance to preview new toys and games, meet toy and game inventors, have a picture taken with Star Wars characters and more. $10, $5 kids 3-13, free kids under 3. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Navy PierFestival Hall A, 600 East Grand Ave. (847) 677-8277, chitagfair.com.

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BABY LOVES DISCO. Afternoon

dance party featuring DJs, MCs, dancers, music, crafts, food, unlimited drink boxes, cash bar parents, and lots of dancing. $15 walking humans, $55 for four. Noon-2:30 p.m. Lincoln Hall, 2424 N Lincoln Ave. (773) 5252501, lincolnhallchicago.com.

SUBURBS BACKYARD BIRDING.

Brighten the dreary winter days by bringing winter birds to you. This

program will focus on how to identify McHenry County’s winter birds and how to attract them to your backyard. Participants will make a simple bird feeder to take home. 10-11:30

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CALENDAR padded barricades and take your team to victory. Teams of 4-5 are encouraged to have creative battle gear in the quest for ultimate pride. Each team must also bring nerf guns and ammo. Safety glasses will be provided. Team Fee: $40 resident/ $60 non-resident. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Homewood Flossmoor Park District, 3301 Flossmoor Road, Flossmoor. (708) 957-0300, hfparks.com.

INFANT AND TODDLER GYM.

Includes soft places to crawl, variety of textures to explore, parachute, bubbles and Music with Mr. David. Facilities also include a quiet room for feeding and diaper changes as needed. $10 family. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Florence G. Heller JCC, 524 W. Melrose Ave. (773) 871-6780, gojcc. org.

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23 | SUNDAY CHICAGO

The Fresh Beat Band

CHICAGO TOY & GAME FAIR. See

Nov. 22. Today’s times are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. HANSEL & GRETEL’S GINGERBREAD BALL. Enjoy a pri-

vate performance of “Hansel & Gretel: A Wickedly Delicious Musical Treat,” followed by a rockin’ party at the RitzCarlton Chicago with lunch, dancing, crafts and activities, a chance to meet

See Nov. 29

the characters from the show, live and silent auctions, a private performance by Grammy-nominated artist Justin Roberts. $125; $450 family of four. 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut St. emeraldcitytheatre.com.

LITTLE MISS ANN AND MR. DAVE. Family concert featuring two

kids’ musicians who are also Old Town School Wiggleworms teachers. $11. 11 a.m. Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 728-6000, oldtownschool.org.

SETTLERS’ DAY. Visit with costumed living history demonstrators, representing American history from French fur trading days, pioneer times, and the Revolutionary and Civil War periods. Activities include joining an imaginary wagon train, guided history hikes, trying your hand at a two-person buck saw, and making a craft. Donations of money or food accepted. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sand Ridge Nature Center, 15891 Paxton Ave., South Holland. (708) 868-0606, fpdcc.com.

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CALENDAR

.com FUN FACT It’s hard to tell from Earth, but the stars in our night sky are actually different colors. The hottest stars are blue and the coolest ones are red. Stars that are yellow or white, like our Sun, have a medium temperature. Learn more about the stars by following your favorite friends from Sesame Street in One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure now playing at the Adler Planetarium.

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SKULL DETECTIVES.

Examine real skulls to figure out which animal stole the missing lunch. 1-2:30 p.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

24 | MONDAY TALKIN’ TURKEY PARENT-CHILD ACTIVITY. Kids 3-5, with adult, cel-

ebrate the star of Thanksgiving Day, the wild turkey. Learn about these interesting birds, listen to stories, sing songs and make some turkey crafts. $10; free parking. 10-11 a.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

25 | TUESDAY WEEKDAY NATURE WALK.

AdlerPlanetarium.org

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.

26 | WEDNESDAY PARENT/CHILD THANKSGIVING GOODIES. Parents and kids 4-10

work together to create delicious dishes. Each parent/child pair will bring home a few creations to share. Recipes provided. $39, $26 resident. 9:30-11 a.m. Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

27 | THURSDAY MCDONALD’S THANKSGIVING PARADE. The

parade down State Street features live performances, equestrian units, marching bands and the sky-high balloons. 8-11 a.m. State Street (starts on Congress and moves north to Randolph), Chicago. chicago festivals.org.

