Chicago Parent November 2015

NOVEMBER

2015 | FREE

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

One mom’s turkey fail

NO-STRESS November

55 CP_Cover_November_2015.indd 5

Your Holiday

HQ

wow-worthy toys we love

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As a premier international school, GEMS World Academy – Chicago approaches learning from a global perspective that helps students develop an intuitive sense of their connections to people, ideas, and cultures. Our master teachers lead students through structured interactions with Chicago’s neighborhoods, institutions, and environment, empowering students to ask and answer deep questions. To know the world, you have to explore the world – up close and in focus.

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Visit Us!

British International School of Chicago offers personalized learning and international curriculum, inspiring students to be innovative and ambitious in all endeavors. Experience what makes us special at an upcoming event for prospective families, or contact us to book a tour.

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Lincoln Park location opening Fall 2015!

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LPP’s Family Learning Programs are designed for families to experience the wonder of our preschool environment together.

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contents IN THIS ISSUE

92

36

GUARANTEED ED SQUEALS 50 best gifts thatt won’t break your holiday budget

48 HOLIDAY SANITY SAVERS VERS

ocal Real moms and local experts share tipss to navigate some of the t season’s most common challenges c FOR ALL 51 TEA 5 Make holiday family memories at these incredible tea spots

54 HO-HO 5 HOLIDAY SHOWS 6 that should be on your list

GOOD TO GO

18

BEST IN CHI

23

GOOD SENSE EATING

25

HEY BABY

27

WELL PLAYED

29

CRAFT

Check out the Aquatic Experience, Chicago Toy and Game Fair and Spinning J this month Best places to shoot your holiday photos GMO: Cause for worry?

The best in baby gear 4 new ways to get your play on Get leafy with salt dough and autumn colors

112 WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS Laternenfest will light up the night

NOVEMBER 2015 | VOLUME 31 | NO. 11

FEATURES

14

58

TURKEY DAY, T C CHICAGO-STYLE W Ways to make the most o Thanksgiving of i the city in

ON THE COVER NOVEMBER

GIVING REAL 60 THANKS

2015 | FREE

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

One mom’s turkey fail

7 ways to help others this season

NO-STRESS November

Your Holiday

HQ

toys we love 55 wow-worthy

Cover kids: Blake Lynch, 8, and Brian Lynch, 10, of Tinley Park Photography: Thomas Kubik of TK Photography Design: Claire Innes

ChicagoParent.com November 2015 7

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EDITOR’S NOTE SPONSORED

Why do some trees stay green in winter?

The time for families

All around, the leaves have fallen— but not all the leaves.

On your street there probably are trees and shrubs that still have green leaves. They just don’t look like other leaves.

Instead of being large and wide, these leaves are small, skinny, and often stiff. In fact, they’re often called “needles.” But they are still leaves—the part of the tree that makes food out of air, water, and sunlight.

It’s not easy to keep leaves through the winter, when cold and wind dry them out. That’s why most trees drop their leaves in fall and grow a whole new set in spring. The ones that keep their leaves all year are called “evergreens.”

Most types of evergreens are naturally found in harsh, dry places like high mountainsides, where it’s hard to get enough water and minerals to grow a new set of leaves every year. Instead, they hold onto the leaves they have.

Evergreen needles are skinny to make it harder for the wind to dry them out. They also have a waxy coating that holds moisture inside, the way your rubber boots keep water out.

The whole tree may be evergreen, but no single leaf lasts forever. Each year, the tree lets some needles go and grows new ones. You may see old ones lying, dry and brown, under the tree. In spring, look for new ones at the tips of branches.

But there are always many green leaves on an evergreen tree, all through the year.

TAMARA L. O’SHAUGHNESSY

Even though we begin working on our holiday issues while still wearing summer tops and flipflops, I cannot believe it is already November.

When we started planning this issue, we decided to create something special to help get you and your family in the holiday spirit.

The biggest change is that we have merged our amazing Holiday Going Places magazine with Chicago Parent to give you the very best of Chicagoland at the holidays. Since Going Places is snatched up as soon as it hits stands, this also gives us the opportunity to reach more parents.

Over the next two issues, you’ll find many of the things you already love about Chicago Parent, but with a definite focus on family and holiday fun.

This month, we kick everything off with our unique gift guide. I’m proud to say we are one of the only parenting publications in the country that focuses solely on gifts from small, independent toy shops that belong to the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association.

You might wonder why we don’t just feature the top “it” toys from Target, Toys ‘R’ Us and other big

retailers like every other magazine and newspaper.

The reason: You (and your kids) deserve something more unique. Senior Editor Elizabeth Diffin hits the road in her little Volkswagen to visit each shop and hand-select toys she thinks your family will love long after the tree comes down or the dreidel is put away for another year.

I also think you’ll love the fun family ideas we have for you, from the holiday shows not to miss to holiday teas with kids to tips for not losing your mind as the kids get hyped up on sugar.

You’ll find something fun to do with your family every day this month in this issue and at ChicagoParent.com so there’s no excuse not to carve out time with your family (in between the gift shopping and the turkey cooking, of course).

Happy November!

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Learn. Grow. Discover.

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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 Preschool receive an early start on a world-class education in structured and safe learning environments. Our STEAM-based curriculum provides introductions to math and science while leaving room for exploration, play, music, and the arts.

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ChicagoParent.com November 2015 9

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CONTRIBUTORS

Our fave food on the Thanksgiving menu EDITOR

Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy SENIOR EDITOR

Elizabeth Diffin DIGITAL EDITOR

Jackie McGoey ASSISTANT EDITOR

My favorite is my husband’s turkey. He stuffs it with prunes and apples, and it makes the whole house smell—and taste—like a holiday.

Danielle Braff Danie

I’m a pumpkin and sweet potato kinda gal. If either of those ingredients are featured, you can bet I’ll be getting seconds.

Keely Flynn

My mom’s homemade lemon meringue pie.

Seriously so good!

Jackie McGoey My grandmother used to make twicebaked potatoes, which were delicious—and SO much work.

Nowadays, we settle for good old mashed potatoes (but hold the gravy, please).

Elizabeth Diffin

My grandma’s homemade mashed potatoes.

I always put the bowl conveniently next to my seat at the table.

Emily Adams Pie! My mom makes each member of the family their favorite pie. Pie for breakfast Thankgiving morning, pie for dessert after the big meal and pie before bed.

Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy

Emily Adams ART DIRECTOR

Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNERS

Jacquinete Baldwin, Javier Govea IT AND DIGITAL DEVELOPER

Mike Risher CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Matt Boresi, Donna Bozzo, Megan Murray Elsener, Sara Fisher, Keely Flynn, Caitlin Murray Giles, Linda Marsicano, Meredith Sinclair, Marianne Walsh DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES

Annette Coffee, Dawn Engelhardt, Erika Goodman, Lourdes Nicholls, Karen Skinner SALES AND MARKETING COORDINATOR

Kamil Brady

ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER

Philip Soell

ADVERTISING DESIGN MANAGER

Andrew Mead

ADVERTISING DESIGN

Debbie Becker, Mark Moroney CIRCULATION MANAGER

Jill Wagner DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR

Shanez Hudson BUSINESS MANAGER

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.

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Andrew Johnston

COMPTROLLER Ed Panschar FOUNDERS Natalie Goodman,

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

chiparent@chicagoparent.com TO FIND A COPY

circulation@chicagoparent.com ADVERTISING

dhaley@wjinc.com

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

10 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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MACY'S CARSON'S KOHLS SEARS Storytime with a Surprise

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ON THE WEB

ChicagoParent.com is the place for winners

D

o you like free stuff? We have been going crazy for amazing reader giveaways lately! Stop in at ChicagoParent.com, follow us on social media @ChicagoParent and sign up for our newsletters to get the lowdown on all of the special goodies we’ve packed into November.

Our big toy giveaway begins this month. Local toy stores contributed some of our favorites in Senior Editor Elizabeth Diffin’s annual gift guide, beginning on page 36. This is one giveaway you won’t want to miss!

Also this month, enter to win a family movie night for five at the new ArcLight Cinemas Chicago, ArcLight Cinemas Glenview and Classic Cinemas theaters to see The Peanuts Movie.

Dinosaur enthusiasts, rejoice!

We are giving away even more movie tickets to see The Good Dinosaur at ArcLight Cinemas.

Your kids will fall in love with Arlo.

Of course we’ll have tickets to see Salt Creek Ballet’s gorgeous rendition of The Nutcracker because what is the holiday season without some sugar plum fairies in the mix?

We also are giving away a family four-pack of tickets for an evening at The Chicago Theatre to see one of America’s favorite reality shows—So You Think You Can Dance?—come alive on stage.

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ChicagoParent.com November 2015 13

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Good d tto go

Aquatic Experience Chicago Nov. 6-8 8

Gator bait?

Renaais issance Sc Scha h um mbu burgg Convention Center, 1551 Thoreau Drive North, Schaumburg worldpetassociation.org

Traveling alligator show comes to Chicago

H

ow up close and personal do you like your aquatic life? If your answer is “elbow deep into a touch tank,” you’re not going to want to miss this one. The third annual Aquatic Experience Chicago is bringing the world’s only traveling gator show— Gator Encounters—to our neck of the woods.

Not only will you get your chance with that touch tank of gators, but the 64,000-square-foot venue also features octopus and piranha tanks, a showcase of fish from around the world, and an exhibition floor featuring the best in aquatic trends and products.

Doug Poindexter, the president of the World Pet

Association, says their goal is to “inform and educate the general public to ensure safe and healthy lifestyles for our animal friends.” At the Aquatic Experience in particular, “young children [can get] involved in a hobby that teaches compassion and responsibility,” he says.

Surely the WPA president has a favorite part of the Aquatic Experience, right? “I’m personally a total fish geek, so it’s hard to select a favorite exhibit. I really appreciate the variety of aquatic animals and plants in the Fish From Around the World …It’s a beautiful and relaxing space to spend time enjoying the surroundings,” he says.

This family-friendly event is anything but a fly (or swim) by. With its $25 family pass (for two adults and up to four kids), you can stay the day—and afford to bring all your little guppies.

Keely Flynn

14 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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GOOD TO GO

Get an insider’s look at new toys Chicago Toy & Game Fair returns to Navy Pier

W

hether you’re checking out the best of Santa’s picks a little early or simply taking advantage of a socially acceptable kiddo-racetrack ride, you’ll want to schedule the Chicago Toy & Game Fair in your calendar with your boldest crayon.

The ChiTAG started in 2003 by game designer Mary Couzin to support inventors.

Over the years, it’s become a destination event for industry professionals and toy enthusiasts alike, and with good reason: the biggest names in toys are there with

character photo ops, prizes and giveaways, Saturday admission to the fair, and a themed buffet lunch.

This year, ChiTAG is partnering with Lekotek/AblePlay to open the fair an hour earlier, allowing free admission entry for children with special needs and their families.

Keely Flynn

ChiTAG

u Nov. 21-22

u Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago u chitagfair.com products for testing.

The event also hosts the

dream-worthy Star Wars luncheon, which includes

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GOOD TO GO

Treats not to miss Before holiday cookies flood the house, partake at Spinning J

D

ecadent treats don’t need a specific season or reason. We kept that in mind as we tore through the menu at Humboldt Park’s terrific Spinning J Bakery & Soda Fountain.

My key lime hibiscus pie (with raspberry coulis) featured a buttery graham cracker crust I would’ve happily eaten by the bucketful, while my husband’s chocolate egg cream with a scoop of strawberry

balsamic gelato easily held its own. We let the kids come, too, and they more than dug their respective scoops of vanilla bean, blackberry & key lime, and vegan cherry peach.

Owner Dinah Grossman has done an exceptional job, both with the beautifully appointed throwback decor as well as the rotating selection of seasonal ingredients and fresh ideas. (Word on the street is that roasted kabocha—a Japanese pumpkin— is on tap for November.)

Keely Flynn

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BEST IN CHI

Best places to shoot your holiday photos

SARA R. FISHER

When the leaves change color and the temps cool, it can only mean one thing—holiday photo time.

Families everywhere are scrambling to get their photos done in time.

So I asked top family photographers around Chicago about their favorite places to photograph in the city so you don’t have to worry where to take your next holiday photo.

1

Humboldt Park Photographer Shin Lim of Shin Photography (shinfoto.com) says this city park is one of her favorites because it’s “never crowded” and you rarely have to worry about people photobombing your photos. A good alternative to Lincoln Park, the lagoon setting, bridge and park benches provide scenic backdrops and the park boathouse provides a spot for changing outfits or getting a snack before the shoot.

2

Waldorf Astoria and Gold Coast Edyta Grazman of Edyta Grazman Photography (edytagrazman.com) loves the Gold Coast and especially the sidewalks in front of the swanky Waldorf Astoria hotel for an “urban look.” Since city sessions are her “absolute favorite,” she also recommends looking on Walton Street for a good cityscape and Mariano Park in the heart of the restaurant scene.

3

900 N. Michigan Ave. Meghan McLaughlinPolaniecki of Mom of Three Photography (momofthree photography.com) says if

PHOTO PROVIDED BY TK PHOTOGRAPHY

the weather gets cold, it’s easy to warm up to family photos inside this Michigan Avenue mall. The Christmas tree inside makes for a beautiful backdrop and the mall itself has nice lighting for photos. Plus, you can’t beat the temperature!

4

Outdoor color Thomas Kubik of TK Photography (tkphotographychicago.com) says this time of year is perfect for outdoor color. He suggests shooting on the new bridge that connects Millennium Park with Maggie Daley Park—the bridge shows the red color of the trees below that lead to the art museum. If you’re looking for something more traditional, the South Pond in Lincoln Park is the quintessential Chicago backdrop.

18 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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THREE IDEAS FOR YOU

North Park Village Nature Center

Cozy fireplaces,

dance and smash bash

1

Kinder Hip Hop and Story Just because the temps Dance are en pointe for the are dropping doesn’t tiniest dancers, while their mean you can’t still adults will leap at infant get your nature on. North and parent sessions and Park Village Nature Center’s the “Duets” classes pristine acres, 5801 tailored, for N. Pulaski Road, example, to Chicago, are line up your prime for Vinyasa just that. Its Flow Weekend by with his the Fireplace, Superhero 11 a.m.-3 GO. dovetailp.m. Nov. 28, is Dovetail Studios studios.com. pretty much the only way I do the Great Outdoors—with a Pumpkin pie mug of cocoa, a good book might be a and a cozy place to curl up. staple on your Maybe I’ll even bring the Thanksgiving table, but kids. chicagoparkdistrict. you might never look at it com. the same way after Nov. 4.

Your Halloween pumpkins can try to get a jump on the Fans of the competition in the Pumpkin rapidly exploding Montrose corridor Roll 3:30-4:30 p.m. at Flick of Albany Park have another Park, 3600 Glenview Road, reason to get out and get Glenview. The losers? Well, active with their neighbors— let’s just say kids will have newcomer Dovetail Studios, a bash smashing them into compost at the free 2853 W. Montrose Ave., Pumpkin Smash and Bash Chicago, has set up shop event. glenviewparks.org. with three beautiful dance Keely Flynn and fitness spaces for all.

SANTA WILL BE AVAILABLE UNTIL 8:30PM & CHILDREN WILL RECEIVE A FREE POUCH OF REINDEER FOOD, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. FIREWORKS BEGIN SHORTLY AFTER 6PM. ATTENTION KIDS! Write a letter to Santa & you'll be entered to win a ride on the fire truck at Santa's Arrival. Drop your letters in the mailbox at Barnes & Noble between November 2-12.

3

2

19 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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ChicagoParent.com November 2015 19

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Catholic Schools are about

teaching future leaders

on and off the field

Throughout Cook and Lake Counties, our schools are each unique centers of learning offering distinctive programs and experiences. Students who come to Catholic schools are encouraged to discover their talents and develop their strengths for greater academic success. We are all committed to providing a values-based education ensuring that students have the foundation to be thoughtful, moral and compassionate leaders for the future. Visit schools.archchicago.org.

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20 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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10/16/15 11:33 AM

(and MILs)

I

t’s holiday time, and you know what that means: Between your kids’ dirty boots, social gatherings that may or may not include your mother-in-law, and the pine needles— oh, the pine needles!—you need a vacuum that’s really up for the challenge.

You can eat off the floor (almost!) larger crumbs (Cheerios, Dyson’s v6 Absolute, dyson.com, is anyone?). Having always more than ready for the job. used a bag vacuum, the If you’re going to put one vacuum on canister style made your wish list, this is the one me realize, to my to pick. I never thought chagrin, just I’d claim to “love my how dirty my vacuum,” but I did living room just that when a actually is. friend was asking The lightweight (only for a recomfive pounds!), cordless mendation on style makes it easy to Facebook recently. move from room to room, Dyson claims the and the two different v6 Absolute gets cleaner heads, one with a rid of 99.97% of soft roller, the other with particles, but all I a brush, lets me switch know is it sucked between plush carpetup everything from ing, office carpeting and the finest dust to Elizabeth Diffin #ElizabethOnAir

How to prevent the dreaded “food coma” “Food coma” comes to mind for many of us around Thanksgiving. But eating turkey is not what actually causes you to feel tired; eating very large quantities of turkey, ham, stuffing, potatoes and pie is what makes you sleepy. Here are tips for preventing holiday food coma: Be sure not to skip meals. Eat breakfast and lunch so you avoid overeating during the traditional Thanksgiving dinner.

Think about what you eat and load up on fruits and vegetables during dinner.

Try not to pre-load on heavy appetizers.

Don’t forget that alcohol counts toward calories!

1

2 34

Dr. Hannah Chow-Johnson, Loyola University Health System, 30 Second Mom contributor

Need to know

Pleasing tummies

hardwood floors with ease. The accessories—especially the Mini Motorized Tool—allowed me to vacuum my couches easily and will be perfect for the day when I finally get around to cleaning out my car. And weirdly, thanks to my fancy new vacuum, I’m kind of looking forward to it.

Elizabeth Diffin

Baby’s first Thanksgiving dinner

When you belly up to the food-laden table on Nov. 26, there’s no reason to exclude the youngest family members.

Happy Family Organics is out with its yummy Thanksgiving meal-themed combo pouches just for the 6+-month set: Root vegetables & turkey with quinoa, harvest vegetables & chicken with quinoa, sweet potato, carrots & brown rice, and for dessert, pumpkin, apples, peaches & cinnamon. Best of all, your baby’s T-day meal helps support Project Peanut Butter, a nonprofit that feeds starving children in Africa. happyfamilybrands.com

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UnplUgged and more connected cWS parents love their smartphones as much as anyone—a good percentage of them even work in the high tech industry.

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22 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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10/15/15 12:28 PM

GOOD SENSE EATING

GMO: Cause for worry?

CHRISTINE PALUMBO

Last fall, Jimmy Kimmel Live! interviewed people shopping at a farmers market about GMOs. Asked if and why they avoid them and what the letters “GMO” refer to, the shoppers were hard-pressed to answer correctly. Regardless, GMOs were perceived to be “bad.”

Needless to say, there’s poor public understanding of the science behind GMOs.

A GMO, or genetically modified organism, is a plant whose DNA has been manipulated with genetic material to achieve an advantage antage such as resistance to insects, s, disease and weed killer, or tolerance to frost or drought. t.

Eight U.S. crops are genetically modified (GM):: alfalfa, sugar beets, corn, soy, canola, cotton, papaya and (zucchini and yellow summer) squash.

While the vast amount of soy is used for animal feed and soybean oil,, the soybeans used forr edamame, tofu and so soy oy milk are a different pl plant lant and are not GM. Wheat e eat is never GM. Like the recent gluten-free craze, food manufacturers of packaged goods are sensing a marketing opportunity to set their products apart from the competition. More and more, you’re seeing “Non-GMO” plastered on the front of food packages—without a verification process—in order to sell products.

The facts Let’s dispel the myth that most processed foods are GM because they include oil or sugar made from GM crops. In reality, the process of creating oil and sugar breaks down all the proteins from

the plant—including the GM protein—so that the end products do not include any of the original GM proteins.

For F all the angst over GM foods, peer-reviewed scientific studies pee overwhelmingly suggest there ove are no observed health problems ffrom eating food with GM ingredients. The National Academy of Science, World Health Organization, European Food Safety Authority, USDA, FDA, CDC and several national medical and health organizations have all deemed GM ingredients to be identical ingr ge to their non-GM counterparts pa a and safe for human cconsumption.

Still, if you wish to avoid GM foods, simply choose USDA Organic products—which is a guarantee that a product g contains no GM ingredico on ents—or look for the “Non-GMO Project Verified” label. There is also a new voluntary USDA government certification and labeling program.

With a limited number of GM crops in the food supply mostly found in highly processed foods, it’s not hard to avoid them. By eating more whole grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy and lean animal protein, you’ll eat healthier and avoid GM ingredients.

Christine Palumbo, RDN, FAND, is a nutritionist in Naperville. Find her at Christine Palumbo

Turkey, Brie & Apple Sandwich Prep Time: 5 minutes Makes: 1 serving Ingredients 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard 2 slices whole wheat sourdough bread, toasted 3 slices Hillshire Farm Naturals Hardwood Smoked Turkey 1 slice Brie cheese 4 thin slices green apple

Directions Preheat broiler. Arrange bread on a baking sheet.

Spread mustard on one slice of bread. Layer with turkey, apple and brie cheese.

Broil 2 minutes or until cheese melts and turkey is warm. Top with second slice of bread.

Adapted from HillshireFarm.com Nutrition: 360 calories, 50 g carbohydrate (12 g sugar), 20 g protein, 8 g fat (3 g saturated), 7 g fiber, 1290 mg sodium, calcium, 15% DV iron.

Nutrition on Facebook, @PalumboRD on Twitter or ChristinePalumbo.com.

ChicagoParent.com Chi P N November b 2015 23

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For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com 24 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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10/15/15 12:11 PM

HEY BABY

The Best in baby gear

B

BY LINDSAY PINCHUK ump Club and Beyond’s Gearapalooza: The Ultimate Baby Gear ear and Registry Event started five years ago in Chicago at Galt Baby cross in Lincoln Park. This year, this event made nearly 20 stops across ago the country and is getting ready for its homecoming in Chicago on Nov. 4.

Many of the most popular baby gear brands will be present and rt parents will walk away with a wealth of knowledge from baby expert ou Jamie Grayson, The BabyGuyNYC. Grayson will cover everything you need to know about baby gear (and how to multi-purpose it, too!).

You can expect to see some of these fan favorites:

Breast pumps With insurance companies now w providing breast pumps, you may not have a choice in which one you get.

Our friends at Illinois-based Ashland Health will help you navigate the process of getting your breast pump from insurance for free. This is a top-notch p h service ser rvice every expectant mom should look loo ok into! int nto!!

Car seats Your car seats are the most important item you will buy for your child. An essential tip that Grayson always shares is to “read re your manual.” Sounds simple, but it’s important to know how to properly install imp your yo ou car seat, how to use it and when your child has outgrown it. A tip for city yyo parents: Buy your car seat at a specialty pa p store such as Galt Baby that has Certified ssto Car Passenger Safety technicians on staff C who wh ho will not only install the seat you buy, but will also teach you how to do it. Some bu ut w infant inf fan favorites include the Nuna PIPA, Cybex Cy ybex Aton Q and the Chicco KeyFit30.

Convertible favorites: Clek Foonf and Peg Co onve Perego Pe ereg Primo Viaggio 4-35.

Crib mattresses Babies sleep A LOT, so your ba baby a will aby spend a lot of time on their mattress. ir matt t tress.

If you choose to buy one item that tem th h is hat organic, this is the one. Fan favorite: n favo o orite: Naturepedic’s 2-Stage Crib Mattress.

Mattrress. r It is firm on one side for a newborn and softer on the other er forr a toddler.

Strollers There is no on onenesize-fits-all in th this his category, and it’s imperative imperativve to try them out o in the store. storee. P Popular brands include Jane, O Orbit Baby, Contours, Quinny, Thule and phil&teds. A 2015 fan favorite has been the new 2015 UPPAbaby VISTA. W With its new stadium seating configuration and lighter frame, this Windy City favorite has become more favo popular than ever. p po p

Carriers Carri iers With so m many to choose from, important it’s impo rtant to know the types and your optio options. Try them out (once baby and ask for bab by arrives!) arr help if you u are uncertain. Wearing your baby and hands-free a being b can c make mak life liff so much easier with a newborn, plus mom and baby both benefit from the closeness of babywearing.

Some of our favorites include the Beco Gemini (with new patterns coming out this fall), Ergobaby 360, Baby K’tan Wrap and BabyBjorn One. Lindsay Pinchuk is the mom of two behind the nationwide phenomenon Bump Club and Beyond and Gearapalooza. She also is co-founder of Hey Baby Chicago.

