OCTOBER
2015 | FREE
CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES
‘He saved my life’
THERE’S FUN TO BE HAD Chicago Parent Playdate Oct. 4
One mom’s breast cancer story
BE BRAVE How to empower your kids
CELEBRATIONS Time for our big birthday party planner
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Kids +CAC =
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ChicagoParent.com October 2015 1
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Attend Our
A “Classroom” Unlike Any Other At GEMS World Academy – Chicago, we believe learning shouldn’t be contained by a classroom’s four walls.
Fall Open House - October 24 Meet with faculty and the heads of school, and tour our state-of-the-art classrooms from 10 a.m. to noon. To learn more and reserve your spot, visit gemschicago.org/Parent 312-809-8910 admissions@gemschicago.org
As a premier JK - 12 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 our students through structured interactions with Chicago’s neighborhoods, institutions, and environment, empowering students to ask and answer deep question. To know the world, you have to explore the world – up close and in focus.
50
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2 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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Perpetual Lessons, Perpetual Progress! Year-round lessons help children learn to swim and be safer in the water at a much faster pace and help avoid the regression associated with session-based lessons. Additional benefits: Kids learn at their own pace and move up when they are ready. Various lesson days and times available for busy families. And class flexibility and make-up lessons allows for changing schedules. Monthly payments make it easier for families to budget and eliminates the need for the initial prepayment. Students who start and stop lessons are more likely to lose skills they have gained when they return to the pool.
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LPP’s Family Learning Programs are designed for families to experience the wonder of our preschool environment together. Preschool Together - Children 18-30 months Each class will create an intimate community for children and parents to explore our curriculum, make friends, and develop an early love of school. This class is modeled after a morning in our preschool classroom.
Read, Sing & Play - Children 12-24 months A selection of children’s books will set the foundation for music & movement activities.
2015-2016 Sessions:
Fall (Sept. 14-Oct. 23) Winter (Feb. 15-March 25) Spring (April 11-May 20) Summer (Drop in classes held select Tuesdays throughout the summer)
More information available at www.lppschools.com Contact j.sorenson@lppschools.com with questions
6 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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contents IN THIS ISSUE E 15
GOOD TO GO
18
BEST IN CHI
23
HEY BABY
31
CRAFT
33
FAILING WITH GUSTO
Don’t miss our laydate Chicago Parent Playdate Best places to get a strike ike Before you PUSH Paper pumpkin ornaments
October skies, October lies
16
37
PARENT PANEL
71
CALENDAR
Playdate avoidance Hundreds of ideas for family fun
OCTOBER 2015 | VOLUME 31 | NO. 10
ON THE COVER
FEATURES
38
OCTOBER
‘A BUMP IN THE ROAD’ Newly married, pregnant and fighting breast cancer, Miss Lauren focuses on life’s kicks
2015 | FREE
CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES
‘He saved my life’ One mom’s breast cancer story
Chicago Parent Playdate Oct. 4
Cover mom: Lauren Hubert Smoke and her baby boy due this month Photography: Thomas Kubik of TK Photography
BE BRAVE How to empower your kids
BRAVE 40 BEING One family shares what it takes POWER 46 GIRL Fuel your daughter’s
THERE’S FUN TO BE HAD
CELEBRATIONS Time for our big birthday party planner
Design: Claire Innes
confidence with things you won’t find in the ‘cutesy’ aisle
Henna by Megan Raysby Face Painting and Body Art
Coming this month RECIPE FOR A 51 THE PERFECT FALL
Ideas that get you out of the house and having fun all month
BABY BLACKHAWKS 53 Hockey fever is about to hit the Windy City again as the NHL season kicks off this month
HEY BABY Available beginning Oct. 5
CELEBRATIONS:
Our big birthday party guide inside ChicagoParent.com October 2015 7
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EDITOR’S NOTE SPONSORED
Happy OAKtober! If you find an acorn or its cap on the sidewalk or in your yard, look around. There’s an oak tree nearby. It probably will be a large tree with branches that spread wide, as if the tree is opening its arms. Look on the ground for brown leaves that have fallen from it. Most oak leaves have bulges along the edges, almost like the fingers of a hand. On the leaves of some kinds of oaks, they are rounded like fingertips, and on others, they are pointed like claws. Many kinds of oaks grow around the world. Some are big, tall trees, like the oaks that grow around Chicago. Other oaks are no bigger than bushes, with small leaves that don’t look anything like the leaves of our oaks. But all oaks, no matter how large or small, have acorns. It’s partly because of acorns that oaks are such important plants. In your neighborhood, acorns are a favorite meal for squirrels, blue jays, and other animals. Many kinds of insects live on oaks’ leaves, and bigger animals such as birds eat the insects. Wherever an oak grows, a busy city of living things depends on it. We need every oak tree to live long and stay strong. The governor of Illinois has proclaimed October to be Oak Awareness Month in our state, a time to celebrate these wonderful trees. So when you spot an oak tree in your neighborhood, say “Happy OAKtober!”
In the face of challenges I am getting to a stage in my life where an increasing number of the wonderful women I know are being diagnosed with breast cancer. It’s incredibly heartbreaking to see their struggles and read their updates on Facebook about the hell that is chemo and radiation. You already know the scary statistics, that 1 in 8 TAMARA L. women will be diagnosed with breast O’SHAUGHNESSY cancer during their lifetime and more than 40,000 women will die this year. Yet, too many woman believe it won’t happen to them, me and our beautiful cover mom-to-be, Lauren Hubert Smoke, included. You don’t have to be old to get it. You don’t have to be a fast-food junkie orr have a family history, either. her. Sometimes, as you’ll learn n in this issue, it just happens. ens. And it happens at the most inconvenient times as it did for Smoke, who told d me she constantly asks hererself, “why me, why now?”” She has an important message this month for other young women: Do your monthly self-exams.. “You might think you aree doing everything right, but it can happen to anyone,” she says. Smoke is brave in the face of the obstacle that cancer has created in what should be the happiest time of her life. Yet bravery, whether it is standing up against health challenges like Smoke, bullies in school and play groups, and people
who’d like to make our girls fit a gender stereotype, is so important. That’s why this month, always so full of scary things, is a good time to talk with our kids about
COME PLAY!
I hope to spend time with you and your kids at our next Chicago Parent Playdate on Oct. 4 at Windy City Fieldhouse. If you can’t find me, ask a staff member (we’ll have Chicago Parent shirts) and they’ll hunt me down for you. Get your tickets here: http://bit.ly/ChicagoParentPlaydate I can’t wait! bravery. As I will be doing with my girls, I encourage you to share the stories in this issue with your kids and ask them what they think bravery means. Then ask them for examples of when they felt scared. Their answers may surprise you and give you a little more insight into the people they are becoming. Happy October. Be brave.
4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, Ilinois 60532 mortonarb.org • 630-968-0074 8 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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– Educating –
150,000+
Big Screen, Small World At GEMS World Academy – Chicago, innovative technology in every classroom connects cultures.
Students Worldwide
Attend Our Fall Open House - October 24 Meet with faculty and the heads of school, and tour our state-of-the-art classrooms from 10 a.m. to noon. To learn more and reserve your spot, visit gemschicago.org/Parent 312-809-8910 admissions@gemschicago.org
When most students first learn about other cultures, they open a book. At GEMS World Academy – Chicago, a premier JK - 12 school, they do it face-to-face via international teleconferences. With 70-inch interactive touch screens in every classroom, students collaborate globally beginning as early as first grade. Building authentic relationships with others around the world enables our students to understand the universal experiences that make us responsible global citizens. That’s learning on a higher level.
ChicagoParent.com October 2015 9
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CONTRIBUTORS
Our family’s favorite Halloween tradition
EDITOR
Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy SENIOR EDITOR
Elizabeth Diffin DIGITAL EDITOR
Jackie McGoey ASSISTANT EDITOR
Emily Adams ART DIRECTOR
Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNERS
I love surprising my kids at school in a silly costume, then gathering with extended family for trick-or-treating, dinner and Monster Mash dancing. Cortney Fries
Each year we trickor-treat with all of our cousins together. Then we head home for the kids to sort their goodies while we eat my brother’s delicious chili to warm up. Megan Murray Elsener
Watching the heartwarming classics from my childhood! Between “The Worst Witch” and “The Halloween That Almost Wasn’t,” the low-budget special effects make me a happy little mummy. Keely Flynn
We love making family costumes and trick or treating, then celebrating my mom’s birthday! Samantha Schultz
Jacquinete Baldwin, Javier Govea IT AND DIGITAL DEVELOPER
Mike Risher CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Megan Murray Elsener, Sara Fisher, Keely Flynn, Cortney Fries, Caitlin Murray Giles, Samantha Schultz, 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 Butler CREDIT 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.
Laurie Myers PUBLISHER Dan Haley VP/OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
Andrew Johnston
COMPTROLLER Ed Panschar FOUNDERS Natalie Goodman,
Carolyn Jacobs
HOW TO REACH US 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 (708) 386-5555 ChicagoParent.com EDITORS
chiparent@chicagoparent.com TO FIND A COPY
circulation@chicagoparent.com ADVERTISING
dhaley@wjinc.com
Chicago Parent is published monthly by Wednesday Journal, Inc. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Chicago Parent, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL, 60302. © 2015 Wednesday Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.
10 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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ChicagoParent.com October 2015 11
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c i A q g u a t n i h t y r Eve nder one ro o f u
S
ATE R W T AL
F R E S H WAT E R
November 6-8, 2015 | Chicago, Illinois Schaumburg Convention Center
Over 60,000 Sq Ft of Exhibits & Displays + Gator Encounters + Octopus Display + Piranha Display + Touch Tank + Kid’s Aquarium Contest + Aquascape Contest + Caricature & Illustration + Face Painting + Free Floor Education + Raffle Booth and More! www.aquaticexperience.org
BUY TICKETS NOW http://aquaticexperience.org/tickets 12 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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ON THE WEB
Halloween Central and more
W
e love Halloween and fall, and you will know that’s true when you check out ChicagoParent.com this m month. th Here are five things you’ll discover:
1
The best pla places to find the giant orange gourd of your you dreams, plus apples, apple doughnuts aand apple pie and all the other o ot her tastes of the season that you crave. (There’s even a rroundup of cool places to get spice latte fix and a recipe for your pumpkin sp you to make an amazingly delicious apple pie bag.) in a paper ba
3 4
Ideas for what to do with all of that Halloween candy (besides hiding it)..
ams A fun quiz. Assistant Editor Emily Adams is our quiz queen and she’s cooking up p something fun in her cauldron just for you. Make sure to visit the week before Halloween.
5
Lots to win this month. We’ll have movie tickets galore, including to Pan,, The Peanuts Movie and Goosebumps, plus some special surprises you’ll only know about if you sign up for our weekly newsletters ers (hint, hint).
2
DIY Halloween party ideas, make-it-yourself costumes (including some really crazy Chicago-themed get-ups like the Asian carp), Halloween dessert recipes, plus dozens des and dozens of events to get your spook on all month.
THE PLAYING FIELD FOR LIFE Experience It Sep 29 – Jan 10, 2016
DISCOVER THE TRANSFORMATIONAL POWER OF PLAY
Our newest traveling exhibit lets you jump into a variety of creative adventure scenes and an “action star training center.” Each activity station provides an imaginative setting where you can try out surfing, snowboarding, dancing, or climbing. Learn how to have fun while you get fit for life!
2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview | (847) 832-6600 | kcmgc.org ChicagoParent.com October 2015 13
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run like a
girl
soirée
Join Girls on the Run supporters and fellow fitness enthusiasts for a very special evening at the Drake Hotel on October 30. This year’s event (formerly known as the Sparkle & Shine Gala) has been completely reimagined and must not be missed!
10.30.15 8 p.m. to midnight
The Drake hoTel 140 East Walton Street Chicago
All funds raised at the Soirée will help support the life-changing Girls on the Run programming throughout Chicagoland. • Live music courtesy of Spoken Four • Enhanced food stations, beer, wine and cocktails • Live and silent auctions featuring the best items in sports, fitness and adventure • And more!
gotrchicago.org
|
#GoTrCSoiree
|
#runlikeaGirl
Tickets on sale now at https://gotrc.wufoo.com/forms/2015-run-like-a-girl-soiree. $150 for Soirée admission. Purchase by 9/7 for an early bird price of $125. For more information, call 773-342-1250 or email asiddula@gotrchicago.org.
About Girls on the Run Girls on the Run is a non-profit after-school program that uses the power of running to educate and prepare 3rd8th grade girls for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living. The program combines training for a 5k event with interactive lessons that encourage positive physical and social-emotional development. This work is made possible by the commitment of individuals, corporations, and foundations who believe in our mission, our work and our girls.
14 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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PHOTOS BY TK PHOTOGRAPHY
u 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 4
u Windy City Fieldhouse u 2367 W. Logan Blvd., Chicago
It’s time to
play
u $3 kids under 2, $6 kids 2 and older, free adults u chicagoparent.com
The Chicago Parent Playdate is the can’t miss event of the fall
D
on’t miss the event all the cool parents at the playground will be talking about: We are hosting the playdate to rule them all. Imagine a place where your kids have so much fun they never want the day to end, where you can get valuable information from Chicago schools, healthcare professionals, camps and more, and where you don’t have to dish out your entire bank account to fund the fun. That place will be the oh-so-fun
Windy City Fieldhouse on Oct. 4, which tranforms for an entire day dedicated to family fun for Chicago Parent readers. The entertainment lineup includes Chicago favorites such as Mary Macaroni, Miss Jamie’s Farm, Twisticity, Storytown Improv, Storybook Princesses, Medieval Times, Bubbles Academy
Good to go
Chicago Parent Playdate
and more. With rides, games, arts and crafts and live kindie music, kids of all ages and interests will be giddy roaming through this massive event. Think your baby might be too young to join in on the fun? Wrong. Visit our very special Hey Baby playroom, where activities, information and fun will be all about the baby love. Emily Adams
ChicagoParent.com October 2015 15
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GOOD TO GO
Little ghouls get out to play New Chicago event promises tons of family fun
I
t’s the scariest time of the year, but the new Halloween Gathering on the Chicago Cultural Mile is turning it into scary amounts of fun for kids of all ages. For the first time, Chicagoland families gather for a day-long festival where city favorites such as The Field Museum, Art Institute of Chicago, the Silent Theatre Company and others band together for an explosion of spooky fun. On Oct. 24, cruise the Cultural Mile while getting your craft on at mask-making workshops and viewing dance and theater performances and displays of artistry. Throughout the afternoon, families can march in the children’s costume parade in Maggie Daley Park on the ribbon, take part in a workshop in Millennium Park and view a zombie-tastic performance of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” on stage. The grand finale will be a lantern-lit parade where performers will dance, play music and entertain spectators. Emily Adams
is part of your favorite social networks
Find us on Facebook Join the Twitter party! Follow us @ChicagoParent On Pinterest pinterest.com/chiparent
16 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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GOOD TO GO
Halloween prep at the Wishcraft
S
titch maven? Glitterphobic? This Halloween, Wishcraft Workshop has all crafters covered better than a Charlie Brown ghost sheet with classes for the artistically adept to the “I think I just glued my thumb to my finger” set. Like to plan ahead? Reserve a spot in one of the wildly popular Sew Spooky Weekend Wonders to create a one-ofa-kind costume. Or if the adrenaline rush of a lastminute felt frenzy toasts your pumpkin seeds, the Costume Rx workshop just prior to Halloween can elevate your kid’s dress-up pieces into the stuff of schoolyard legend. The intensely cool North Center studio offers Freaky Friday (dropoff!) sessions for grades K-5 from 4-5 p.m. Pre-registration required. Focusing
monster-shaped welcome, while Mask-er Aid is a nice treat for tricks of the trade. Offspring not sure what side they’re on this year? Heroes vs. Villains will narrow it down—and gear them to the nines. Not-Sew-Spooky Softies lets your cuddlier kids craft any manner of fanciful stuffed friend. And if stitch anxiety is holding you (or them) back, fret not. Because the staff is not only talented, but they’re exceedingly kind. Which, as my kids can attest, is pretty great when one’s mother falls into the “glued fingers” category. Keely Flynn
Wishcraft Workshop u 3907 N. Damen Ave., Chicago u (773) 348-9474 (WISH)
on the specific aspects of the candy-happy holiday, these workshops run the gamut— Boo Banners lets kiddos spell out a
u wishcraftworkshop.com
The Magical Journey begins here...