28 | FRIDAY LEFTOVER SCIENCE. Turn cranberries into chemistry, engage in

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CALENDAR fruitcake physics, and find out what happens to whipped cream when it’s dropped in liquid nitrogen. Kick off the holiday season with demos and arts and crafts. Free with admission. 11:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 963-6769, discovery centermuseum.org. IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE WITH “ZUZU.” Karolyn Grimes,

‘Zuzu’ from “It’s A Wonderful Life,” shares her experiences on her favorite iconic Christmas movie. Meet Zuzu and watch the classic movie on the big screen. Hollywood Palms Cinema, 352 South Route 59, Naperville. (630) 428-5800, hollywoodpalmscinema.com. TURKEY TROT HIKE. Families take a special post-holiday hike on the scenic forest preserve trails around Trailside Museum with a naturalist. Registration required. No strollers. 1-2 p.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher

Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

29 | SATURDAY SUBURBS LEFTOVER SCIENCE. Rockford.

See Nov. 28.

THE FLYING MEAT-EATERS: HAWKS, OWLS, FALCONS AND VULTURES. Drop in to learn about

the life history of the carnivorous birds of the area. 1-2:30 p.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

3 0 | S U N D AY

THE FRESH BEAT BAND.

Nickelodeon’s preschool music group heads back on the road for a brandnew nationwide concert tour. The show features Kiki, Marina, Twist and Shout performing the band’s greatest hits including “Bananas,” “Here We Go” and a remixed version of “Great Day,” plus new songs including the pop classic, “Walk Like An Egyptian.” $29.50-$49.50. 1:30 and 5:30 p.m. Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N. River Road, Rosemont. (847) 671-5100, rosemonttheatre.com. IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE WITH “ZUZU.” Naperville. See

Nov. 28.

SUBURBS IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE WITH “ZUZU.” Naperville. See Nov. 28. COUNTRY CHRISTMAS & DESSERT WITH SANTA. Decorate

the Christmas tree, make crafts and enjoy the sights and sounds of a country Christmas at the Pioneer Log Cabin. Then take a walk to the Redfield Estate to enjoy refreshments, decorate cookies and visit with Santa. $10. Check website for times. The Grove, 1421 Milwaukee Ave., Glenview. (847) 299-6096, glenviewparks.org.

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Don’t wait to celebrate

he holiday season doesn’t kick off in earnest until next month, but there are a few places already getting into the spirit of things. Here are four Chicago holiday traditions early bird families can get a jump on right away. Santa Claus might be coming to town, but so are Mickey and Minnie Mouse! The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival features a parade of floats, balloons, marching bands and performers—and Disney’s finest illuminating more than one million lights. Don’t miss the activities and entertainment earlier in the day at Pioneer Court. Free. 11 a.m.-5 p.m., 5:30 p.m. parade. Nov. 22. North Michigan Avenue, from Oak Street to Wacker Drive, Chicago. (312) 4095560, themagnificentmile.com/events/ lights-festival.

Since 1942, the Museum of Science and Industry has featured a forest of decorated trees at Christmas Around the World and Holiday of Lights. The city’s ethnic communities decorate all of the trees. Plus there’s festive music, dance performances and a 45-foot Grand Tree, making for a picture-perfect holiday memory. Free with admission. 10:30 a.m. Nov. 13. Open through Jan. 5. 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 684-1414, msichicago. org.

Once the switch gets flipped on the city’s largest tree, it becomes Chicago’s holiday headquarters. Come early to the Daley Plaza Annual Tree Lighting for music and an appearance by Chicago’s own Christkind, a traditional German fairy. All the razzle-dazzle happens at 5 p.m. Plus, keep an eye out for Santa, who makes the little house on the plaza his home for the next month or so. Free. 4:30 p.m. Nov. 25. Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago. (312) 744-3315, cityofchicago.org/dcase.