ChicagoParent.com November 2015 25

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CHICAGO PARENT’S ANNUAL GIFT GUIDE

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26 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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10/15/15 12:10 PM

WELL PLAYED

4 new ways

to get your PLAY on

MEREDITH SINCLAIR

With the weather turning more crisp by the minute, we’ll soon be spending a whole lot more time playing inside.

So I’ve hunted down four new creative playthings that your kids simply won’t be able to resist.

Lux Blox Created by local artist/inventor Michael Acerra, Lux Blox are an innovative building set that allows builders of all ages to create structures that curve, bend, move, flex, twist and turn. They have a unique snap and lock hinge system that allows for incredibly complex creations. My son Truman, 13, is enthralled with this set, and I am overjoyed that he is so into something with no screen. The video tutorials on YouTube are amazing, too! $29.99 for the introductory set, $69.99 for the medium box and $129.99 for the large; luxblox.com

Props in a Box Most parents are hungry for playthings that spark imaginative, hands-on, self-directed play. I flipped for the newly launched Props in a Box because it creatively combines beautiful, high-quality felt dress-up props in a sturdy suitcase with a stunning backdrop. Plus, it has an app that helps kids transform their make-believe stories and adventures into one-of-a-kind movies to share with family and friends. And their dress-up combinations break down gender roles. Win/win. $74.99 for the whole kit and caboodle; propsinabox.com

Pie Face If you have not seen the viral video that shows a grandpa and his granddaughter showing this game in action, I give you permission to put down this magazine (but come back!) and go watch it right now. Pie Face is sweeping the country as the most hilarious new game on the market—for kids AND their grownups. For less than $20, kids and adults can enjoy the suspense of seeing who will be “pie-faced” next. $15.99; toyrus.com

Storytime Theater My second-grade niece recently acted as my “tester” for this super-fun new way to get kids reading and enjoying books. To say that she adored it would be a gross understate-ment. Storytime Theater brings gs storytime to life by projecting great Disney tales onto kids’ bedroom walls. Just download app, press the d the storytime app “press and play” character onto the screen of a tablet and the story begins to play. It has three modes—Read to Me, Read to Myself and Bedtime—that meet children at their individual reading levels. It’s certain to be a big hit with your early reader. $79.99 for the projector and one story, $9.99 for additional stories.; toysrus.com ChicagoParent.com November 2015 27

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28 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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10/15/15 11:59 AM

CRAFT

Get leafy Make salt dough to capture the beauty of autumn

A

PHOTOS AND STORY BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER s Thanksgiving approaches, it’s a good reminder to be thankful for how stunning and beautiful fall in Chicago really is.

It’s also a perfect time to find reminders of fall before they blow away.

Create your own salt dough rounds with leaf imprints to mimic the outdoors inside. They can be colorful paperweights or even placecards for your Turkey Day table.

Directions

1

Make the salt dough. Mix 3 cups flour, ¾ cup salt and 1 to 1 ½ cups water together to form a soft dough ball.

Knead dough well and d add extra flour as needed.

4

Put rounds on parchment covered ered ed cookie sheet and bake at 250 deg degrees grees grees for two to three hours. Rounds should bee hard on both the top and bottom before removing from oven. Let cool. g fro

5 6

Use acrylic paints to paint the leaf imprints. Let dry.

2

With a rolling pin, roll out dough to 1/8- or 1/4-inch thickness.

Use a round bowl or Tupperware container to cut rounds from thee rolled dough. This should ould make at least eight rounds. und ds.

3

Pick leaves for your design. Plastic or silk leaves make great imprints.

If using fresh leaves, pick firmer leaves for better results. Press leaves into the dough and carefully remove. Add names or words as desired.

Water down the brown paint to use as a wash over the entire round. The o dark color picks up the veins d in n tthe leaf while still letting the other othe er colors through.

7

Once dry, apply a coat of glossy Mod Podge over the round as a sealer. Let dry completely and be thankful!

Supplies Salt Flour Water Round Tupperware or bowl Rolling pin Parchment paper Acrylic paint (red, orange, yellow, and brown) Silk, plastic or real leaves Glossy Mod Podge Paintbrushes

ChicagoParent.com November 2015 29

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For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com 30 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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10/16/15 10:59 AM

FAILING WITH GUSTO

I was so excited the first time my oldest son, Danny, rought home brought his “Tom the kful Turkey.” It Thankful was a construction paper ece, handcrafted masterpiece, with love, glitter and an MARIANNE mount of inordinate amount WALSH Elmer’s Glue. The turkey’s feathers pulled out of individual slots, revealing areas of gratitude and thanks in the eyess of my kindergartner.

Excitedly, I gently removed the first feather: I am thankful for Daddy.

Aw, sweet. I moved on to another one: I am thankful for my father.

Didn’t we already cover this?

Nervously, I pulled out the next one: I am thankful for Joe Walsh.

And finally: I am thankful for DAD DAD DAD DAD. Hmph.

When my second son, Jack, arrived with his Tom a year later, I was unfazed by his selections: I am thankful when my dad takes me skating.

I am thankful when my dad makes me pancakes.

I am thankful when my dad plays catch.

I am thankful when my dad tucks me in.

I am thankful for my awesome dad.

Two years after that, my youngest, Joey, who struggled more with writing, kept his selections brief: Dad Dad

Dad d Dad Dad Feeling like the invisiblee mom, I stewed. d. It did not matter that I was the person who registered my sons for basketball, ordered d their uniforms, coordinated carpool and provided the team snack. nack. If my husband simply showed ed up for the last five minutes of a game, he was the hero.

It took some time, but I finally asked the kindergarten en teacher what was the deal.

Were other kids as oblivious to their moms’ efforts as mine?

The experienced public school teacher smiled and shared some insight: “When I tell the students to think about being thankful and point out all that their moms or dads do for them, there are often children who indicate there is no father in their lives.

This gets other kids reflecting on their own dads. I see it every year.”

The teacher’s words struck a chord. With a husband who will indeed race home from

work just to catch those last five minutes of his child riding the pine, I realized I am thankful, too.

I am thankful I married a man who puts family first. I am thankful Joe stay-atvalues the role of a stay-at home mom. I am tha thankful for a man who cooks, or we would all starve to death. I am thankful that Joe’s ideal woman has crow’s-feet and a few extra pounds right around the midsection.

Where I was the one who felt wronged just moments before, I was now reminded of whom I had taken for granted without ever realizing it.

Tom the Thankful Turkey had struck again, leaving behind a valued message along with his weight in glitter, glue and feathers.

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

Talk back

Tom the Thankful Turkey

ChicagoParent.com November 2015 31

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VOICE: JORIAN L. SEAY

The terrific, terrible, talkative threes

I

don’t, in any way, consider myself a parenting expert. I’m raising my one and only child who’s only 3. I admittedly have a long way to go before I start advising my girlfriends of best practices in behavioral correction and decisions regarding education. Sure, in the three years my little guy’s been on the planet, I’ve experienced a lot with him and have grown tremendously, both as a mommy and as a woman.

Still, I’m not always certain what’s right, wrong or practical when raising him.

I’m learning as I go. But this one thing I know for sure—his third year has been my toughest one yet.

As my son’s third birthday approached, I was elated! Yes, an intimate get-together with close family and friends to celebrate his birthday was fun to plan and execute.

But, no, that wasn’t why I was excited. I was happy because the terrible twos were swiftly coming to an end. I went around almost bragging about it. Mentioning to nosy customers in stores that I “only have a couple of months left of this. He’s 2!” as I ran behind him when he hightailed it down Aisle 6. And as I continued to spread the news of my countdown, I kept hearing the same response: “Oh, the threes are just as bad—if not worse!”

“How? There’s no way,” I thought.

Boy, was I wrong.

Don’t get me wrong; I love my son. I’m nearly obsessed with him. He truly brings me joy and his rambunctious nature is

a ton of fun! That said, three months into the terrific, terrible, talkative threes, I know exactly what they meant.

With the twos came an unexpected burst of energy from my son. That, coupled with his insatiable inquisitiveness (read: obsession with mud, puddles and seeing how far he could jump off my couch), kept me on my toes.

I was always chasing after him, checking on him and struggling to find the balance between helping him keep his composure and allowing him the freedom to express himself with his (then) limited vocabulary.

But the threes didn’t cure or curb these things. In fact, they all intensified.

And not only did they intensify, they brought along a sidekick—an increased vocabulary.

And so here I am, three months into the terrific, terrible, talkative threes, being bossed around by a 3-foot-something authoritarian who doesn’t take “no” for an answer and isn’t one for allowing extended breaks of any sort.

I’m told when I should slow down on the highway, “Mommy, you need to slow down. You’re driving all crazy. I told you before.” Speed up on the highway, “Mommy, go faster! We can’t let them

beat us.” When I’m not looking my best, “Umm, Mommy, you might want to grab your earrings.” And even when I’m allowed to speak, “Mommy, I don’t really feel like talking right now, can you please be quiet?” (At least he said please!)

Truth is, at the age of 3, he’s a direct reflection of me. I’m reminded, daily, of the importance of remaining conscious of how I interact and communicate with people. My little guy is always watching and listening—and, boy, will he mimic and repeat!

The countdown to 4 is on!

Jorian L. Seay is a freelance writer and Chicago mom of one.

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32 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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10/15/15 12:13 PM

REAL PARENTS IN THE TRENCHES

@

u Want more? Visit ChicagoParent.com/parentpanel

How do you survive the holidays?

Survive? I live for the holidays! The traditions, special events, memory making and documenting are all things I cherish and enjoy. It’s when all the holidays are over and we still have months of freezing cold left that I find difficult to survive.

Gia Lee, Chicago

Everyone gets to pick one or two favorite activities for us to share together. We try to finish tasks earlier in the season, so that we can relax as the holidays draw nearer.

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Last year was hard. This year we are setting stronger boundaries with extended family.

That, and wine should help.

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Feelings, whoa-oh-oh

MATT ROCCO

If there’s one thing a Daddy dreads, it is “the feels.” Few men would argue that the blunter sex struggles with its “Emotional Quotient.” From the time we begin dating, we can’t handle our partners’ feelings, and when we’re hit by the emotional tsunami of fatherhood, we can’t handle our own.

So, how do we nurture the Emotional Intelligence of our children?

If we’re talking about our sons, it’s simple: we do what our daddies did—tell them to push their feelings way, way down and lock them away where they will only come out in the occasional lunatic bout of road rage, playoff fever, or the adoption of unfortunate facial hair. The ILLUSTRATION BY STEPHEN SCHUDLICH rest of the time one should sit as stoically as a stone Buddha. emotional problem solving.

But daughters? As Billy The first part requires me Bigelow famously soliloquized, to swallow hard. One must “You can have fun with a son, recognize their child’s feelings but you gotta be a father to a as real and valid before one girl.” I can see them already can move forward. Jumping in my 4-year-old daughter, on feelings like a hot grenade Viva: Girl Feelings! Feelings is only going to lead to a that frighten and confuse me daughter with resentment and like the unfrozen caveman pain and huge ear gauges.

I am, feelings of alienation Then we move on to emofrom cliques, jealousy, selftional problem solving: finding consciousness and reckless a positive path through the affection. Every glance and crisis, like admitting mistakes whimper and tantrum puzzles we’ve made, developing and rattles me. patience over things we desire, It’s like raising a pouty alien. or kicking over the bikes of I want to shout, “Stop feeling bullies. Reasonable, construcso much, nothing good can tive paths. come of it! Ignore more things!

I’ve got a lot of apprehension Desire less things! Punch about all this, but Viva tells me more things!” But these aren’t my anxiety is natural, and that useful tools for the emotional we’ll work through it together. toolbox.

Viva Feelings. Viva Viva.

What is useful? I can preach Viva Daddy. it, but I’ll admit I’m still working on it—validating feelings Viva is 4. Daddy is about 10x that age. and subsequently engaging in They live happily with Mommy in Chicago.

34 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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10/15/15 12:02 PM

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ChicagoParent.com November 2015 35

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GUARAN T E E B ELI BY L ZABE ETH DIF IFFI FIN N tt’s th the mo most stt won ond nderful tim me of the yea e r .... that th at is, iff yo you u reeliish tra rack ckin ing g evver eryy ce c nt nt tha hat’’s beein b ing sp pen nt on hol olid iday ayy giffttss fo orr eacch pe pers rso son on on you on our to too--lo toolon ng lis ng istt. t. But u if yo you’ u re like ik mo m st st of us,, fin of i di ding giffts ts tha hat wo hat w n’ n’tt br b eaak th he ba b nk k (o (or or ma make ke you ke o losse yo your mind) d) is a task d) taask th haat’ ts d ea dr eaded ded ea de each ch h and nd eve very hol oliday sea easo on. n.

That Th at’s at ’s wh ’s hyy we’ve taaak ken en som me off the hee pai aiin outt of holiday li y gi li gift ftt-g giv ivin vin ing g wi w tth h our ur ann nn al list. Here are nnua 50 giftss und nd deerr $50 forr every vveery kid d on your list, plus a few exxtr tra-sp pec ecial pu urcha hassees es we we think might be worth th he splu splur sp lu urg rge ge.

All of th hem ar he are guaaran nteeeed d to o pr p oduce smiles, for gift giv iver and receeiveer al iv alik ike. e.

Sing Star Microphone

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Manny & Simon Loader Push Toy NogginRings Reaching & Grasping Rings

Blossom Inspirations Seahorse

Lil’ Libros books

50 best gifts that won’t break your holiday budget

ED SQUEALS Infant (0-12 months) Raising a bilingual baby (bebé?) has never been easier, thanks to these gorgeously illustrated books that also teach colors and first words in English and Spanish. Forget those language apps—we want to learn to count with Frida Kahlo! Lil’ Libros books, $9.99 each, 0m+. ● Is there anything cuter than a miniature firefighter?

We don’t think so, which is why these BPA-free silicone bibs dishwasher top our list. And they’re dishwashe catcher, so safe and have a built-in crumb cat your little hero always looks fresh from the firehouse. Make My Day On-Fire ba baby bib, $20, 6m-3. ● These ado adorable toys, from fforest creatures to sea life, Manhattan Toy Classic Baby Beads

add character to any nursery. And they’re extra-soft, perfect for tiny hands. But best of all, they’re handmade by Peruvian artisans who receive a fair wage, proving that good deeds can never start too early.

Blossom Inspirations Seahorse, $40, 0m+. ● This staple of the ‘80s has been updated for the 21st century, but it still helps babies reach developmental milestones. The black, white and red color scheme is perfect for a newborn’s vision, while the flexible rings help develop their grasping reflex. Plus, it’s perfect to toss in the diaper bag for babies on the go. NogginRings Reaching & Grasping Rings, $19.99, 0-12m. ● It might look like a work of art fit for display in your living room, but it’s actually a rattle and teether all in one. And if the colors entice baby to try to cram the bright toy into their mouth, you can rest easy knowing the paint is non-toxic and waterbased. Manhattan Toy Classic Baby Beads, $19.99, 3m+. ●

They may not know Scoop, Muck or Rolly yet (they’ll get there, we promise!), but we have a feeling your little one will fall in love with these brightly colored trucks. And you’ll love the heirloom-quality wooden construction, which guarantees it will stay in good shape until they leave toy trucks in the dust. Manny & Simon Loader Push Toy, $42, 6m+. ● Nothing is worse than getting stuck on the Kennedy with a crabby baby in the backseat. Be prepared for that disaster with this shape sorter (no sharp edges!), whose crinkly flaps, bright colors and textured blocks will keep their attention at least until you reach the Byrne Circle. Melissa & Doug TakeAlong Shape Sorter, $19.99, 9m+. ●

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Toddler (1-3 years)

corkscrew and watch them make their way down to the wobbly base. The rainbow colored discs can be arranged in all kinds of combos, making for hours of twisty, turny fun.

SpinAgain, $29.95, 1+. ●

It’s like no other toy car you’ve ever seen, with balls that double as the wheels and the colorful passengers. The endlessly engaging toy takes its inspiration from a billiards rack, but this version is meant to be taken apart and reassembled over and over again. Rolligo, $24.95, 12m+. ●

Eco-Dough

If there’s anything we’ve learned from Buzzfeed, it’s that nostalgia is It might not seem like the alive and well. Parents can relieve learning-to-walk stage could their own childhoods of get any cuter, but that’s just spinning themselves because you haven’t seen this silly with this repush toy yet. This pal from vamped version of the Down Under dances SpinAgain throwback favorite. Kids along with spinning can control the speed of their arms and adorably oversized whirling and twirling, without flip-flopping feet. G’Day Mate!

Dancing Kangaroo any risk of injury. But dizziness Dancing Kangaroo, $29.99, 12m+. ● is guaranteed. Spin Around Kids, $29.99, 18m+. ● This stacking toy has gone a little wonky!

They’re going to put it in Tots can place their mouth, anyway, so don’t discs on the you want to make sure it’s

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This natural dough is made with plant, fruit and vegetable extracts and gets Rolligo its pleasant aroma from essential oils. And if it dries out, you just need to add a few drops of olive oil and it will be like brand new! Eco-Dough, $19.95, 2+. ● The monsters under their bed won’t be quite so scary after playing this game, which uses an actual clothesline and clothespin to teach tykes about color and pattern matching. As they grow, you can upgrade to opposites or right-left, while still keeping the fun of the original. Monster Laundry, $19.99, 2+. ● Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

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PopClocky Melissa & Doug Tabletop Puppet Theater

Pixies, ahoy! Attract a little magic to your house with a home built just for our fantastical winged friends. This kit comes with everything you need for a little otherworldly sparkle, from the house to a storybook, and even a pinch of fairy dust. Dreamland Fairy, $24.99, 4+. ●

Crazy Cereal

Preschool (3-5 years) Whether they’re more Taylor or Katy, your little performer can hog the spotlight in style with a microphone that’s compatible with your smartphone or MP3 player. Kids can record and play back their star-making turns, plus add echos and applause—as if Mom and Dad won’t already be clapping proudly. Sing Star Microphone, $49.95, 3+. ● Let’s face it: kids are practically made for theatrics. Let them put on a show in style with a puppet theater that’s got all the bells and whistles, from a velvet curtain that rolls up and down to a reversible backdrop.

And it stores flat to help maximize your limited space. Melissa & Doug Tabletop Puppet Theater, $49.99, 3+. ●

Magic Moves Electronic Wand

Kids can do their own exercises while parents squeeze in some reps with the help of this toy that gives 90 creative commands, from “strut like a duck” to “stomp like a dinosaur.” The music and light cues up the fun factor so much, you might just want to ditch the free weights and join in. Magic Moves Electronic Wand, $24.95, 3+. ●

You’ll have the best snow fortt on the street thanks to thesee tools that perfect the art of building uilding the ideal block of snow. And if the he sun ever comes out again, they’ll double ouble as sand toys when you hit the beach ch next summer. Flexible Flyer Snow Block ck Mold, $10, 4+. ● “Honey I Shrunk runk the Kids” came out a lifetime ago, but the desire to see things from m an insect’s point of view remains strong. trong. Indulge that wish with prismatic matic lenses that let you experiencee what it’s like to be bug-eyed. Thee lenses are hinged, so your little love ove bug can go with or withoutt compound eyes.

Mantis is Buzzerks, $10, 0, 4+. ● Once they’re ey’re in school, the battle tle over waking up really ly hits its stride. Energize gize your mornings with an alarm clock that forces es kids to wake up because se they’re busy chasing it around their room. Sunny, Gilbert, Charlie and Rosie help get you up and up-andat-‘em in record d time! PopClocky, $24.95, 4+. ●

cereal pieces (and match them along the way), while never making you worry about the dentist bill. Sounds g-r-r-reat!

Crazy Cereal, $24.99, 4+. ● Dreamland Fairy

In an age where even Superman’s cape occasionally gets a makeover, we’re all about the power of personalization.

Kids can add their own touch to create custom-made heroes that are just as strong, spirited and special as you already know they are. Colour a Cape, 4+, $22.99. ●

CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

Colour a Cape

If your tykes beg for sugary cereal whenever you hit that dreaded eaded aisle at the Jewel, wel, here’s a brilliant solution: tion: A game that lets ts kids scoop up brightly tly colored ChicagoParent.com November 2015 39

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GIFT GUIDE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 39

Early Elementary (5-7 years) Carli, Megan, Alex, Abby. If Blossomthose names mean anything to Inspirations you, you were probably glued Seahorse

to the U.S. Women’s win at the World Cup. Let those powerful women inspire the aspiring soccer star in your life with these figures,

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Swingy Thing

which come with a washable felt field, a strategy booklet and that iconic ball. Kaskey Kids Soccer Girls, $24.99, 3+. ● Thanks to “Inside Out,” emotions are pretty hot right now, and these adorable plush toys help kids get a little more in touch with how they’re feeling.

They just write or draw their worries—bullies, tests, homesickness—zip them inside, and hopefully, sleep a little sounder.

Worry Eaters, $22.99, 3+. ● It seems like every year, a new building product comes along that makes us say, “Why didn’t I think of that?” In 2015, it’s these geometric building blocks that are magnetized to allow for the ultimate in open-ended play. You won’t believe what they’ll create.

WEDGNETiX, $39.99, 5+. ●

Slimeball Target Practice

The Kids’ Choice Awards might have cornered the market on the coolest slime, but that’s just because this game hadn’t been invented yet. Take target practice to the next level with these squishy green orbs, and watch them stick to, and slide down, an equally slimy target.

Slimeball Target Practice, $14.99, 6+. ● Who says designing has to be all miniskirts and go-go boots?

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Call 844-GOT-MATH or visit us on the web at: mathnasium.com/chicagoland 40 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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Style-savvy kids can put together superhero ensembles—from helmets to shields, lassos to jetpacks—and create an action star all their own with this clever new take on the fashion plates of yesteryear.

Action Plates, Worry Eaters $29.99, 6+. ●

We all know at least one kid—maybe all of them?—who have ants in their pants.

Channel that fidgety energy with this tricky spinning toy, which gives 52 ultratough challenges that just might make your head hurt. It can even double as a desk toy for parents who can’t seem to sit still.

Swingy Thing, $14.95, 6+. ● It may not be Goliath, Raging Bull or even the Little Dipper, but this roller coaster makes discovering loose change in the couch cushions a true thrill.

Coins go on a twisty, loopy, wild ride before landing in a bank—where they can be saved up for tickets to Great America come spring. Roller Coinster, $30, 6+. ●

Katniss might be taking on The Capitol with her bow and arrow, but your kids are responsible for defending the entire neighborhood. Fortunately, these archery sets are designed by some smart kids who know just what their fellow Tributes need. And the safe, foam-tipped arrows show they’re in tune with moms and dads, too. Two Bros Bows, $24.99, 6+. ● Taco Tuesday now doubles as Family Game Night! This game perfectly complements your tortillas and extra hot salsa and adds an extra element of old-fashioned fun.

Players race each other to build a taco order—but the “La Cucaracha” and “Antacid” cards threaten your turn.

Taco Takeover, $14.99, 6+. ●

These are the only insects you’ll want anywhere near your stove! A sneaky HEXBUG nano is trying to make his way to the good stuff—unless you correctly turn the knives, forks and spoons to direct him into the trap. Keep the roach spray nearby, just in case. Bugs in the Kitchen, $29.99, 6+. ● If your kids were inspired by Chris Pratt’s dinosaur wrangling this summer, they won’t be

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Taco Takeover

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Ultimate Dino Dig, $14.95, 6+. ●

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Roller Coinster

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From butterflies to baseballs, chevron to splatter, super stylized digits are all the rage. But how do you keep your little

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Chord Cubes

Late Elementary (7-10 years) Forget all those crazy apps and boring music books. Kids can master the guitar strings with these brilliant blocks, which give 54 different chord diagrams and can be used to build some tuneful towers. Next thing you know, you’ll be yelling “Free Bird!” Chord Cubes, $34.95, 2+. ● Junior James Bonds, Jason Bournes and Sydney Bristows can test their spy savvy with this creative game that’s like Twister by way of the CIA. Kids use clamps and string to create a “laser field” to crawl through in order to defuse a bomb before it’s too late. Chrono Bomb, $34.99, 7+. ● “Waste free is the way to be,” but it can be hard to make that motto part of your life. These adorable sewing kits make it a little easier, with an assortment of reclaimed wool that ultimately becomes a dog, giraffe, monkey or unicorn.

And if you don’t know a pleat from a pocket, don’t worry: all instructions are provided.

Cate & Levi Puppet Making Kit, $19.99, 7+. ● Flashcards are soooo 1989.

Modern-day kids can learn their math facts the

fun way with a game that is half matching, half “I Spy” and totally educational. And once they’ve perfected addition, they can advance to multiplication (and even some sight words). Super Genius Addition, $12.99, 7+. ● At least this wrecking ball has nothing to do with Miley Cyrus!