Your child will be captivated with our unique Fairytale Ballet program featuring cherished childhood literature that comes to life each week with exquisite costumes, props, classical music and ballet education. Every week a new fairytale with costumes awaits! ®
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& Academy ChicagoParent.com October 2015 17
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BEST IN CHI
Best places to
get a strike
I’ve found that bowling is a st great sport for kids of most ages, with the right level of friendly competition and no need for major bility. (I come athletic ability. g from a long nline of nonathletes.) SARA R. FISHER So here are my favorite spots to ready, set, strike!
1
Pinstripes 435 E. Illinois St.; pinstripes.com/chicago I checked out Pinstripes on a whim on a random Saturday night, not knowing quite what to expect. What we found was a kid’s paradise fit with a special
kiddie menu, computerized bumper lanes and a deck over the Chicago River. Pinstripes in River East also boasts a Sunday brunch with a waffle station and chocolate fountain. On Sundays after 5 p.m., kids 12 and under eat for half price with the purchase of an adult entrée. And last but not least, Pinstripes offers a Tots Playtime 10 a.m.-noon every Monday-Friday where kids 12 and under bowl for $3 per child per game with a $5 shoe rental and parents bowl free.
2
10pin 330 N. State St.; 10pinchicago.com You may think 10pin is only for adults, but the River North bowling staple offers lots for tots besides special child-weight balls and bumpers. Especially when it comes to the kids’ birthday parties, 10pin is the place. Rates for regular bowling are $4.95 per game before 5 p.m. and it opens at the kid-friendly hour of noon every day.
3
Waveland Bowl 3700 N. Western Ave.; wavelandbowl.com Styled like a retro diner from the outside, the best part of Waveland Bowl for kids is when the lights go down and the music goes up. Waveland is known for its rock-and-bowl atmosphere. At 3-5 p.m. Fridays and 1-3 p.m. Sundays, it becomes Kidzone Cosmic, with tunes spun just for the little ones. Better yet, 9 a.m.-noon, games are only $1, perfect for the preschooler set.
18 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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THREE TO SEE
3 experiences that will
bring on the wows
1
If you’re jonesing for a classically autumnal endeavor, then hop aboard the Morton Arboretum’s Acorn Express, mortonarb.org. Offering one-hour tram rides, this narrated tour winds through 1,700 acres of woodlands, wetlands and prairies. Additionally, certain short members of my family insist that the Children’s Garden is a must-explore. There’s always some kind of interactive fun as well as winding climbing structures, treetop lookouts and the splashy Wonder Pond— making it easily one of the loveliest (and most permissive) green spaces in Chicagoland.
2
Think your son would be a natural with software development? Have a daughter crazy for construction? Hot on the heels of their successful summer camps, Lincoln Square’s Bit Space,
bitspacechicago.com, will offer a multitude of sessions this fall for families. Billed as “part shop class, part computer lab, part design school, [and] completely creative,” techniques range from the traditional to the modern (think 3D printing), and everything in between.
3
Want to vacation with the family on Chicago’s glorious Mag Mile? The InterContinental Chicago, icchicagohotel.com, has a few tricks up its well-appointed sleeves. The Kid-Friendly Package includes a Nintendo Wii in each suite and movies the whole fam will dig. Speaking of digging, how does room service Garrett’s Popcorn sound? Kids will flip for tickets to the iconic Navy Pier Ferris wheel and that sweet skyline view and, according to my daughters, it’d be crazy to miss Mag Mile opportunities to see the Bean, the green and the theater scene. Keely Flynn ChicagoParent.com October 2015 19
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Lakeshore Academy of Artistic Gymnastics Call today to enroll for Fall classes! Classes for ages 6 months through adults
Call Us Today! Downtown Chicago 937 W. Chestnut Street 312.563.9400
Mt. Prospect 520 E. Business Center Drive 847.376.8826
lakeshoreacademy.com 20 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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hauntings Sweet gore Dylan’s Candy Bar has plenty of scream-worthy orthy treats this year, including these adorable cookies, okies, $8, and creepy, crawly candy such as the gory ry but super sweet Zombie Bloody Bone Pretzels, ls, $12, and gummy body parts, $17. In-store events are planned, so check the events page at dylanscandybar.com. 445 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago
Devil’s done good D goood Magnolia olia Bakery does orange and black with a yum. Not only will it have classic chocolate and vanilla cupcakes dressed up for tthe holiday, but the bakery is also creating a devil’s food Boo! al cupcake filled with an orangecup tinted, white chocolate truffle filling tinted scary sweet for $3.50. The Boo that is sc Meringues pictured here will be a hit at Meringue $2. 108 N. State St., Chicago
6 cute and cheap Halloween costumes Don’t want to dress your baby as an animal or pumpkin for Halloween? Try these unexpected and inexpensive DIY costumes: 1 Jersey Shore: Track suit, sweatband, gold chain, sunglasses. 2 Risky Business: White button-down, high socks, sunglasses, diaper. iaper. 3 Frosty the Snowman: White te onepiece onesie, scarf, small black k top hat. 4 Charlie Brown: Black shorts, ts, shoes/ socks, yellow T-shirt with a black zig-zag zag cut-out. 5 Old Lady: Shawl, glasses, blouse, skirt, costume jewelry, welry, cane, lipstick. 6 Richard Simmons: Shorts, leg warmers, frizzy wig and tank top that says, “Sweating to the oldies!” Jill Ceder, 30 Second Mom contributorr
Drink your seasonal orb Drinking Ipsento Coffee’s rich, gorgeous, painstakingly crafted pumpkin patch latte for $4.25 feels a lot like falling ing in love. Don’t worry, this kind of love jjust might mean a seasonal nal addiction tto made-from-scratch created scratch lattes create with actual al pumpkin, sweetened condensed sed milk and local Jo Snow syrup. p. 2035 N. Western Ave., Chicago Chic icag cag a o ago ag
Need to know
Hints for happy
ChicagoParent.com October 2015 21 Chicago
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COUNTRY FUN WITHOUT LEAVING THE CITY!
AT LINCOLN PARK ZOO CORN MAZE • HAY RIDE FERRIS WHEEL • PUMPKIN PATCH BOUNCE HOUSES • HAY MOUNTAIN HARVEST DÉCOR FOR SALE Fridays–Sundays, October 2–18 & Monday, October 12 10 a.m.–5 p.m. For more information, visit www.lpzoo.org/fallfest #FallFest 22 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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HEY BABY
Before you PUSH
I
n October, Bump Club and Beyond’s BCBumps Expectant Moms Dinner covers Labor, Delivery and the Secrets of the First Weeks at home. Part of this preparation for moms-to-be (and a question often asked) is ‘What do I pack in my hospital bag?’ While a checklist lives at bumpclubandbeyond.com, some of our favorites (which are often not thought about) include:
Lip balm No one tells you this beforehand, but it is VERY dry in the hospital. Be prepared with your favorite lip balm. (Eos and good old Vaseline are favorites at BCB.)
Big bath towel & pillow The towels are small, and extra pillows can be hard to come by in the hospital. Bring your own for maximum comfort while you’re there. (If you’re planning on nursing, grab your nursing pillow, too. This way you can have the hospital lactation consultants help you out in the exact manner you plan to feed at a home.)
Flip flops You won’t want bare feet when you are at the hospital. This includes your time in the shower. Flip flops and slippers are easy to slip on to go to the bathroom or to take ke a walk to try to get moving before you go home.
Nursing tank N
Personal effects
Loose-fitting clothing for mom A lot of people don’t talk about the fact that you are not back to your pre-baby clothes when you walk out of the hospital. Often mom is swollen, uncomfortable and still bleeding. It’s important to bring comfy clothes for your stay and your way home. Loose fitting pants and zip-up sweatshirts are easy for nursing. The Nursing Poncho by Molly Ades (mollyadesmaternity.com) is portable and great for your hospital stay and afterwards. If you get any cute pajamas at your shower, save them for when you get home.
No matter where you deliver, the hospital is no Four Seasons Hotel. Read: d: bring your own toiletries.. You will want them after baby is born for when you u shower, or just to make you feel more comfortable during your stay. You u can pick up trial sizes at Target or Walgreens, or Push Pack (pushpack.com) makes a prepackaged bag filled with all of the personal items you need.
This will become a wardrobe staple once w wa baby arrives. Nursing ba b tanks ta an are easy, provide coverage and support, cov ve and—most importantly— and d— aree iincredibly comfortable. ab ble Bravado’s Essential Nursing Tank (bravadNu ur odesigns.com) od iss hands-down the best. h
Photo accessories for baby Grab a cute hat or blanket to personalize your baby’s first photoshoot! Twinkle Twinkle Little One (2007 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago) has a great selection including this football hat, which also comes in pink. 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 October 2015 23
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9/11/15 4:04 PM
GOOD SENSE EATING
Keep it or toss it?
CHRISTINE PALUMBO
My friend, Gail, called me with a question: “I have a container of eggs in my refrigerator with a sell-by date of two weeks ago. Are they safe to eat?” I get a lot of food and nutrition questions from friends and family, but how long food can be kept is the top query. Cooks want to stay safe, yet they don’t want to throw away perfectly good food.
Surprisingly, food scientists agree that many foods, if stored properly, can be consumed for days or even weeks past the package date. A 2013 study out of Harvard Law School and the Natural Resources Defense Fund found consumers falsely believe sell-by and best-by dates indicate food safety. Fact: Manufacturers often decide on their own how to calculate shelf life—and they’re basically a guess. These dates confuse consumers, leading many to throw out food before it actually goes bad. What the terms mean: Sell-by. These are used to tell retailers how long to display a food. While you should buy it before this date, the food can still be eaten after it. For example, milk has no off-flavor up to five days after its sell-by date and can be consumed until then. Best-by. These are based on sensory evaluations by product developers and do not reflect food safety. Use-by. These dates indicate the last day of peak food quality. Food stored properly is not necessarily unsafe to eat after this date, according to the United States Department of Agriculture.
How long is it good? Lunch meat. Three days for freshsliced meats. Ditto for prepackaged deli meats once you open them. Ground meat. Cook within one to two days of purchase. After cooking, three to four days. Leftovers or prepared foods. Four days in the fridge. Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria linked to food-borne illness, can grow at refrigerator temperatures as low as 40 degrees. Packaged cookies and crackers. If they have a paint-like smell or taste, their oils have turned rancid and should be tossed. It’s important to note food-borne illness (aka food poisoning) comes from bacterial contamination and not spoilage. Eyeballing and sniffing just detects the presence of spoilage microorganisms, not necessarily food pathogens. Most of the organisms in food that can make you sick do not create slime, stink and smell. Common sense dictates if a food looks moldy or smells awful, it’s time to toss. Gail was relieved when I reassured her that eggs, if kept refrigerated, should last at least three to five weeks after the sell-by date stamped on the carton.
Spinach Wild Rice Salad Makes 6 servings Ingredients 1 pouch Uncle Ben’s Ready Rice Jasmine Rice 1 pouch Uncle Ben’s Ready Rice Brown, Red, Black Rice 1 pouch Uncle Ben’s ready whole grain medley Brown & Wild 4 cups baby spinach 2 cups cherry tomatoes, cut in half 1 cup crumbled goat cheese 6 Tbsp. balsamic vinaigrette
Directions Prepare rice according to package directions. Refrigerate and cool until just before serving.
1
2
For each serving of salad, toss 1/2 cup cooled rice with 1 cup baby spinach, 1/2 cup cherry tomato halves, 2 ounces crumbled goat cheese and 1 Tbsp. balsamic vinaigrette. Adapted from unclebens.com
Nutrition per servings: 310 calories, 43 g carbohydrate (2 g sugar), 9 g protein, 12 g fat (3.5 saturated fat), 4 g fiber, 670 mg sodium, 60% DV vitamin A, 30% DV vitamin C, 10% DV iron and 8% DV calcium.
Christine M. Palumbo, RD, is a Naperville-based nutritionist. Follow her on Twitter @PalumboRD, Facebook at Christine Palumbo Nutrition or ChristinePalumbo.com.
ChicagoParent.com ChicagoParent com October 2015 25
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9/10/15 3:56 PM
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26 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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MOMS OF THE MONTH but how rewarding it is in the end. Heather: What your children are really capable of. The things that I hear and see my children doing, I am surprised every day by them and the things they can accomplish. Best advice for other moms: Heather: Things aren’t as bad as you think they are. I just have to step back and find the humor, find the positive. When things sound dark and gloomy, look at your kids. Kate: Don’t be so hard on yourself. I got that as a new mom, put too much pressure on myself. Work on going with the flow.
The storytelling moms
{M.O.M}
Kate Ryan and Heather McCarthy
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u Kate Ryan u Husband, Kevin; Mae, 3, second child due at the end of this month u Lemont u Seventh-grade language arts teacher at Oak Lawn Hometown Middle School u Heather McCarthy
What superhero power do you wish you had? Kate: Invisibility power for the simple fact to be that fly on the wall and observing, watching other people when they don’t know … to have the ability to take it all in. Heather: I would like healing powers. It would be nice if you could make the world a better place.