It doesn’t feel like the holiday season until the Art Institute’s lion statues (named “In an Attitude of Defiance” and “On the Prowl”) don their festive evergreen wreaths. Families can attend The Wreathing of the Lions ceremony, then stay for a craft project in Ryan Education Center and get a picture with museum mascot Artie the Lion. Free; regular admission for inside activities. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 28. Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 4433600, artic.edu. Elizabeth Diffin ChicagoParent.com November 2014 111

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ONGOING EVENTS

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H O L I D AY ACTIVITIES LONG GROVE HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES. Celebrate the holiday

season at the historic village of Long Grove. Check website for hours and information. 308 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove. (847) 634-0888, visitlonggrove.com. HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY AND SYMPHONY IN LIGHTS. A day of activities

culminates in the annual tree lighting ceremony and first Symphony In Lights show at dusk. Activities during the day include carriage rides, Santa tent, kids’ holiday crafts, ice sculpture demonstration, costumed character appearances, a live Nativity scene and more. 3-6 p.m. Nov. 15; 5-9 p.m. daily through Dec. 31. The Promenade Bolingbrook, 631 E. Boughton Road, Bolingbrook. thepromenadebolingbrook.com.

ADVENTURE TO SANTA. Opens

Nov. 18. A 2,000-square-foot holiday cottage combines the latest technology with magical storytelling from the creative minds behind such hit franchises as Shrek, Madagascar and How to Train Your Dragon. Families can make appointments by app before embarking on the adventure, which includes an immersive, eyepopping journey with Shrek and his friends as they guide children and families to the North Pole. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Oakbrook Center, 100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook. (630) 573-0700, oakbrookcenter.com. DISCOVER HOLIDAY TRADITIONS IN THE CHICAGO LOOP. Opens Nov. 18. Presents

holiday magic, including attractions, shopping and dining, and a variety of family-friendly activities. Various locations, Chicago. loopchicago. com.

CHRISTKINDLMARKET CHICAGO. Opens Nov. 21. Discover

a traditional centuries-old holiday market in the heart of downtown Chicago. Christkindlmarket features German and international vendors who display hand-crafted ornaments, toys and unique gifts as well as traditional German foods, sweets and beverages. School groups, professional singers and dance groups perform. Special events include appearances by the Christkind and the annual Children’s Lantern Parade, which celebrates St. Martin’s Day. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago. (312) 494-2175, christkindlmarket.com. ILLUMINATION: TREE LIGHTS.

Opens Nov. 21. Walk a mile-long path to marvel at trees illuminated in colors and interact with lighted trees that respond to voice or touch. Sing to trees to make them change color and hug trees to see how they

respond, then warm up at a fire pit. Or stop at the warming tent to grab a snack and a warm beverage. New in 2014: Symphony of Light: lights dance in synchronized patterns to seasonal music from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra; Meadow Lake Magic: light-patterned trees and a series of lit orbs dot Meadow Lake; expanded Tinsel Colonnade with multi-colored strings of LED lights hanging from the trees like tinsel. Kid-friendly interactive stations and a scavenger hunt to find the “Glow Man.” Plus, hear local bands every weekend. Cost varies; check website. 5-9:30 p.m. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 9680074, mortonarb.org. FESTIVAL OF TREES. Weeklong holiday fest features display of holiday trees, wreaths and decorations; special events such as concerts, holiday classic films, wine tastings and the Teddy Bear Tea. $7, $5 kids and seniors, free kids 2 and under.

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ONGOING EVENTS Nov. 28-30. Visit website to confirm dates and times. Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago. (312) 7443315, cityofchicago.org/dcase. NAPER LIGHTS. Opens Nov. 27. Stroll the museum grounds and experience a magical holiday lights celebration. 5-9 p.m. Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville. (630) 420-6010, naper settlement.org. LIGHT UP THE HOLIDAYS FESTIVAL. Includes family activities

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Visit website for early bird discount information and a schedule of events. Nov. 24-30. Rialto Square Theatre, 15 E. Van Buren St., Joliet. (815) 726-7171, rialtosquare.com.

ory

DALEY PLAZA SANTA HOUSE.

Visit Santa’s House from Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve. 6-8 p.m. Nov. 25; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 27; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday-Sunday

at several locations including a tree lighting ceremony, parade, museum free day, ice carving, craft activities and musical performances. Visit website for a complete list of events. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Nov. 28. Joliet. joliet downtown.com. GINGERBREAD FESTIVAL.

Includes story time with the Gingerbread Man, a procession and tree lighting ceremony on Friday, complimentary carriage rides, visits

with Santa and Gingerbread Boy and Girl and a gingerbread house contest, Gingerbread Man Hunt and more. Check website for schedule. Nov. 28-30. Downers Grove. downtowndg. org. AURORA FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS. Opens Nov. 28. A drive-

through of more than one mile of spectacular lighted displays, many of which are animated, and are illuminated by tens of thousands of bulbs. Donations accepted. 5-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 5-10 p.m. FridaySaturday. Phillips Park, 615 S. Smith Blvd., Aurora. aurorafestivaloflights. com. CAROLING AT CLOUD GATEMILLENNIUM PARK. Opens Nov.