This kit taps into your kiddo’s power of destruction, while also teaching them some basic physics principles, as well as how to read blueprints. Just be sure to hide the breakables.

KEVA Wrecking Ball, $40, 7+. ● Remember Frogger, Pong and Tetris? Now gamers can create their own old-school arcade fun using this kit, which simplifies some pretty complicated science. It has instructions for more than 20 games, plus 200 electrical projects to try, so they’ll spend way more time there than in front of the TV. Snap Circuit Arcade, $34.99, 8+. ●

Remote Control Machine: Animals

Snap Circuit Arcade

iLoom

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GIFT GUIDE

Mixed by Me Thinking Putty

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 43

Mortgages and work deadlines are in the future, so why not let them be just a little irresponsible while they still can? This kit shows them how to make soda bottle rockets, kitchen en avalanches and DIY blubber with th items found around your home— — all while mixing in a healthy dose ose of learning. Totally Irresponsible e Science Kit, $22.95, 9+. ●

One man’s trash is another man’s m robot? Kids can find new uses for everything from paper cups to action figures, turning them into the homemade cousins C-3PO. The good news is we’re of Cpretty sure these robots can’t talk prett back! Recycled Robots, $24.95, 8+. ●

The T Th hee days of taping a friendship bracelet bracel to cardboard are long gone.

Nowadays, kids can make jewelry with If mom and dad are hooked on Nowad Cate and Levi “The Americans” (and why wouldn’t Puppet Making Kit the help of their iPad and this nifty tool, which lets them create customized patyou be?), this is the perfect game terns, follow step-by-step instructo play with your tions, and share them with friends. offspring. Everyone assumes Talk about redefining “screen a secret identity, then must time”! iLoom, $39.99, 8+. ● collect code books, disguises, keys and passwords Pair this kit with your next without giving it visit to the zoo—after visiting away. It’s kind of the orangutans, your kids are like Clue, but with a going to want to make one possibly fake Russian of their very own. The eight accent. Spy Alley, animal models are adorable on their own, but after you realize how $19.99, 8+. ●

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educational they are, you’ll really fall in love. Remote-Control Machines: Animals, $49.95, 8+. ● It might seem like Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty comes in every shade, sparkle and special effect possible, but now there are even more options.

Kids can create their own version of the gooey gunk, mixing colors and adding just the perfect amount of shine, shimmer and glow. Bonus: The mini tins are perfect for gift-giving! Mixed

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Tweens (10+ years) If they’re just going to ignore you in favor of their music, they might as well have some stylin’ earbuds.

These bedazzled versions come in fresh styles like Owl, Skull and Buddha, so you

know their accessories game, if not their musical tastes, will always be on fleek. Jewel Buds, $20, 6+. ● Tweens are the perfect age to join the coloring book trend without having to coordinate Hello Kitty’s outfits. This beautiful “adult” coloring book is intricate without being intimidating, and the thick

Jewel Buds

paper stock pages keep ink from bleeding through. Secret Garden: An Inky Treasure Hunt and Coloring Book, $15.95, 8+. ● Word nerds (guilty as charged) will love the challenge of spying words before their opponents, while Anglophiles (again, guilty as charged) won’t be able to resist the cards that are reminiscent of the London Underground. With a portable size, it’s great for killing time while you wait for your

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entrée to arrive.

WordARound, $12.99, 10+. ● We’ve heard of fractured fairy tales, but fractured masterpieces? These two-sided puzzles take famous works of pu art and slice them into pieces, ar letting you feel just a bit more le like one of the greats when li yyou put them back together.

PuzzleStix, $35, 12+. ● P

CONTINUED ON PAGE 46

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GIFT GUIDE

Worth a splurge

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 45

Melissa & Doug Wooden Railway Set

This train set comes with everything your little conductor needs, from an engine shed to a trestle bridge and a T-junction for changing course. The 132-piece set includes dozens of highquality wooden track pieces, so little ones can build a track that Thomas himself would be proud to call his own. Melissa & Doug Wooden Railway Set, $129.99, 3+. ● Rollerblades are an investment, especially when your kids’ feet are still growing.

These clever skates adjust to your foot size and let you wear your own shoes, so you avoid blisters from ill-fitting rentals. And the unique wheel configuration is great for kids who have Q-BA-MAZE Ultimate Stunt Set trouble finding their balance, making for fewer skinned knees. Cardiff Cruisers, $79.99-$119.99, 5+. ●

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The Swurfer

You might not have thought the swing, of all things, needed to be reinvented. But that’s because you haven’t seen this swing-surfboard hybrid, which turns your backyard into a cowabunga paradise. Kids can get the hang of hanging ten and feel the breeze in their hair—no wetsuit required.

The Swurfer, $129, 6+. ●

This guitar may be childsized, but it’s got all the sound you’d expect from a headliner at Lollapalooza. This is the perfect first guitar for musical kids who want to expand their repertoire, and it comes with a 5 watt amp, official “gig bag” to store extra strings and picks, digital tuner and stickers so they can really “make it their own.”

Rockwood Electric Guitar, $230, 6+. ● Elizabeth Diffin is Chicago Parent’s senior editor and the best aunt ever to two cute little guys.

Rockwood Electric Guitar

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Wheaton

● Building Blocks Toy Store, Lakeview and Wicker Park, Chicago

Neighborhood Toy Store Day is Nov. 14! These stores and others throughout Chicagoland will kick off the holiday shopping season with deals, entertainment and other fun activities. Visit astratoy.org for information.

Chicago

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Pediatric Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists of Illinois

Katherine K. Hamming, M.D.

Evanston

● *play, Logan Square,

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Where we shopped

● Galt Toys + Galt Baby, downtown and Lincoln Park in Chicago and in Skokie

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The best thing about these stunts, unlike the ones on YouTube? No one gets hurt.

Well, that and the fact that building an over-the-top marble run definitely reinforces those STEM skills their teacher is always talking about. This set features all the normal Q-BA-MAZE stunts, plus a spiral sphere, quad-exit cubes and marble catchers, so you can easily corral them and then start all over again.

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ChicagoParent.com November 2015 47

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Real moms and local experts share tips to navigate some of the season’s most common challenges

HOLIDAY

sanity savers

BY CAITLIN MURRAY GILES

T

hey say the holidays are the most wonderful time of the year. But it doesn’t always feel that way. Of course, the holidays bring joy and celebration. However, for many moms, the holiday season also means long shopping lists, entertaining, travel, decorating and more.

The most wonderful time of the year can also be the most stressful time of the year.

Let’s be honest: Moms work overtime during the holidays to make the season magical for their families. And kids don’t always handle the holiday hustle and bustle so well (read: major meltdowns due to being overtired, overstimulated and over everything!).

So how can you navigate this busy time of year and all of its challenges while also enjoying the spirit of the season?

We talked to local experts and real moms for some advice on how to manage some of the most common dilemmas families face during the holidays.

Here is what they had to say.

Blake Lynch, 8, of Tinley Park, is full of smiles.

PHOTO BY THOMAS KUBIK / TK PHOTOGRAPHY

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Holiday shopping Long gift lists. Strict budgets.

Excessive gifts for kids from relatives near and far. How do you manage both the shopping and gifting process?

We do four gifts for each child. One thing to read, wear, play with, and something that they need. Usually family fills in the gaps with other things, but this helps us stay on budget. Shopping happens all year long, and we hide gifts

in our bedroom in things that they would never go through.

Think suitcases, purses, etc. — Natasha Nicholes, mom of four I like to make a spreadsheet at the beginning of the season that lists everyone I want/need to buy presents for and the budget for each person.

Then as I buy things, I enter the cost of each item. That way when I can’t remember what gift was for what person, I have a list that I can refer back to.

— Cathy Schlie, mom of two

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Holiday travel Whether by car, plane or train, traveling with young kids can pose a number of challenges. What can parents do to make this experience easier for all members of the family?

We travel to Michigan every year for Thanksgiving and Christmas. We have two things that have made it easier. First, we do minimal decorating at home— enough to feel the season, but we do not do a tree or anything crazy. Not having to clean up and put away my own decorations after spending a good portion of the holiday season traveling is a huge relief. We also designate the Sunday before Christmas as our

Holiday stress How can families actively combat feeling overwhelmed and stressed?

Create an intention for your day. Your to-do list can get out of control during the holiday season. If you could create your day, how would you like it to go? How would you like to feel when you go to bed?

Take a moment each morning

family holiday. The last two years we have gone out for a really nice brunch downtown.

Then we head home and bake Christmas cookies. — Tiana Kubik, mom of one I travel at times that fit my kids’ schedules vs. lowest price. — Katie Clemency, mom of two We pack a toddler Aerobed. No matter where they sleep, it’s the same bed and you can control the environment a bit. —- Kathy Ryan, mom of two For babies and toddlers, keep your routine, even if relatives look at you like you’re crazy. It’s tempting to let them stay up late because they’re having so much fun, but you will pay for it! — Kristin Swanstrom Cheuvront, mom of three

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before you get out of bed and scan through your day. Visualize each task and see yourself feeling calm, happy and free from stress. — Jill Hope, writer, family empowerment coach and founder of I Shine, ishinekids.com Remember to set boundaries, especially during the holidays. — Cherilynn Veland, MSW, LCSW, psychotherapist and CONTINUED ON PAGE 50

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SANITY SAVERS

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author of Stop Giving It Away: How To Stop the Self-Sacrifice and Start Claiming Your Space, Happiness & Power I use a 100 Days to Christmas workbook. Every day you have a task that takes about 15 minutes (inventory your gift wrap, make your card list, plan your holiday menus, etc.). I love it. Keeps me from piling everything on last minute, and when it is time to shop or cook, everything is already planned. — Sara YoungbloodOchoa, mom of one

Holiday excess When it seems like holiday cookies, candy canes and cocktails are at every turn, how can families stay on track with healthy eating? eat I make freezer meals mea in the fall so that during the th hustle and a bustle of the th holiday season, I can se pull pu meals out and they are ready to go. So even if we w are eating

not-so-healthyy at parties, we’ve got good dinners at home. Also, every year I say I’m going to make a bunch of freezer cookie dough ahead of time (a b batch h a week k for f two months before) so that when it is time to make cookies, some of it is already ready to go. Step back and think, “Am I doing this because it is tradition/good memories, or am I doing this because I feel like I have to or I’m trying to compete with Pinterest?”

Seriously, let things go. Focus on what is important to you and your family to celebrate and let all the other stuff go. — Brandi Langer, mom of three It is easy to go overboard with so many temptations around during the holidays. I suggest making time for two or three indulgent events in the week. Limit dessert/treats the other days/nights. — Lara Field, owner/founder of FEED (Forming Early Eating Decisions), feedkids.com

Taking care of YOU! T S Self-care tips for moms during the hectic holiday season (from other moms who have h been there): b I practice yoga and meditation to help keep myself sane. I also love lavender h essential oil and you can even get a little mister to mist your pillow to ease you into sleep. I try to exercise in the morning on holidays or on party days so that I don’t feel as guilty when I splurge at gatherings.

— Melissa Schwartz, mom of two Engage your inner power. With all of the demands on us during the holiday season, it’s easy to take on more than we can comfortably handle. How often do you say “yes” to someone because you don’t want to let them down, but inside you really want to say “no”? Once you become aware of how often you aren’t honoring your true feelings, you can start taking back your power. Start saying “no” when you mean no and “yes” when you mean yes and see how that feels. — Jill Hope

Caitlin Murray Giles is a Chicago mom of three, freelance writer and co-founder of 2 Moms Media.

OAKBROOK TERRACE PARK DISTRICT HAS LOTS OF FUN FOR EVERYONE!

Fall Open House at the Lake View Nature Center Saturday, November 21 Noon-4 pm • Free

Bring the entire family to the Nature Center for a fall festival. Enjoy a seasonal hike, make a fall project, snack around the campfire and take a festive hayride around the lake. Event is held rain or shine.

Bowling with Santa (New!)

Saturday, Dec. 12 • 10:00 am – 12:00 pm All Ages Welcome Age: 2-5 years $20 R/$25 NR 6+ years $30 R/$38 NR

Enjoy breakfast and unlimited bowling for great family fun! Santa will be traveling to the North Pole to visit with your family and join in the fun. Pre-registration required. Bowling will be held at Pinstripes in Oak Brook.

Thanksgiving & Winter Break Camps

9 am – 3 pm Grades: K-5th Thanksgiving Break Camp: Monday, November 23-Wednesday, November 25 $126 R/$164 NR Winter Break Camp: Monday, Dec. 21 Wednesday, Dec. 23 $85 R/$102 NR Monday, Dec. 28- Wednesday, Dec. 30 $85 R/$102 NR Spend your break at a fun and safe place.

Children will participate in arts and crafts, games and other recreational activities organized by the staff. Before and After Camp available for extra fee. Please send a lunch with your child.

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Tea for all

The Palmer House Hilton Photo by PPH

Make holiday family memories at these incredible tea spots

W

BY DANIELLE BRAFF hen you had kids, you fantasized about the day you could celebrate the holidays with a fancy high tea. You’d all get dressed up, eat scones, nibble on tiny sandwiches and then stroll down Michigan Avenue as you do. Que real life. Your child doesn’t sit still and she thinks tea is boring.

But don’t fret. There’s a high tea place for every type of family. We’ve got you covered.

If your tween thinks she’s too cool for high tea

If your child won’t sit still long enough for tea

Try this place: The Allis at Soho House Why it’s perfect: This is where the cool people in Chicago choose to do tea, and for good reason. It sways toward more of a relaxed atmosphere—but not in Spencer’s a wear-your-yoga-pants way.

Jolly Posh It looks like a loft lifted from Foods an Elle magazine spread.

Try this place: American Girl Cafe Why it’s perfect: It was created for kids to enjoy high tea, so they know kids. Children can get up as many times as they desire to borrow American Girl dolls (or boy dolls) so their dolls of choice may dine with them (and the servers here are very understanding of tantrums if the doll your child wants has already been taken by another table).

Photo by The tea: It’s down to earth Elizabeth in a no-frills ways way that Diffin tastes incredible. Standouts were the pound cake and the fruit tart.

Details: $24 or a la carte; 113-125 N. Green St., Chicago; (312) 521-8000, theallis.com.

The Peninsula Chicago Photo provided

The tea: Kids will be delighted by the muffins, scones and pink cupcakes, but the star of the show is a chocolate mousse dessert flowerpot. American Girl dolls won’t be left out, either. They are provided with their own tea setting, which they can bring home, gratis.

Details: $19; 835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago; (877) 247-5223, americangirl.com.

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TEAS

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If grandma wants to take the kids out to tea

so older children or especially well-behaved children would do better here.

The tea: Egg salad is served in an egg shell, while the raisins from the scone were soaked in Earl Gray tea (though they change the menu seasonally). The high tea is perfection.

Details: $60 adults; $30 ages 12 and under; 330 N. Wabash Ave., Chicago; (312) 923-7710, chicago.langhamhotels.com.

Try this place: The Drake Hotel Why it’s perfect: It’s the classic spot for afternoon tea. You’ve got the harpist and the fountain, and it’s a Chicago tradition.

Grandma probably went here with her grandmother. Even Princess Diana and Queen Elizabeth have done high tea here.

The tea: This is a very traditional fancy tea in fancy cups in a fancy tea room under a glass chandelier. Dress to the nines to dine on scones, jam and clotted cream, plus finger sandwiches including roast beef, egg salad and cucumber sandwiches.

Details: $45 adults; $22 ages 4-12; free ages 3 and under; 140 E. Walton Place, Chicago; (312) 787-2200, thedrakehotel.com.

If you want a fancy, elevated tea experience that’s also kid-friendly Tipsycakes and More Photo by Danielle Braff

If you want a modern, contemporary tea Try this place: The Langham Why it’s perfect: This hotel chain originated in London, so they know how to do tea. But they do it with a sleek twist that

tends to draw trendy girlfriends rather than grandparents (it’s more for the Wicker Park crowd than the Gold Coasters). The chairs are contemporary yet comfortable, and you can face a modern fireplace or walls of windows. It is a little fancier than the others,

Try this place: The Peninsula Chicago Why it’s perfect: There’s no question that the Peninsula is one of the fanciest hotels in the city. The tea is served on fine china.

The tea: They serve an elevated traditional tea that includes Maine lobster rolls, strawberry and tarragon tarts and scones baked fresh that morning. And don’t think they do any less for the kiddos, whose tea trays are brightly decorated with jelly beans, fruit and sandwiches cut into fun shapes, which are Pinterest-worthy.

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Details: $55 adults; $25 ages 12 and under; 108 E. Superior St., Chicago; (312) 337-2888, chicago.peninsula.com.

If you need a place where the kids can play under the table while you sip Try this place: Palmer House Hilton Why it’s perfect: The lights are a little dim, and there are a bunch of tables centered in such a way that your kiddos won’t get in the way if they happen to crawl under your table (request the booths adjacent to the escalators). Since the escalator is behind the restaurant—and there’s a full lobby there, too—there’s white noise that covers up most sounds that your child may be making.

The tea: This is a very standard afternoon tea for those who love afternoon tea with scones, tea sandwiches and clotted cream.

We could have eaten the lemon custard by the spoon (and we actually may have).

Details: $40 adults; $20 ages 12 and under; 17 E. Monroe St., Chicago; (312) 726-7500, palmerhousehiltonhotel.com.

If your child is a picky eater

If you’re going with a large group

Try this place: Tipsycakes and More Why it’s perfect: Instead of getting pre-set Try this place: Spencer’s Jolly Posh Foods sandwiches and cakes, this tiny neighborWhy it’s perfect: This is a little neighborhood bakery allows you to pick and choose hood restaurant owned and run by a real from a list of 10 sandwiches (kids get three, Brit. Order everything a la carte off the adults get four). Choices range menu at this Southport spot. Some from smoked salmon and dill members of your group can to Nutella and strawberries. order the fancy tea, while This is a more intimate others can get the fish and affair, served at the front chips, and others can just of a tiny bakery—which have a dessert. Everyone is a nice way for small will be happy. kids to get exposed to The tea: It’s the real high tea. It’s relaxed, deal, if you’re looking and if children need to for a casual afternoon get up and run around, tea. It comes with they can leave the bakery a selection of finger The Allis to take a walk. sandwiches, a homemade at Soho House scone with clotted cream and The tea: Not surprisingly, a pot of tea. It’s exactly what the desserts are the stars of you’d find in a little country pub in the show here. They aren’t quite England. traditionally English, as they lean toward the sweeter side, but the caramel-topped Details: $22; 3755 N. Southport Ave., brownies are crave-worthy.

Chicago; (872) 802-3840, jollyposh.com.

Details: $28 adults; $25 ages 8 and under; 1944 N. Damen Ave., Chicago; Danielle Braff is a frequent Chicago Parent contributor and (773) 384-4418, tipsycakeschicago.com. mom of two.

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ENROLL NOW FOR WINTER/SPRING 2016 E-mail: admissions@interculturalmontessori.org Visit: www.interculturalmontessori.org Elementary After School Language programs in Spanish and Mandarin – Oak Park campus only ChicagoParent.com November 2015 53

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A Christmas Carol Photo by Liz Lauren

6 that should be on your nice list

H O - H O H O L I D AY S H O W S

I

BY KEELY FLYNN

t’s the most wonderful time of the year! Not only in season, but in the Chicago theater scene’s best season closers. Whether you’re looking for the tried-and-true favorites or looking to create some new traditions with your family, we’ve got you covered with three classics and three new must-sees.

It’s A Wonderful Life

A Christmas Carol

If your clan has yet to experience a live-onstage radio play, this is the one that’ll knock their 1940s socks off. Now in its 14th year, the radio broadcast of Frank Capra’s classic features live Foley sound effects, an original score and a cast heaped with critical acclaim.

Experience the Golden Age of Radio with 1940s-style commercials from local sponsors, holiday carols and even milk and cookies with the cast and crew after each show.

Runs Nov. 20-Dec. 27 at American Blues Theatre; americanbluestheatre.com

By the end of the year, isn’t there a little Scrooge inside all of us? (Or at the very least, across the holiday table?) It’s no wonder that Chicagoans make an annual pilgrimage to this gorgeous show about redemption and the Christmas spirit, featuring three of the most impressive spirits ever to tread (or soar above) the boards. Trade in your Bah Humbug for a little “bless us, everyone” and do it here; no one does it better.

Runs Nov. 14-Dec. 27 at the Goodman Theatre; goodmantheatre.org

Mrs. Claus, A Holiday Musical

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The Best Christmas Pageant Ever!

Based off the book that Publisher’s Weekly called “one of the best Christmas books ever,” Barbara Robinson’s classic tale of a hapless—and hopeless— Christmas pageant reminds all of us that holiday magic really does exist. (And who’s ever doubted that while in a theater?)

Runs Nov. 28-Dec. 20 at Provision Theater; provision theater.org

It’s A Wonderful Life Photo by Jaclyn Holsey

may have flown under your radar during the past few seasons. (I’m looking at you, Northsiders!) Take the kiddos and join the Elf Class of 2015 as they find the all-important “list” in time for the big guy to do his job. (You don’t want to be added to the “naughty” column, do you?)

Runs Dec. 3-23 at the Beverly Arts Center; chicago kidscompany.com

Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Goose Based on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s only Christmasthemed Sherlock Holmes mystery, The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle, this tale concerns a countess’s missing priceless gem—and how it reappears in the cooked holiday goose of an ordinary Londoner. Why not add a slightly different tale of the British holidays to your family’s canon this year?

Runs Dec. 9-Jan. 3. at Raven Theatre; raventheatre.com

Mrs. Claus, A Holiday Musical While not a “new” play in the slightest (it’s about to celebrate its 17th year!), this charmingly fun production

Elf

Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Goose

“Buddy the Elf, what’s your favorite color?” If you’ve ever answered the phone this way during the holiday season, then you’re going to want to put on your pointiest shoes and walk straight to Lincolnshire for this epic stage romp. The beloved tale of a misfit elf taking on the big, bad city gets the Broadway musical treatment, but keeps its heart as big as the North Pole.

Runs through Dec. 31 at The Marriott Theatre; marriott theatre.com Keely Flynn is a Chicago mom of three, playwright, blogger and cat lover.

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Light it up!

R

ather than dwell inside on those dreary, dark winter afternoons, let there be light!

Brighten your mood with one of these spectacular holiday light events in Chicago and the suburbs.

Chicago Trolley Holiday Lights Tour

ZooLights

This should be a staple on your If you want to see all the lights family’s holiday to-do list every holiday season. ZooLights at the city has to offer, hop aboard Lincoln Park Zoo is the best free a famous Chicago Trolley for an outing you could ask for, with entertaining two-hour narrated more than two million lights tour of holiday sights and illuminating the zoo dazzling lights. From sky and holiday the magical cheer everylights on the where you Magnificent turn. The Mile to transformed State Street animal and Macy’s winter holiday wonderland windows includes to Daley warm treats Plaza’s and drinks, 40-foot visits with Santa, Christmas tree Holiday Magic crafts, ice sculpand Navy Pier’s tors and holiday music.

Winter WonderFest, ZooLights runs Nov. 27-29 and this trip captures the spirit of Dec. 4-6, then nightly Dec. 11the season. coachusa.com/ Jan. 3. lpzoo.org chicagotrolley

Illumination: Tree Lights

Illumination: Tree Lights Illumination: Tree Lights is back at the Morton Arboretum, bringing light and nature together for a wintertime walk in the woods like no other. From Nov. 20-Jan. 2, visitors can walk the one-mile path filled with dazzling LED lights and trees that respond to your touch and voice.

With new updates, exhibits and effects this year, Illumination shines bright during the holiday season. mortonarb.org

Holiday Magic See the polar bears, sea lions and tigers under the glow of more than one million twinkling LED lights at Brookfield Zoo’s Holiday Magic. It’s hard not to feel the magic of the holidays as you walk around at Chicagoland’s largest lights festival. There’s also caroling to the animals, light shows, ice carving, live entertainment and a 41-foot Talking Tree. Holiday Magic runs 4-9 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays in December and Dec. 26-Dec. 31. czs.org

ZooLights

Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light A visit to the Museum of Science and Industry will brighten your spirit immediately.

The one-of-a-kind seasonal celebration, Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Lights, features 50 trees decorated to represent cultures and holiday traditions of Chicago’s ethnic communities around the museum’s 45-foot grand Christmas tree. This year’s theme is inspired by its exhibit, Robot Revolution. The trees are lit Nov. 19-Jan. 3. msichicago.org Megan Murray Elsener

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Quick trips perfect for the holidays Santa Claus, Ind. A trip to Santa Claus offers something for everyone, with signs of the bearded man in red and his accomplices everywhere.