Special stories for special kids When Heather McCarthy’s daughter started school, she was a bit more worried than most moms. While Maya looks like every other little girl, she has a rare metabolic condition that puts her in danger. So McCarthy created a picture book to help everyone at school understand Maya’s needs. When she told fellow teacher Kate Ryan about it, she found an enthusiastic partner. “Do you know how many people need a book like that?” she remembers Ryan telling her. From there, the start-up business, Someone Special Uniquely Personalized Books, bloomed. They feel the personalized books meant to be shared in the classroom help the child feel more comfortable among classmates. “Kids are just naturally so curious, and this is an easy way to ease into those conversations and talk about what makes people unique,” Ryan says. Visit someonespecialbooks.com to see the 12 books available to personalize, ranging from autism to Down syndrome to allergies. “When you are a special needs parent, it’s a whole different kind of normal. Nothing is quite like everyone else. To have something that just kind of levels the playing field and your child feels just like everyone else, it’s a great feeling,” McCarthy says.
u Husband, Robert; Maya, 5, Christian, 2
>>
u Oak Lawn
u Seventh-grade language arts teacher at Oak Lawn Hometown Middle School
Biggest surprise as a parent: Kate: The challenges that are thrown at you and then how the end result ends up being so rewarding. I’m surprised about how challenging it can be,
An easy, healthy fall treat
Crunchy, delicious pumpkin seeds are packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals and numerous health-promoting antioxidants. They aren’t hard to prepare, especially if you’re already carving pumpkins with your kids. Just scoop out the insides and pick out the seeds. Rinse in water to remove the leftover pumpkin. Dry overnight on a cooking sheet. Lightly coat with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle with salt. Cook at 350 degrees 10-15 minutes and watch carefully so they don’t burn. Cool and enjoy! Christie Gosch, 30 Second Mom contributor
ChicagoParent.com October 2015 27
9/10/15 1:25 PM
REGISTER TODAY! 9TH ANNUAL 5K RUN/WALK SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2015, 8 AM ADDAMS PARK | 1301 W. 14TH ST. | CHICAGO The Pilsen race route takes you through some of the most amazing murals in the community.
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28 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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9/10/15 11:41 AM
WELL PLAYED
Fall in love this fall Play with YOUR home work Running a household requires a lot of organization and a good filing system. I happen to work from home as well, so the paper trail can be downright overwhelming. In my quest to find office supplies that could do the heavy lifting and still be pretty MEREDITH SINCLAIR enough to have around, I have fallen hard for the Kate Spade New York office collection from Paper Source. With sturdy file folders, binder clips, planners, notebooks and desk accessories, you can make your homework a lot more chic and playful. $7.95-$38, papersource.com
Play with your family I am always on the lookout for new ways to play with the family, especially as the weather starts to turn chilly and we’re spending more time inside. Marbles the Brain Store is one of my go-to shops for clever games and toys that get everyone playing together. Their new game, Tugie, is an inventive balancing game that has players rolling a die to determine which color block to tug from the “tugie tower” without making the other blocks come tumbling down. The player with the least amount of fallen pieces at the end of the game wins. Simple and addictive. $29.99, marblesthebrainstore.com
Play in the tub Those that know me (really) well know that I am OBSESSED with my bathtub. I take a hot bath every night without fail and sometimes in the morning as well. Bath time is where I center myself, meditate, pray, have my best ideas and fully relax. I inherited this love of the tub from my mom, who often sends me goodies to make my soak even more special. Recently she gifted me with the most delicious “tub treats” from Smitten. These bath bombs and salts resemble yummy cupcakes, ice cream cones, milkshakes and candy confections and dissolve with a fizz into your bath. They sooth muscles, soften skin and leave you smelling sweet. And they look adorable on the side of your tub, too! $5.50-$13, feelingsmitten.com
Play for yourself With all of the “busy” our parenting lives entail, it’s vital that we take a little time to play just for ourselves. This is a fun splurge for us grownups that will turn neighborhood errand running and spins around the subdivision into a play date for one. The Razor EcoSmart Metro is an electric scooter made especially for us big folk. It holds up to 220 pounds and goes up to 18 mph. It’s got a comfy padded seat, steel frames and bamboo deck, and comes with a luggage rack and a basket. It also has a nearly silent motor for stealth missions to the fall farmers market. You deserve a little kicked-up playtime, too. $450, available at amazon.com, Target and Toys “R” Us ChicagoParent.com October 2015 29
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Would you like to work at Chicago Parent? Business Manager for independent, entrepreneurial publishing company Wednesday Journal, Inc., a community and niche publishing company with deep roots and a nimble THERE’S FUN TO approach to our quick changing industry, is hiring a Business Manager to join our leadership team. BE HAD This is a part-time position - 25 to 30 hours -- with both responsibility and flexibility. Work in our Oak ‘He saved Park offices with our staff of 40 dedicated and hard-working colleagues. my life’ One mom’s • Responsible for financial/accounting management including billing, collections, accounts payable, breast cancer story payroll, taxes, end of the month close. BE • Budgeting and forecasting BRAVE How to We are at the start of a notable conversion to new management and accounting software. We empower your kids need someone with an enthusiastic, solution oriented response to change. We need a leader and a collaborator to help us grow in a time of change. CELEBRATIONS We are community focused and driven and publish in print and digitally in four near west suburban and West Side neighborhoods. We are the publishers of Chicago Parent, the top niche product in print, digital, social and events for young Chicago families. We want a person to bring their experience and have impact in our independently owned company. Do you see the big picture and know how to make it work in the details? We have no pigeon holes, so would you be energized by an extended range of duties? Are you ready to have your experience and ideas valued, to work with enthusiastic colleagues to see them implemented? Have you learned as much when you have failed as when you have had success? Salary in the range of...$35K based on your experience and skills. Send us your resume and a cover letter explaining why this job appeals to you. Contact: Dan Haley Publisher dhaley@wjinc.com OCTOBER
2015 | FREE
CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES
Chicago Parent Playdate Oct. 4
Time for our big birthday party planner
CP_Cover_October_2015.indd 5
Falls, Trips, Bumps?
9/9/15 4:25 PM
WE NURTURE GREATNESS How a future big thinker learns, plays and communicates continually evolves. We teach children at their own pace and turn every moment into a brilliant learning experience. Kiddie Academy ® Life Essentials® nurtures individual potential in unique, developmentally appropriate ways, through:
Difficulty with Drawing or Dressing? Does your child have more difficulty with fine or gross motor skills than peers? Needed: 4½ toto 6½ years old Needed:children childrenages ages 4½ 7 years
Your child’s voluntary participation in this research study will help us understand: • How well children balance when standing and performing light activities • How children use sensory information from their eyes, feet and inner ear to balance • If there is a relationship between balance and a child’s motor skill performance Who can participate? Children 4½ years to 7 years of age with and without motor difficulties Children with motor difficulties may not have a diagnosis of autism, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or an orthopedic condition that impacts motor skill performance Where does my child participate and how long does it take? • •
The tests will be completed at a location convenient for you and will take approximately 60-70 minutes. What are the benefits?
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Your child will help therapists effectively utilize a test of standing balance for use with children with and without motor problems and better understand the relationship between balance and motor skills. How can I learn more? •
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30 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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9/11/15 10:33 AM
CRAFT
Paper Pumpkin ornaments Easy craft to brighten your fall windows dows STORY AND PHOTOS BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER
W
ith materials you already have around the house, these adorable paper pumpkins are the ideal craft for a chilly fall afternoon. Make just one or make enough to fill all the windows in your house for a festive fall feel.
Directions
1
3
Cut an orange sheet of construction paper into 1-inch-wide strips, so that each strip will be 1 inch by 11 inches.
2
Cut the strips into different lengths to create the pumpkin. You need two 11-inch pieces, two 9-inch pieces, two 7-inch pieces and one 6-inch piece.
Lay out the seven strips with the largest strips on the outside, and work your way in to the smallest in the middle. Gather the strips of paper together with the ends flush at one end, and secure with a paper clip or staple.
4
Line up the opposite ends of the paper together, and secure with a paper clip or staple at the top. It should pumpkin. take the shape of the round pu
5
Cut a strip of brown pape paper to around a make a stem. Wrap it aro pencil to create a curl, cu and then secure at the top with the paper cclip or staple.
Supplies u Green, orange and brown construction paper u Paper clips or stapler u Scissors u String
6
Cut out tw two leaves from the g green paper, and add to the top of the pumpkin.
7
Add a piece of stri string at the top, and hang to enjoy.
ChicagoParent.com October 2015 31
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9/10/15 11:42 AM
Have You been
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A must see, must do adventure....
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WHEN THEY’RE TUNING YOU OUT. T:4.875”
NEVER GIVE UP UNTIL THEY BUCKLE UP. VISIT SAFERCAR.GOV/KIDSBUCKLEUP 32 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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9/11/15 11:32 AM
FAILING WITH GUSTO
October skies, October lies
The enormity and pressures of October have been on a steep, nerve-racking trajectory over the last several years. When I spot that first decorative scarecrow of the season, I must fight the urge to torch the sucker. The Wicked Witch of the West got a bum rap in my book. I stand with Elphaba. This growing aversion to what was once a childhood highpoint cannot be traced to a single annoyance or repressed memory. It is rather a cornucopia of disaster, riddled with one pitfall after the next:
The pumpkin patch Before I had kids, I thought a pumpkin patch was a farm you stopped at for about 10 minutes and picked out a couple of gourds. ourds. Rookie mistake. A visit can an run you several hundred dollars ollars for entry fees, rides, food ood and (if you remember), those hose godforsaken pumpkins. The only thing more pressing ng than the cost is the burden to capture that perfect pumpkin patch atch moment. I once witnessed a family mily arriving with a professional photographer hotographer and makeup artist in tow. Sadly, my photos chronically hronically document one kid d blinking, one kid scowling owling and one kid refusing fusing to hold still. Epic patch fail.
Football Growing up in Chicago, it is understood that football is practically a religion. I am well-versed in screaming things like “Kill that guy!” or “Destroy their quarterback!” But now that I have a son playing the sport? I consider all the players just wee lads in need of some mothering and neurosis. My new chants include “Watch out for traumatic brain injury!” and “Keep the cerebral spinal fluid intact!” My husband refuses to sit next to me and the other parents try not to make eye contact.
Halloween With my children always too tall for age-appropriate costumes, I have been forced to peruse the Sexy Nurse/Killer Zombie rack for years. Then there is the treat issue. My boys lobby hard to hand out candy, while I prefer the safer and more inclusive route of cheap trinkets. The one time I stocked up on a year’s worth of Halloweenthemed yo-yos and erasers? A notice came back from the public school requesting sensitivity toward those not celebrating the holiday. The harder I tryy to g get it right, g , the more I screw up. Topping things off, my favorite grandfather gran died in October a long time ago, but I still associate the month with my first serif ous loss. My husband’s mother also mot Halloween, and died at 55 on Halloween despite never having known day I wish her, there is not a da she weren’t here. For me, October is the taker of warmth and d destroyer of sun. No, I do not llove October, but my kids sure do. So I play along. For them, I will plant the scarec scarecrow will buy in the front lawn. I w paper clips as treats. I will payment at drop a mortgage pa the patch. I will w work my taint them. hardest not to tai And I will pray they fall for it. Marianne Walsh is a Chi Chicago mom more? Go to of three boys. Want mo ChicagoParent.com aand webandofmothers.blogspot.com webandofmothers.bl
Talk back
MARIANNE WALSH
Gentle autumn breezes and bright seasonal foliage are supposed to be relaxing. Instead, I view them as subterfuge. People who try to market fall as the perfect season are extremely suspect (or have much better prescription drugs than I do). The worst month of them all? October. October blows.
ChicagoParent.com October 2015 33 ChicagoPa
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9/10/15 11:42 AM
VOICE: ERIN KISSICK
What’s for dinner? Fight leads to flight and something more
M
y husband and I were in the middle of a heated discussion about dinner— specifically, that he was getting bored with my repertoire—when my 5-year-old daughter came in, asked what we were having, then calmly said, “I don’t really like that.” I threw the spoon I was holding in the sink and stalked outside. Halfway down the driveway I realized I wasn’t wearing shoes—the blacktop was glittering after the recent rain but still radiating heat into my skin. I was too irritated to walk back in and grab my sandals, though. I stepped over the retaining wall into the wet grass. To get to our backyard, I had to cut through the neighbor’s yard and cross the bridge over the drainage ravine. Someone on a lawnmower another house over waved to me, barefoot and still fuming, and I returned the greeting self-consciously. The path over the bridge and around the ravine led through a heavilytrafficked area by a baseball diamond, dotted with broken glass. I watched where I put my feet carefully. I crouched in the wet grass and
picked a fistful of white clover. When I returned to the house, my daughter asked if they were for her. “Sure,” I told her. The next afternoon, she committed some small rebellion and sprinted out the front door. I had to chase her down the driveway to the backyard, my bare feet slapping against the hot blacktop. She was dodging back and forth, smirking nervously at me. I sighed. I was about to grab her and haul her back inside, but instead I paused. “Come listen to the water in the ravine. It rained more last night.” Barefoot, we walked along the edge of the ravine in the wet grass and followed its path all the way under the baseball diamond into the trees on the other side of the field, where it emerged from underground into a thick growth of trees. Mud squished between our toes and we crouched on velvety moss to peer under the branches at a little waterfall. She found a hawk feather. I
Mud squished between our toes and we crouched on velvety moss to peer under the branches at a little waterfall. swallowed my impulse to jerk her hands back from the certainly disease-ridden object and instead reminded her to wash her hands before touching her face. By the time we got home, our feet were stained green and gray, but in one hand she held the hawk feather, and in the other hand she held mine. Erin Kissick is a mom living in Lemont.