28. Hear a variety of choral groups and join them in a holiday sing-along at Cloud Gate in Millennium Park. 6 p.m. Fridays. Michigan Avenue between Randolph and Monroe streets, Chicago. (312) 744-3316, millenniumpark.org.

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ONGOING EVENTS CHRISTKINDLMARKET OAKBROOK. Opens Nov. 28. Enjoy

a special suburban edition of the Chicago German-American Holiday Market. Includes hot beverages, German food and gift shopping—just like at Daley Plaza. Thursday-Sunday. Oakbrook Center Village Green, 100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook. christkindlmarket.com. DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS.

Lighted holiday parade takes place at 6 p.m. Nov. 28 along Front Street. Carriage rides and visits with Santa start Nov. 29 and continue every Saturday. Cost for some activities. Check website for schedule. 129 W. Front St., Wheaton. (630) 682-0633, downtownwheaton.com.

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ONGOING EVENTS ZOOLIGHTS. Opens Nov. 28. This family-oriented holiday celebration illuminates the sky with two million lights, including largerthan-life lighted animal and seasonal features, holiday crafts and activities, visits with Santa and sweet treats. 5-9 p.m. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (312) 7422000, lpzoo.org. CELEBRATION OF LIGHTS FESTIVAL. Santa arrives and

helps with the annual tree lighting ceremony. Includes hayrides, roasted chestnuts, hot chocolate and hot dogs for sale, community sing-along, visits with Santa and goodie bags. 5:30-7 p.m. Nov. 30. 151 N. Island Ave. and Houston Street, Batavia. (630) 879-5235, bataviaparks.org.

EXHIBITS XOXO: AN EXHIBIT ABOUT LOVE & FORGIVENESS. Families can come

together in a place that fosters conversations and interactive experiences

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that bring love and forgiveness to the forefront of families’ minds. Free with admission. DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 637-8000, dupage childrensmuseum.org. THE MACHINE INSIDE: BIOMECHANICS. Exhibit explores

animals and plants as machines built for survival, complete with pumps, pipes, insulation, motors, springs and intelligence-gathering devices. Presented in English and Spanish. Included in Discovery and All-Access passes. Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 9229410, fieldmuseum.org. SCIENCE + YOU. Exhibit features a

child-sized laboratory where kids can explore how scientists impact health and wellness through hands-on, interactive machinery, processes and technology. A demonstration area allows guest scientists to perform experiments. Free with admission. Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot

Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org. LIONEL TRAIN ADVENTURE. The

new electric-powered locomotive seats 28 children with a coal car, passenger cars and a caboose, courtesy of Lionel. The adventure begins at a red brick train station and embarks on a trip through an evergreen forest, over a quaint country bridge, through a craggy canyon and a birch forest. $3. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (312) 7422000, lpzoo.org. NUMBERS IN NATURE: A MIRROR MAZE. An interactive and

immersive new permanent exhibit that exposes and explains the mathematical patterns that abound in the natural world. Dead ends are scattered throughout, and hidden within this 10-minute experience is a small secret room. Free with admission. Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

THE GREEK MONSTERS. The oversized, colorful creatures are engaging and tell classic mythological tales in a modern way. The exhibition brings the stories to life through sculpture, paintings, audiovisual artwork and interactive displays. Also introduces kids to mythological creatures and teaches lessons about racism, discrimination and other moral challenges. Free with admission. National Hellenic Museum, 333 S. Halsted St., Chicago. (312) 655-1234, nationalhellenicmuseum. org.

OT H E R E V E N T S COMMUNITY DISCOUNT/ FREE GENERAL ADMISSION DAYS. Free general admission to

the original galleries and discounted rates on admission to Wild Reef, Polar Play Zone and Oceanarium. Nov. 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, 24-25. John G. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 9392438, sheddaquarium.org.