On weekends, kids love visiting the Santa Claus Museum and sending a Santa Clauspostmarked postcard to friends. Some families make their visit a tradition to write a letter to Santa from the museum. Every letter receives a response from the elves before Christmas.

Also on weekends, grab colorful candy canes at Santa’s Candy Castle before setting off to get to know Rudolph at the Land of Lights, a 1.2-mile drive through thousands of lights at the Lake Rudolph Campground & RV Resort.

Traverse City, Mich.

Nature-loving families who want to get

Traverse City out of town for a weekend will love the new 10-station zipline at Mt. Holiday. It runs snow or no snow, says Mike Norton of Traverse City Tourism.

Visiting this summer hotspot in the off months also means shorter lines at restaurants (always a plus for kids!) and fewer people on the hiking and biking trails, so that your family can really get back to nature.

Sheboygan, Wis. The highlight of Sheboygan, two and a half hours northwest of Chicago and perfect for a long weekend, is Blue Harbor Resort, which has stunning views of Lake Michigan.

Kids will especially love the adjoining Breaker Bay Waterpark, which is always kept at a balmy 84 degrees, and the indoor

glow-in-the-dark miniature golf course.

When the kids need a break from the water, the Above & Beyond Children’s Museum with lighthouses and boats and the Sky Crawl Gallery will keep them amused.

St. Louis, Mo. There’s a lot of family fun to be had over a long weekend in St. Louis. Families rave about the City Museum, which boggles the mind and thrills kids with features like a 10-story slide. The museum describes itself as “an eclectic mixture of children’s playground, funhouse, surrealistic pavilion, and architectural marvel made out of unique, found objects.” It’s hard to describe, but easy to appreciate once you’re there. Chances are your kids won’t want to leave.

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Turkey day,

Chicago-style Ways to make the most of Thanksgiving in the city

R

BY LINDA MARSICANO ather than nesting on the couch like a stuffed turkey this Thanksgiving weekend, plan a city-centric extravaganza that will have your entire family on the go experiencing the best holiday kick-offs Chicago has to offer.

And most important, you’ll give your kids a long weekend they’ll never forget.

Here are daily suggestions for creating lasting Thanksgiving memories. Of course, sprinkle in traditions you’ve already created.

Tuesday, Nov. 24 Start the celebration early in the week with the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony with the mayor in Daley Plaza at 4:30 p.m. Don’t forget to stop in The Santa House, a replica of Santa’s workshop where Santa himself poses for pictures and reminds kids they have exactly one month to secure a spot on the nice list.

While downtown, swing

by Vosges Chocolates to pick up lots (and lots!) of baconinfused chocolate treats, exotic

caramels, rich toffees and peanut butter bon bons to give out as party favors to Thanksgiving dinner guests. Set the celebratory tone by letting the kids have a tasting before dinner, or get really crazy and declare it dessert-for-dinner night.

Wednesday, Nov. 25 Chicago Public Schools are not in session. Take a vacation day if you can spare one—or at least scoot out early—and

head to Maggie Daley Park to test out the new skating ribbon, which opens at noon on weekdays. Unlike typical rinks, the ribbon is built into the landscape and skaters can experience “alpine in the city” as they follow a path twice the length of a lap around a traditional skating rink. Warming up with a hot chocolate (or two) is required.

Thursday, Nov. 26 Get the crew energized and build up an appetite to chow down with the 37th Annual Turkey Day Chicago, a 5K, 8K and kids’ ramble plus games like corn hole, football toss, a kid zone tent and costume contest.

It’s held in Lincoln Park, starting

at East Cannon, at 8:30-11:30 a.m. Don’t forget to bring two canned goods to ensure Chicago doesn’t go hungry this holiday season.

In more of a spectator mood than a running one?

Head to State and Adams around 7 a.m. to secure a prime spot for the annual McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade, which kicks off at 8 a.m. The parade goes along State Street beginning at Congress and moving north to Randolph for a onemile route.

Friday, Nov. 27 Be the first to see this year’s Wonderland Express train exhibit at the Chicago Botanic Gardens, which debuts for the season at 10 a.m. With sweet voices serenading the family

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with holiday classics, kids can look out for Thomas the Train and other railway friends in a festive atmosphere.

Get those vocal chords revved and ready to belt out holiday tunes with Caroling at Cloudgate at Millennium Park. Going into its 10th year, the event has become a holiday favorite and includes Chicago choral groups leading hundreds of merrymakers in song starting at 6 p.m.

its 38th year, the performance is hailed as jubilant, spectacular and hilarious.

Sunday, Nov. 29

Saturday, Nov. 28 Time to work off all of the indulgences—and the Grant Park Turkey Trot and Kids’ Dash is a fun way to do it. The Kids’ Dash begins at 8:40 a.m. with the 5K beginning at 9 a.m.

It’s good for the heart and soul—starting at Grant Park, the route provides picturesque views of Chicago’s skyscrapers, lakefront and Field Museum.

Join Ebenezer Scrooge at the Goodman

Theatre for the 2 p.m. afternoon show as he “bah-humbugs” through the journey of his past, present and future to learn the true meaning of the holiday spirit. Now in

Calling all von Trapp impersonators!

Dress in von Trapp Family garb while brushing up on the famous lyrics and Do-Re-Mis for The Sound of Music Sing-along at The Music Box Theatre in Lakeview. From “I Have Confidence” to “My Favorite Things” to “Something Good,” the songs are made for enthusiasts of this legendary film belt their hearts out. And a lucky few will win the costume contest. Forgot the words?

Don’t let that stop you—the lyrics are projected on screen. Shows run in the late morning and afternoon.

At dusk it’s time for Zoo Lights at Lincoln Park Zoo. It’s undoubtedly one of the best nights to go because the crowd is thinned out due to holiday travel (and probably pure exhaustion from the long weekend).

Is there a better way to close out a memorable, joy-filled weekend than experiencing 2 million lights that create a true winter wonderland? We don’t think so.

Linda Marsicano is a freelance writer and mom who loves getting out and about.

Presents Gian Carlo Menotti’s

Great Opera, Made Affordable!

Amahl and the Night Visitors • Lite Brite Wall • Climbing Wall • Transportation Station

Don’t miss the 10th anniversary of this treasured Chicago holiday tradition, perfect for all ages!

Direction by Francis Menotti, son of Gian Carlo, based on his father’s original 1951 production Assisted by Kyle Dougan Sung in English with orchestra.

Featuring dancers from Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater and a children’s chorus.

“This one-act work is one of those truly rare family works that is immediately accessible on every level—by both children and opera novices—and yet is still meaningful to the most seasoned opera-goers.”

- Dennis Polkow, Newcity Stage “First rate.... The parting of mother and son at the work’s close was moving indeed.”

- Richard Covello, NIB Foundation

Saturday, December 19 - 3:00pm and Sunday, December 20 - 3:00pm

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

Harold Washington Library Center, Cindy Pritzker Auditorium 400 South State Street, Chicago, IL

GENERAL ADMISSION SEATING: Adults: $25 • Seniors (65+) and Students: $20 • Children: $10, 12 and under

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SkokieParks.org

4701 Oakton Street, Skokie • (847) 674-1500, ext. 2700 ChicagoParent.com November 2015 59

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GIVING REAL

7 ways to help others this season

T

BY DONNA BOZZO

here’s a lot of good to gobble up this month and so much to be grateful for, so why not give thanks this year by giving back as a family?

The just dessert: Rich, warm wonderful family time spent together.

Here are some ideas to get you started.

The Honeycomb Project Created in 2011, The Honeycomb Project focuses on family volunteering. The folks at Honeycomb work with more than 45 organizations, creating quality projects that bring together people of different ages and abilities to develop a deeper understanding of local issues, share their skills and work toward a common goal. All ages are welcome, with most projects best suited for adults and their kids 5-13.

Honeycomb projects help at-risk, homeless and low-income individuals and families, and improve natural and recreational areas in underserved and impoverished neighborhoods.

1658 N. Milwaukee Ave., #190, Chicago; (773) 750-7120, thehoneycombproject.org

60 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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Ronald McDonald House The folks at Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana provide a home away from home every night for 153 families, offering families a welcoming place to rest, relax, have a home-cooked meal, meet other families and find the emotional support they need so they can focus 100

percent on their child in the hospital. How can you help?

Volunteer to host a family activities night or bake cookies together at a Ronald McDonald House near you. You can find more information on rmhccni.org.

Find Ronald McDonald houses in Oak Lawn, Chicago, Hines, Naperville and Winfield

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Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence Serving Our Community

Tree House Humane Society Tree House Humane Society is a cageless, no-kill organization specializing in the rescue and rehabilitation of sick and injured stray cats. Kids under 16 can volunteer with their parents, helping provide daily care—feeding, cleaning, grooming and playing with the 200 cats taking shelter there.

1212 W. Carmen Ave., Chicago; (773) 784-5488, treehouseanimals.org CONTINUED ON PAGE 62

HINSDALE CENTRAL NORTH SHORE CENTER AUDITORIUM FOR THE CENTER FOR Live Orchestra PERFORMING ARTS PERFORMING ARTS Sat. 11/28, 1 & 5 pm Sat. 12/12, 1 & 5 pm Sat. 12/5, 1 & 5 pm Sun. 11/29, 1 pm Sun. 12/13, 2 pm w/ Sugar Plum Party

saltcreekballet.org

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GIVING THANKS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 61

Little Brothers Friends Of The Elderly Chicago Chapter

2015-16 Open House Schedule

An independent school for gifted children from Preschool through Eighth Grade.

Wednesday, November 4, 2015 and Thursday, February 18, 2016 Grades K – 8 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.

Looking for a fast and flexible family volunteer project? During the month of December, brighten the holiday season by visiting an isolated elder and delivering a special gift. Simply pick up the gifts at Little Brothers and deliver them in a neighborhood convenient for you. If you have more time to give, you and your family can volunteer to deliver monthly food bags or even get paired with an elderly person for regular bi-monthly visits.

355 N. Ashland Ave, Chicago; (312) 455-1000, littlebrothers chicago.org

Greater Chicago Food Depository Sign up to help distribute 66 million pounds of food to Chicago’s hungry. Your family can help assemble food boxes for other families during monthly Kid Days. Or even host your own food drive at myfooddrive.org.

4100 W. Ann Lurie Place, Chicago; (773) 2473663; chicagosfoodbank.org

All For Good Saturday, February 27, 2016 and Saturday, April 23, 2016 Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten Play Date (Ages 3 - 4) 9:00 – 10:30 a.m.

Reservations required for these events.

Contact Director of Admission, Kitsana Salyphone at kitsana.salyphone@questacademy.org or call 847.202.8035, ext. 438

All For Good provides a smorgasbord of volunteer opportunities, allowing you to pick what’s best for you and your family. Find everything from tutoring to reading poems to children to donating used books. allforgood.org

Lincoln Park Zoo A fun way to get into the holiday and giving spirit is by bringing cheer to everyone. Kids 14 years or older can volunteer with their folks to help at ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo running from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day. 2001 N. Clark St., Chicago; (312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org Donna Bozzo is a freelance writer and mom. She is

questacademy.org 500 North Benton, Palatine, IL 60067

the woman behind the website, Lady with the Alligator Purse. Her new book, What the Fun?! Put More Fun in Your Family’s Life, will be out May 2016.

62 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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Students to the rescue Project-based learning popular at independent schools

By SHANNAN YOUNGER

I

ndependent schools’ shift to project-based learning is having a big impact on students. Those students are tackling real-world challenges while acquiring skills and knowledge as they actively explore ways to address them.

“I love project-based learning because it allows for learning to happen in a more authentic manner,” says Martin Moran, director of TIDES and Cross Curricular Pedagogy at Francis W. Parker School in Chicago. “The idea of learning being something that you do in the process of pursuing your interests and goals is very essential to real learning.”

Moran explains that proj-

PHOTO COURTESY OF FRANCIS W. PARKER SCHOOL

ect-based learning can happen at any grade level, noting that first-graders at Francis W. Parker built a prototype of a solution for the three

little pigs. “This approach to learning can pull a lot out of the kids, even at the youngest levels. It’s great to see the skills of problem solving and

analysis being done by 6- and 7-year-olds,” he says.

Many schools use projectbased learning across a variety of subjects. For example, seventh-graders at Morgan Park Academy in Chicago face the question “How would you prevent World War I?” At Catherine Cook School, seventh-graders designed flat-pack chairs, of which they created scale and life-sized versions with a laser cutter.

“Traditional instruction still has a place in education today, but I feel as though the goal should always be to have the students explore the content being taught rather than be the receptacle for the information,” explains Daniel Peters, assistant middle school principal and teacher at Morgan Park. “Students

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www.fxw.org 64 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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that children learn vocabulary, problem-solving strategies, negotiation, and conceptual knowledge from each other as they collaborate.

“I knew that doing a project-based learning assignment would lead to greater understanding and more accountability for the students. The pleasant surprise was seeing the enjoyment on the face of the students as they knew they were in the driver’s seat,” Peters says.

Moran has seen similar results. “Kids take learning more seriously and bring more of themselves to it.”

Moran described one high school student who was going through the motions of school but was not really applying herself. Then she completed a project-based learning experience done in conjunction with the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting that required her to identify a problem, research the history, and propose a solution in front of a gallery of people.

“It was the best work I had ever seen her do,” Moran says. “The world changed for her because she changed her perception of herself. She became someone who not only could command a room, but who did things that mattered.”

Your child is our mission.

Strong in studies, serious in purpose, rich in the spirit of life and love. This is a Sacred Heart education.

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Sacred Heart is an independent school, K through 8th grade, rooted in the Catholic tradition. We offer a values-based education and single gender classrooms on a co-ed campus.

Join us for an Admissions Coffee Wed, Nov 4 • Fri, Nov 20 • Wed, Dec 9 9:30-11 am To register call (773) 751-7647 6250 North Sheridan Road, Chicago, Illinois 60660 shschicago.org

Chicago Parent 3.625” x 7”

Sept 15, 2015 Insertion

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Preschools | Elementary | High Schools | Boarding | Enrichment Special Needs | Academic Tutoring Services and more

JANUARY 2015

MAKING GRADE

are generally given a driving question that leads them to new discoveries.”

The emphasis on real issues and the resulting discoveries motivated The Avery Coonley School in Downers Grove to begin integrating projectbased learning into its curriculum.

“We are focused on preparing our students for the real world and asking the big questions, including how are they going to be productive, contribute to their communities, and what mark will they leave on the world. You can’t do that in a vacuum,” explains Kristen Teague, lower school head at Avery Coonley.

One benefit that Teague sees is that project-based learning allows students to fully integrate technology into the curriculum. “The result is grander and more meaningful, and the learning is deeper,” Teague says.

She notes that students will be using technology in similar ways in the real world, so starting early in school enhances their preparation.

Another way project-based learning helps children develop life skills in the classroom is by focusing on collaboration. Most of the work is done in groups. The staff at Catherine Cook has found

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Oui

“

”

are explorers.

“Oui” are Chicago’s international school.

Everything we do is designed to open students to the world. At the Lycée, students from around the corner learn alongside students from across the ocean. Our immersive language approach and international student body offer a dynamic way to explore new cultures and gain a real global perspective. And school-led trips abroad create a learning journey that takes students around the world.

When they graduate, students leave with an internationally-recognized diploma from the Lycée. And the experience to put their stamp on the world.

Open House: November 7, 2015 Register at lyceechicago.org

lyceechicago.org

Lycée student Class of 2029

Pre-K through grade 12 • 1929 West Wilson Avenue, Chicago 773 665 0066 • admissions@lyceechicago.org

66 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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How independent schools teach kids about the world

By SHANNAN YOUNGER

P

arents send their children to school with the expectation that they will learn about reading and math, but most also hope that their children will learn about the world and how to make it a better place.

Many independent schools in Chicago have truly embraced service learning projects to make those hopes reality.

For many independent schools, service learning goes to the core values and mission of the school. “We strive to instill in our students the importance of helping others, a desire to understand the world around them and the value of hard work,” says Colleen Everhart, a high school faculty member at the

PHOTO COURTESY OF FRANCIS XAVIER WARDE SCHOOL

Chicago Waldorf School in Chicago.

The same is true at Francis Xavier Warde School in Chicago. “One of our four charisms is that this is a place where (people) are motivated by faith to serve others so

the service component has been a priority from Day One,” explains Head of School Michael Kennedy, noting that the service learning structure includes not only students but also parents and faculty. “We need to model our expecta-

tions for our kids. You can’t lead where you yourself won’t go.”

Independent schools have the flexibility to pursue service learning opportunities that other schools may not have. “We are not tied to the classroom and not teaching ‘to the test’ so our students have the opportunity to develop both hands-on skills and social capacities that will support them in the real world,” Everhart says.

The flexibility means kids can engage in service learning close to home and globally.

“Our program really integrates language and areas studies under the umbrella and context of social justice,” says Christina Roches, a

continued on page 68

Celebrating our 50th year and the opening of the new North Wing

Artist

Poet

Scientist

Inventor

Big Dreams Start Young At Chiaravalle Montessori, we respect the potential in your child and treat them like the adult they will become. We honor each student’s strengths and challenges.

Learn how Chiaravalle prepares children for the world and for life.

School life, real life and dreams co-exist here.

Infant/Toddler through 8th Grade

Schedule a visit at 847.864.2190

425 Dempster, Evanston www.chiaravalle.org ChicagoParent.com November 2015 67

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Chicago’s North Shore leader in independent, progressive education from Pre-K through grade 8.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHICAGO CITY DAY SCHOOL

Service learning continued from page 67

FAMILY Open HOuse Saturday, November 14 from 2 pm to 4 pm RSVP to fallopenhouse@bakerdemschool.org 201 sheridan road Wilmette, il 60091 847.425.5800 bakerdemschool.org

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teacher at The Ancona School in Chicago, where students have been going to El Valor Children and Youth Service for more than a decade.

At Chicago City Day School, the service learning program focuses on the environment.

Students work with Forest Preserve District of Cook County stewards and do restoration and water quality testing at the Miami Woods 1:16Forest PM Preserve.

“Student inquiries about the interconnectedness of the planet offered the school another springboard to further demonstrate ways to make a difference in a more global arena,” Administrator Lucinda Klevay says. “Partnerships with the Shedd Aquarium and Reef Check put qualified City Day students on the front line of coral reef and habitat assessment and beach restoration in the Bahamas.”

Noted oceanographer and environmentalist Jean-Michel Cousteau’s use of the City Day data for his work culminated in a later visit to the school, where he spoke to the student community.

Students at Chicago Waldorf also travel abroad, doing two weeks of service this past spring at the Osa Conservation Center in

Costa Rica. They built a sea turtle hatchery, reforested a stripped area of the rainforest and learned about the migratory paths of the big cats.

Regardless of the projects the school takes on, one commonality is that the students benefit. “The opportunity is life-changing,” says Klevay.

The students broaden their view of the world and gain new perspectives from their experiences.

“On these trips our students further develop their interest in the world by experiencing other cultures and other perspectives. They also frequently express awe at the beauty of the world and an appreciation of those who have made it their life’s work to make the world a better place,” says Everhart.

“We see our experiences at El Valor less as community service and more about learning, sharing and recognizing at the end of the day that the children with whom they were spending time are the same as children everywhere,” says Roches.

In addition to those benefits, service learning experiences can help the teachers better understand their students, too. “It’s extremely helpful for the teachers to experience our students in very different settings. We can see qualities and gifts that might not be as visible in the classroom,” Everhart says.

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i Six great reasons to pick an independent school www.lmais.org // special advertising section //

Don’t let cost keep you from falling in love with a school

By SHANNAN YOUNGER

relationships with schools.

Catherine Cook enrolls students from preschool through eighth grade, meaning families could be there for a decade or longer, especially if they have multiple children, he says.

P

arents in the Chicago area have a lot of options when it comes to sending their kids to school. One of the first things moms and dads must decide: Public or independent?

Local experts shared their reasons why they think parents should consider independent schools.

THE POWER TO CHOOSE A SCHOOL THAT SHARES YOUR VALUES. Many families are drawn to an independent school because they find one that matches their values and is a good fit for their family.

“Making sure you have a good fit with mission, philosophy, and size is such a

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CATHERINE COOK SCHOOL

neat ability that is sometimes denied students in a public school. Go to a neighborhood school and you don’t have a lot of choices,” explains Michael Roberts, president of the Lake Michigan Association of Independent Schools and head of school at The Catherine Cook School in

BEYOND EDUCATION YOUR CHILD’S FUTURE BEGINS HERE.

Chicago.

“We enroll families, not just children,” Roberts says.

Parents should make sure any independent school on their list is a good fit not just for their child but the entire family, especially given that families enter into long-term

THE ABILITY TO APPROACH EDUCATION FROM A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE. Independent schools often have flexibility in their approach to learning that other schools do not.

“A lot of parents are drawn to us because we are studentdriven and student-paced, and not all schools have the luxury of enjoying creativity and collaboration in the classroom experience that

continued on page 70

Join our global learning community. Attend an upcoming Admissions Event.

Apply at anconaschool.org or contact 773.924.2356.

Early Childhood Open House Dates

Wednesday Nov. 4 | 8:45 a.m.

Elementary Open House Dates

Wednesday Nov. 18 | 8:45 a.m.

4770 South Dorchester Ave. Chicago, IL 60615 P: 773.924.2356 F: 773.924.8905 www.anconaschool.org

ChicagoParent.com November 2015 69

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i  Six reasons continued from page 69 we have,” says Beth Caldwell, director of communications at Chiaravalle Montessori in Evanston. “Our students have the opportunity to think outside the box and to be more entrepreneurial.”

3

SMALL CLASS SIZES Roberts says independent schools often have smaller classrooms than public schools.

“Smaller classes allow for individualized attention, certainly when trying to do more hands-on learning. Working in smaller groups means more opportunity for rich learning experiences,” he says.

4

TEACHER TRAINING Independent schools often devote a large portion of their resources to teacher training.

“Typically independent

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schools have well-prepared teachers and strong professional development budgets,” Roberts says. “We put money where our mouth is so our faculty is up to speed on the latest knowledge of what they’re teaching.”

Some schools also require additional training.

Montessori certification for upper grade teachers, for example, requires two additional years of training with an experienced teacher, which leads to additional peer mentoring.

“We welcome interns and see it as a win-win. There’s nothing like the energy of a young teacher and when you pair them with the wise mentors, you get a magical combination of skill and savvy with energy and enthusiasm,” Caldwell says.

5

HIGHER LEVEL OF ATTENTION TO DIFFERENT KINDS OF LEARNING

Caldwell says that because independent schools are mission-driven institutions, they focus more on the social-emotional learning. “It’s very clear when a student is working inside their comfort zone and the teacher can invite them to move outside of it and guide the student to stretch themselves. We want them to work at a level where they are challenged but not overwhelmed.”

Roberts agrees, noting that the development of the whole child and life skills extend beyond the classroom.

“Students at our school have opportunities to experience outside the classroom.

We bring the world into the school and also take the kids out into the world,” he says.

“Whether it’s a study on the city or neighborhood, we believe it is important to get kids out doing authentic activities that interest them and make them better people.”

That focus allows indepen-

dent schools to help students build good character and prepare to be good leaders.

6

F INANCIAL AID IS AVAILABLE “Our goal is to get families into our school that will thrive and be successful, not just those with discretionary income,” Roberts says. “Access is the greatest challenge for parochial and private schools. Most private schools have a need-based financial assistance program because we want socio-economically diverse student bodies and group of families.”

“If you are a family in love with a school, but need help to make it happen, don’t be shy. The need-based financial aid programs are administered blindly by an outside company,” says Roberts. “If you’re willing to take the risk, the outcome could be really beneficial for you and your children.”

There are many ways to get to know Latin.

Find out more at

www.latinschool.org/visitus

It’s a great feeling to belong.

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Four things parents need to know about math

By SHANNAN YOUNGER

T

he recent changes in math instruction have made headlines and been the topic of viral videos and images. Since Chicago area schools are working hard to make math lessons work, educators at three independent schools share ways math instruction is evolving in their classrooms based on the latest research findings and new standards.

MATH INSTRUCTION HAS SHIFTED BASED ON A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF HOW STUDENTS LEARN. “One of the big developments in math education is a focus on cooperative learning. Brain theory shows that people learn better when they are teaching. You must truly understand a concept if you have to teach it,” says Erin Gutowski, an IB math teacher at Lycée Français de Chicago.

Gutowski says there is better understanding of how the brain works and processes information, which informs her teaching. “Anything I can do to change my instruction from pencil and paper and do something that makes it different from the normal situation increases the likelihood that the students will remember it,” explains Gutowski, who even has changed the pencil and pen colors students use when working on math.