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www.grins4kids.com 34 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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9/10/15 3:55 PM
VOICE: KATHLEEN THOMETZ
What the Flat Stanley
project taught my family
M
any first- and secondgraders across the country participate in a Flat Stanley Project, based on the book by Jeff Brown. I’ll be honest; I read the book as a child and did not like it. I found it distressing that Flat Stanley was injured by a bulletin board in his own bedroom. On top of that, I was disturbed that his parents would put him in an envelope with only an egg salad sandwich and mail him across the country. The project is meant to promote letter writing amongst school children around the world. Three of my kids have done Flat Stanley projects. My oldest son was required to send his Flat Stanley with instructions to a relative. That person was required to send a postcard to Peter’s school and then send Flat Stanley on to someone else. As the
mail arrived, the student would plot his Stanley’s course and learn about different states. I was concerned about my boy getting enough postcards. One friend told me that her husband would send them from his business trips. We did the same. Disaster averted. Perhaps the other kids just lucked out as their Stanleys traveled the country and the world, but my second child’s Stanley only made it to two cities. We chose not to intercede. She received two postcards, which caused her distress as she watched the other kids rake in dozens of postcards. I’m not sure what she learned, except that life can be disappointing and not fair at times, unless your parents step in and fix it. I guess that’s OK for a first-grader. By the time my last kid was doing his Flat Stanley assignment, he was required to send his Flat Stanley to one family and they had to keep a journal and send it back to him. I imagine this latest version of the project was due to the experiences of students, like my older children, who did not get many postcards. What did this last version of the project teach my kid? Nothing. I did not even give him the chance to pick the family. I chose my sister because I knew she would embrace the task. She carried Stanley all over New York with her kids. She took pictures and made a journal. She then spent a lot of money to overnight it to us to get it to the school on time for my son’s presentation. When it arrived, my son barely looked at the journal. Because he had no skin in the game, he didn’t really care about the project. I hadn’t thought much about Flat Stanley until I read a recent article about a little boy in Arkansas, Alan Orduna, who sent his Flat Stanley to a soldier in Iraq in 2004, never to be heard from again. Orduna’s Stanley
Flat Stanley didn’t thrill Kathleen’s youngest.
Perhaps the other kids just lucked out as their Stanleys traveled the country and the world, but my second child’s Stanley only made it to two cities. ended up with a soldier named Brian Owens, who kept him in his wallet. Stanley stayed with Owens through many adventures including warfare, death, divorce, job losses and raising children. When Owens found Stanley folded in his wallet after 10 years, he looked at him as an unfinished mission. He had no address for Orduna but hoped that fate would intervene, which it did. He found some correspondence with Orduna’s teacher’s name and contacted her. They connected and reunited Stanley with Orduna, along with a lengthy narrative of Stanley’s adventures. It hit home for me after reading this article. I wondered how Orduna’s mom handled his probable disappointment. Did she send in postcards to soften the blow? Did the little boy get upset when the other kids got their postcards and he didn’t get any? Or did his mom say, “Hey, sometimes stuff doesn’t work out the way we planned? Life is about the journey, not the destination. Give it time, maybe you will hear from your soldier.” I hope she didn’t interfere, because it makes this story so much sweeter. Good things come to those who wait. Kathleen Thometz is an artist, a writer and a founder of Doodle Art & Design, a mobile art program. She has one husband, four children and three doodle dogs.
ChicagoParent.com October 2015 35
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VIVA DADDY
COLOR THE TOWN PINK
The age of fear
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October is the month in which we celebrate Fear: Fear of Ghosts, Fear of Ghouls, Fear of suddenly possessing inordinate quantities of Fun Size chocolate bars. You’ll need to shepherd your little one through a month of scary decorations, scary masks and scary commercials for rushed-to-production “Paranormal Activity” sequels—not to mention all the normal fears children have.
And don’t they have a lot of fears? Viva has been a particularly “fraidy” cat lately. From the villains of nearly every movie aimed at her age group, to every sound our house can make, to a number of her toys and mine (Sorry, Carol Channing Ventriloquist Dummy, it’s back in the closet with you), a dearth of perspective plus a surplus of imagination equals a lot of fear in a tiny body. They don’t know what’s possible, or, more importantly, they don’t know what’s impossible, so everything from normal social interactions to book illustrations could lead to something terrifying. But it’s not just your children that have brought more fear into the house, is it? Fear has a new name in my world, and it is Fatherhood. From the moment I was shown a stick that had turned pink, I’ve experienced fear like I’ve never known. Fear of not being able to provide for my family, fear of being an unsupportive husband, fear of emotionally damaging my child. Not to mention fear of all the things in this world that could hurt my child: BPAs, UVBs, GMOs, HBO, shark attacks, anti-vaxx, Princess Culture and dropside cribs.
If being little is scary, being big is downright horrific. The good news? Being afraid means having something to lose. When in life aren’t we afraid?: When we’re teenagers who don’t know how good we have it and when we’re centenarians tapping our foot waiting for the Reaper. Any
ILLUSTRATION BY STEPHEN SCHUDLICH
other time, we’re counting our blessings and checking under the bed for boogeymen. So, let’s celebrate Fear—with shrieking graveyard scenes and bat-shaped cookies, and go to bed knowing our fear is a product of loving our lives and wanting to do right by the people in them. Just in case, though, keep locking both door locks. Viva Fear. Viva Viva. Viva Daddy. Viva is 4. Daddy is about 10x that age. They live happily with Mommy in Chicago.
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REAL PARENTS IN THE TRENCHES
You keep inviting your child’s new friend over to play—both kids are begging— but the parents never commit. What should you do?
A neutral location might work better, or it could be the mother is just overwhelmed. Send an email saying something like, “I’m taking my son to the park around 10. We’d love it if you could meet us.” If that doesn’t work, encourage the relationship as a “school friend.” Lisa Cheruff, Skokie
Keep trying by multiple methods: phone, email, postcards and in person. It could be a scheduling issue. Eventually you may have to give up and gracefully move on. Kate AtkinsTrimnell, Homewood
I’ve realized that not every parent has the flexibility or even desire to host play dates. If it really bothered me, I would encourage my child to switch it up and have a new friend over next time. Gia Lee, Chicago
@
u Want more? Visit ChicagoParent.com/parentpanel
A good ice breaker would be to invite both the parent and child for the play date. Kids can play together while the moms get to know each other. Chely Carrillo, Chicago
Stop asking. Explain to your child that families have many different priorities and commitments. It may be that the family cannot add one more thing to their very full plate. I wouldn’t take it personally. It’s a sign of the times. Kerry Quirin, Chicago
Uh oh, that’s me! I apologize to all parents that I’ve done this to. Sometimes it’s that I’m too busy to commit, sometimes it’s forgetfulness, and sometimes I’m not comfortable letting my child go to your house. On the spot, “We’d love to have Kennedy over on Saturday,” works well, and if that doesn’t work, then it may be time to let it go. Rani Morrison, Oak Park
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‘A bump in the road’
Newly married, pregnant and fighting breast cancer, Miss Lauren focuses on life’s kicks
“He’s already been through a lot. I just hope he knows he has the strength to overcome any obstacles that come in his way.” Lauren Hubert Smoke
BY TAMARA L. O’SHAUGHNESSY PHOTO BY THOMAS KUBIK auren Hubert Smoke found herself in a love-hate tug-of-war. She loved the little olive growing inside her that she had dreamed about for so many years, and she hated the other little olive growing in her that threatened those dreams.
L
Pregnancy wasn’t supposed to be like this, filled with a frightening diagnosis, a lumpectomy to remove the fast-growing tumor from her breast, chemotherapy and worrying, worrying, worrying that somehow her longed-for baby wouldn’t survive it all. “I kept thinking, what did I do wrong, why is this happening to me? I’m a vegetarian, I do yoga, I’m healthy, I’m active, I’m happy,” says Smoke, best known by thousands of Chicago littles as the beloved children’s entertainer, Miss Lauren. “Why is this happening to me? Has it been all of the cupcakes I’ve been eating?” Some of the city’s top breast cancer experts simply can’t answer those questions. Sometimes, they told her, it just happens.
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It’s been quite a year for Lauren and husband Ian, who honeymooned in January. “The craziest year ever,” she corrects. Lauren, 34, wanted to start trying for a baby right away, knowing that it took friends months and sometimes years to get pregnant. Ian was more cautious but game. Who knew she’d get pregnant the first try on their honeymoon? she laughs. By the first week of February, the pregnancy test showed positive.
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“I was really excited because I had wanted this for such a long time, especially working here (a teacher at Bubbles Academy), I’ve had baby fever for years.” Mixed with that excitement were the normal worries, of course. Then at six weeks, she felt a marble-sized lump in her breast. She even made Ian check to make sure she wasn’t crazy. She wasn’t. On March 12, at the eight-week mark of her pregnancy, she had a biopsy. “Most of the doctors I saw said, ‘you’re young, you’re healthy, it’s probably just from your pregnancy,’ so I was feeling optimistic.” The next day, she and Ian saw their baby for the first time. “We were so excited. And then a couple hours after that, I got the call from Northwestern. I could tell as soon as I heard the doctor’s voice that it wasn’t good.” It was breast cancer. “So it just went from being the best day to the worst day like that,” Smoke says. “All I could think of, there’s no way I can keep the baby.” Though she knew she shouldn’t, she turned to Google. When she typed ‘cancer during pregnancy,’ she thankfully first found success stories and got connected right away to another mom who had been through it already thanks to Hope for Two. She also found the bad side of Googling— statistics and poor survival rates. At the end of “the worst weekend ever,” Smoke met with her doctor at the University of Chicago and they made a plan for a lumpectomy and node biopsy the following week, followed by chemo and radiation. “She never once mentioned me having to abort the pregnancy.” At 14 weeks, her baby boy moved. At 15 weeks, she started chemo. “Every time I have a chemo appointment, I worry. That’s why I love the movement so much because I know he’s OK,” she says. At every appointment and every other moment in between, Ian is by her side. “I always hear the first year of marriage is rough and you work things out. He has just blown my mind, he is everything I need him to be even when I didn’t know what that was,” she says.
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Pregnancy hormones plus cancer equal a lot of ups and downs, crying spells that
turn into outrageous laughter. “I’m really lucky,” Smoke decides. She’s cried more happy tears than sad. She’s surrounded by friends and family, and her growing bump keeps her focused on something good and happy. She says her job at Bubbles Academy has been a lifesaver. “You can’t think about cancer when you are in a room full of sweet little toddlers shaking maracas,” she says with a smile. The plan is to get her little guy—whose name is significant to this journey but won’t be announced until he arrives—to term. So far, he’s a little ahead of schedule in size, she says as she touches her stomach for the 14th time in an hour. Her last chemo is set for Oct. 12. On Oct. 13 she’ll be 39 weeks and her OB plans to induce, with everyone hoping to avoid a C-section since Smoke’s immune system is so weak. Four weeks after her son is born, she’ll start radiation to wipe out her fastgrowing triple negative breast cancer that comes with a higher rate of reoccurrence. “I have a baby to focus on. It’s all I want to focus on,” she says. Yet, at night in bed while she tries not to wake Ian with her crying, the cancer hangs over her. “Is it every really over? I don’t know why it happened, so I don’t know how to avoid it coming back,” she says. One of her new friends who had a baby last year and is in remission gave her the perfect analogy to ponder. Cancer is like the story of The Three Little Pigs: You do everything you can to rebuild your house after The Big Bad Wolf blows it down— you do chemo, you think it’s safe—but you never know when he could come back. A self-confessed cupcakeaholic (funfetti is her fave), she plans to go cold turkey once her baby arrives to keep the wolf at bay, just in case.
In her own words The past month or so I’ve been thinking a lot about what this experience really is. Pregnancy and cancer. I still laugh out loud sometimes, barely believing that this is actually happening. Most of the stuff I put on Facebook is positive. It’s just how I roll. ;) And a lot of this experience is happy and positive! I smile every time I feel my baby kick (even when he aims for my bladder, lol). It’s been baby kicks, and hope, and hugs, and care packages, and strength, and baby showers, and kindness and gratitude, and strollers, and belly bump pictures, and pancakes, and silly moments with family and friends, and letting go, and so much love, love, LOVE. But it’s also been body-consuming sobs that the neighbors must have heard, and falling apart in the shower, and fear that doesn’t go away, and anxiety and despair and jealousy, and so many needles, and hospital gowns, and sleepless nights, and waiting rooms, and screaming out loud at the unfairness of it, and anger and guilt and worry, and an itchy scalp, and long, deep sighs of reluctant acceptance. ... I don’t want to live the rest of my life in fear. I’m going through the best and worst experiences of my life at the same time. I refuse to give the crappy cancer side of this more attention than it deserves. I am on the road to becoming a mom!! Excerpt from Smoke’s CaringBridge journal
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Baby Smoke, as people know him through her CaringBridge journal, will come home to a nursery filled with happiness and elephants. Though the elephants are cute, they also represent a bigger meaning: in yoga, the elephant, Ganesha, is the remover of obstacles. Maybe one day he’ll read her journal, she thinks. “He doesn’t know it yet; he’s already been through a lot,” she says. “I just hope he always knows he has the strength to
overcome any obstacles that come in his way. I hope he always knows how much we love him,” she says. “I call him my little warrior. I want to tell him he saved my life.” Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy is Chicago Parent’s editor and mom of three.
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Being brave
One Chicago family shares what it takes
E
BY EMILY ADAMS llie Fontanetta has worn Chuck Taylors almost since birth. She’s owned bright pink pairs, sparkly pairs, red pairs, high tops and low tops. They match her personality: bright, spunky, easy-going. But her dream is to wear high heels.
Ellie, 11, has spina bifida, and the pink braces on her legs make it hard to find shoes that fit. That doesn’t stop her from dreaming of stilettos, though. In fact, Ellie’s spina bifida doesn’t stop her from dreaming at all. “I want to be a teacher … and a doctor … and a … uhhh what else,” she ponders, while tapping her chin. Parents Nikki and Marc Fontanetta love that their daughter fearlessly goes after what she wants, and they have every intention of making her dreams a reality. “Those hopes and dreams that we had when she was teeny-tiny, not one has not been able to happen,” Nikki says. When Nikki and Marc initially found out that Ellie would have spina bifida at their 20-week ultrasound, they didn’t even question that they wanted to raise her to be as strong as possible, despite multiple doctors and even family members recommending that they terminate the pregnancy. They sought out a doctor who would help them give Ellie a full life with spina bifida. “We finally found David McLone at the spina bifida clinic at Lurie, who told us that we actually could do it. We said ‘OK, what do we do now?’ And he said, ‘Just enjoy your pregnancy,’” Marc says. “And that’s exactly what we did,” Nikki smiles. “We grabbed life on life’s terms, and we ran with it.” Now, Ellie, a petite brunette with a radiant smile and a ranch dressing addiction, has
played sled hockey, attended summer camp, sang in the school chorus, danced since she was 2 and been involved in more charities than she can count. Basically, Ellie’s done whatever she has put her mind to. Her parents have a policy that they will never say no to anything she wants to achieve. “We just find a way,” Marc says. “Resilience, no matter what kind of day you’ve had, is being able to sit down at the close of the day and say ‘I still have something to be grateful for,’” Nikki says. That’s one of the biggest reasons Ellie’s doctor, Dr. Robin Bowman, head of the spina bifida clinic at Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital, says they’ve thrived. “Ellie’s family just has this incredibly positive outlook on life that they’ve instilled in Ellie since birth,” Bowman says.