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ONGOING EVENTS TOTTERCIZE. This program is designed to teach kids 2-6, with adult, about healthy movement, coordination and balance in a gentle, introductory way. A variety of exercises will be used, including yoga and dancing. No session Nov. 3. 10-10:30 a.m. Mondays. West Chicago Public Library, 118 W. Washington St., West Chicago. (630) 231-1552, westchicago.lib.il.us. PAINT COVERED WEDNESDAYS.

Kids use a large variety of paints, styles and canvases as they learn to tell their stories. Painting helps children by enhancing problem solving skills, improving fine motor skills, boosting self-esteem and allows them to express themselves. Free with admission. 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Wonder Works, 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park. (708) 383-4815, wonder-works.org.

Th T he Gr Gre eek Mons Mo nstte ers s See page 115

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ONGOING EVENTS warming drinks are available for purchase. $5; $5 skate rental. 4-9 p.m. Fridays; noon-9 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org. CRAFTS FOR KIDS. Kids 3 and up enjoy crafts for kids at all Lakeshore locations. Nov. 1: Scarecrow Puppet; Nov. 8: Harvest Headdress; Nov. 15: Family Picture Tree; Nov. 22: Giving Thanks Centerpiece; Nov. 29: Cool Catch Penguin. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays. Lakeshore Learning Store, various locations. lakeshorelearning.com.

Numb Nu berrs in i Natur attu urre: e A Mi M rr rror or Maz or a e SSeee ee ppaage 11155

ory

GNOME HOMES. Kids create a

keepsake, light-up gnome home of their own made from natural materials. Tickets are limited and can be purchased in the Visitor Center. $10, $7 member. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. weekends. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org. OPEN GYM. Explore a play

EXPLORATION STATION. Try hands-on activities at the Exploration Station created by the Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory. There will be a new topic each month highlighting special aspects of the conservatory for both adults and children. 10 a.m.-noon Saturdays; 1:30-3:30 p.m. Sundays. Oak Park Conservatory, 615 Garfield St., Oak Park. (708) 725-2400, oakparkconservatory.org.

space specially designed for kids 18 months-5 years. Includes soft places to climb and explore, developmentally appropriate gross motor equipment, slides, tricycles, climbing structures and more. $10 family. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sundays. Florence G. Heller JCC, 524 W. Melrose Ave., Chicago. (773) 8716780, gojcc.org. GNOME HUNT. Search for gnomes in the Children’s Garden using “I Spy” skills. Checklist provided. Free with admission. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 9680074, mortonarb.org.

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PERFORMANCES circus-infused playground for a wonderland adventure inspired by Lewis Carroll’s beloved stories. Recommended for families with kids 5 and older. $35 and up. Lookingglass Theatre in the Water Tower Water Works, 821 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 337-0665, lookingglasstheatre.org.

CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S FILM FESTIVAL.

Through Nov. 2. Festival features more than 250 films from 40 countries and engages kids of all ages through screening Q&As with filmmakers, interactive workshops with special guests, peer-to-peer dialogues, filmmaker-led seminars and the CICFF Children’s and Youth juries. $9, $6 kids. Facets MultiMedia, 1517 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago. (773) 281-9075, cicff.org.

YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN. Opens Nov. 14. The

Peanuts gang comes to life in a musical for all ages. 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 3 p.m. Sundays; special holiday matinees on Saturdays. $28, $15 kids. Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. (630) 5878521, steelbeamtheatre.com.

THEATER UNSPEAKABLE PRESENTS: THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. A critical history

lesson in 50 minutes. Seven actors— suspended on a platform two feet off the ground —share 21 square feet of space to re-create the entire American fight for independence, from Lexington to Yorktown. Nov. 4-28. $17, $12 kids 14 and under. $10 ticket is available to neighbors in the 60622 and 60642 zip codes. Adventure Stage Chicago, Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St., Chicago. (773) 342-4141, adventurestage.org.

IT’S A WONDERFUL SANTA LAND MIRACLE NUT-CRACKING CHRISTMAS STORY… JEWS WELCOME. Opens Nov. 14. This

show packs the world’s most beloved stories and traditions into one extravagant cavalcade. The interactive show features original Christmas carols, dance numbers, spoken word, puppets, and cookies and eggnog. Recommended for families with kids 5 and older. Call for cost. Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. (773) 327-5252, stage773.com.

THE NUTCRACKER. Opens Nov. 7.