Elizabeth Denevi, director of Studies and Professional Development at Latin School of Chicago, explains that understanding different learning styles means that teachers need to have various approaches available, one reason that the school is in the process of switching to

1

the Singapore math curriculum. “If a kid is struggling, we feel this lets us differentiate instruction in a better way,” she says.

Marjie Murphy, director of Curriculum and Instruction at Sacred Heart Schools in Chicago, agrees. “There can be several different ways to get to the right answer. A good teacher sees all those ways … and helps kids find the way that works best for them,” she says.

THE CHANGING ROLE OF THE MATH TEACHER Today, teaching math is less about what to think and more emphasis on how to think. “There is less of the teacher showing the example and more of the mentality of ‘we’re all going to work on this together,’” Murphy says.

That means the role of the math teacher has shifted. “My role in the classroom is not to be the holder of knowledge but rather someone to walk beside you and lead you forward so you know in which direction to start. We want students to be the problem solvers,” Gutowski says.

Denevi says teachers also are working to combat stereotypes and the performance gaps.

“We’re tired of hearing kids say that they’re not good at math,” Denevi says.

“Kids don’t have to be good at everything, but our faculty doesn’t want students selling themselves short on their math ability. We want to believe that everyone can be a good math student.”

EVALUATING NEW STANDARDS DOESN’T ALWAYS MEAN DRAMATIC CHANGE Murphy explains that

SAT. NOV. 14, 2015 Imagine a place where intellectually and creatively talented kids are challenged and nurtured. SAA is that place — come join our community.

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To Register for Open House, visit our website and click on the Open House link.

Pre-K through 8th Grade Independent School Guiding Bright & Gifted Children Onward & Upward

Upcoming Tours

November 11 and December 2

Kindergarten Information Night December 3

For more information:

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continued on page 72 ChicagoParent.com November 2015 71

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WHAT DOES real college preparation LOOK LIKE?

All students learn best when they apply concepts to real life.

So we’ve designed our curriculum to take students outside the classroom to explore and experiment.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LATIN SCHOOL OF CHICAGO

Four things continued from page 71

Beacon Academy

is an independent, Montessori based secondary school for students in grades 9-12.

Come see us in action this fall!

Prospective Parent Coffee Thursday, Oct. 29 at 9:30AM

Admissions Open House Saturday, November 14, 1:00-4:00PM Please visit our website for registration and information.

Beacon Academy

622 Davis Street, Evanston, IL, 60201 224.999.1177 beaconacademyil.org

Sacred Heart, as an independent school, is not be beholden to standards but that with the introduction of Common Core there has been a shift.

“Over the past several years, we’ve seen more independent schools looking at standards more closely and seeing that some make quite a bit of sense,” she says. That doesn’t mean, however, that dramatic changes are needed across the board.

“As we slowly but surely unpack the standards for math, we’re finding some of the things we’ve been doing for years,” she says. “There are some new concepts that we’re looking at, too.”

Murphy notes that Sacred Heart students go on to attend a variety of high schools and they want their students to succeed as freshmen, wherever they may be,

and common standards can be helpful. “For the first time in educational history in the U.S. there is a focus on common, key points and that can’t help but be a good thing.”

4

CHANGE CAN BE GOOD With all the changes in math, it can be tough for parents, who learned a different way and are inclined to repeat what we have experienced.

“We want to do what we learned when helping our child, but it’s good for parents to remember that because we know the tricks doesn’t mean that’s truly how you dig out that answer,” Murphy says.

She reminds parents that math teachers do have valid reasons for instructing the way they do. “Sometimes you need a lot of steps to truly understand it and helping our kids get to a deeper understanding and it’s more than rattling off equations.”

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

i 

Fall is a great time to visit Chicago area independent schools!

Go to LMAIS.org for the latest on tours and open houses

Select an accredited school that promotes: Academic Excellence: Be the Best You Can Be Exceptional educational opportunities allow students to fully pursue their intellectual passions Experiential Learning: Taking Learning Outside the Classroom Curricula intentionally designed to expose students to global issues and global citizenship Character Education: How You Lead Your Life Matters Values-driven education developing empathy through participation in service learning

Exceptional Schools In & Around Chicago Ancona School 773.924.2356 | anconaschool.org Avery Coonley School 630.969.0800 | averycoonley.org Baker Demonstration School 847.425.5800 | bakerdemschool.org Beacon Academy 224.999.1177 | beaconacademyil.org Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School 773.281.1858 | bzaeds.org Brickton Montessori School 773.714.0646 | brickton.org Catherine Cook School 312.266.3381 | catherinecookschool.org Chiaravalle Montessori School 847.864.2190 | chiaravalle.org Chicago Academy for the Arts 312.421.0202 | chicagoartsacademy.org Chicago City Day School 773.327.0900 | chicagocitydayschool.org Chicago Waldorf School 773.465.2371 | chicagowaldorf.org Countryside Montessori School 847.498.1105 | countrysidemontessori.org

Da Vinci Academy 847.841.7532 | dvacademy.org Elgin Academy 847.695.0303 | elginacademy.org Forest Ridge Academy 219.756.7300 | fra.edu Frances Xavier Warde School 312.466.0700 | fxw.org Francis W. Parker School 773.797.5107 | fwparker.org Hyde Park Day School Chicago 773.420.2550 | hydeparkday.org Hyde Park Day School Northfield 847.446.7025 | hydeparkday.org La Lumiere School 219.326.7450 | lalumiere.org Lake Forest Academy 847.615.3267 | lfanet.org Lake Forest Country Day School 847.615.6151 | lfcds.org Latin School of Chicago 312.582.6060 | latinschool.org Lycée Français de Chicago 773.665.0066 | lyceechicago.org

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Morgan Park Academy 773.881.6700 | morganparkacademy.org Near North Montessori School 773.384.1434 | nnms.org North Park Elementary School 773.327.3144 | npeschool.org North Shore Country Day School 847.441.3313 | nscds.org Quest Academy 847.202.8035 | questacademy.org Rogers Park Montessori School 773.271.1700 | rpmschool.org Roycemore School 847.866.6055 | roycemoreschool.org Sacred Heart Schools 773.681.8436 | shschicago.org Science & Arts Academy 847.827.7880 | scienceandartsacademy.org The Stanley Clark School 574.291.4200 | stanleyclark.org University of Chicago Laboratory Schools 773.702.9451 | ucls.uchicago.edu Wolcott School 312.610.4900 | wolcottschool.org

Lake Michigan Association of Independent Schools 10/9/15 4:36 73 PM ChicagoParent.com November 2015

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i  Lake Michigan Area Independent Schools Open House Information

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

(630) 969-0800 averycoonley.org

Baker Demonstration School Pre-K through 8th grade Family Open House: Saturday, Nov. 14 from 2-4 p.m.

201 Sheridan Road, Wilmette (847) 425-5800 bakerdemschool.org

 

Beacon Academy 9th-12th grade students Open House November 14th, 1:004:00PM. Prospective Parent Coffee October 29th, 9:30AM

Ancona School Attend an upcoming Admissions Event on the following Wednesdays.

Early Childhood: 10/7/15; 11/4/15 Elementary School: 10/21/15; 11/18/15. Start at 8:45am.

4770 South Dorchester Ave., Chicago (773) 924-2356 anconaschool.org

Avery Coonley School

Catherine Cook School Preschool - 8th Grade Open House: November 1

Tour Dates November 11 December 2 January 6 January 20 February 10 February 24

PreK-12th Grade 1300 W. Loyola Ave (Rogers Park Campus) 2156 W. Montrose Ave (Lincoln Square Early Childhood Center) (773) 465-2371 See us in action!

Nov. 19th, Dec. 10th, Jan. 7th Space is limited. Sign up today.

RSVP at discoverchicagowaldorf.org

Francis W. Parker School Serving Junior Kindergarten through 12th Grade Upper School Open House Saturday, November 11 | 10 am Register at fwparker.org/openhouse

330 West Webster Avenue, Chicago (773) 797-5107 fwparker.org

226 W. Schiller Street, Chicago (312) 266-3381 catherinecookschool.org

Frances Xavier Warde School

Chiaravalle Montessori

Admissions Information Night – October 8th & 22nd 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. for Preschool through Third grade Schedule a school day tour through the FXW School website

Ages 0-14

Pre-school - 8th Grade

1400 Maple Avenue Downers Grove

622 Davis St., Evanston Grades 9-12 (224) 999-1177 beaconacademyil.org

Chicago Waldorf

Prospective Parent Tours, 9-10:30 am, RSVP Nov 3, 5, 12, 17, Dec 1, 10, Jan 5, 7

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

ATTEND AN OPEN HOUSE Upper School (Grades 9-12)

Saturday, November 21 10 a.m.

Old St. Patrick’s Campus (Preschool – 3rd grade)

120 S. Desplaines St., Chicago Holy Name Cathedral Campus (4th grade – 8th grade)

751 N. State St., Chicago (312) 268-2558 (Admissions) fxw.org

Lake Forest Academy 9th-12th grade students Open House: November 15, 2015 at 1pm; April 24th, 2016 at 1pm

1500 West Kennedy Road, Lake Forest (847) 615-3267 lfanet.org

Latin School of Chicago Pre K – 12th Grade Contact the Director of Enrollment Management at admissions@latinschool.org for more information or go online for admission deadlines.

59 W. North Blvd.

(312) 582 –6060 Latinschool.org

LMAIS –Lake Michigan Association of Independent Schools Educating Tomorrow’s Leaders Visit a Fall Open House Learn more at LMAIS.org

Lycée Français de Chicago Grades Served: PreK-12th grade Open House November 7 from 10-12pm

1929 W Wilson Ave, Chicago (773) 665-0066 lyceechicago.org

Application Deadline: December 1 Visit fwparker.org/apply • Accepting applications for Grades JK-12 • Need-based Financial Aid Available

RSVP fwparker.org/openhouse

FRANCIS W. PARKER SCHOOL | 330 W. WEBSTER AVE., CHICAGO, IL 60614

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www.lmais.org // special advertising section // Morgan Park Academy

Sacred Heart Schools

Pre k-12

Independent Catholic, Single Gender, Coed Campus, K-8 Extended Care

High School Open House Thursday, November 19, 2015 – 7:00-9:00 pm

2153 W. 111th Street Chicago (773) 881-6700 morganparkacademy.org

Quest Academy Grades: Preschool - 8th Grade K-8 Open Houses: November 4, 2015 & February 18, 2016 at 5:30 - 7:00 pm PS & PK Playdates: February 27, 2016 & April 23, 2016 at 9:00 - 10:30 am

500 North Benton Street, Palatine (847) 202-8035 questacademy.org

Roycemore School Pre-K – Grade 12 Fall Open House: Sunday, Nov. 1, 1-3 p.m.

Admissions Mornings: Dec. 8, 8:30-10a.m.

Feb. 9, 8:30-10a.m.

March 8, 8:30-10a.m.

April 26, 8:30-10a.m.

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

i 

Join us for Admissions Coffees: 9:30am to 11am Oct. 28, Nov. 4, Nov. 20, Dec. 9, Jan. 13

6250 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago (773) 681-8436 shschicago.org

Science & Arts Academy The Gifted Choice ® Jr. Kindergarten - 8th grade 2015-16 Open Houses: Saturday, November 14th at 1:00pm Saturday, January 23rd at 1:00pm Please visit www.scienceandartsacademy.org/ openhouse to register for an open house.

1825 Miner Street, Des Plaines (847) 827-7880 scienceandartsacademy.org

The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools 2015 Open House Sunday, Nov. 15.

Middle School: 10am; High School: 12Noon and 2pm.

Check website for application deadlines.

1362 E. 59th Street, Chicago

(773) 702-9451 ucls.uchicago.edu PHOTO COURTESY OF CATHERINE COOK SCHOOL

• Junior Kindergarten through Grade 8 • A spectacular two-acre, urban campus with state-of-the-art facilities • Challenging academic programs including laboratory science, foreign language (French or Spanish), and enriched visual and performing arts for all students

CHICAGO CITY DAY SCHOOL 541 West Hawthorne Place • Chicago www.chicagocitydayschool.org • 773.327.0900

• Chicago area field trips supplement the curriculum and help children develop an awareness of the vitality of city living

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

lake forest Academy LFA At a Glance n n n n n n n n n n n n

Grades 9 - 12 50% boarding, 50% day students 435 students from 36 countries and 18 states 100% of seniors matriculate to college Average class size of 12 27 varsity sports 21 Advanced Placement courses A wide variety of fine arts options Service learning More than 80% of faculty live on campus Financial aid available Co-educational, college-preparatory, independent school founded in 1857

Apply: www.lfanet.org/Admission/Applyonline Application deadline: Jan. 31, 2016 T:7”

1500 West Kennedy Road | Lake Forest, IL 60045 | 847-615-3267 | www.lfanet.org

lfa. Way Ahead.

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photo Jill Greenberg ©USDA Forest Service

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

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

Lycée Français de Chicago

Join our global learning community.

Attend an upcoming Admissions Event on the following Wednesdays. Early Childhood: 10/7/15; 11/4/15 Elementary School: 10/21/15; 11/18/15. Start at 8:45am.

Grades Served: PreK-12th grade The best of French and American education, complemented by a rigorous IB program, transforming students into global ambassadors. New campus in Lincoln Square! Open House November 7 from 10-12pm

4770 South Dorchester Ave., Chicago (773) 924-2356 anconaschool.org

1929 W Wilson Ave, Chicago lyceechicago.org

Morgan Park Academy

Avery Coonley School

Prek-12

An independent day school for academically gifted students in Preschool8th grade, located in the western suburbs of Chicago.

Morgan Park Academy is a PreK-12, Independent Day School whose curriculum engages the whole child, inspires the independent learner, and prepares the global leader of tomorrow.

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

2153 W. 111th Street Chicago (773) 881-6700 morganparkacademy.org

Quest Academy Preschool

Baker Demonstration School

Independent day school where gifted and talented children have educational opportunities like never before! Bright adults and children work together to satisfy intellectual curiosity and develop strong character.

Pre-K through 8th grade Baker is Chicago’s North Shore leader in independent, progressive education, serving bright, creative students who are ready to engage in a challenging, hands-on education and thrive in a diverse community of learners.

8th 500 N. Benton, Palatine (847) 202-8035 questacademy.org

201 Sheridan Road, Wilmette (847) 425-5800 bakerdemschool.org

Beacon Academy Grades 9-12 Beacon Academy is an independent, Montessori-based high school serving 9th-12th grade students. Visit us!

622 Davis St., Evanston (224) 999-1177 beaconacademyil.org

Catherine Cook School Preschool 8th Grade Nurturing, technology-rich environment inspiring personal excellence and community values. Open House: November 1

226 W. Schiller Street, Chicago (312) 266-3381 catherinecookschool.org

Chiaravalle Montessori

PHOTO COURTESY OF FRANCIS W. PARKER SCHOOL

Chicago Waldorf School

Lake Forest Academy

PreK-12th Grade

Grades 9-12

Chicago Waldorf’s progressive approach meets distinct stages of child development by focusing not only on what children learn but how they learn.

LFA attracts students who seek rich and rewarding learning experiences and relationships in an environment characterized by rigorous academics, a global outlook, and Midwestern values.

1300 W. Loyola Ave (Rogers Park Campus) 2156 W. Montrose Ave (Lincoln Square Early Childhood Center) (773) 465-2371

Frances Xavier Warde School Admissions Information Night – October 8th & 22nd 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. for Preschool through Third grade Schedule a school day tour through the FXW School website

For 50 years, Chiaravalle Montessori has inspired children’s sense of discovery and creativity. Explore our new LEED Platinum North Wing designed to enhance integrated studies.

Old St. Patrick’s Campus (Preschool – 3rd grade) 120 S. Desplaines St., Chicago Holy Name Cathedral Campus (4th grade – 8th grade) 751 N. State St., Chicago (312) 268-2558 (Admissions) fxw.org

Chicago City Day School

Francis W. Parker School

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

JK-Grade 8 541 W. Hawthorne Place, Chicago (773) 327-0900 www.chicagocitydayschool.org At City Day, dedicated teachers and enthusiastic students work together in small groups with great success. The School’s rigorous academic program produces accomplished lifelong learners.

Parker’s inclusive, community culture engages students as learners and citizens while developing their confidence and leadership. Come inside Parker and experience a vibrant educational environment like no other.

330 West Webster Avenue, Chicago (773) 797-5186 fwparker.org

1500 West Kennedy Road, Lake Forest (847) 615-3267 lfanet.org

Latin School of Chicago Pre K – 12th Grade Setting standards for educational excellence in Chicago since 1888, Latin School is a diverse community where every student is known and valued.

Visit www.latinschool.org for information.

59 W. North Blvd.

(312) 582-6060 Latinschool.org

LMAIS –Lake Michigan Association of Independent Schools Lake Michigan Association of Independent Schools, established in 1987, is a non-profit professional association of 35 high-quality, independently-governed, elementary and secondary schools throughout greater Chicagoland.

PreSchool thru 12th Grades

Roycemore School Pre-K – Grade 12 Celebrating 100 years of college prep education – Proud history, inspired future.

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

Sacred Heart Schools Independent Catholic, Single Gender, Coed Campus, K-8 Extended Care Mr. Nat Wilburn, Head of Schools Educating Chicago children since 1876.

6250 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago (773) 681-8436 shschicago.org

Science & Arts Academy The Gifted Choice ® Jr. Kindergarten - 8th Grade An academically differentiated and enriched environment that recognizing the unique development of each child.

A supportive community encourages students to embrace their potential.

1825 Miner Street, Des Plaines (847) 827-7880 scienceandartsacademy.org

University of Chicago Laboratory Schools A co-educational independent day school that is home to the youngest members of the University of Chicago’s academic community. Check website for application deadlines.

1362 E. 59th Street, Chicago (773) 702-9451 ucls.uchicago.edu ChicagoParent.com November 2015 77

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

A great school

is one thing. But a great school that is also part of a world-class research university?

Now that is something entirely different.

2015 Open House Sunday, November 15, 2015

Middle School: 10 a.m.

High School: noon and 2 p.m.

Register at: www.ucls.uchicago.edu/ admission

> Visit the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools to learn how we help students develop curiosity, creativity, and confidence, and prepare for success in college and beyond.

1362 East 59th Street Chicago, Illinois 60637

> For fall of 2016, Lab will be accepting up to 40 new students in the sixth grade and 40 in the ninth grade. > Learn more now, and begin an application starting September 1, at www.ucls.uchicago.edu/admission.

773-702-9451 admissions@ucls.uchicago.edu

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, SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

2015

CH O S OL S P O T

PHOTOS COURTESY OF (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT): CHICAGO GRAMMAR SCHOOL, NORTHSIDE CATHOLIC ACADEMY, LINCOLN PARK PRESCHOOL AND INTERCULTURAL MONTESSORI ACADEMY

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Top Schools

special advertising section

Arts curriculum important to student success How Chicago area schools are making it work

By CARRIE RODOVICH

M

any people believe that instruction in the arts is critical to academic success and a variety of Chicago-area schools are taking unique approaches to integrating it into their schools.

At Alphonsus Academy & Center for the Arts in Chicago, the focus is on arts integration, which provides a format for developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills, says Katia Marzolf Borionne, director of Arts and Culture.

The school has a music Artist-in-Residence and a band director, Robert Yaple, who helps integrate music into the academic curriculum. At the first grade level,

for example, songs like the African-American Folk Song “Chicka Hanka” uses rhythm and onomatopoeia to create the sounds of trains approaching. By fifth grade, students are using music to explore U.S. history.

A Theatre & Drama Teaching Artist-in-Residence, Shannon Evans, uses drama to enhance learning. Second-graders write, rehearse, design and perform a character showcase, while seventh- and eighth-graders have created a Current Events Project focusing on Immigration, she says.

In fact, the school’s curriculum is designed to integrate a variety of art mediums into areas including math, science, reading and writing as well as having parallel classes in visu-

al arts, drama and music. This means not only do the students learn about the arts as standalone disciplines themselves, but also how to demonstrate an understanding of a subject by using PHOTO COURTESY OF INTERCULTURAL MONTESSORI the arts.

Language School in Oak “This is the kind of Park, says the arts provide an teaching that will benefit our students as 21st century learn- important opportunity for non-verbal expression. ers, driving them towards their own personal discovery “We view the arts as an of authentic connections integral part of the child’s outside of the classroom,” she learning experience, and says. “It opens their minds to therefore, children are encoura different angle of how they aged to incorporate the art can approach the world.” techniques they learn into their academic projects and Mehreen Alvi, academic studies whenever possible,” program coordinator for Intercultural Montessori Alvi says. The visual arts cur-

DEAR INSPIRE SCHOLAR, S P E A K U P. B E A L E A D E R . T A K E C H A R G E . S I N G LO U D. D R E A M . D R AW O U T S I D E T H E L I N E S. S M I L E . R E A D. P L A Y. T R Y. F A L L . T R Y A G A I N . D O N ’ T G I V E U P. B E L I E V E I N Y O U R S E L F. NEVER BE AFRAID TO SPEAK YOUR B E AU T I F U L M I N D.

IN S PIRE G I R L SA C A D E M Y. O R G

An independent all girls STEAM focused school, opening its doors in September 2016. Chicago, Illinois

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special advertising section riculum varies with the age level, but plays a vibrant part of every classroom, she says.

Children ages 3-6 engage in a variety of art activities ranging from painting, to drawing, to crafting. At the elementary school level, the lessons expand to include a wide range of visual media and techniques, as well as art history and the fundamental elements of art.

“For instance, a report on ancient Egyptians might be accompanied by a beautiful painting of an Egyptian sarcophagus. Though they are naturally prone to include those techniques that are their favorites, they are also encouraged to always try new media and foster as much creativity as possible.”

Music also plays a part in the curriculum. The students learn to sing songs and poems in two languages, and also learn about Spanish, Chinese and Japanese culture through different styles of music. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including piano, guitar, cello and violin lessons.

Students are also encouraged to incorporate drama into their learning, she says.

“Children are naturally drawn to drama as a form of creative expression, especially when their imaginative abilities flourish during the elementary years and beyond,” she says. “In the course of their academic studies, children choose to summarize and share what they have learned with their peers writing and performing small plays that bring the subject matter to life.”

Rachel White-Hunt, director of music at British International School Chicago, believes there are dozens of reasons why music education is important. Experts say playing an instrument challenges the brain to think in a different way and make different

connections. Music can also help children develop skills to express themselves and work as a team, as well as develop confidence and self-motivation, she says.

Ninth-grader Victor Ogunyankin, who plays guitar and piano, says “Music has changed the way I think, and it allows me to develop my creative ideas with more detail. Ever since starting music, my grades in English and creative subjects like art have improved.”

Children who regularly create and perform music also become experts in peer and self-assessment, and are able to set targets and goals for improvement, White-Hunt says.

Sasha Doytcheva, a ninthgrader, has played piano for 12 years.

“Piano requires an outstanding amount of focus as well as attention to dynamics, tempo, coordination and the notes all at once. Studying piano and music theory all my life has dramatically helped me in school and in other areas of my life, like public speaking and computation,” she says.

British International School of Chicago is the only school in Illinois to offer music, drama and dance curriculum in collaboration with The Juilliard School. The curriculum, which begins in preschool, equips students with the tools, curiosity and cultural literacy necessary to engage with and appreciate performing arts throughout their lives.

“I’ve seen the power of performing arts in all the schools where I’ve taught and believe the key to a successful performing arts curriculum is delivering it early and in a way that enables all children to contribute and develop— not just be assessed on how good they sound,” White-Hunt says.

Top Schools

Proud history Inspired future

Personal, engaged college preparatory education for age 3 through Grade 12 — for 100 years.

Join us for our next Admissions Morning Tuesday, December 8, 8:30-10 AM Call Amanda at 847-866-6055 or visit roycemoreschool.org 1200 Davis Street in Evanston

Since 1994 Languages Currently Offered Polish French Italian

Spanish Arabic German

Japanese Chinese Hindi

and more!

Instruments Currently Offered Piano Violin Clarinet Guitar Voice Saxophone Bassoon Trumpet Harp

and more!

Try out a class of your choice!

A trial lesson is only $28, and a second trial is just $10.

Sign up today!

Ask us about our “promotrials”!!!

“Music and Me” for 6 month old babies to 4 year olds and their caregivers. $12 for a trial class Parent and Tot, Preschool, and Kindergarden in Spanish programs

Call us about our Placement Visits!

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The head of the class shouldn’t be bored Teachers are using many ways to support academically advanced students

By CARRIE RODOVICH

A

t Chicago Grammar School, students excel because the curriculum is structured in ways that it meets every student’s needs, whether they are working at or above their grade level.

“Our entire curriculum is designed for students working above grade level. Seventy percent of the students here qualify as gifted or academically talented,” says Phillip Jackson, founder and principal of the school. “That being said, we have students who are up to an even greater challenge.”