“Resilience, no matter what kind of day you’ve had, is being able to sit down at the close of day and say ‘I still have something to be grateful for.’” Nikki Fontanetta Ellie’s mom
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Ellie’s daily routine is grueling, with a 5 a.m. wake-up to complete all of her medical needs in time to catch the school bus. She has dietary needs, physical therapy, special accommodations, medicines, injections ... the list goes on and on. “There are a lot of have-to’s in our life,” Nikki says. “There aren’t a lot of choose-to’s. That can get really hard.” The daily rituals of having a child with special needs limit the people who are involved in the Fontanettas’ lives. “Sometimes the hardest part is that people don’t get it,” Marc says. People don’t often understand why they can’t just go to a water park on a moment’s notice or drive up to the northern suburbs for dinner on a Friday night. But the people that do understand are the reason that the Fontanettas think they’ve been able to handle as much as they do. “We are abundantly blessed by our tribe,” Nikki says. “I think that’s a huge chunk of
resilience, synergy. I think that as people, we are not meant to do life alone. We are better people and better parents when we have community.” Ellie’s friends are who she says fill her “soul bucket” up the most, especially friends like Faye who also has spina bifida and is Ellie’s most loyal visitor in the hospital. “We know how to be brave together,” Ellie says. Ellie’s 8-year-old sister, Mia, is always right by her sister’s side. “I think our family is special because we can make it through life with surgery and being sad,” Mia says. “We’ve had a lot of practice.” And Ellie’s family makes sure she never feels alone. “There is always going to be a to-do list, but there is not always going to be a tomorrow. We just feel like life’s a gift, and it’s worth living,” Nikki says. “And we’ve taught our kids to do the same.” Emily Adams is Chicago Parent’s assistant editor and knows a thing or two about being brave.
Advice to try The Fontanettas share their tips on raising kids to be brave and resilient Feelings should be out at all times. Let them know that it’s OK to cry and to laugh. “When something happens with Ellie, it affects all of us,” Nikki says. “It’s important not to sit with our feelings alone. We feel all the feels.” Teach kids to extend and accept grace and help. Shut off your brains to the “can’ts” in life. Show children how to be independent and do things on their own. When life get hard, teach kids to take some deep breaths. Smell the roses; blow out the candles. Teach them to always, always seek joy. Learn to make time for self-care. If you aren’t depleted, you have more time and energy to empower your kids.
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BAB Y B
ULL IES
KICK B TO T ULLYIN G H AND E CURB BUIL D FR IEND SHIP S
BY CORTNEY FRIES PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERICA MILLER
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hree-year-old Sean Morris* kept coming home from preschool with scratches on his face. At first, everyone thought it was typical boys-will-be-boys roughhousing. Then one day, though he usually wore his older sister’s shirts to preschool, Sean put on his fancy Easter outfit complete with a button-down shirt and tie. Asking why, his mom heard distressing news no mom wants to hear— another boy at school had been bothering him and calling him a girl because his shirts were too long. “If I dress like Daddy, he can’t call me a girl,” she remembers Sean telling her. The sad truth is that at one point or another, every child will likely be involved in bullying, as the bully, a target or a bystander. And unfortunately, bullying
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behaviors know no age limit. It is not uncommon for families to get their first brush with bullying in early elementary or even preschool. As preschoolers start to figure out how to manage impulses and emotions, there’s bound to be some teasing, pushing, grabbing or other selfish actions. However, three main characteristics distinguish bullying: If it’s purposeful and intended to harm; repeated over time; and targeted at the same child, who appears to have less power. A young child might describe it as some one who is “mean to me all the time.” Ruth Cross, consultant for CASEL (Collaborative for Academic, Social and Emotional Learning), says bullying needs to be redirected as soon as possible and replaced with cooperative social behaviors. She recommends parents start teaching social-emotional skills at age 3. Although it can be difficult to track the prevalence of the problem, it is welldocumented that bullying can have lasting effects. “A child who grows up feeling victimized, made fun of or like they don’t fit in can suffer from depression, anxiety and selfharm,” says Mary Ellen Young, who helped implement social-emotional learning standards in Illinois schools and co-authored a
Best Practices in Bullying Prevention manual. If aggressive actions are not redirected, they can lead to patterns of increasingly negative and violent behaviors. Students who witness bullying may feel unsafe in school and even become tempted to join in the bullying. Thankfully, Illinois has been a leader in the anti-bullying revolution.
Switching up the culture Experts agree that prevention is the best policy. “Using power to help, rather than hurt,
should be encouraged at a young age,” says Kim Storey, child development specialist and co-author of Eyes on Bullying in Early Childhood. Sharing, helping and inviting others to play are positive behaviors to promote. “Developing empathy and building community should be at the heart of any high-quality early childhood program,” says Mary Sue Reese, director of the Winnetka Covenant Preschool. CONTINUED ON PAGE 44
“We are teaching respect for peers and teachers, empathy via perspective-taking, communication skills like how to clearly articulate your needs to someone else, self-advocacy and help-seeking skills.” Amy Mart CPS manager of universal supports ChicagoParent.com October 2015 43
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BABY BULLIES
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 43
Social-emotional learning has been a focus for Chicago Public Schools since 2012. “We are explicitly giving teachers the skills they need to build supportive environments and prevent bullying,” says Amy Mart, CPS manager of universal supports. “We are teaching respect for peers and teachers, empathy via perspective-taking, communication skills like how to clearly articulate your needs to someone else, self-advocacy and help-seeking skills.” Institutions should have bullying protocols in place, so teachers, students and parents know how to handle situations when they occur. “The first time parents hear about bullying shouldn’t be an incident,” Storey says.
Tips to try
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Practice role-playing with kids. “Puppets are a great, non-threatening way to illustrate situations without children feeling targeted,” says Chris Rosean of the CPS Office of Early Childhood Education. Avoid labeling kids as bullies or victims. “While a child may be engaging in hurtful behaviors, they are not a bad kid,” Storey says. “Behaviors can be changed.”
2
Don’t be afraid to bring it to others’ attention. Another Chicago family says they used education as a way to stop the bullying of their kindergartner who has Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. They discovered a classmate was continuously teasing him about his tics
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Recommended reading Check out these great children’s books, listed with the message it highlights. Bucket Filling from A to Z: The Key to Being Happy by Carol McCloud and Caryn Butzke—Be kind and show others empathy; it will make you both happier. Stand Tall, Molly Lou Mellon by Patty Lovell—Be proud of your imperfect self, especially when faced with bullying. One by Kathryn Otoshi—Speak up instead of being a bystander. It only takes one to help everyone count.
Has your child turned two?
The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig and Patrice Barton—We all want to feel included. Invite others to join you.
3
Intervene when someone’s being mean. When bullying happens on your watch or your child tells you about repeated unkind actions, don’t dismiss it. Boys tend to exhibit physical aggression, like kicking and hitting, which is easier to spot. Girls use more relational aggression, manipulating friendships in ways that include whispering about others and excluding them. Although your protective instincts might make you want to pounce, try to control your emotions and make it a teachable moment. Don’t give all the attention to the child engaging in bullying. Often that’s exactly what they want. Instead, talk to the targeted child and others around them. Coach the targeted child on assertiveness and standing up for themselves. “As parents, we tend to focus on happiness when we should focus on resilience,” Young says. Although you want to stop the other child from hurting yours, it’s best to focus your child on problem-solving and finding good friendship groups. Also empower bystanders to banish bullying by giving them ideas on how to help, such as including the bullied child in their activities and speaking up against the bully. If appropriate, talk to the child displaying bullying behaviors at a later time. “Look at the
4
whole picture,” says Rosean. “A child seeking control may be experiencing another situation that is outside of his control.” Problem-solve together.
Raise resilient kids Think about what skills you want to teach your children in order to be successful in life. Do you want them to be able to make good decisions and build healthy relationships? Do they need to work on their empathy and understanding? Would guidance on conflict resolution help? “Building a human being is hard work. Parenting is not for sissies,” Young says. Remember that you are modeling behaviors all the time, even when a driver cuts you off or your spouse disappoints you. Be willing to apologize when you make a mistake. Teach your children that how they feel is important. Show them ways to calm down when angry. “If there’s one thing parents can do, it’s promote empathy now,” Young says. What a wonderful world it would be if we all treated others the way we want to be treated. *Sean’s name has been changed at the family’s request to prevent further bullying. Cortney Fries is a Chicago mom of two.
Applications to Nursery 3 for the 2016-17 academic year are due October 9, 2015 To learn more about our play-based program and to begin an application, please visit our website www.ucls.uchicago.edu University of Chicago Laboratory Schools 1362 E. 59th St. Chicago, IL 60637 773-702-9451 eshadmissions@ucls.uchicago.edu
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P
GoldieBlox sets: When she looked at the so-called “pink aisle” of toys for young girls, Debbie Sterling, a Stanford engineering grad, was upset to find none geared toward building their interest in math and science. Most girls lose interest in math and science around 8. And
Lindsey Shepard, representative for GoldieBlox, says why wouldn’t they, when all the imagery they see about how to be a “cool girl” is related to makeup, baby dolls and princesses? “We want girls to know that it’s OK to play princess, but we also want girls to be able to build their own castles, too,” she says. GoldieBlox hopes to keep girls interested in STEM. Find the books and construction sets at most major toy stores and goldieblox.com; $16.99-$205. Lottie doll: Lucie Follett kept hearing her parent friends complain about the dolls available in stores— they reeked of negative body image. “Lottie dolls don’t wear makeup, high heels or fashion jewelry; they have age-appropriate clothing,
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accessories, hobbies and back stories,” she says. The dolls range from superheroes to astronomers to ballerinas. Find them at lottie.com and many Chicago stores such as Giving Tree Toys (1708 W. Touhy Ave.), Building Blocks Toy Store (2130 W. Division) and Timeless Toys (4749 N. Lincoln Ave.); $9.95-$19.95. CONTINUED ON PAGE 48
CONFIDENCE WITH THINGS YOU WON’T FIND IN THE ‘CUTESY’ AISLE ChicagoParent.com October 2015 47
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GIRL POWER
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themselves,” says Julie Kerwin, representative of I Am Elemental. “We want all kids to know that all the powers they need to be successful are already inside of them.” Find the action figures at iamelemental.com; $8.99$205.99 for box sets.
I Am Elemental action figures: In the realm of I Am Elemental, girls are the superheroes and their powers include bravery, honesty and persistence. “If we change the way girls play, we can change the way they feel about
Princess Awesome dresses: Chicago native Rebecca Melsky’s daughter only wears dresses, but she also loves robots and space. The last thing Melsky wanted to do was tell her daughter that she could only wear puppies, cupcakes and ruffles. “I wanted her and all little girls to be able to wear what they are and what they want, not just what is perceived as ‘girly,’” she says. So, Melsky and her partner Eva St. Clair created Princess Awesome. Trucks, ninjas, aliens and all things “awesome” are featured in whimsical, colorful prints on Melsky and St. Clair’s adorable little girl dresses. “People are always telling girls what a pretty dress they’re wearing or asking little boys about the really cool dinosaur on their shirts. It’s one of the biggest ways we communicate with kids and the world, so why not have something that really reflects who they are?” St. Clair says. Find them at princess-awesome. com; $25-$50.
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Keshet’s Professional Leadership Board Presents an evening in support of individuals with special needs Keshet’s Professional Leadership Board Presents with... an evening in support of individuals with special needs with...
Go! Go! Sports Girls dolls: When Chicagoan and former Girls on the Run coach Jodi Norgaard went shopping for a doll for her daughter, she could not believe what she saw. “Every single one of them were perpetuating negative bodyy g images; they were re dressed like hookkers, and there is not one parent out there that wants that type of message given to their daughter to play with,” she says. But when she first launched thee dolls, she was astounded by how many manufacturers discredited her idea. “My ultimate goal is to make girls healthy and happy through activity and play,” Norgaard says. Find them at Walmart and gogosportsgirls.com; $4.99-$24.99.
Mighty Makers building sets: After realizing that most of its building sets were targeted toward boys, K’NEX decided it was time to make a toy to increase girls’ curiosity about math science, technology and more. Out of this research, Mighty Makers, building sets with STEM education and female interests in fem mind, became a comm pany sensation. p “I have seen firsthand that girls fi are very interested ar building, as long as in b they h have a set that sparks interest,” says Kristen their inte Krikorian, director of marketing. Find them at Toys “R” Us and knex.com; $19.99-$59.99. Girls Will Be clothes: Former Chicagoan Sharon Choksi’s Shar daughter Maya is da living proof that liv tthere is more tthan one way to be a girl. b She didn’t like frilly clothing, fri so w when Choksi shopped for her, she shopp discovered very limited options. “It’s not boy-like to want different options,” she says. “There are so many ways to be a girl. ... It’s about time we had clothes options to reflect that.” Find the clothing at girlswillbehq.com; $22-$30.
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ChicagoParent.com October 2015 49
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GIRL POWER
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Pigtail Pals & Ballpark Buddies: When Melissa Wardy had her first baby, Amelia, she wanted to dress her in images that were positive and uplifting, so she created a way to do that. Her company offers options for girls and boys that ignore gender restrictions. “It’s been fun to give kids
T Thee 4 Sporty Sp S por o ty Girl Girls ls c ls clothes: loth lo hes es: Th two moms, Laura Futty and Jean Momorella, who started 4 Sporty Girls love to shop for their very active daughters but found every bit of sports clothing was either comparing girls to boys or revealing negatively competitive messages such as, “I’m better than you.” They thought, why can’t sports gear have messages promoting confidence and strength without having to tear anyone else down? The result is the sports clothes targeted to girls K-12. Find the clothes at 4sportygirls.com; $14-$32.
more respectful options that are more in line with who they are and then also to see parents embracing childhood for what it should be, which is discovering a healthy sense of self-worth and self-acceptance,” she says. Find clothing, accessories, books and more at pigtailpals. com; $2-$39.95.
It’s All About
Emily Adams is the assistant editor at Chicago Parent.
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50 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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The recipe
for a perfect Ideas that get you out of the house and having fun all month BY SAMANTHA SCHULTZ
W
hile fall usuallyy symbolizes y the ushering-in of pumpkinflavored everything, this time of year is also a beautiful chance to fall in love with fall all over again. From the pumpkins to the beautiful changing colors to the tricking and the treating, it is an opportunity to snuggle your family close and spend time together. Here are just a few of the wonderful things about fall and how you can enjoy them to the fullest with your crew.