A fantastical expansion of this holiday classic centers on young Clara’s journey to save Christmas. This modern holiday production weaves together dialogue, puppetry, original song and spectacle to tell a heartwarming, darkly moving story of magic and hope. $15-$45. Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division St., Chicago. (773) 2781500, chopintheatre.com. THE WIZARD OF OZ. Opens Nov. 7. Join Dorothy, the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow as they journey down the yellow brick road to the magical Emerald City. This is a special one-hour presentation, followed by a Q&A session with the cast. $15. Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. (847) 634-0200, marriotttheatre.com. IF SCROOGE WAS A BROTHER.

Opens Nov. 7. It’s all about Scrooge in this reconstruction of the classic Christmas ghost tale. Spirited jokes and holiday music chronicle a journey from self-hatred to love

F ed Fr eder eriick See th See Se t is i pag a e

THE PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH.

as Scrooge faces his past, present and future and learns the wealth of family. Call for cost. eta Creative Arts Foundation, 7558 S. South Chicago Ave., Chicago. (773) 752-3955, etacreativearts.org. THE LOVE OF THREE ORANGES.

Holiday Panto combines commedia dell’arte and live storytelling in this reworked classic Italian fairy tale. Cursed by an evil sorceress, a once-lonely prince goes on a quest to find three giant oranges, and along the way encounters wizards, trickery, talking animals and love in the most unexpected of places. Preview performances Nov. 7-9; regular run starts Nov. 14. $11-$27, $70 family of four. Piccolo Theatre, 600 Main

St. (inside the Main Street Metra Station), Evanston. (847) 424-0089, piccolotheatre.com. A CIRCUS NIGHT’S DREAM. A

creative team from Chicago’s professional theater community and the young performers from The Actors Gymnasium add their own fantastic spins and twirls in an original, acrobatic adaptation of Shakespeare’s most imaginative comedy. Nov. 8-9, 15-16. $15. The Actors Gymnasium, Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes St., Evanston. (847) 328-2795, actorsgymnasium.com. LOOKINGGLASS ALICE. Opens Nov. 12. Show transports audiences down the rabbit hole to a

Through Nov. 15. Milo is bored in his bedroom until a magical tollbooth appears and transports him to the Kingdom of Wisdom where he discovers the magic of words and numbers, travels to strange lands and meets curious friends. Recommended for families with kids 7 and older. $10. Chicago Playworks at DePaul University, Merle Reskin Theatre at DePaul University, 60 E. Balbo Drive, Chicago. (312) 9221999, theatreschool.depaul.edu. FREDERICK. Through Nov. 16. Musical based on the book about Frederick the mouse is recommended for families with kids 3 and older. Call for cost. Chicago Children’s Theatre, The Ruth Page Center for Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. (872) 222-9555, chicagochildrenstheatre.org.

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PERFORMANCES ANNIE. Musical performed from Nov. 18-30. Call for cost. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago. (312) 977-1700, broadway inchicago.com. A CHRISTMAS STORY. Opens Nov.

19. Based on the hit film, the play by Phil Grecian tells the story of 9-yearold Ralphie Parker, who longs for a genuine Red Ryder BB gun. $40-$44. Theatre at the Center, The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Ind. (219) 8363255, theatreatthecenter.com. DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL. Performances run Nov.

20-29, with matinees available. $35-$125. Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., Chicago. (312) 902-1500, thechicagotheatre.com. IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: LIVE IN CHICAGO! Opens Nov. 21. Full-

scale production with Foley sound effects, an original score and a cast of eight. After each performance,

milk and cookies are served. $19$49. Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 404-7336, greenhousetheater.org. HANSEL & GRETEL: A WICKEDLY DELICIOUS MUSICAL TREAT.

Opens Nov. 22. Broadway In Chicago and Emerald City Theatre perform the musical with music and lyrics by Justin Roberts and a book by Emerald City Theatre Artistic Director Ernie Nolan. Call for cost. Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago. (800) 7752000, broadwayinchicago.com. HOW I BECAME A PIRATE.

Through Nov. 22. A swashbuckling musical adventure about a boy who runs off with pirates. Young Jeremy Jacob learns what it’s like to be a pirate and also teaches the crew a thing or two. 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays. $12; $10 on Fridays at box office during season. Northbrook Theatre for Young Audiences, 3323 Walters Ave., Northbrook. (847) 2912367, northbrooktheatre.org.