For subjects like math, it’s easy to challenge them when they achieve above their grade level.

“Our math program is organized in such a way that students who complete the required topics before other classmates are able to move into an ‘intensive practice’ book,” he says. “This book consists of far more challenging problems within the topic being taught.”

Writing and literature have ways to challenge students to achieve beyond their grade level as well, he says.

For example, if a secondgrader is writing about a book and finishes the assignment, they can be challenged to rewrite a new ending for the book.

“If a class is all reading the same book, what do you do?

You offer them different versions of the book,” he says.

“So fifth-graders read a middle

school version of the Illiad or they read a more sophisticated translation.”

Or eighth-graders study Greek history, culture and literature and can add more individual challenge by adding research projects on Greek warfare or how exactly to make a Trojan horse.

Analysis as a skill needed for critical thinking is taught in grammar, math and formal logic classes, he says, while visual arts are incorporated in the study of history, literature or science.

Subjects such as science are taught on a cycle, so first- and fifth-graders learn biology; second- and sixth-graders

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHICAGO GRAMMAR SCHOOL

learn astronomy and earth science; third- and seventhgraders learn chemistry; and fourth- and eighth- graders learn physics.

“We offer them a high-level curriculum, but if they still need more, we believe there’s always something more they can do that’s a natural extension of the topic,” he says.

Independent, progressive PreK to 8th grade school, where children and teachers construct learning together.

NEW! Elementary & Middle School Campus, Opening Fall 2016: 955 W. Grand Avenue 657 W. Fulton Street, Chicago

bennettday.org

Now Accepting Applications for 2016 – 2017 School Year Early Admission Applications Due Nov. 2

School Tours Nov. 6 and Dec. 1

TinkerTime Playdate Nov. 22

Learn more about these and other great events at bennettday.org or call 312.bennett 82 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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Top Schools

Above and beyond teaching the basics Schools adding unique touches that set them apart from the rest

By CARRIE RODOVICH

W

hile schools around the country focus on the basics of reading, writing and arithmetic, some Chicago area schools go to great lengths to put their own unique spin on the curriculum they offer.

For example, Northside Catholic Academy is a Blue Ribbon School that serves the Andersonville, Edgewater and Rogers Park neighborhoods on the north side of Chicago, offering full- and half-day preschool, as well as a top-ranked K-8 academic program.

“At NCA, we are committed to educating the whole child: intellectually, socially, emotionally, physically and spiritually. Our program grows out of our Catholic traditions and beliefs, which is at the heart of everything we do. It is this

commitment to academic excellence and providing a well-rounded Catholic education that sets NCA apart from other schools,” says Melissa Soberanes, marketing and development director for the school.

Principal Christine Huzenis agrees.

“At NCA, you’ll find a challenging and diversified curriculum that includes foreign language, music, art, technology and athletics. Our test scores consistently rank above the national average, and NCA graduates place into Chicago’s top high schools each year,” Huzenis says. “By providing a well-rounded education we are preparing our students for success in high school and beyond.

Parent engagement helps set NCA apart.

continued on page 84

The U.S. Department of Education recognized Queen of Angels Catholic Elementary School with the 2013 National Blue Ribbon award for exemplary high performance. Queen of Angels was one of only 50 private schools in the nation to receive this honor.

Located in the Lincoln Square and Ravenswood neighborhoods, Queen of Angels Catholic Elementary School offers a strong core curriculum, enrichment programs, dedicated faculty and supportive parish community for students from Preschool to 8th grade.

School Admission Tours 8:30 am on the following dates: November 4th • December 2nd • January 6th • February 3rd March 2nd • April 6th • May 4th Catholic School Week Open House Sunday, January 31st - 10:30am to 1:30pm

PHOTO COURTESY OF NORTHSIDE CATHOLIC ACADEMY

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Top Schools

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The basics continued from page 83 “Most families will tell you that one of the things they love the most about NCA is the community. We strive to create a community that is welcoming, respectful, nurturing, honest and compassionate. At the heart of this is our focus on the partnership we have with our parents,” she says.

Every family is required to give 20 hours of service every year. “This encourages our parents to be active collaborators in their child’s education and NCA. We are privileged to have such an engaged parent community that is committed to the continued success and growth of NCA,” Huzenis says.

Montessori Academy of Chicago, the only American Montessori Society-accredited school in the city that starts at birth and goes through

eighth grade, promotes eight characteristics of a graduate, including autonomy, independence, confidence and competence, academic success, global citizenship, spiritual awareness and social responsibility, says Fosca White, founder and headmistress of the school.

“Our programming is pretty unique, children have the opportunity to begin as infants and stay through 8th grade. Education really starts at the outset,” she says.

“We work hard to make sure they’re engaged, because the first two years is where they’re really acquiring everything at a quick pace, so we want to foster education and happiness from the start.”

Preschoolers just entering Montessori Academy do exceptionally well with the tangible lessons of the classroom and the early introduction to literacy.

“Montessori is especially

who our children

strong for preschoolers because it fosters independence and self-discipline.

Entering preschoolers have the opportunity to engage directly with the materials boost their learning through the use of hands-on activities to understand deeper, abstract concepts,” White says.

The school also has a strong social-emotional learning component to its curriculum, which starts with mindfulness practices such as a peace corner in each classroom, and an emphasis on conflict resolution and empathy from the earliest stages of development. At a higher level, as their emotional development grows, students receive more direct lessons in Social Emotional Intelligence, and as their SEI grows, they are entrusted with more responsibility that includes helping younger students at the school.

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At Alphonsus Academy & Center for the Arts, we inspire and enable our children to reach their full potential by providing a rigorous education combining academic excellence, an arts-integrated curriculum and a strong Catholic foundation.

Join us for a tour and learn more at www.alphonsusacademy.org/admissions

The school keeps a low teacher-to-student ratio, lower than the state mandate, to allow teachers to foster a more one-on-one relationship with their students.

White says the school also has a unique relationship between parents, students and teachers, where each group feels invested and engaged in the student learning process. For nursery students, teachers visit the family in their homes and get to know them before the school year starts. In elementary grades, the students create a report that is shared as part of the parent/teacher conference. The oldest students in grades seven and eight actually sit in on the conferences.

“The teachers, parents and administrators work closely together to create a foundation for future life success,” White says.

JUF Right Start is a program of the Jewish United Fund of Metropolitan Chicago.

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Top Schools

Unique ways schools engage young learners Parents and kids get lessons on love for learning early

By CARRIE RODOVICH

S

tudies have shown that fostering a love of learning at a young age helps children build a solid foundation for the rest of their educational career.

With that in mind, some of the top schools around the Chicagoland area are trying innovative ideas to help instill that love of learning in the littlest learners.

Center for Talent Development at Northwestern University in Evanston offers innovative programming that supports and develops students’ academic talents in a way that gets the whole family involved.

“Many people think ‘gifted education’ only applies to older students, such as high schoolers who are ready to take college-level courses,” says Ann Gadzikowski, the center’s early childhood coordinator. “CTD also provides exciting learning experiences that are tailored for young children. CTD early childhood programming includes summer and weekend courses, as well as online family classes, for children as young as 4.”

Leaders at CTD keep a close eye on new trends, focusing

PHOTO COURTESY OF LINCOLN PARK PRESCHOOL

on research-based approaches that offer the most appropriate path for young learners.

For example, its Leapfrog Summer Program piloted a new track of hands-on technology courses that introduce coding, animation and robotics to children starting at the PreK level.

“Learning computer programming no longer means sitting in front of a screen and keyboard. At CTD, we’re using tablets, touchscreens, and child-friendly robots to teach children coding concepts and inspire them to think creatively and critically about the role of technology in their lives,” she says.

At Lincoln Park Preschool in Chicago, educators believe that when children feel safe and confident, they are better equipped to explore and really learn, says Jenni Sorenson, community resource director for the school.

“Once they have that inner confidence, the learning comes so much easier,” she says. “Social and emotional development is as important as the academics side. At LPP, we keep a small class size and a small student-to-teacher ratio. We want there to be loving adults facilitating the play, the negotiating the sharing, and acknowledging the wonderful things they are doing in

the classroom.”

The school believes it’s important to engage parents in the learning process from the beginning.

“From a young age, we have family learning programs, so they can come with parents and do mom and tot-type classes. They can explore the idea of preschool while still having the nurturing support of their parents right there,” she says.

LPP also places a high value on teachers’ education, with teachers at the school holding at least a bachelor’s degree.

“They have a wonderful knowledge of children’s developmental stages. They can challenge the ones who need to be challenged, and every day they are exploring in different ways and feeding their love of learning,” she says.

“When teachers know their kids so well, they’re able to help them take that next step.”

At the Gardner School, with locations in Chicago, Oak Brook and Northbrook, the faculty and staff turn classrooms into a creative environment to make learning fun.

“We encourage our kids to get messy by providing different areas in the classroom for

continued on page 86

At Chicago Friends School, children reeect, question, and explore through an academically challenging and developmentally appropriate curriculum.

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Top Schools

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Engagement continued from page 85 exploration such as art easels, reading areas, dress-up stations and STEM areas where kids are encouraged to take apart items to see how they work,” says Laura Miller, the school’s marketing manager.

“We make it a point to get to know our students individually, their likes and dislikes.

Every child learns differently and once you make a point of using their names, favorite foods, games and books they will learn more when working with things they like.”

With locations in Chicago’s Lincoln Park, River North, Hyde Park and the West Loop, Sonnets Academy takes a purposeful-play approach for kids ages 6 weeks to 6 years.

“We want our students to be interested and engaged in their learning throughout the day, and be confident and

eager to continue learning,” says Brianne Flynn, director of the Lincoln Park location.

“We want to get their whole body involved. For example, when we’re doing art projects, instead of sitting at a table creating a project, we might splatter paint on the wall, or tape paper to the underside of the table so they lie down and paint above their heads.”

They also use an emergent curriculum directed by the older children in the schools.

“For example, our pre-kindergarten kids wanted to create a circus in their classroom, so the balance beam became a tightrope and the hula hoop became something for lions to jump through,” she says.

“The whole thing became very important and meaningful to them.”

The school also incorporates many family nights, where students and their parents can create art or participate in other activities. Those

projects are then displayed within the school.

“We want children and their parents to know there is no wrong way to express themselves,” she says. “You can’t use too many, or too few, colors in your painting. If it’s right for them, it’s right for us.”

The new Inspire Girls Academy, which will open next fall in Chicago, will focus on a STEAM curriculum. It will begin with preK and kindergarten classes, and add a grade level each year up until eighth grade.

Co-founder and head of school, Shalini Patel, believes the girls should be the center of the learning and the school will take a holistic approach to education.

“We want to develop every aspect of the child’s intellect, including social, emotional and academic potential through a rigorous approach

of project-based learning,” she says. “So we will have them address real-world issues, ask meaningful questions and come up with solutions to problems.”

For example, a kindergarten lesson on animals could include a trip to the zoo, followed by identifying problems found with different animal habitats. Then the girls would study the animals in groups and identify ways zoologists might better make habitats suitable for zoo animals. The findings would then be presented to a team of zoologists for possible implementation.

“We want them to have ownership with their learning, and hopefully have the potential for seeing their solutions to problems implemented,” she says.

The school will also focus on the arts and mediation and yoga. “One of the things you learn in yoga is that it’s not about being perfect, but

immaculate conception st. joseph school For more information and to schedule a tour: www.icsnorthpark.com

312.944.0304, 1431 N. North Park Avenue | 363 W. Hill Street, Chicago

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Top Schools

Top Schools in focus Alphonsus Academy & Center for the Arts

British International School of Chicago South Loop

Dr. Carole Stone, Interim Principal Grades PreK - 8, extended care 1439 W. Wellington Ave.,Chicago (773) 348-4629 alphonsusacademy.org

Preschool – 12th Grade (ages 3-18)

Archdiocese of Chicago

161 West 9th Street, Chicago (773) 998-BISC bischicagosl.org

Preschool – 12th grade The Archdiocese of Chicago serves over 82,000 students across Cook and Lake Counties. This past July our school system received accreditation though AdvancED, the world’s largest education community.

(312) 534-5250 schools.archchicago.org

British International School of Chicago Lincoln Park Nursery – Grade 5

PHOTO COURTESY OF SONNETS ACADEMY

on improving yourself,” she says. “We want to foster that environment in school. It’s OK to fail, and then we can talk about why they failed and

what they could do differently. We want to create an environment where it’s OK to fail, learn from our mistakes and move on.”

BISC-LP educates a community of learners to be innovative and ambitious through a rigorous, international academic program grounded in values and personalized learning.

814 W. Eastman Street, Chicago (773) 506-2097 bischicagolp.org

BISC delivers differentiated, acclaimed and authentically international curricula to a diverse community of learners proudly under one roof in the vibrant South Loop.

Center for Talent Development, Northwestern University Center for Talent Development is dedicated to helping gifted students reach full potential, providing researchbased assessment, advanced programs, and resources for children age 4-grade 12

617 Dartmouth Place, Evanston (847) 491-7662 ctd.northwestern.edu

Chicago Friends School Grades Served: K-5 Chicago Friends School offers small classes, differentiated instruction, a project-based curriculum, integrated arts, and daily recess. Adding a grade yearly up to 8.

1246 W. Thorndale Ave., Chicago (773) 442-2371 ChicagoFriendsSchool.org

Be a part of something greater.

ACADEMY

A Catholic & Benedictine College Prep High School for Boys 1000 Butterfield Road • Aurora, IL • 630-897-6936 • marmion.org

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, Nov. 8, 2015 at 1 PM

No registration necessary.

Please enter through the Regole Field House.

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ENTRANCE EXAM Saturday, Dec. 5, 2015 at 9 AM

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 at Northside Catholic Academy.

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, Dance, Technology Club, Choir, Theater Affordable Extended Care + Flexible drop off as early as 6:30 a.m. & pick up by 6 p.m.

A 2013 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence

All 8th grade boys are encouraged to apply online at marmion.org/admissions.

For additional information or to arrange a tour, please contact the Admissions Office at: 630-897-6936 or visit us at MARMION.ORG

Visit Us at an Open House: Dec. 3 at 9am, Jan. 31 at 10am-1pm To learn more call 773-743-6277 or visit www.northsidecatholic.org

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Top Schools

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Chicago Grammar School Preschool-8th Grade Critical thinking and cultural literacy through rigorous classical curriculum combined with creative progressive practices .

Open House: Oct. 22, Nov. 10, Dec. 9 6:00-7:30 PM

900 N. Franklin St., Chicago (312) 944-5600 chicagogrammar.org

Detour 2 Discovery Children ages 8 weeks through 6 years old For over 23 years, we have been known for our progressive philosophy, appreciation for cultural differences and having the lowest child-to-staff ratios in the Midwest

2001 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago (312) 949-CARE (2273) detour2discovery.com

Fusion Academy All: Grades 6-12 Fusion is a revolutionary private middle and high school where all classes are one student and one teacher per classroom.

Coming to Chicago in 2016.

Fusion Academy Near North (866) 330-9354 FusionNearNorth.com Fusion Academy Lake Forest (866) 448-7843 FusionLakeForest.com Fusion Academy Oak Brook (866) 526-6705 FusionOakBrook.com

Gardner School 6wks - 5 years It’s all about caring. Award winning, academically focused, ages

Naperville (630) 657-5029 Glenview-Northbrook (847) 770-6260 Oak Brook (630) 576-4740 thegardnerschool.com

GEMS World AcademyChicago Served: JK-8 GEMS World Academy-Chicago offers an international and technology-rich curriculum delivered by master teachers. Enrolling JK to 7th and growing to serve students through grade 12

350 E. South Water Street, Chicago (312) 809-8910 gemschicago.org

Immaculate Conception St. Joseph School Pre-K through 8th grade elementary school.

ICSJ is a living testament to the commitment and desire for an exemplary Catholic education in Chicago’s urban center.

(312) 944-0304 icsnorthpark.com

Inspire Girls Academy River North Pre-K-8th, starting with Pre-K and K for 2016.

Join us to learn more Nov.19 for “Coffee and Conversation” from 6p-8p at Literacenter Dec. 12th for a STEAM Learning Workshop from 9am-11am at Literacenter

(440) 796-7203 inspiregirlsacademy.org

Intercultural Montessori Language School PreK – 6th Where Montessori and language immersion meet to create citizens of the world. Ages 3-12 Chinese, Japanese, Spanish Campuses in Chicago’s West Loop and Oak Park

301 S. Ridgeland, Oak Park (708) 848-6626 114 S. Racine, Chicago (312) 265-1514 interculturalmontessori.org

JUF Right Start ® JUF Right Start Program provides up $2,000 to help you discover the joy of Jewish early childhood education. For eligibility call or visit our website.

A program of the JUF of Metropolitan Chicago

(312) 357-4513 juf.org/rightstart rightstart@juf.org

Kiddie Academy Life Essentials curriculum meets and often exceeds state standards

2201 Main Street, Batavia (630) 761-4500 kiddieacademy.com/batavia 540 W. Boughton Rd., Bolingbrook (630) 679-9400 kiddieacademy.com/bolingbrook 112 Tay River, Carpentersville (847) 844-8600 kiddieacademy.com/ Carpentersville Naperville (630) 416-8000 13703 South Route 59, Plainfield (800) 554-3343 kiddieacademy.com/plainfield 1040 S. Sutton, Streamwood (630) 497-0200 Cog Circle, Crystal Lake (815) 893-6315 kiddieacademy.com/academies/ crystal-lake

Language & Music School Teaching Foreign Languages and Music to the very young and the young at heart. You must step inside the School to experience the unique atmosphere it affords students. 150 North Oak Park Ave., Oak Park

(708) 524-5252 lmschool.com

1431 N. North Park Ave. Chicago 363 W. Hill Street, Chicago

Learn Together Grow Together Child Development Center Affordable quality childcare near the Beverly area. Teachers are CPR and 1st Aid certified! Creative Curriculum and we offer weekly Spanish lessons. Call for tour today!

1126 W. 99th Street, Chicago 773-568-GROW (4769)

Lincoln Park Preschool & Kindergarten NAEYC Toddlers-Kindergarteners Accredited LPP is dedicated to elevating early childhood education throughout our community. We believe that through play and discovery the joys of learning are experienced.

108 W Germania Place 312 W Belden 2150 N Lincoln Park West lppschools.com

Little GEMS International Pre-School Grades Served: 6 weeks-JK Take the first step to molding a global citizen. Little GEMS International PreSchool focuses on each child’s complete development from 6 weeks to junior kindergarten.

2301 N. Clark St., Chicago (312) 361-3539 lgipreschool-chicago.com

Little Green Tree House 6 weeks to 5 years old High quality care combined with a strong educational foundation and a focus on environmental consciousness: organic meals; various play spaces and classrooms filled with natural materials

3111 North Ashland Ave., Lakeview 118 South Ashland Ave., West Loop 1929 N. Halsted St., Lincoln Park Evanston- Coming 2016 (312) 492-9876 littlegreentreehouse.com

Marmion Academy This Catholic-Benedictine college preparatory high school for young men, provides an education dedicated to spiritual formation, academic excellence and leadership development.

1000 Butterfield Rd., Aurora (630) 897-6936

Montessori Academy of Chicago Serving 6 weeks-12 years old (birth to 8th grade) Coffee/Tour dates: Nov.10; Dec. 8.

Elementary Open House: Dec. 3rd.

Primary Open House Dec. 8th. Mention Chicago Parent for a complementary copy of Trevor Eissler’s “Montessori Madness” book.

1335 W. Randolph St., Chicago (312) 828-0907 montessoriacademychicago.org

Northside Catholic Academy Serves grades PreK-8 Start your child’s path to great learning and discovery. Visit us at the NPN School Fair and learn what makes Northside Catholic Academy a Blue Ribbon School.

Primary Campus: 6216 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago Middle School Campus: 5525 N. Magnolia Ave., Chicago (773) 743-6277 northsidecatholic.org

Queen of Angels School 4520 N. Western, Chicago (773) 769-4211 queenofangelschicago.org We believe in a faith-based educational community. We accept our own uniqueness and that of our students.

2013 National Blue Ribbon School

Quest Academy Grades: Preschool - 8th Grade Inspiring gifted and talented children with a challenging curriculum in a nurturing environment; sound character development along with scholarship and creativity in academics and arts.

500 North Benton Street, Palatine (847) 202-8035 questacademy.org

Resurrection College Prep High School Resurrection College Prep is the largest all girls high school on the north side of Chicago. Visit www.reshs.org to learn about the Resurrection advantage.

7500 West Talcott Ave., Chicago (773) 775-6616 reshs.org

River Forest Community Center Early Childhood Learning Center Provide a hands-on approach to learning, which allows the children to explore their environment while enhancing their social, emotional, cognitive and motor development.

8020 Madison St., River Forest (708) 771-6159 rfcc.info

Sonnets Academy Preschool & Infant Care, 6 Weeks to 6 Years Sonnets Academy inspires boundless learning through play in its discoverybased curriculum and enrichment programs for children six weeks to six years of age.

Lincoln Park 1932 N. Clark Street, Chicago (312) 951-1024 River North 430 W Erie St, Chicago (312) 344-1926 West Loop: 229 S. Peoria St, Chicago (312) 733-7580 Hyde Park 5548 S Hyde Park Blvd., Chicago (773) 891-0029 www.SonnetsAcademy.com

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Magic & Juggling Shows Balloon Animals and Puppets

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

Video clips and party ideas are provided on the website.

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

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Perfect 5-star rating on Yelp

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Chicago’s best-reviewed magician

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

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Chicago Parent needs a few good moms and dads.

We are looking for friendly, outgoing readers to staff Chicago Parent booths at events throughout the city and suburbs. Must have a car and flexible schedule. Events are mainly on weekends.

Email Kamil Brady at kamil@chicagoparent.com with your resume and a cover letter about yourself.

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calendar

NOVEMBER

1

Your kids are probably busy making those fringed vests out of grocery bags in anticipation of Thanksgiving, which makes it the perfect time to learn about the actual Native American tribes that lived in Illinois. At Elk Grove Historical Museum’s Native American Day, visitors can listen to traditional stories, try their hand at Native American games and get a little crafty creating a beaded necklace and cornhusk doll. And if the weather cooperates, atatl-throwing and fire-making demonstrations are also on the docket. Free, $3 crafts. 1-4 p.m.

Nov. 1. 399 Biesterfield Road, Elk Grove Village.

(847) 439-3994, elkgroveparks.org/museum.

2

Shhh, it’s a surprise! The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is celebrating 125 years of musical excellence with an unforgettable unforget Surprise Party— complete w with a high-class soundtrack created creat reated by maestros like Haydn and Strauss. the “Happy Birthday” song We’re guessing gues even th would d sound sou just a bit more melodious with the help of th the acoustics at Symphony don’t Center. And d on’ worry—they’ve got noisemakers covered. $6-$57. the noisem makers cov and p.m. Nov. 21.

11 a.m. an nd 12:45 p.m Symphony Center, 220 S. Symp phony Cente Michigan Ave., Chicago.

Mi ichigan Av 294-3000, cso.org.

(312) 29

3

“We’re going on a bearr hunt. We’re going to catch a big one.”

Chances are most moms and dads can recite the classic children’s book forward and backward … but whatt about in Spanish? We’re Going on a Bear Hunt! is offe offered f red d in conjunction with Language Stars, folks who are definitely in the know about foreign language for the preschool set.

Kids 3-6, with adult, build their Spanish vocabularies while role-playing the story outdoors at Heller Nature Center.

Start practicing now: “Vamos a cazar un oso.” $8. 10-11 a.m.

Nov. 11. 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

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CALENDAR 1 | SUNDAY SUBURBS JACK HANNA’S INTO THE WILD LIVE! From lions to lemurs, gorillas

to geckos, Jungle Jack has brought the wonder of the animal kingdom to generations, introducing furry, feathery and fascinating creatures.

Now he brings his hat, his khakis and his coolest animal friends to the Paramount Theatre. $35, $20 kids 12 and under. 3 p.m. Paramount Arts Centre and Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. (630) 896-6666, paramountaurora.com.

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS. Artistic

expressions of death and life provide a musical platform with the return of this popular tribute to the Mexican celebration of Dia de los Muertos, featuring the Waubonsie Valley Chamber Choir. $10-$60. 3 p.m.

Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E. Chicago Ave., Naperville. (312) 236-3681 ext.

2, chicagosinfonietta.org.

Mc M cD Do ona ald d’s s Than T Th han nk ks sgiving Parad ad de See Nov. 26

2 | MONDAY DIA DE LOS MUERTOS. See

Nov. 1. Today’s time is 7:30 p.m. and location is Orchestra Hall of Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago.