Nature The changing colors, crisp air and falling leaves provide a beautiful backdrop to enjoy the great outdoors. Plan a day trip to the Morton Arboretum in Lisle or head north to the Chicago Botanic Garden and see Mother Nature in full fall regalia. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors before the freeze of winter comes knocking on the door. Fall even more in love: Plan a fall scavenger hunt and have your family find as many fall items as they can, such as certain color leaves, pumpkins and spooky decorations. Play Fall BINGO and build a template with pictures of fall items. After a long day enjoying the great outdoors, head home, build a fire and snuggle under the blankets for a family movie. CONTINUED ON PAGE 52
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FALL
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Eats Another favorite of fall is creating delicious An ious com-fort food. Put together a meal plan and spend for nd a day freezer meal cooking for the cooler months. Use apples m ples from a local orchard and work together to build the perfectt All-American apple pie complete with homemade lattice crust. t. Build the ideal pot of apple cider to enjoy after a long day enjoying the great outdoors. Create the quintessential pumpkin pie complete with a heap of whipped cream. This is a great opportunity to work as a family in the kitchen and cook or bake together. Fall even more in love: Host a chili or soup cook-off and have people bring their prized recipes in crockpots (think easy clean-up). Guests can vote on their favorites and enjoy the heartiness of the best fall comfort foods. Share the recipes on Pinterest or through email so the dishes can be re-created at home—the perfect segue to the winter months.
Pumpkins One of the best parts of fall is piles of pumpkins! Head to a local pumpkin farm, take a hayride and have fun selecting the perfect pumpkin. Try Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm in Lockport or Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch in Hampshire for the perfect family fall outing. Kids will enjoy seeing pumpkins in their natural element—and running through the corn mazes. Fall even more in love: Host a pumpkin carving or painting party and invite family and friends. Provide carving tools, paint supplies and plenty of newspapers. Use the pumpkin seeds and create a salty snack while the best pumpkins are judged and awarded prizes.
Trick or Treat Halloween is a wonderful time to show off your creativity and spooky side. Plan a Halloween gathering and encourage guests to come in their best costumes. Enjoy meeting neighbors and finding new friends in your neighborhood when you head out to trick or treat as a group. Find a local haunted house (if you dare!)—check the new issue of Going Places for the best spooks around. Fall even more in love: Create a candy apple bar and use crushed-up Halloween candy as toppings. Crockpots work great for keeping caramel and chocoolate warm for apple topping. Your family will have a blast creating the perfect sweet treat! Share the lovee by creating extras for teachers, co-workers and neighbors. ors. Samantha Schultz is the mom of two living in the South Suburbs and blogger at ChicagoParent.com.
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Austin Carcillo’s dad is left winger Daniel Carcillo. Jaxon Versteeg’s dad is left winger Kris Versteeg.
Baby Blackhawks Ames Desjardins’ dad is left winger Andrew Desjardins.
W
hen Chicago’s Stanley Cup champions kick off the NHL season at home against the New York Rangers Oct. 7, you can bet these cuties will be cheering for Dad.
Now your kids can get in on the fun, too. The Chicago Blackhawks have the first app ever created linking sports teams to kids 6-12. Working with Just Be Friends, the cutting-edge Club Blackhawks app has become a safe place for kids to play trivia and games, create fantasy lines, build avatars and watch locker feeds. The free app is available at the Apple App Store, Google Play and at clubblackhawks.com.
Theo Hjalmarsson’s dad is defenseman Niklas Hjalmarsson.
Makayla Bickell’s Dad is left winger Bryan Bickell.
Colton Keith’s dad is defenseman Duncan Keith.
ChicagoParent.com October 2015 53
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Nature’s Precious Treasures Adopt -AManatee® for the Holidays Call 1-800-432-5646 (JOIN) savethemanatee.org
Photo © David Schrichte
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special advertising section // Celebrations
Celebrations
THE PERFECT PARTY PLANNER
Don’t Let It Go:
Throwing a Frozen-inspired party By SAMANTHA SCHULTZ
W
ith Disney movies all the rage for birthday party themes, Frozen is at the top of that list. Swirly winter wonderlands, beautiful icy views, and the promise of sisterly love, Frozen offers the perfect opportunity to transform a regular occasion into a soiree fit for an ice queen (or king!) Here are some great ideas to create your own Frozen-inspired party without breaking the bank (or a sweat!). DECOR No matter the time of year, putting together a winter wonderland is a cinch. In the winter months, Chicagoland weather will help you along. The rest of the year you can use simple items to create the snowy backdrop you are looking for. Cotton balls and tissues are great sensory items for tablescapes. Use white tissue paper to create falling snow from the ceiling. Wrapping paper and tablecloths also make an inexpensive backdrop for pictures or the food tables. The idea here is to incorporate blues, whites, and snow! Put your imagination to use and you’ll have your very own Arendelle in no time. FOOD Whether you are aiming to include a full meal or finger foods with dessert, putting together a variety is the key for little picky eaters. Many of the best ideas revolve around the loveable sidekick, Olaf, and can be recreated with a few basic items. Build your own Olaf in a few different ways -- pudding cups with chocolate chips and marshmallows, sugar cookies with white frosting and snowman fixings, huge marshmallows with pretzel sticks for
arms and M&Ms for eyes. If your theme is more focused on Olaf in summer, use blue Jell-O cups with whipped cream and chocolate chips for that melted Olaf look. Powdered sugar doughnuts make great “snowballs.” Carrot sticks and veggies also make great treats for Sven. Cake and cupcakes are also a great way to highlight your overall theme with snowflake ‘scapes. Bon Appetit! FAVORS One of the simplest party favors is to create DIY snow globes. Doubling as a party activity, creating these mini winter wonderlands is sure to be a hit. You’ll need mini mason jars, water, glitter, glycerin (found in most craft stores), super glue or hot glue, and something to glue to the lid, which will be the bottom of the snow globe. Glue the item you love to the lid of the jar and allow to dry. Fill the water about three-quarters with water and sprinkle in some glitter and a few drops of glycerin. Screw on the lid and voila! You have the perfect party favor as a keepsake for your Frozen soiree. ACTIVITIES In addition to the snow globes, you can host a party sing-along and have the kids belt out their favorite Frozen numbers while dancing in your living room. Pop some popcorn and host a screening of the movie. Have a “snowball” fight with cotton balls and fluffy fabric balls. You might also consider having the kids “build a snowman” by wrapping toilet paper around their friends and adding construction paper eyes, buttons, and noses. The possibilities are endless. By using the food and snow globes as activities at the actual party, you save time and money in the process. ChicagoParent.com October 2015 55
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Celebrations // special advertising section
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56 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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special advertising section // Celebrations
6 ideas to keep your sanity (and your friends) when it comes to goody bags By SHANNAN YOUNGER
f the items you can expect to find at every birthday party, goody bags are what strike fear in the hearts of parents, both those hosting the party and those who have children attending as guests. For hosts, goody bags can get out of control quickly and bust the budget. For parents of little attendees, they mean an influx of little plastic toys that create clutter but don’t get used or enjoyed. Here are some tips for keeping your sanity when it comes to goody bags at your child’s next party.
have a nice party favor,” says Katherine McHenry, owner and toy shop keeper of Building Blocks Toy Store in Chicago. “If just have a dollar or two, you can still get something thoughtful.” To make sure those few dollars have a big impact, find items that really fit with the party theme. She says her staff can work with any budget. “Parents are often surprised that there are a lots of options under $5 and that they’ll be really happy with what they’re giving,” McHenry says. Even something as simple as a bottle of bubbles can bring a lot of smiles, while also saving parents some stress.
1
2
O
DON’T SPEND A FORTUNE “One really big myth is that you have to spend a lot to
O NE AND DONE “Parents secretly despise the little plastic things,” McHenry confides. Instead,
With Glencoe Park District’s theme party options, the sky’s the limit!
she suggests following the theory that less is more. “One thoughtful gift is plenty rather than a lot of things to fill a bag.” “Kids don’t really expect a lot and people are appreciative to get anything,” says McHenry. “A carefully selected item relating to the party goes a long way.” Odds are that it will be kept longer and appreciated more than many small novelty items.
inscription in the book noting the date and event, or a message from the birthday child
continued on page 58
3
BOOK IT! When going with just one item in the goody bag, a book is a sure bet. Select a book that goes with the party’s theme. Adding an
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Goody bags
continued from page 57 thanking the guest for coming makes it extra special. “There’s a book for every child and for every birthday theme,” says Becky Anderson, owner of Anderson’s Bookshop with locations in La Grange, Downers Grove and Naperville. Anderson, who notes that books can be a budget-friendly option with beginning readers priced at $3.99. Giving all guests the same book is one approach, but Anderson suggests letting the birthday child pick out a different book for each guest if they are close friends, or giving a gift certificate to a bookstore so the kids can each pick their own book. She so believes that books and birthday go together well that Anderson’s Bookshop is planning to start hosting birthday parties in their stores.
4
AIM FOR SOMETHING USABLE Consider giving items that are immediately usable, rather than something to put away. Temporary tattoos can be big hits, as are coloring books or coloring pages.
For a sweet treat, give a gift card for a scoop at the local ice cream shop or a cookie at a nearby bakery.
5
IT’S A WRAP! Presentation can add a definite wow factor, so consider ditching the “bag” concept all together and wrapping the party favor. Some stores like Building Blocks can do it for you. “We can individually wrap each item, even if it’s $3 or put a bow on it,” McHenry says.
6
BROWN BAG IT If you want keep the ‘bag’ in goody bags, make it an art project for your kids. “We use the brown paper lunch bags and have the birthday child decorate them. It’s a fun art project and as a bonus, they’re also recyclable,” says Andrea Galo, a Naperville mom of three. Writing each guest’s name on the bags can also be a fun way to get in writing practice and lets the guest know they were thought of. Hopefully your goody bag or party favor will let your guests both young and old know that you thought of them and
wanted to express your appreciation for their presence with something fun and meaningful.
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special advertising section // Celebrations
Birthday party do’s and don’ts By SHANNAN YOUNGER
W
hen it comes to hosting your child’s birthday party, your to-do list can get long. There are, however, some do’s and don’ts that can make the planning more manageable and the party more enjoyable. We asked some birthday party experts to share their party planning advice to help you create a birthday party that is enjoyable for not only the birthday child and guests, but for parents who also deserve a chance to celebrate another year of successful parenting in the books.
1
DO KEEP IT SIMPLE “The best gift we can give our kids is being in the moment with them and giving them our attention,” says Julianne Neely, MSW, LCSW
and director of the Individual and Family Connection. “The best way to keep focused on spending time with our children and staying in the moment is to keep birthday celebrations simple. Not only is it important to keep it manageable for ourselves, but it
also is important to not overstimulate our children.”
2
D ON’T PLAN TOO MANY ACTIVITIES FOR ONE LITTLE PERSON’S PARTY
Along the lines of less is more, Hiroki Ogawa, visitor services manager at DuPage
Children’s Museum, says kids don’t need a string of entertainers to have fun. He says parents shouldn’t plan too many activities, especially if the party is at a fun venue. “What’s nice about having it at the museum is that parents don’t have to plan a lot of other activities or worry about party games,” he says. “The museum is the entertainment.” Dan Mindo, a Chicago birthday magician who has performed at about 1,000 birthday parties over 12 years, agrees. In addition to not having too many activities, there should be a structure to the party with kids doing just one activity at a time and saving the food for last, he says. “This is not a time to multitask,” Mindo says. “If there is a performance taking place, that isn’t a good time to feed
continued on page 60
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Celebrations // special advertising section
Do’s and Dont’s continued from page 59 children. They get distracted easily. Let them focus on one thing.”
3
DO COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR VENUE AND YOUR ENTERTAINERS “The more you know” is not just a public service announcement, it’s key to a good birthday party. If you are hiring an entertainer, give them some information about your child before the party. “Let performers know if the birthday child is really shy or has special needs, so they don’t put him/her on the spot. That can make everyone uncomfortable,” Mindo says. If you have a child who loves the spotlight, that’s good to know as well. The same goes for discussing any allergies. Ogawa also suggests knowing what the venue provides. Requests for exceptions to
rules should not be a lastminute item.
4
DON’T EXPECT EVERYTHING TO GO PERFECTLY Chances are that the perfect party you’ve envisioning in your head and have seen on Pinterest will not come off without a hitch. “Don’t expect a perfect party. It’s OK! Remember that it’s a party, and it’s supposed to be fun, for you and your child,” he says.
Ogawa says: “The best birthday parties are when the parents go with the flow.”
5
DO LEAVE TIME FOR KIDS TO JUST PLAY When you get a group of kids together, they want time to just play together. “Leave time for the birthday child to enjoy camaraderie with friends. They want to let loose and have fun,” Mindo says. “Remember that it’s a party.”
6
DON’T FEEL LIKE YOU HAVE TO OPEN PRESENTS IN FRONT OF EVERYONE, OR ALL AT ONCE Neely says parents shouldn’t feel like their kids must open all the gifts in front of everyone. “My recommendation is that, following the birthday celebration, the child be given the opportunity to open one gift each day. If you have seen a child open gifts this is typically their natural pace anyway. They open a gift and then they want to enjoy it,” she says. “Toddlers especially seem confused that you won’t let them play with the toy they just opened and instead want them to move on to the next one. This often leads to tantrums in front of everyone and the parent feeling embarrassed that the child seems to like one toy more than another,” Neely says.
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60 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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special advertising section // Celebrations
Unique places to host an unforgettable party
Y
our children are unique and their birthdays are their special days. So of course you want their party to be one of a kind, too. One way to make the party special is by hosting it at a unique venue. We hunted down some places you might not have considered for your next birthday party to remember.
Dylan’s Candy Bar
445 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago (312) 702-2247
The Chicago outpost of Dylan’s Candy Bar opened this summer on Michigan Avenue. In addition to selling 7,000 candies and confections, Dylan’s offers have a variety of birthday party packages, including the Sugar Babies theme for a first birthday to putting the Sweet in Sweet 16 and everything in between. Bat Mitzvahs and Bar Mitzvahs are popular here, too. “Our most popular party package is Jelly Beans and Tweens,” says Katherine Schroeder, events manager at Dylan’s Candy Bar. “It’s definitely an unforgettable birthday. It’s one that they’re going to remember.” All birthday party packages come with a candy spree. “We get the kids really excited and they can run around the entire store filling up their container. Then the candy is their take-
CHICAGO’S #1 HOME FOR CHICAGO’S FUN#1&HOME HASSLEFREE VOTV FOR FUN &BIRTHDAY HASSLE-FREE ED OTEDVOTED BESPARTIES TBPEAST B R V VENU OTPYAERSTT PAR VE N FO UR EVETNEUD Y TY
away bag.”
ComedySportz
929 W. Belmont, Chicago (773) 549-8080
This family-friendly improv show will keep multiple generations in stitches and guarantees a unique experience, as no two shows are ever the same. “ComedySportz is perfect for ages 7 to 97 because the comedy is clean due to our built-in ‘brown bag foul.’ The shows are super smart, so while adults are appreciating the intelligent references, kids are enjoying the ensemble’s physicality and their spoton pop culture references,” explains Karin McKie, managing director of ComedySportz Chicago.