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THE VELVETEEN RABBIT. Through Nov. 23. Return to a simpler time with this heartwarming story about the transformative power of love. Based on the classic 1922 book by Margery Williams. Recommended for families with kids 5 and older. $15. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago. (773) 761-4477, lifelinetheatre.com. THE THREE LITTLE PIGS. Through

Nov. 25. Performances are 10:30 a.m. weekdays and 1 p.m. Nov. 22. Recommended for families with kids 2-12. $12. Stahl Family Theater, 5900

W. Belmont Ave, Chicago. (773) 2059600, chicagokidscompany.com. THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA.

Through Nov. 26. Meet Princess Penelope and her crazy friends—and find out if she can pass the ultimate Princess Test. Recommended for families with kids 2-12. $12. 10:30 a.m. weekdays and 1 p.m. Nov. 8. Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th, Chicago. (773) 205-9600, chicago kidscompany.com. THE CHRISTMAS SCHOONER.

Opens Nov. 26. The whole family

Chicago Playworks for Families & Young Audiences Presents:

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PERFORMANCES

Bingo’s Birthday See page 123

will enjoy this heart-warming story of the first Christmas tree ship and the family who risked their lives to fill Chicago with the Christmas spirit. $20-$55. Mercury Theater, 3745 N. Southport, Chicago. (773) 325-1700, mercurytheaterchicago.com.

Nov. 29, 1 p.m. Nov. 30. The Sunday performance is followed by the Sugar Plum Party. Recommended for families with kids 4 and older. $15-$40. Hinsdale Central Auditorium, 5500 S Grant St., Hinsdale. (630) 769-1199, saltcreekballet.org

A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Opens Nov. 28. Dickens’ classic story of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, his clerk Bob Cratchit and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come, sent to soften Scrooge’s heart to the meaning of Christmas. This 70-minute show is perfect for the entire family. $15, $12 kids. McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. (630) 942-4000, atthemac.org.

THE NUTCRACKER. Performances

SALT CREEK BALLET’S “THE NUTCRACKER.” Salt Creek Ballet

performs the traditional favorite, with accompaniment by the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra. 1 and 5 p.m.

GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS. Music and mayhem in this

Nov. 28. The story of old, grumpy Mr. Scrooge and his employee Bob Cratchit, told from the perspective of the Cratchit family. $30, $15 kids 12 and under. Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. (847) 577-2121, metropolisarts.com.

630.896.6666 or ParamouNtaurora.com

DEE SNIDER’S ROCK AND ROLL CHRISTMAS TALE. This show tells

the story of Däisy Cütter, a heavy metal bar band looking to make it big. The four guys sell their souls to the devil in exchange for success, but every time they try to seal the pact, their headbanging anthems turn into warm-hearted carols. Dee Snider, lead singer of Twisted Sister, stars in this new holiday musical, guaranteed to rock your whole family’s holiday. Call for cost. Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago. (800) 775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Opens

November 26–JaNuary 4

at 2 and 7 p.m. Nov. 29 and 2 p.m. Nov. 30. Buy tickets at (630) 9378930 or at bataviafineartscentre.org. $25-$35; $20-$30 kids 10 and under. Batavia Fine Arts Center, 1201 Main St. (Entrance to Centre on Wilson Street), Batavia. (630) 232-0444, statestreetdancestudio.com.

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PERFORMANCES classic fairytale make it just right for the entire family. Check website for cost. Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 935-6100, emerald citytheatre.com.

musicians, magicians, theater artists, dancers, storytellers, improvisers and teaching artists. $10, $5 kids. 3 p.m. Saturdays. Gorilla Tango Bucktown, 1919 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago. (773) 598-4549, gorillatango.com.

THE B.F.G. (BIG FRIENDLY GIANT).