3 | TUESDAY AFTER SCHOOL ADVENTURES: HENRI MATISSE. Kids 5-12, with

adult, design a cut-out just like French artist Henri Matisse, a leading figure of modern art. $3, $2 members. 3-5 p.m. Des Plaines History Center, 781 Pearson St., Des Plaines.

(847) 391-5399, desplaineshistory. org.

TOTALLY TURKEYS. Kids 3-5, with

adult, investigate the life of a wild turkey through stories, play and a hike in this hands-on sensory-based program. Plus, touch real turkey feathers and make a cozy turkey nest to take home. $25, $18 members.

9:30-11 a.m. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

BABIES AT THE BEACH. Take a

stroll with a naturalist and let nature engage the senses of kids 6 months-3 at the beach. $6. 10-10:45 a.m.

Rosewood Beach Interpretive Center, 883 Sheridan Road, Highland Park.

(847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter. org.

4 | WEDNESDAY PUMPKIN SMASH AND BASH. Bring Halloween pumpkins

for the Pumpkin Roll competition.

Afterward, smash pumpkins and turn them into compost that will help nourish plants. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Flick Park, 3600 Glenview Road, Glenview.

(847) 724-3337, glenviewparks.org.

TOTALLY TURKEYS. Kids 18-35 months, with adult, investigate the life of a wild turkey through stories, play and a hike in a hands-on sensorybased program. Plus, touch real turkey feathers and make a cozy turkey nest to take home. $22, $15 members.

9:30-10:45 a.m. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

STROLLER TOURS. Caregivers

discover the exhibitions with a docent, exploring galleries without concern that their baby or stroller will disrupt the tour. Free with museum admission.

11:30 a.m. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago.

(312) 280-2660, mcachicago.org.

5 | THURSDAY GETTING TO KNOW ... THE SOUND OF MUSIC. Watch the Von

Trapp family learn from one another and their new musical governess.

Recommended for families with kids in grades 2-8. $12, $10 kids 12 and under. 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights.

(847) 577-2121, metropolisarts.com.

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

Events taking place on four or more dates during the month are listed in Ongoing Events, beginning on page 106.

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar

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CALENDAR 6 | FRIDAY GETTING TO KNOW ... THE SOUND OF MUSIC. Arlington

7 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

Heights. See Nov. 5.

FAMILY DAY: PILLOW POPPIN’. Kids 4-12, with adult,

AN EVENING AT TRAILSIDE MUSEUM. Sample a variety of

silkscreen, sew, and stuff a pillow, inspired by works on view in Expressionist Impulses. All materials are provided. 1-4 p.m. Smart Museum of Art, University of Chicago, 5550 S. Greenwood Ave. (773) 702-0200, smartmuseum.uchicago.edu.

programs and nature crafts, chat with naturalists and view the entire collection of mammal furs and skulls. A rare behind-the-scenes program shows how the museum prepares food for live animals. Light refreshments are served.

5-8 p.m. Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest. (708) 366-6530, fpdcc.com.

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT. Enjoy an evening away as kids 3-12 are entertained with a games, movies, crafts, snack and more. $23, $15 resident.

6-9 p.m. Downers Grove Park District, 935 Maple Ave., Downers Grove.

(630) 963-1300, dgparks.org.

ROYAL BALL. Kids 1 and up come

dressed in princess gowns to sing and dance with 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 by phone. $25, $17 resident.

6-7:30 p.m. Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville.

(630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

ELIZABETH MITCHELL. Breathing

contemporary heart into traditional folk songs and transforming classic rock songs by David Bowie, Jimi Hendrix, Van Morrison and others into folk songs, Mitchell enthralls families. $15. 10:30 a.m. Old Town School of Folk Music, Gary and Laura Maurer Concert Hall, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 728-6000, oldtownschool.org.

SUBURBS GETTING TO KNOW ... THE SOUND OF MUSIC. Arlington

Heights. See Nov. 5. Today’s time is 1 p.m.

DOG ADMISSION DAY. Enjoy a day out with your pup on 16 miles of hiking trails. $5 per dog, plus arboretum admission. 7 a.m.-sunset.

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

Today’s times are 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE. This produc-

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE. See Nov. 7. Today’s

ROYAL BALL. Naperville. See Nov. 6.

tion tells the fantasy story of four children who enter the magical world of Narnia. Features a full-size Aslan puppet voiced by British actor David Payne. After the show, the cast signs autographs. $25 and up.

2:30 and 7 p.m. McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. (630) 9424000, atthemac.org.

8 | SUNDAY SUBURBS 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, $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

time is 2:30 p.m.

9 | MONDAY NATURE TOTS. Kids 2-3 explore the wonders of nature with an adult.

Includes story time, art experience and outdoor exploration. $10, $8 resident. 9:30-10:15 a.m. Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 941-8747, obtpd.org/lvnc.

ANIMAL DETECTIVES. Kids 3-4,

with adult, make discoveries about animals through art, play and exploration. Class also includes story time and outdoor experience. Wear gym shoes or boots. $10, $8 resident.

10:45-11:30 a.m. Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 941-8747, obtpd.org/lvnc.

10 | TUESDAY NEW MOON NIGHT HIKE. Discover the ways senses react in the dark with fun activities and night hike challenges, then end the evening with a campfire and s’mores. $15.

7:30-9 p.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park.

(847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter. org.

TOTALLY TURKEYS. Lisle. See Nov. 4.

STROLLING THROUGH HISTORY.

From Fr om Ho og g Hou ous se e to Smo to moke ok ke ehous ho h ou us se SSeee No Nov. v8

This tour and discussion in the galleries is for parents and caregivers and kids 18 months or under.

Tour ends with playtime for babies.

Today’s theme is Eat, Play & Be Merry. $15, $10 members. 2-3:30 p.m. Oriental Institute Museum, 1155 E. 58th St., Chicago. (773) 702-9514, oi.uchicago.edu.

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CALENDAR BABIES IN NATURE. Take a stroll with a naturalist, and let nature engage the senses of infants and toddlers. No pre-registration required. $6 adult/child pair, $3 additional family member. 10-10:45 a.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park.

(847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

11 | WEDNESDAY AMERICAN GIRLS AND SUPER HEROES HIKES. Drop kids 6-8 and

their favorite doll or action figure off for a hike through the woods topped off with a campfire and roasted marshmallows. $12.

1-3 p.m. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.

ROCK PICKERS. Kids 6-8 take a close-up

Th T he he BM BMO Ha Ha arr rris rr s Ba B ank nk Mag gn niifi fice cent ce nt Miile M le Lig ght hts sF Fe e es sttiv s val a See Nov. 21

look at sand, search for special rocks and fossils, and hunt for beach glass to bring home. $12. 9-11 a.m. Rosewood Beach Interpretive Center, 883 Sheridan Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, heller naturecenter.org.

TOTALLY TURKEYS. Lisle. See Nov. 3.

ORY

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aria@ariacraig.com (877) 534-4293 www.AriaCraig.com

Christopher J. Morin, DDS 811 W. Wellington, Chicago, IL 60657

(773) 871-4964 1125 S. Harlem Ave., Forest Park (708) 386-5437 • (708) FUN-KIDS www.kidsdentistforestpark.com

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CALENDAR 12 | THURSDAY TOTALLY TURKEYS. Lisle. See Nov. 3.

13 | FRIDAY TEATIME WITH TOYS. Bring a

toy, stuffed animal, action figure or doll for a special Victorian tea. See historic toys and make a version of a toy enjoyed by children in the 19th century. Top off the morning with a spot of tea or lemonade, along with other goodies. Children must be accompanied by an adult. $15, $12 junior members. 9-11 a.m. Glessner House Museum, 1800 S. Prairie Ave., Chicago. (312) 326-1480, glessner house.org.

Ch C hic ic cag ago To Toy &G Ga ame me Fai airr Seee No Se Nov. v. 22 v.

AMERICA’S BAKING AND SWEETS SHOW. Go on a gourmet tour of the

most delectable and hottest trends in the world of baking. Includes competitions, celebrity demos, and hands-on classes. At the Family Zone, kids learn to decorate and embellish cookies and cupcakes. $8 and

up; free kids 12 and under. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg. americasbakingandsweetsshow.com.

OLD-FASHIONED CAMPFIRE. Take

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

must be accompanied by an adult. $8, free kids 2 and under. 6-7:30 p.m.

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

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY ORTHODONTICS

Pediatric dentistry

Pediatric dentistry

We take the fear out of dentistry for your child.

• Shots and drilling are no longer necessary

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773-239-7696

10019 S. Western Ave., Chicago, IL 60643

www.bgriffinorthodontics.com NEW OFFICE!

773-358-4350

1040 E. 47th St., Chicago, IL 60653

www.ivorydentalspecialists.com Complimentary Orthodontic Evaluations Most Insurances Accepted • Flexible Payment Plans

George Lin, D.D.S. Anjali Talati, D.M.D. Kyung-Hong “Cal” Kim, D.D.S. Buffalo Grove Business Park 195 Arlington Hts Rd., Suite 150 Buffalo Grove, IL 60089

847-537-7695

• Computer x-rays reduce your child’s exposure to radiation • We use smaller chairs and instruments • We welcome patients with special needs • Pleasant, comfortable surroundings

College Hill Professional Building 690 N. Route 31 Crystal Lake, Il 60012

815-459-2727

Ask us about our NO SHOT & NO DRILL Laser fillings!

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Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

16345 S. Harlem • Tinley Park

708-633-8700 • www.kidsdds.net ChicagoParent.com November 2015 95

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CALENDAR 14 | SATURDAY

15 | SUNDAY

CHICAGO

SUBURBS

BRI-KO. Filled with audience par-

ticipation, incredible costumes and mind-blowing props and visuals, Bri-Ko is fun for the whole family. $12, $6 kids 12 and under. 2-3 p.m.

Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave. (773) 327-5252, stage773.com.

SUBURBS AMERICA RECYCLES DAY.

Learn why recycling is important and take part in fun family activities and crafts. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Fuller Air Station Prairie and Tyner Interpretive Center, 2400 Compass Road, Glenview. (847) 299-6096, glenviewparks.org.

AMERICA’S BAKING AND SWEETS SHOW. Schaumburg. See

Nov. 13.

ORY

AMERICA’S BAKING AND SWEETS SHOW. Schaumburg. See

ly/ChiTAGLekotek. 9-10 a.m. Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. lekotek.org.

Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N. River Road, Rosemont. (847) 671-5100, rosemonttheatre.com.

THE BMO HARRIS BANK MAGNIFICENT MILE LIGHTS FESTIVAL. The day begins on

21 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

Nov. 13.

20 | FRIDAY TODDLER EXPLORATION TIME. Kids 18 months-5 learn about

plants and nature by listening to a story, engaging in a hands-on learning experience, and enjoying a short walk in the conservatory. 10:30-11:15 a.m. (18-30 months); 12:15-1 p.m.

(3-5). Oak Park Conservatory, 615 Garfield St., Oak Park. (708) 7252400, oakparkconservatory.org.

ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: LIVE ON STAGE! The world’s most

famous chipmunk trio, accompanied by the Chipettes, stage a live performance that features music, special effects and interactivity. $25-75. 2 p.m.

CHICAGO TOY & GAME FAIR.

Offers families, teachers, and 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 E. Grand Ave. (847) 677-8277, chitagfair.com.

SUPER POWER SENSORY HOUR. Families of children with

special needs gain early access to the Chicago Toy & Game Fair—one hour before the fair opens to the general public. Explore the booths of more than 100 toy and game exhibitors. Register at http://bit.

Pioneer Court with family-friendly interactive activities, Santa Claus and musical entertainment. The evening’s grand marshals, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, lead a parade of more than 40 floats, helium-filled balloons, marching bands and top musical performers as they illuminate more than one million lights. Event concludes with a fireworks display over the Chicago River. Events and performers 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Lighting Procession at 5:30 p.m. North Michigan Avenue, from Oak Street to Wacker Drive. (312) 409-5560, themagnificentmile.com/events/ lights-festival.

YOUNG WOMEN’S MATH OLYMPICS. Girls in grades 7 and 8

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY pediatric dentistry

Pediatric dentistry

Fred S. Margolis, D.D.S., P.C. Gail Czarnecki, D.D.S.

allergy specialist Support for chronic issues involving: allergies, skin conditions, alopecia,

Pediatric & Laser Dentistry Dentistry for Special Needs

asthma, frequent colds/ weak immune system and sleep problems

• Advanced Allergy Therapeutics

a non-invasive treatment for allergies

• Homeopathic & Nutritional Solutions

1770 First Street, Suite 360 Highland Park, IL 60035 224/927.9321 Saturday Appointments Available!

24 Hour Answering Service

www.fredmargolisdds.com

4801 W. Peterson Ave • Chicago, IL 60646

773-790-4282

Dr. Julie Wilson 773-481-9988 5138 N. Elston Ave. Chicago, IL. 60630

www.drjuliewilson.com

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CALENDAR are invited to compete individually and top scorers receive awards in Algebra and Geometry. Students play games using their math skills in a fun, friendly competition. Refreshments are served. 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Resurrection College Preparatory High School, 7500 W. Talcott Ave. (773) 775-6616, reshs.org.

PASCHKE PAGES. A family storytime featuring EPAC exhibitionthemed kids lit read aloud by the Storybook Mom Nili Yellin. Program promotes early literacy, language acquisition and sequential learning.

11-11:45 a.m. Ed Paschke Art Center, 5415 W. Higgins Ave. (312) 5334911, edpaschkeartcenter.org.

THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA. Barrel of Monkeys presents sketches written

by Chicago Public School students and performed by company members. $12, $6 kids under 12. 2 p.m.

Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave. (773) 327-5252, stage773.com.

SUBURBS FALL OPEN HOUSE. Celebrate the autumn harvest by making a fabulous fall project, enjoy a seasonal hike, snack around a campfire and take a festive hayride around the lake. Noon-4 p.m. Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 941-8747, obtpd.org/lvnc.

POLAR EXPRESS STORYTIME TRAIN. Families experience a train

ride based on the book “The Polar Express.” Leave from the Downers Grove Main Street train station and travel to the North Pole (Aurora train station). During the journey, professional storytellers read The Polar Express while guests enjoy chocolate milk and cookies. Santa boards the train at the North Pole for the return trip. $38, $25 resident. 8:45 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. Downers Grove Park District, 935 Maple Ave., Downers Grove. (630) 963-1300, dgparks.org.

The Sn Th Snoo oopy py y Sn no ow Ba Ballll See Noov. 22

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY pediatric dentistry

Every Tooth Counts Pediatric Dental Center Carmella Barrett Perry, DDS

MUSIC EDUCATION

TUTORING

Access Contemporary Music in Ravenswood presents: Mini Maestros, early childhood music classes ages 0-3yrs!

Tutor Services Individualized sessions to your child’s needs by a certified tutor.

Nanny Services We specialize in active role models who support your family’s lifestyle.

Specialist in Dentistry for Infants, Children & Adolescents

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Located 2 blocks from downtown Flossmoor 2711 Flossmoor Rd, Flossmoor, IL 60422

(708) 799-9755

Classes offer a unique combination of music and storytelling, featuring works like Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons” or the classic folk tale of “Frog and Mouse” through instrument play and movement.

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Visit www.acmusic.org for schedule information (773) 334-3650 minimaestros@acmusic.org

www.collegenannies.com Lincoln Park • 773-697-9326 Glenview • 847-998-5657 ChicagoParent.com November 2015 97

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CALENDAR ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: LIVE ON STAGE! ROSEMONT.

THE SNOOPY SNOW BALL.

See Nov. 20. Today’s times are 10 a.m. and 2 and 6 p.m.

SENSORY STORYTIME.

Children with special needs and their families can enjoy stories, crafts, sensory activities, music and play. Parents and siblings are encouraged to participate. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

10:30-11:30 a.m. Mount Prospect Public Library, 10 S. Emerson St., Mount Prospect. (847) 253-5675, mppl.org.

22 | SUNDAY CHICAGO

Jac Ja ck c k Han nna n ’s s Into Into In o the he Wilild d Li L ve e!

CHICAGO TOY & GAME FAIR.

See Nov. 21. Today’s times are 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Seee No Se N v. v. 1

SUPER POWER SENSORY HOUR. See Nov. 21.

ORY

Enjoy a private performance of “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” followed by a party at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago with lunch, crafts and activities for kids, dancing with the Peanuts gang and live and silent auctions. $125; $450 family of four. 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Broadway Playhouse, Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut St. emeraldcitytheatre.com.

SUBURBS 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 a two-person buck saw, and making a craft. Donations accepted. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sand Ridge Nature Center, 15891 Paxton Ave., South Holland.

(708) 868-0606, fpdcc.com.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY special needs dentistry

Pediatric eye care

At Southwest Dental we take special care of

Medical and Surgical Eye Care for Infants, Children and Teens

special needs.

Pediatric Ophthalmologists

Deena F. Leonard, M.D. Dana L. Kolton, M.D. Kathy Anderson, M.D.

Muscle Imbalance (Lazy Eye) • Blocked Tear Ducts • Premature Infants • Routine Eye Exams

Buffalo Grove 847-459-6060 • Barrington 847-382-4116

www.eyesbypremier.com

Childproofing Exceptional care and patient comfort go hand in hand at Southwest Dental Group. This gives special needs children and adults an experience they can feel good about - with the option of IV sedation for situational anxiety.

We believe there’s no need too special.

(708) 403-3355

16600 South 107th Court, Orland Park, IL Dr. Tentler holds diplomate status in the American Society of Dentist Anesthesiologists.

Dr. Robert L. Tentler and Associates, General Dentistry

PEDIATRIC TRAVEL MEDICINE

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• Yellow Fever • All Routine Vaccines • Typhoid Shot and Pills • Japanese Encephalitis • Polio • Rabies • Hepatitis A, B & Accelerated • Meningitis • Twinrix (Hepatitis A & B combination vaccine)

PRESCRIPTIONS FOR TRAVEL AS INDICATED • Pediatric Anti-Malarial • Pediatric Traveler’s Diarrhea • Pediatric Altitude Sickness Prevention

• Pediatric Motion Sickness Prevention • Jet Lag, etc.

The Vaccine Center

29 E. Madison St., Ste. 1640, Chicago, IL 60602

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CALENDAR

Wre Wr ea ath thing in ng of of the he Lio ion ns s See Nov. See Se Noov. v. 27

25 | WEDNESDAY PARENT/CHILD THANKSGIVING GOODIES TO SHARE. Kids 4-10,

with adult, work to create delicious.

Each parent/child pair will bring home a few creations to share with the family. Recipes provided. $39, $26 resident. 9:30-11 a.m. 95th Street Center Culinary Arts, 2244 W. 95th St., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.

26 | THURSDAY MCDONALD’S THANKSGIVING PARADE. The

parade features live performances, equestrian units, marching bands

27 | FRIDAY WREATHING OF THE LIONS.

The traditional ceremony of wreathing the Art Institute’s lions takes place on the steps of the museum at 10 a.m. with complimentary hot chocolate.

After the ceremony, visit the Ryan Education Center to create holiday wreaths decorated with inspiring images of winter wonderlands in the Art Institute collection. Regular admission applies for inside activities.

10 a.m.-3 p.m. 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 443-3600, artic.edu.

NOV. NOV. 55 –– 15 15

28 | SATURDAY

ALLSTATE ALLSTATEARENA ARENA

CHICAGO

NOV. NOV. 19 19 –– 29 29

A SNOWY DAY WITH BEATRIX POTTER & FRIENDS. The stories

of Helen Beatrix Potter, featuring iconic animal characters like Peter Rabbit, are told through an interactive, four-dimensional winter fairytale.

Recommended for families with kids 3 and up. $15, $10 balcony day-of. 10 and 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m. Chicago Children’s Theatre, Catalyst Ranch, 656 W. Randolph, Suite 3W. (872) 2229555, chicagochildrens theatre.org.

UNITED UNITEDCENTER CENTER

FREE FREE PARKING PARKING

in all official arena parking lots with ticket purchase. See arena websites for details. in all official arena parking lots with ticket purchase. See arena websites for details.

Buy BuyTickets: Tickets:Ticketmaster.com Ticketmaster.com 800-745-3000 800-745-3000••Venue VenueBox BoxOffices Offices 329019

PASCHKE PEE-WEES. A tour geared toward 0-2 year olds and their caregivers, hosted by art center staff, focused on the colors, patterns and big bright faces featured in the collection. Baby wearing is encouraged. Parents gain confidence looking at and talking about art with babies, and the babies are exposed to art that nurtures their language development, social-emotional engagement and spatial-temporal reasoning. 4 p.m. Ed Paschke Art Center, 5415 W. Higgins Ave., Chicago. (312) 533-4911, edpaschkeartcenter.org.

and sky-high balloons. 8-11 a.m.

State Street (starts on Congress and moves north to Randolph), Chicago. chicagofestivals.org.

329019

24 | TUESDAY

#ChiRingling #RinglingBros #ChiRingling #RinglingBros

Ringling.com Ringling.com ChicagoParent.com November 2015 99

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PERFORMANCES CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S FILM FESTIVAL.

Through Nov. 1. Features more than 250 films from 40 countries and engages kids through screening Q&A’s with filmmakers, interactive workshops with special guests, peer-to-peer dialogues and filmmaker-led seminars. Check website for cost and schedule.

Facets Multi-Media, 1517 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago. (773) 2819075, cicff.org.

A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD.

The Te Th T mp mpes e t es Seee thhiss pagge See

Waking from hibernation in the spring, Frog and Toad plant gardens, swim, rake leaves, go sledding and learn life lessons along the way. Recommended for families with kids 6-13. $10. Check website for schedule. Nov. 6-22. Virginia Wadsworth Wirtz Center for the Performing Arts, Hal and Martha Hyer Wallis Theater, 1949 Campus Drive, Evanston. (847) 491-7282, tic.northwestern.edu.

THE TEMPEST. Through Nov. 8. This classic tale of revenge is reimagined as a traveling tent show of trickery and amazement, underscored by haunting ballads and the choreography of Pilobolus.

Recommended for families with kids 10 and up. $48-$88. Check website for schedule. Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 595-5600, chicagoshakes.com.

THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: STORIES THAT GO BUMP IN THE NIGHT. Through Nov. 9. Features

dark and delightful tales of witches, ghosts, haunted houses, magical beings and more—cooked up by Chicago Public School students and adapted for the stage and performed

by Barrel of Monkeys Company Members. $12, $6 kids under 12.

8 p.m. Barrel of Monkeys, The Neo-Futurarium Theater (2nd Floor), 5153 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago. (312) 409-1954, barrelofmonkeys.org.

Ballet Légere presents its 31st Annual Production of

The Nutcracker

December 10 - December 14, 2015 Featuring Guest Artists Shelby Elsbree and Paul Craig of the Boston Ballet Tickets range from $16 - $30 Performances held at Dominican University Performing Arts Center, 7900 W. Division, River Forest, IL For tickets call 773-237-1874 www.balletlegere.org

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PERFORMANCES SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL.

Opens Nov. 11. In this fantastical, magical musical, favorite Dr. Seuss characters are brought to life with the Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz, Lazy Mayzie and all of the Whos of Whoville. These classic, colorful tales are brought together by Jojo, a young “thinker of strange and wonderful thinks.” $17.23. Check website for schedule. Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. (847) 634-0200, marriotttheatre.com.

THE GIVER. When Jonas turns

12, he is chosen for special training from The Giver—to receive and keep the memories of the community. Now he will learn the truth about life and the hypocrisy of his utopian world. Recommended for families with kids 11 and up. $12; $6 kids. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 13, 14, 20 and 21; 2:30 p.m. Nov. 14, 15, 21 and 22. The Theatre of Western Springs, 4384 Hampton Ave., Western Springs. (708) 246-4043, theatrewesternsprings.com.

SECRETS, LIES, AND SUPER SPIES: FALL YOUTH CIRCUS.

Join the world’s finest secret agents, who have no idea that their civilian best friends are actually their colleagues until a power-mad villain plots to turn them against each other. Includes espionage, acrobatics, rock music, comedic spy-jinx, and lasers. $15; $12.50 kids. 4:30 and 7:30 p.m.

Saturdays; 3 p.m. Sundays. Nov. 14-22. The Actors Gymnasium, Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes St., Evanston. (847) 3282795, actorsgymnasium.org.

1984. Through Nov. 20. Winston

Smith works for the Ministry of Truth in the nation of Oceania, where dissent is not tolerated. When Winston falls in love, the illegal affair pushes them to rebel and face the darkest and most dangerous corners of the regime. Check website for cost and schedule. Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St., Chicago. (312) 335-1650, steppen wolf.org.

ALEXANDER AND THE TERRIBLE, HORRIBLE, NO GOOD, VERY BAD DAY. Through

Nov. 21. In this musical adaptation, everything goes wrong for grumpy young Alexander on one day.