BIRTHDAY PARTIES -
EST VOTED BWEAR O PLACE THEV S IDT KO ED OUT T
E IFOR K BESTFKPO IADRSK V - ENUE- FORRTYDS IDS V TEDKIDS BE - BEVSOTO TP VENU ED VEBNEU STEPARATRTY VENUE F FORYKID OR KIDand S S KIDS PA -- Hassle-free
BEST VENUE FPARTY convenient OR KIDSfor parents -
RTY V
KIDS PLAY TOGETHER with activities and games organized and Hassle-free and convenient facilitated by WCF for parents event staff
KIDS PLAY TOGETHER with Many themed parties activities and games available VOT including D organized and facilitated BEST PAESports, Ultimate R VENUE F TY by WCF event staff Mad Science, OR KID
Elmhurst Art Museum 150 S. Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst (630) 834-0202
The museum’s Arty Parties are a wonderful way to let kids be both creative and celebratory. Art teachers customize fun art projects for your child’s individual interests. Each guest creates a piece of art they can take home. They also work on a collaborative piece for the birthday child to keep.
- LaserTag, VOT
S
BEST PAED Many themed parties Build-A-Friend VENUE F RTY available including R KIDS StuffedO Animals, Ultimate Sports, Scavenger VOTED Hunts BESmore! T PARTY Mad Science, VEand NUE FOR KIDS for LaserTag, Fun and exciting Build-A-Friend Stuffed Animals, kids of all ages, 1 to Scavenger Hunts adult and more!
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options
continued on page 62
No cleanup and CALL NOW! flexible catering options Dates filling fast! CALL NOW! Call Alexis at Dates filling fast! (773) 486-7416 akniaz@windycityfieldhouse.com
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Chicago's #1 Home for Birthday Parties
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WindyCityFieldhouse.com/birthdays PHOTO COURTESY OF COMEDY SPORTZ
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Celebrations // special advertising section Unique places continued from page 61 (847) 519-9614 (Schaumburg location)
Jessica Schalk, senior team leader at Feed My Starving Children, says the nonprofit has seen an increase in the number of kids opting to celebrate their birthdays there. “Packing is an enjoyable experience because they get to hang out with friends and listen to music. When kids start to learn more about what we do, it gives them a global perspective. They realizing that
they are making a difference,” says Schalk. Although edible treats are not permitted (many families enjoy them off site), the birthday child gets a rousing round of “Happy Birthday” from fellow volunteers and a T-shirt. Kids 5 and older may volunteer.
Let them eat cake. But first, let them learn how to decorate it, too! This shop in Roscoe Village hosts a variety of different cake decorating party options for kids, including Cake Pops, Barbie doll cakes and Fun with Fondant. Yum!
Broomball Party at the Glenview Park District
475 Trout Farm Road, Bolingbrook (630) 783-6653
1851 Landwehr Road, Glenview (847) 724-2800
If you have active kids who love sports but want to do something new and different, broomball could be the perfect way for them to celebrate their special day. Broomball is similar to hockey, played on ice. Players wear rubber-soled shoes and helmets and use “brooms” and a ball instead of sticks and a puck. After hitting the ice, kids can then enjoy cake in the party room.
Give Me Some Sugar PHOTO COURTESY OF FEED MY STARVING CHILDREN
2205 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago (773) 281-3154
Safari Land Explore Chicagoland’s Largest Indoor Amusement Park And Experience The Largest Indoor Roller Coaster In Illinois Exhilarating Family Fun filled with adventure, food, games and rides! Tilt-A-Whirl • 3DMaxFlight Simulator • Bumper Cars Kiddie Go Karts • Cosmic Bowling • Soft Play Video Games • Atlantis Restaurant
Birthday Parties & Group Packages
701 W. North Ave., Villa Park 630•530•4649 www.safarilandfun.com
Gone fishing at the Bolingbrook Park District
It’s not every party that involves casting a line, but if your child loves the outdoors, celebrate at Hidden Lakes Historic Trout Farm. Parties run April-October and are open to children 6-12. In addition to pizza, drinks and favors, bait and fishing poles are included.
Main Event
28248 Diehl Road, Warrenville (630) 393-9400
Take the party to new heights with the gravity ropes obstacle course at Main Event. The facility also offers bowling, laser tag and an arcade with
more than 100 video games.
TAKE THE PARTY ON THE ROAD! Hire a limousine to take the birthday child and friends on a tour of Chicago attractions, or even just to visit some favorite local places like the ice cream shop. Best Chicago Limousine, (773) 552-5777, offers these types of birthday party driving. If your family is feeling adventurous, make the birthday celebration a multi-state adventure. Take a short road trip to New Buffalo, Mich., and head to Redamak’s for one of its legendary burgers. They’ll even put a candle in it for the birthday celebrant. Next head to Warren Dunes State Park, 12032 Red Arrow Highway, Sawyer, Mich., where you can hit the beach. Even if it isn’t warm, climb the dunes and go on a hike. Leave some time to pick whatever fruit is in season before heading home.
ebrate! l e C
Birthday Parties! Walk-ins! (also Scouts,Brownies & Indian Guides Parties) or, Mom’s Night Out!
Great For Holidays! Make-Your-Own-Gifts! • Ice Cream Bowls for Grandma & Grandpa! • Mugs for Mom & Dad! Perfect for Teacher Gifts! • Holiday Theme Ceramics Available
Lower Level 26 S. La Grange Rd., LaGrange • 708-579-3033 • www.ceramicartcafe.com Hours: Mon-Fri 12-9, Sat 10-5
Specıal Parent CHICAGO
A Chicago Parent EMPOWERMENT GUIDE
Chicago’s only local magazine and resource guide to life for families who have children with special needs. Specıal Parent ChiCago
SUMMER 2015
An empowerment guide from
Respite at risk: What’s at stake
10 tips for birthday party success
+
Tame tantrums today
Moms on a mission All hands on deck for kids LOCAL RESOURCES YOU NEED
ChicagoParent.com |
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Specıal Parent Winter 2013 ChiCago
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special advertising section // Celebrations
Princesses, pumpkins and parties: Oh my! Three party ideas for the girls in your life
By SAMANTHA SCHULTZ
P
lanning the perfect birthday party can sometimes be challenging particularly as the months begin to turn towards cooler weather. However, the cooler temperatures do not have to deflate the fun! Here are some great fall and winter party themes for the little princess in your life. PUMPKIN PAMPER PARTY The fall season is the perfect opportunity to move indoors and create spa treatments all around pumpkins. The fall colors and beautiful pumpkins make the perfect backdrop for your party festivities while spa treatments can include a pumpkin honey face mask, homemade pumpkincoconut oil moisturizer and using pumpkins as the perfect “bowls” for manicures and pedicures. Treats can include a build your own candy apple bar and warm apple cider. Expand the fun: Head to a local pumpkin patch or nature area such as Morton Arboretum. BAKERS’ DOZEN The holiday season is the perfect opportunity to get kids in the kitchen and get them baking. Parties can include little aprons, baker’s hats and rolling pins (these work as favors, too.) Guests will have a blast perfecting the
quintessential recipe, decorating shaped sugar cookies and taste testing their creations. Package up some of their goodies in tins for them to take home or give to someone they love. Getting kids in the kitchen is always the perfect excuse for a celebration. Expand the fun: Partner with a local bakery, such as Sprinkles or Molly’s Cupcakes, to visit the kitchen and see how things work. Not to mention another opportunity for those sweet samplings. CHARITABLE CELEBRATION The newest craze is to put together a birthday party with the opportunity to give back. Host a birthday party where guests are invited to bring a charitable donation such as books or new toys in lieu of gifts for the birthday girl. Expand the fun: Theme your entire party around the organization you plan to help. Got an animal lover? Contact your local shelter about visiting to help socialize the kitties. Got a future star? Contact an adult living center about putting on a talent show for the residents. The ideas are limited only by your imagination. Cooler temps don’t have to be a downer on the fun. Put together any of these parties for your little miss and enjoy the smiles and loads of laughs from party guests. If you plan it right, you just might be able to fit in your own pumpkin spa treatment as a reward for your hard work planning the perfect party.
Great Birthday Celebrations Without the Work!
River Forest Community Center 8020 W. Madison, River Forest Private Birthday Parties in our Indoor Playland or Gymnasium! Three affordable packages to choose from, including a Deluxe Pizza Party Stop in and see why Chicagoland Parents give our Birthday Parties “Two Thumbs Up” Call Our Party Coordinator for more information
(708) 771-6159 Mention our ad and receive 10% off your party package ChicagoParent.com October 2015 63
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Celebrations // special advertising section
Builders, campers & sports
Three birthday party ideas for active boys By SAMANTHA SCHULTZ
F
all and winter birthdays can sometimes prove challenging when you have energetic boys involved. Finding space and activities to keep them occupied is the first step and then adding in food with your fun is always a must. Here are some great ways to keep those little misters happy for that birthday bash.
Learn to
Ice Skate
New classes begin in November • www.SkokieParks.org
9340 Weber Park Place, Skokie • (847) 674-1500, ext. 2900
LEGO BUILDER BASH What little guy doesn’t love Legos? Provide containers of different-sized Legos for the perfect build-a-thon. This type of party can be customized based on age and skill level. Put together party favors with Lego bricks as the theme. Use the bricks as nameplates and watch as they set to work. The best part is they can entertain themselves, so providing additional games and activities may not even be necessary. This type of party works great at your home or at a park district and is perfect during any season! Expand the fun: If you’re a wee bit worried about having all that energy at home, head up to Schaumburg to Legoland Discovery Center Chicago for fun, rides, games and more. The boys will love building race cars and finding their favorites on the go. BACKYARD CAMPOUT The cooler temps are the perfect opportunity to sleep out under the stars. Set up a tent, bonfire for s’mores and set to work creating the perfect backyard escape. You can go on a nature scavenger hunt and “hike” around the
block or at a local park. Tell spooky stories by the campfire and grill hot dogs and marshmallows. Campers will love spending the time in the great outdoors and you won’t have the inconvenience of finding an outhouse somewhere - just head inside! Expand the fun: Have campers ready for a bit more fun? Head up to Camp Reinberg in Palatine and set up camp or rent a cabin and explore the space amongst the woods and furry creatures. Birthday scavenger hunts are sure to bring out the competitive edge. Be sure to bring the bug spray and extra sleeping bags to be comfortable. CHARITABLE CELEBRATION Making a difference really appeals to boys, especially if the party involves something they particularly love. For boys who love sports, host a sportsrelated party full of games they love and in lieu of gifts, help raise money to get another child in the game through Good Sports (goodsports. org/throw-a-party). Consider having guests put together blessing bags with hygiene essentials for the homeless. Plan a day with kids (and their parents) to walk downtown or partner with an organization to hand them out, then head to Maggie Daley Park to run off all that energy. Expand the fun: Create a walk/run event out of the birthday boy’s day to benefit the charity or cause of his choice. Create race T-shirts as a keepsake. Be sure to make up silly prizes so that everyone walks away a winner (who said last place isn’t the real winner anyway?)
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special advertising section // Celebrations
Adventure Realm
Kuipers Family Farm
1N318 Watson Road, Maple Park (815) 827-5200 x107
Adventure Realm creates unforgettable stress-free birthday parties that include everything from pizza and beverages to souvenir medieval goblets and a dedicated costumed character host. 2011 63rd Street, Downers Grove (331) 777-4342
kuipersfamilyfarm.com
Our flexible Birthday Party Tickets designed so you can have a unique celebration you’ll remember forever! Host your party at our farm whenever you’d like!
advrealm.com
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
A Fairytale Ballet Ages 2 & up A ballerina hostess leads the festivities in your home or in our studio. Your child’s favorite fairytale will come to life as all children dress in beautiful costumes and dance with props creating a magical experience! 3 Locations Chicago/Bucktown, Chicago/ Lakeview, Evanston (773) 606-0318 (BT) (773) 477-4488 (LV & EV)
Feast on a four-course meal fit for royalty as you witness battles of steel and steed, a live jousting tournament, and awe-inspiring horsemanship and falconry. 2001 N. Roselle Road, Schaumburg (888) WE-JOUST (935-6878)
medievaltimes.com/Chicago
Mountain View Adventure Center
Party at the annual Haunted Mini-Golf Course. Live ghouls, goblins and ghosts come out at 8p Friday & Saturday, and 7p Sunday. Play if you dare! 510 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines (847) 391-5733
www.AFairytaleBallet.com
ArtReach Educational Theatre Character Parties
Let ArtReach bring excitement and adventure to your next party or event. Call our office for pricing and available characters! Chicago and Suburbs (847) 372-7798
artreachspotlite.com/spotlite/ parties.htm
Bolingbrook Park District
Our birthday party services team provides valuable, stress-free planning and professional assistance the day of your event. Call our birthday party coordinator at 630-783-6653 today! 201 Recreation Drive, Bolingbrook (630) 739-0272
bolingbrookparks.org
Ceramic Arts Café
A party to remember, perfect for any occasion. Kids choose and paint their own pottery. Have fun and create something to cherish! Reserve your date! 26 S. La Grange Rd., La Grange (708) 579-3033
ceramicartcafe.com
CircEsteem & The Chicago Youth Circus
Run away with the circus without ever leaving home. We provide circus shows and interactive workshops for kids of all ages that leaves them saying, “WOW, look what I can do!” (312) 731-HAHA
circesteem.org
DPParks.org
Odyssey Fun World PHOTO COURTESY OF DUPAGE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
Classic Cinemas
Celebrate your next party at the movies! Classic Cinemas has party packages including: movie, kid’s pack, party room. Visit: classiccinemas.com. click: Plan an Event/Party. 13 Theatres in Northern IL (630) 968-1600 (Office)
classiccinemas.com
Deerfield Park District
(847) 634-3291 didierfarms.com
Glencoe Park District
Create a ceramic masterpiece, ice skate, play wacky games, or spend the day performing mad science experiments! With Glencoe Park District’s themed party options, the sky’s the limit! 999 Green Bay Rd., Glencoe (847) 835-3030
Party with ten close friends or 250 classmates for a first birthday party until graduation and beyond. Jewett Park Community Center (847) 945-0650 Sachs Recreation Center (847) 572-2600
glencoeparkdistrict.com
DidierFarms
hippoplayspace.com
deerfieldparks.org
Birthday Parties Available Semi-private room, hayride, corn maze and more! Call (847) 634-3291 Mon-Fri 9-2 for reservations and more information.or check online at www. didierfarms.com 16678 W. Aptakisic Rd., Prairie View-Lincolnshire
Hippo Campus
Our innovative, multi-sensory activities stimulate creativity and curiosity. Kids love the Hot Lava Obstacle course and Shrinking Room, and parents love the nohassle party space. 401 E. Route 60, Volo
Kohl Children’s Museum
Museum parties are perfect all year long! All party packages include private room rental and full-day Museum admission for all your guests. 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview (847) 832-6923
kcmgc.org/bdays
Featuring two levels of redemption and video games. Several different party packages at discounted rates, all include private party coordinator for stress-free fun! Tinley Park: I-80 & Harlem Ave. (708) 429-3800 Naperville: I-88 & Rt. 59 (630) 416-2222
OdysseyFunWorld.com
Pump It Up Party
The nation’s #1 indoor inflatable party place. Giant inflatables in your own private arenas and private party room exclusively for your child and guests! (708) 479-2220 Orland Park (312) 664-PUMP Chicago
pumpitupparty.com
River Forest Community Center
Hassle-free, private party in our indoor Playland designed for kids ages 3-6. Staff will set-up, serve, entertain, and best of all… cleanup! 8020 Madison St., River Forest (708) 771-6159
rfcc.info
Safari Land
Party options and pricing for all ChicagoParent.com October 2015 65
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Celebrations // special advertising section ages. Exciting attractions. State of the art and retro video games are sure to please XBOX 360 or PS3 players. 701 W. North Ave., Villa Park (630) 530-4649
safarilandfun.com
Skokie Park District
Our party experts offer cooking and the arts; as well as ice skating, historical museum and nature center parties; and parties at The Exploritorium. 9300 Weber Park Pl., Skokie (847) 674-1500
SkokieParks.org
Vertical Endeavors Indoor Rock Climbing Schedule your event at our newest location, Glendale Heights! We offer Birthday parties, Holiday Camps, Group Events, Youth Teams and more! 246 Windy Pont Drive, Glendale Heights (630) 784-9000
verticalendeavors.com
Windy City Fieldhouse Birthday Parties & Youth Programs – Chicago’s #1 Home for Kids Sports and Family! The place for action packed, entertaining, hassle free birthday parties with creative onsite and offsite packages. Expert staff plan and manage an interactive party that includes games and competitions chosen by your child. (773) 486-7416
WindyCityFieldhouse.com/bdays
PHOTO COURTESY OF DAN MINDO
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
LOOK AT YOUR PARK DISTRICT FOR PARTIES Bolingbrook Park District 201 Recreation Dr., Bolingbrook (630) 739-0272 bolingbrook.org
Deerfield Park District 836 Jewett Park Dr., Deerfield (847) 945-0650 deerfieldparks.org
DesPlaines Park District 2222 Birch St., Des Plaines (847) 391-5700 dpparks.org
Glencoe Park District 999 Green Bay Rd., Glencoe (847) 835-3030
73
DECEMBER 2014
| FREE
staycations
&
celebrations
ConnECting with FaMiliEs
glencoeparkdistrict.com
CHI-BERIA
Skokie Park District
survival guide
2.0
AwEsomE!