HOGWASH: AN IMPROVISED TALL TALE. Interactive kids’ show where

The story of the lonely orphan Sophie, who is snatched away by the Big Friendly Giant to an enchanted land. Call for cost. Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 935-6100, emeraldcitytheatre.com. BINGO’S BIRTHDAY. Kids are invited to Bingo the dog’s birthday, but no one can find Bingo. An interactive performance just for kids 0-4. Call for cost. Emerald City’s Little Theatre, 2933 N. Southport Ave., Chicago. (773) 529-2690 ext. 810, emeraldcitytheatre.com. BRAIN SURGEON THEATER FAMILY MATINEE SERIES. Brain

Surgeon hosts a rotating ensemble of

the kids help guide the story with talented improvisors. Kids create the backdrop of the story and pick out the costumes. For tickets email shelby@ bughousetheater.com. Recommended for families with kids 3-10. Donations welcome. 10:30 a.m. Saturdays. Bughouse Theater, 2054 W. Irving Park, Chicago. bughousetheater.com. BEAT KITCHEN CONCERTS FOR KIDS! Families can enjoy a show

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Seeing green at

the Nature Museum

he leaves are falling off the trees, which means you might already be yearning for the sight of some green. If that’s the case, head to Notebaert Nature Museum’s new exhibit, Rainforest Adventure, which reminds families just how important it is to have a little lush green in their lives. “This is a great handson exhibit that’s open in the winter, when we wish we were in the rainforest and can’t get there,” says presiMarc Miller, vice presi dent of external affairs at the museum. The handson elements also keep kids active when they can’t be outside, thanks to a kapok tree they can climb and a gorilla’s nest to explore. Miller says a highlight of the exhibit is the live animals, including a green tree python, which can grow to be 6 feet long, a blue-throated macaw, of which there are only 350-400 in the wild, and the violet turaco, a brightly colored bird native to West Africa. The animals will live in an Amazonian hut and be brought out frequently for programs and to interinter act with the public. “There’s nothing like seeing live animals,”

Miller says. “The kids just love to come back and see (them).” The focus of the exhibit is on conservation and awareness. That theme is woven throughout the exhibit, and Miller says he hopes that families “learn lessons about how we make decisions locally that have global consequences.” The exhibit was originally created by Stepping Stones Museum for Children, but the team at Notebaert has made it more locally oriented, thanks to specimens from the museum’s collection and a partnership with the U.S. Forest Service.

Rainforest Adventure X Opens Nov. 8 X Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago X naturemuseum.org

Miller says parents can supplement the lessons learned in the exhibit with a visit to the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven, which contains some insects from tropical regions, or a stop at the Istock Family Lookin Lab to see scientists care for animals that might be endangered. It all serves as a good reminder that while the world outside is turning a little brown, you don’t have to look far to find some gorgeous green. Elizabeth Diffin

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WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS

Go fish

onsidering that about 70 percent of the earth is covered by water, we know shockingly little about the creatures that inhabit those bodies of water. But all that can change with a trip to Aquatic Experience-Chicago, the spot for all things fun and fishy. The show features hundreds of tanks of freshwater and saltwater fish, including a Fish Around the World display with—you guessed it—tropical fish from all over the globe. Kids can get their hands wet at the Children’s Touch Tank, where docents answer aquatic inquiries. There’s also a Fancy Guppy Competition that proves that your neighbor’s sad orange goldfish isn’t the only kind of guppy out there. A highlight of the show is the Live Shark Encounter, where experts swim and interact with the famously dangerous fish. Don’t worry: Jaws isn’t scheduled to appear. For kids 5-16 who are just getting into the fish hobby, there’s a Kids’ Aquarium Contest where they get to design a tank. For $5, they can enter the contest and receive a 10-gallon tank to decorate on the night before the show. Past entries, which are displayed during the show, include Pirates of the Caribbean and medieval dragon slayers. And while the show is intended to provide fishy fun for the whole family, Doug Poindexter, president of the World Pet Association, says it has a larger goal in mind. “We think the fish hobby is a great way to learn empathy, responsibility, about life and death,” he says. “We just feel it has a great value to life and these kids.” Elizabeth Diffin

Aquatic Experience-Chicago Nov. 7-9 $25 family pass; $10-$30 individual tickets; free kids 5 and under

Schaumburg Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg aquaticexperience.org

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V E RT I S I N G

OCTOBER 2014

| FREE

Our family of family magazines

CELEBRATIONS

FREE

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

SLEEP WOES? One mom’s nightmare

Ella Jenkins: Chicago treasure turns

DIY COSTUMES, PARTIES & SPOOKY FUN

HOORAY

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Every month

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FALL 2014

GOING PLACES

Your perfect party planner

Twice a Year

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NEW

places to play

Sweet spots

for your sweet tooth

Make

AUTUMN AWESOME

Food, fright and Fire Fest

Every season

8/22/14 10:37 AM

Online at ChicagoParent.com

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