Recommended for families with kids 3 and up. $10-$12. 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays. Northbrook Theatre for Young Audiences, 3323 Walters Ave., Northbrook. (847) 291-2367, northbrooktheatre.org.

ALL SEVEN HARRY POTTER BOOKS IN SEVENTY HILARIOUS MINUTES!

FEATURING A LIVE GAME OF QUIDDITCH!

“SMART,GOOFY, ZANY FUN FOR ALL AGES!” Chicago Sun-Times

“GLORIOUSLY GOOFY. CASTS THE PERFECT SPELL OVER THE AUDIENCE!” The New York Times

SHERLOCK HOLMES. David

Arquette stars in an original adaptation inspired by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic tales. Recommended for families with kids 8 and up.

Check website for cost and schedule. Nov. 24-29. Oriental Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St., Chicago. (800) 775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com.

ALICE IN WONDERLAND.

Through Nov. 25. Kids 2-6 follow Alice as she travels down the Rabbit Hole and meets the Mad Hatter, March Hare, Cheshire Cat, Tweedle-Dee and Tweedle-Dum, the Queen of Hearts and more. $6-$12.

10:30 a.m. Chicago Kids Company, Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St., Chicago. (773) 205-9600, chicagokidscompany.com.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST.

Through Nov. 25. Find out if true love can turn the Beast into a handsome prince. This one-hour musical adaptation is recommended for kids 2-6. $6-$12. Check website for schedule. Chicago Kids Company, Stahl Family Theater, 5900 W. Belmont, Chicago. (773) 205-9600, chicagokidscompany.com.

MR. POPPER’S PENGUINS.

Through Nov. 29. With no houses to paint, Mr. Popper is stuck dreaming of adventures, while Mrs. Popper must scrimp and save just to put beans on the table. But with the unexpected arrival of a spirited penguin, a new horizon opens.

Every Saturday and Sunday at noon, kids can attend Stories Come Alive!

Hour, where they enjoy an interactive storytelling session and theater games ($5). Accessible performances include a pre-show touch tour of

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PERFORMANCES

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the set and live audio description for patrons who are blind or have low vision (10 a.m. Nov. 7), open captioning for patrons who are deaf or hard-of-hearing (1 p.m. Nov. 14) and a relaxed/sensory-friendly performance (3 p.m. Nov. 21). $15.

11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago. (773) 7614477, lifelinetheatre.com.

their missing mittens and they need help finding them. Gather the clues and make new discoveries before Mother Cat comes home. This interactive spy story is the perfect way to introduce little ones 0-5 to the mystery and excitement of live theater. $15, $8 kids under 1.

Little Theatre in Lakeview, 2933 N. Southport Ave., Chicago. (773) 9356100, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

ROBIN HOOD AND MAID MARIAN. Opens Nov. 29. The

JUICEBOX. Parents and young children can enjoy Chicago’s best music, dance and theater in a kid-friendly setting.

Kids can sit on the floor, walk around, meet the artists and sometimes play with instruments and puppets. Parents are welcome to bring snacks and juiceboxes. 11 a.m. every other Friday. Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., Chicago. (312) 744-6630, chicagoculturalcenter.org.

archer, his band of outlaws and his love, Marion, take the audience on a swashbuckling adventure in this family-friendly world premiere. $15, $5 kids. Check website for schedule.

Strawdog Theatre Company, Hugen Hall, 3829 N. Broadway, Chicago.

(773) 528-9696, strawdog.org.

DRAGONS LOVE TACOS. Dragons love parties, but if you want to throw a party for dragons, you have to remember the tacos. But hold the salsa. When dragons eat salsa, you’ll discover the results can be explosive.

Adapted from the New York Times bestseller. Recommended for families with kids 3 and up. $15 and up. Check website for schedule.

Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theatre in Lincoln Park, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 9356100, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

THREE LITTLE KITTENS. Three little kittens are on the hunt for

STORYTOWN. Kids are invited

onstage to decorate the backdrop and start to bring the story to life. As the tale unfolds, graphic artists construct props, paint backdrops, modify costumes, and create an environment as unique as the story. A pianist supplies creates original songs on the spot. Recommended for families with kids 3-10. $10. 10:30 a.m.

Saturdays. Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. (773) 3275252, stage773.com.

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PERFORMANCES HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES WHITE CHRISTMAS. The story follows two former Army buddies turned Broadway performers as they attempt to save a charming Vermont Inn from bankruptcy. Check website for cost and schedule. Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 530-0111, drurylaneoakbrook.com.

ELF: THE BROADWAY MUSICAL.

Join Buddy the Elf in his larger-thanlife quest from the North Pole to New York City to find his true identity. $50-$55. 8 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays; 4:30 and 8 p.m. Saturdays; 1 and 5 p.m. Sundays. Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. (847) 634-0200, marriotttheatre.com.

THE NUTCRACKER. Opens Nov.

5. The House Theatre’s ballet-free version of this holiday classic weaves together dialogue, puppetry, original song and spectacle to tell the story.

$15-$45. Check website for schedule.

Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division St., Chicago. (773) 278-1500, chopin theatre.com.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Opens

Nov. 14. Join Ebenezer Scrooge as he journeys through his past, present and future to discover the importance of friendship and love. Check website for cost and schedule. Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. (312) 443-3800, goodman theatre.org.

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS. Opens Nov. 14. ‘Tis

the season to celebrate everyone’s favorite Peanuts pals as they dig past the commercialized gimmicks of presents and decorations to rediscover the true meaning of Christmas. Recommended for families with kids 3-13. Check website for cost and schedule. Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago. (800) 775-2000, broadwayinchicago.com.

THAT’S WEIRD GRANDMA: THE HOLIDAY SPECIAL. Opens Nov.

16. A line-up of stories inspired by the holidays, winter and the spirit of giving. Every story is written by Chicago Public School students and adapted for the stage and performed

by Barrel of Monkeys Company members. No two shows are ever the same. $12; $6 kids under 12. 8 p.m.

Mondays. Barrel of Monkeys, The Neo-Futurarium Theater (2nd Floor), 5153 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago. (312) 409-1954, barrelofmonkeys.org.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Opens Nov. 18. Families can have breakfast with Santa Claus on select performance dates, with a buffet-style menu complete with seasonal favorites. $15 and up. Check website for schedule.

Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 530-0111, drurylaneoakbrook.com.

A CHRISTMAS STORY. Opens Nov.

19. The play 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.

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: LIVE IN CHICAGO! Opens Nov. 20. 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.

7:30 p.m. Thursdays-Fridays; 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays; 2:30 p.m.

Sundays. Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 404-7336, greenhousetheater.org.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Opens Nov. 20. This rendition of the classic tale has an Oscar-winning composer and a Tony award-winning lyricist.

Reservations are recommended. 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m.

Sundays. Quest Theatre Ensemble, The Blue Theatre, 1609 W. Gregory Ave., Chicago. (312) 458-0895, questensemble.org.

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Holiday magic is in store when the Schaumburg Dance Ensemble presents The Nutcracker for two weekends starting December 4 at the Prairie Center.

Dominican University Performing Arts Center 7900 W. Division, River Forest Tickets: (773) 237-1874 balletlegere.org

Illinois Youth Dance Theatre The Nutcracker Thursday, December 17, 7:00pm Friday, December 18, 7:00pm Saturday, December 19, 1:00pm and 5:00pm Sunday, December 20, 3:00pm Lake Zurich Performing Arts Center 300 Church Street, Lake Zurich iydt.org/the-nutcracker.html

201 Schaumburg Ct., Schaumburg Box office: (847) 895-3600 prairiecenter.org

Salt Creek Ballet The Nutcracker, called “Enchanting” and “Awesome”

by Audiences! Hinsdale: November 28th & 29th; University Park: December 5th; Skokie: December 12th & 13th. Tickets: saltcreekballet.org (630) 769-1199 saltcreekballet.org

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PERFORMANCES A CHRISTMAS STORY - THE MUSICAL. Opens Nov. 25. A story

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

filled with laughs, dreams, warmth and family—plus a department store Santa, a Leg Lamp, a Snow Suit and a tongue stuck to a flag pole. $56-41. Check website for schedule.

Paramount Arts Centre and Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. (630) 896-6666, paramountaurora.com.

Ballet brings their festive familyfriendly ballet to the Hinsdale Central Auditorium, 5500 S. Grant St., Hinsdale, on Nov. 28 (1 and 5 p.m.) and Nov. 29 (1 p.m.).

Sunday’s performance features a special benefit performance and “Sugar Plum Party.” $15 and up.

Salt Creek Ballet, 98 E. Naperville Road, Westmont. (630) 769-1199, saltcreekballet.org.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Opens

Nov. 27. Bob Cratchit recounts the tale of his miserly boss Ebenezer Scrooge. Recommended for families with kids in grades 1-12. $30, $15 students. Check website for schedule.

Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. (847) 577-2121, metropolis arts.com.

MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET.

Opens Nov. 27. A single mother and her young daughter, Susan, have given up on Christmas until they meet a mysterious gentleman

SANTA’S MAGIC TOYSHOP. Opens

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at Macy’s claiming to be Santa Claus. This jolly Kris Kringle brings them hope and unleashes waves of goodwill throughout New York City. $13-17. Check website for

schedule. Overshadowed Theatrical Productions, Medinah Baptist Church, 900 Foster Ave., Medinah.

(630) 250-7518, overshadowed productions.com.

Nov. 30. In this merry musical, everyone is busy at the North Pole Toy Shop. Antics abound as the elves compete to create a magical toy. An unexpected guest arrives, which leads Santa to reveal the magic in all of us. $9.50, $7.50 students.

Check website for schedule. Theatre at the Center, The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Ind. (219) 836-3255, theatreatthecenter.com.

Based on the novel by

RICHARD & FLORENCE ATWATER

MR. POPPER’S PENGUINS

Together we stand!

October 24–November 29, 2015

Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N Glenwood Ave, Chicago, IL 60626 For tickets call 773-761-4477 or visit www.lifelinetheatre.com 104 November 2015 ChicagoParent.com

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Five shows to gobble up

S

Jack and Annie, those heroes of the Magic Tree House books, help audiences travel back in time to 1915 New Orleans—no time machine required. In Magic Tree House: A Night in New Orleans, you’ll meet a teenage Louis Armstrong, who needs a little help on his way to becoming the King of Jazz. Forget Thanksgiving—start counting down the days to Mardi Gras.

Recommended for families with kids 5-10. $15 and up. Check website for schedule. Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theater, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 935-6100, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

What do kids have in common with a china rabbit?

Find out at The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, Tulane, Chicago Children’s Theatre’s adaptation of Kate DiCamillo’s

award-winning book. Edward gets lost at sea, then bounces from person to person until he discovers the power of love.

Not a bad message to remember as the holidays approach!

Recommended for families with kids 7 and up. $28 and up.

Tuesdays-Sundays through Nov. 15. Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn, Chicago. (872) 222-9555, chicagochildrens theatre.org.

It’s not easy being new.

That’s the lesson that Nick learns in Adventure Stage Chicago’s production of New Kid, which follows Nick and his family as they move to America, learn a new language and get acquainted with something that transcends all cultures: bullying.

Hopefully it will encourage your kids to roll out the welcome mat the next time they run into

Photo by Michael Courier

o you’re not quite ready to carve the turkey with Ebenezer Scrooge or pirouette with some sugar plum fairies? Don’t worry—November is overflowing with great family entertainment that’s a bit more fun than fa-la-la-la-la.

someone new. Recommended for families with kids 8 and up. $10-$17. 4 p.m. Saturdays through Nov. 21; 7 p.m. Nov. 20.

Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble 342-4141, St., Chicago. (773) 342 4141, adventurestage.org.

Hope is a powerful thing, especially when you you’re re facing new challenges in a new place.

Esperanza Rising follows a young girl who loves dresses, parties and all things pretty, but finds a much more difficult life when she’s forced to flee to the U.S. and start over with her family. Recommended for families with kids 8 and up. $10. $10. 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays Thur Th ursd sd day ayss and an Nov. 6;; 2 p.m. p.m.

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Merle Reskin Theatre at DePaul University, 60 E. Balbo Drive, Chicago. (312) 922-1999, theatreschool.depaul.edu.

Long before he started selling fast-food fast food fish sticks, Long John Silver was the famous pirate who led a band of rogues (and young Jim Hawkins) in Robert Louis Stevenson’s iconic Treasure Island. See the classic adventure come to life at Chicago’s storied Lookingglass Theater, and remember: X marks the spot.

Recommended for families with kids 10 and up. $35 and up. Check Lookingglass website for schedule. Lookin ingglass Theatre Tower Water Thea atr t e in the Water e Tow werr W atterr 821 Michigan Ave., Works, 8 21 N. N. Mi Mich chig igan an A vee., Chicago.

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ONGOING EVENTS

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EXHIBITS NATURE CONNECTS: ART WITH LEGO BRICKS BY SEAN KENNEY.

Through Nov. 1. Marvel at 13 largerthan-life displays created from nearly half a million Lego bricks. Walk the arboretum’s grounds on the east side to find nature-themed sculptures crafted by Lego artist Sean Kenney, including a monarch butterfly boasting an eight-foot wingspan and an enormous hummingbird sipping nectar from a colorful trumpet flower. Free with arboretum admission. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

BOATS. Through Nov. 1. Kids immerse themselves in a nautical experience of their own invention, complete with docks and an assortment of boats. Create lake-faring scenarios, like steering the ship, kayaking, hoisting a sail, or dropping a fishing line to catch ‘the big one.’

The exhibit includes a dock with

a bait and tackle shop, a kayak, sailboat and two-level work boat with a wheelchair-accessible lower cabin. Free with museum admission.

Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago.

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

sounds fill the air, frogs in every color of the rainbow hop and limbless caecilians swim and slither. John G. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 939-2438, sheddaquarium.org.

WINGS OF WONDER: THE LORIKEET EXHIBIT. Through Nov.

tors to engage in exciting activities including surfing, snowboarding, kung fu and rock climbing all in a fun and immersing environment.

Visitors jump into “Action Star Training,” which are activities that build strength, coordination, balance and endurance, and earn stamps for each adventure they try.

Free with museum admission. Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org.

11. Visitors will be “face to beak” with the small- to medium-sized parrots known for their playful personalities, vibrant coloration and their ability to mimic words and sounds.

Free with conservatory admission. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. 2nd St., Rockford. (815) 987-8858, nicholasconservatory.com.

AMPHIBIANS. The exhibit offers guests a visual, audio and handson experience, immersing them in the changing lives of salamanders, sirens, frogs, toads, newts and more.

Tadpoles swim overhead, amphibian

RUN! JUMP! FLY! ADVENTURES IN ACTION. The exhibit allows visi-

ROBOT REVOLUTION. Exhibit explores how robots will ultimately change how we play, live and work together. Guests step into a visionary world where robots are not just a

curiosity, but a vital asset. Includes a collection of cutting-edge robots that have been secured from some of the most innovative global robotics companies and universities. Check website for cost. Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

OTHER EVENTS TODDLER TUESDAYS. Legoland opens early on the second floor exclusively for toddlers and their parents. In addition to story time and free play, includes new activities like creative building, music classes and water art, special guests and treasure hunts. No session on Nov. 24. $7 in advance; $9 at door.

10 a.m.-noon. Tuesdays. Legoland Discovery Center, The Streets of Woodfield (next to Woodfield Mall), 601 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg. (847) 592-9700, legolanddiscoverycenter.com/ chicago.

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ONGOING EVENTS ARBOR READING ADVENTURES.

Enjoy interactive story time and fun crafts indoors before heading out on the grounds for an adventure walk. Themes change each week. No session on Nov. 27. $5, $4 members. 11-11:45 a.m.

Wednesdays and Fridays. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle.

(630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

PEE WEE OPEN GYM. Kids 1-5 enjoy active participation, sports, age-appropriate equipment and an obstacle course in a clean, safe and open environment. $7, $6 residents.

9-11:15 a.m. Thursdays and Fridays.

Joliet Park District Multi-Purpose Center, 3000 W. Jefferson St., Joliet.

(815) 741-7275, jolietpark.org.

EXPLORATION STATION. Try hands-on activities at the Exploration Station created by the Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory. This month’s topic is Habitat – Deserts. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays; 1:30-3:30 p.m. Sundays. Oak Park Conservatory,

615 Garfield St., Oak Park. (708) 7252400, oakparkconservatory.org.

GNOME HOMES. Children can create

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

GNOME HUNT. Search for gnomes

in the Children’s Garden using “I Spy” skills. Checklist provided. Free with arboretum admission. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

WINTER PLAY. A self-guided glimpse into the world of outdoor play.

Possibilities include painting snow or building a fort. Free with admission.

11 a.m.-3 p.m. daily. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

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For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com ChicagoParent.com November 2015 107

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EXHIBIT

Good grief! Comic strip goes back to nature

W

hen you think of Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the Peanuts gang, chances are you recall that puny Christmas tree, attempts to kick a football and some wild dancing. But after seeing “Peanuts … Naturally,” you may start associating the classic comic strip with the great outdoors.

The timing for the new exhibit is perfect, since The Peanuts Movie hits the big screen on Nov. 6. Before you watch it, stop by the museum to see what Charles Schulz had to say about the environment, ecology and the EPA. “I think people may be surprised at how this form of art was able to address, in a clever way, some of the issues that are still important importaan a t for us,” ssays ayys Marc Marc Miller, Miller, executive vice president pres dent of external

affairs. “It’s good to be reminded of that.”

And the reminders are like nothing you’ve ever seen. Kids will love diving into a replica of Woodstock’s nest, playing inside a massive Great Pumpkin, and getting answers to queries at Lucy’s Psychiatry Booth, which is staffed by museum scientists. sc cie The Th h exhibit also includes memorabilia from fr o Schulz’s work, such as strips featuring “Farmer Snoopy” and Charlie Brown’s battle “Far with the Environmental Protection Agency in tthe h late 1970s. Miller hopes that seeing such su ch h iconic characters demonstrating concern

Peanuts ... Naturally u Through Jan. 3

u Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago u naturemuseum.org about nature will inspire kids.

“Snoopy and Charlie were early environmentalists,” he says. “Nature is all around us and we need to understand it better.”

And thanks to this exhibit, that important job just got a little more animated.

Elizabeth Diffin

Chicago Parent needs a few good moms and dads.

We are looking for friendly, outgoing readers to staff Chicago Parent booths at events throughout the city and suburbs. Must have a car and flexible schedule.

Events are mainly on weekends.

Email Kamil Brady at kamil@chicagoparent.com with your resume and a cover letter about yourself.

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HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES ADVENTURE TO SANTA.

Adventure to Santa blends the latest technology with stories while Shrek and his friends guide family members of all ages on an unforgettable adventure to the North Pole to meet Santa. Reservations can be made online with the purchase of a photo package or at Oakbrook Center at the Guest Services Lounge. $40-$74. 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Mondays-Saturdays; 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sundays. Nov. 7-Dec. 24. Oakbrook Center, 100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook. adventuretosanta.com.

HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY. The ceremony will be

at 2 p.m. Nov. 14. Check website for other activities during the holidays.

The Promenade Bolingbrook, 631 E. Boughton Road, Bolingbrook. thepromenadebolingbrook.com.

CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD AND HOLIDAYS OF LIGHT. The museum’s 45-foot

Grand Tree takes center stage in the Rotunda, surrounded by more than 50 smaller trees decorated by volunteers from Chicago’s ethnic communities. School choral groups perform during the week, and ethnic song and dance performances take place on the weekends.

This year’s theme will be in honor of the museum’s temporary exhibition, Robot Revolution. Free with museum admission. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. daily; extended hours on select days. Nov. 19-Jan. 3. Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 6841414, msichicago.org.

CHRISTKINDLMARKET CHICAGO. 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.

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11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays.

Nov. 20-Dec. 24. Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago. (312) 4942175, christkindlmarket.com.

ILLUMINATION: TREE LIGHTS.

Walk a mile-long path to see trees illuminated in colors and interact with lighted trees that respond to voice or touch. On the Illumination trail, sing to trees to make them change color and hug trees to see how they respond, then warm up at a toasty fire pit. New experiences include lighting effects on Meadow Lake and Ornament Hill, where a series of glowing orbs create a glittering vista. Visitors can sing to the trees to activate LED lights that rain down from the trees and watch as lights dance to music from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. $17-$20, $11-$13 kids. 5-9:30 p.m.

Nov. 20-Jan. 2. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

DISCOVER HOLIDAY TRADITIONS IN THE CHICAGO LOOP. Presenting the best elf-inspired

holiday magic, including beloved attractions, shopping and dining, and a variety of family-friendly activities.

Nov. 23-Dec. 24. Hours and locations vary with performances and activities. loopchicago.com/holidays.

‘TWAS THE MONTH BEFORE CHRISTMAS…AT THE RIALTO.

Festivities include a display of decorated Christmas wreaths, a showing of a family movie, Teddy Bear Tea and Santa’s Workshop, holiday concerts and other special events.

Check website for schedule. Nov. 25-Dec. 20. $7, $5 kids and seniors, free kids 2 and under. Rialto Square Theatre, 15 E. Van Buren St., Joliet.

(815) 726-7171, rialtosquare.com.

LIGHT UP THE HOLIDAYS FESTIVAL. Includes family activities

at several locations, including a tree lighting ceremony, parade, museum

free day, ice carving, craft activities and musical performances. Check website for schedule. Nov. 27. Downtown Joliet. jolietdowntown.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. Visit with Santa in his Gingerbread House 1-3 p.m.

Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 20 at the corner of Main and Curtiss.

Check website for schedule. Nov. 27-29. Downtown Downers Grove. downtowndg.org.

CAROLING AT CLOUD GATEMILLENNIUM PARK. Hear a variety

of choral groups and join them in a holiday sing-along at Cloud Gate in Millennium Park. 6 p.m. Fridays.

Nov. 27-Dec. 18. Michigan Avenue

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HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

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between Randolph and Monroe streets. Chicago. (312) 744-3316, millenniumpark.org.

CHRISTKINDLMARKET OAKBROOK. Enjoy a special subur-

ban edition of the Chicago GermanAmerican Holiday Market. Includes hot beverages, German food and gift shopping—just like at Daley Plaza.

Thursdays-Sundays. Nov. 27-Dec. 24. Oakbrook Center Village Green, 100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook. christkindlmarket.com.

AURORA FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS. 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. Sundays-Thursday; 5-10 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays. Nov. 27-Dec. 27. Phillips Park, 615 S. Smith Blvd., Aurora. aurorafestivaloflights.com.

NAPER LIGHTS. Stroll the

museum grounds and experience a magical holiday lights celebration. 5-9 p.m. Nov. 27-Jan. 1. Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville. (630) 420-6010, naper settlement.org.

WONDERLAND EXPRESS. Enjoy indoor and outdoor lighted displays, designer wreaths and trees, and Garden-scale trains that wind their way over bridges and through tunnels, and past more than 80 miniature versions of Chicago landmarks, all handcrafted with natural materials. Check website for cost and schedule. Nov. 27-Jan. 3. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

CELEBRATION OF LIGHTS FESTIVAL. Santa arrives and

helps with the annual tree lighting ceremony for the city. 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. 29. 151 N. Island Ave. and Houston Street, Batavia. (630) 879-5235, bataviaparks.org.

LONG GROVE HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES. Santa will be

available at the Visitors Center on weekends, and groups will carol on the weekends. Check website for activities. November-December. 308 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove.

(847) 634-0888, visitlonggrove.com.

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WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS

ALINE STERN PHOTOGRAPHY

Light up the night

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f you’re one of those people who refuses to kick off official holiday celebrations until the last piece of pumpkin pie has been sliced, but you’re still a fan of general frivolity, well ... we feel you. And we might just have the solution for the celebratory void between Halloween and Thanksgiving: Laternenfest.

Laternenfest is celebrated each year in Europe, but the colorful holiday also has an annual observance in Chicago. The German International School Chicago, in partnership with the DANK Haus, hosts a fall festival that’s especially for kids, complete with music, a bake sale, storytelling, crafts and facepainting.

The main attraction, however, is the lanterns. Kids can personalize their own lantern with help from a provided kit, then take part (with their families, of course) in a Lantern Parade at dusk through Lincoln Square, Chicago’s historically German neighborhood.

This walk echoes similar European parades held around St. Martin’s Day, a celebration in honor of a Roman soldier-turned-monk, who was known to be a friend to children.

So clearly, if you need an excuse to celebrate, Laternenfest fits the bill. And after you’ve blown out that lantern, you’ll still have plenty of time for mistletoe and menorahs in the very near future.

Elizabeth Diffin

Laternenfest

2:30-5:30 p.m. Nov. 8 $8, free kids under 2 DANK Haus, 4740 N. Western Ave., Chicago germanschoolchicago.com/ school-community/gscevents

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