9300 Weber Park Place Skokie (847) 674-1500
50 toys for $50 Local picks for babies to tweens
Skokieparks.org CP_Cover_December_2014.indd 7
CHICAGO PARENT’S ANNUAL GIFT GUIDE
Jingle Bell, Jingle Buy Coming in December For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com
11/6/14 4:28 PM
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advertising directory // 9th Annual 5K Run/ Walk Race of the Dead Sat., Oct. 31 at 8am thru Pilsen Proceeds support culture and Health initiatives in Hispanic community Addams Park, 1301 W. 14th St., Chicago Register at uno-online.org
13th Annual Southland Model Railroad Show Harold L. Richards High School 10601 S. Central Avenue, Oak Lawn Saturday, Oct. 10, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 11, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $6 for Adults, $5 for Seniors. Children under 12 are FREE! 708-499-2550, ext. 5096 hlrband@att.net
A Fairytale Ballet & Academy We incorporate literature with costumes & props each week. Tap & Birthdays too! 1.5yrs - 16yrs Lakeview, Bucktown & Evanston AFairytaleBallet.com
Apple Holler Farm, Orchard, Restaurant. Pick your own Apples & Pumpkins 10-5 daily 5006 S Sylvania Ave. Sturtevant, WI (800) 238-3629 appleholler.com
Deer Park Town Center Color the Town Pink, October 10, 10am Fall Festival, October 31 Free Trick or Treating! 20530 N Rand Road, Deer Park (847)726-7755 shopdeerparktowncenter.com
Didier Farms Pumpkinfest Sept 19-Oct 31. Hayrides,Corn Maze, Animal Land, Pumpkin Playland, Kiddie Rides, Pony & Camel Rides 16678 W. Aptakisic Rd., Prairie View-Lincolnshire (847) 634-3291 didierfarms.com
Ensemble Espanol Spanish Dance Theater Ensemble Español: Where Your Feet Make Music! 5500 N. St. Louis Avenue, Chicago (773) 442-5916 EnsembleEspanol.org
Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo
Pumpkin Patch, Bounce House Fri-Sun, Oct. 2-18 & Mon. Oct. 12, 10am-5pm www.lpzoo.org/fall-fest
Nighttime outdoor movie, bonfire and inflatables. Daytime indoor games, entertainers and crafts.
Girls on the Run
Enjoy our indoor multi-sensory discovery center and indoor obstacles courses! 401 E. Route 60, Volo hippoplayspace.com
Inspiring girls to be healthy and confident using a fun, experiencebased curriculum that creatively integrates running. girlsontherun.org
Glencoe Park District Glencoe’s best family fun day is Harvest Fest on October 3! 999 Green Bay Rd., Glencoe (847) 835-3030 glencoeparkdistrict.com
Goldfish Swim School Offering aquatic facilities dedicated entirely to indoor swim classes. Summer NEVER ends Ages: 4 months and up (630) 485-7300 Burr Ridge (847) 777-3474 Evanston (773) 588-7946 Chicago (847) 371-9000 Mundelein (630) 305-9775 Naperville (815) 267-9600 Plainfield (630) 584-3474 St. Charles goldfishswimschool.com
Halloween Happenings Make this Halloween spooktacular with the Bolingbrook Park District! Halloween Happenings on Oct. 23 Parkie’s Pumpkin Patch and Halloween Harbor on Oct. 24. 200 Lindsey Ln., Bolingbrook (630) 739-1700 bolingbrookparks.org
Halloween Hoopla at Jewett Park Community Center 836 Jewett Park Drive, Deerfield (847) 945-0650 deerfieldparks.org
Hippo Campus
Kohl Children’s Museum 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview (847) 832-6923 kohlchildrensmuseum.org
Kuipers Family Farm U-pic apple orchard, Pumpkin Farm and Christmas tree farm. 1N318 Watson Road, Maple Park (815) 827-5200 x107 kuipersfamilyfarm.com
Lakeshore Academy of Artistic Gymnastics Classes for ages 6 months through adults 937 W. Chestnut, Downtown Chicago (312) 563-9400 520 E. Business Center, Mt Prospect (847) 376-8826 lakeshoreacademy.com
The Little Gym of Chicago The world’s premier experiential learning and physical development center. Ages: 4 mos-12 years 3216 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago (773) 525-5750 thelittlegym.com/ChicagoIL
Meadowbrook Pumpkin Farm Daytime Creepy Cornfield
Fall Fun
Adventures & Family Nights & pumpkin picking. 2970 Mile View Road West Bend, WI (262) 338-3649 meadowbookfun.com
The Morton Arboretum Outdoor tree museum/living laboratory; popular maze and children’s gardens. 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle (630) 968-0074 mortonarb.org
Mountain View Adventure Center The annual Haunted Mini-Golf Course. Play if you dare! 510 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines (847) 391-5733 DPParks.org
Odyssey Fun World Odyssey Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze open through Nov. 1. Tinley Park: 1-80 & Harlem Ave. Odyssey Fun Farm: Located next to the Odyssey Fun World, Tinley Park (708) 429-3800 Naperville: 1-88 & Rt. 59 (630) 416-2222 OdysseyFunWorld.com
Santa’s Village Azoosment Park Oct. 24 and 25: Trick or Treating and Costume Contest! 601 Dundee Avenue, East Dundee Just North of I-90 at the corner of Rt.25 & Rt.72 (847) 426-6751 SantasVillageDundee.com
Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm 17250 Weber Road, Lockport (800) 304-FARM OurPumpkinFarm.com Pumpkin Fest open from Sept. 26-Oct. 31, 7 days a week, 10am-6pm
Skokie Park District Fall into fun at the Skokie Park District. Visit www.skokieparks.org! 9300 Weber Park Pl., Skokie (847) 674-1500 SkokieParks.org
Windy City Fieldhouse Registration for Fall classes open now! 2367 W. Logan Blvd., Chicago (773) 486-7423 windycityfieldhouse.com/youth
Country Fun without leaving the City! Corn Maze, Hay ride, Ferris Wheel, ChicagoParent.com October 2015 67
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Traveling Players presents...
Book your spooktacular event entertainment now!
Scare up some fun with
or the
Country
Wilomeana Bumpkin the Witch
for more friendly, less frightening fall festivities!
Call DIANE today to schedule at 630-816-2288 or email cloetclown@yahoo.com • www.cloeclown.com
Mary Macaroni
Princess & Character Parties Magic • Clowning Guitar Sing-a-Longs Face Painting & Balloons!
Children’s Parties! Corporate Events!
Your Birthday Party Specialist H Fun Magic Shows H Balloon Twisting H Goodie Bags Available And Much More! Since 1989
708- Fun-Town (386-8696)
Call Today:
312-498-9845
www.marymacaroni.com
www.mrbobsmagic.com mrbob@mrbobsmagic.com Mention Chicago Parent for extra savings
Magic & Juggling Shows Balloon Animals and Puppets
Providing Quality, Professional Entertainment since 1991 Several Themed Characters available. Video clips and party ideas are provided on the website.
www.IYQENT.com IYQ Entertainment
847-228-0882 SUE’S PARTY ANIMALS
As seen on WGN, WTTW, and NBC Local!
Book us for your next party or event! •We Entertain •We Educate •We're Cute & Fun •We're Clean & Safe
You'll LOVE US!
Call Sue Johnson, Educator
847-215-8508
Award-winning magician with over 30 years experience! All Birthday Shows include balloon animals and live rabbits! Also offering Face Painting! Don’t miss our newest magic trick, “BirthDAy ChilD levitAteS”
Magical Entertainment for all occasions!
630-855-4521 toll free:855-KDM-AGIC
www.kidzmagic.biz Planning a Party? Check out our Entertainment & Party Planning section for the perfect entertainer, party supply or service.
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Make your next Birthday Party a
Perfect 5-star rating on Yelp Chicago’s best-reviewed magician
Learn more: thegreatscott.com (847) 361-0924
• Hands-on • No mess fun • Ages 5-12!
Let’s CLown Around Former Ringling Bros. Navy Pier Entertainer
Performer with an ActionPacked, High Energy Comedy Magic Show Includes: • Fire-Eating • Machete Juggling • Stilt Walker • & Much More
847-672-6165
www.letsclownaround.net
Traveling Players We Come to You! Exciting hands-on experiments may include: • Slippery slime • Cool chemistry Also Available • Rocket launches • Cotton candy ....and lots more
North Cook and Lake
Chicago
Western Suburbs
773-227-3345
224-676-1635
630-393-3322
presents
Aurora area
Diane C
CLOE the Clown
Cl
• Magic Tricks • Games • Face Painting • Balloon Animals • Story Telling and More
Book your Birthday Parties Today!
11 (630)
Call: 630-816-2288 www.cloeclown.com
Child with balloon animals, fac puppetry, magic, game
Don't Miss it! Sunday, October 4th 10am - 4pm
‘s
Fall
Sports Thrills • Character Visits • Bounce Houses Train Rides • Obstacle Courses
2367 W. Logan Blvd., Chicago (Western & 90/ Kennedy Expy)
Visit ChicagoParent.com/playdate to RSVP! ChicagoParent.com October 2015 69
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Low rates! Book Now!
Summer Special $10 Off Indoor & Outdoor Party Rentals for... • Birthday Parties • School Festivals • Church Events • Reunions • Picnics
Games/Concessions/Tables/Chairs also available! Face Painting!
708-620-HOPP Call to reserve and lock in low rates!
Local delivery, Setup & Pick-up included
www.hippity-hop.com
#1 Birthday magician
Amazing Tim Adamz 3 Arrives Early
3 Amazes Kids 4-9
Rated
3 As Seen on WGN 3 Live Rabbit
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Book Him Here Now: www.AmazingAdamz.com - 630-416-4318
Natures Creatures Animal Show
A fun Exotic Educational Animal Show for kids & adults of all ages! Serving the Chicago land area for over 10 years!
• Birthday Parties • Block Parties • Scouts • Schools • Licensed & Insured • Veterinarian & Teacher Approved!
For more info or to book:
call Erin at
• Snakes • Frogs • Bunnies • Lizards • Giant Turtles • Spiders • Ducks • Talking Parrots • Alligators • Pony Rides
(773) 881-9379 or visit:
www.naturescreatures.net The Bus of Fun will come to your home for your child’s next Birthday Party. “Like Us” and add a friend on Facebook and receive $25 off your Party! ...Sit back and let us run the PARTY for you!
Not only do we bring the fun, we also bring:
■ Prizes ■ Cotton Candy ■ Snow Cones (seasonal) ■ Face painting
■ Photography ■ Homemade Treats ■ Small gift for Birthday Child ■ Games
■ Creative Crafts ■ Pinata ■ Money Machine (real money) ■ Refreshments
Rain or Shine, Hot or Cold, we always bring the FUN to you year round!
Please call (708) 388-2200 to schedule your party
www.TheBusofFun.com
The Bus of Fun is fully insured.
is part of your favorite social networks Find us on Facebook
new lower rates!
Join the Twitter party! Follow us @ChicagoParent On Pinterest pinterest.com/chiparent
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calendar
OCTOBER
1
You don’t have to be a werewolf to enjoy this afterhours trek! On the night before Halloween, families with kids 5 and up can venture out on the Howl at the Moon Hike to get a peek at what happens at Spring Valley when the sun goes down and the full moon comes out. Don’t worry: We’re guessing it will be more beautiful than boo-tiful. $10, $7 resident. 7-8:30 p.m. Oct. 30. Vera Meineke Nature Center at Spring Valley, 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. (847) 985-2100, parkfun.com.
2
Accio, cookbook! Your kids have grown up with Harry Potter and all his friends, and now it’s time to cook like them. This fun Wizards Cooking Class for kids 6-10 includes recipes for chocolate frogs, pumpkin pasties and polyjuice potion (hopefully without the transformational powers), as well as magical games and a few spell-casting lessons to really manage some mischief. Let’s just hope they don’t come home with an invisibility cloak. $53, $35 resident. 6-8 p.m. Oct. 7. 95th Street Center, 2244 W. 95th St., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.
3
We can all agree that the hijinks and hilarity of Blue Man Group is good for everyone, which is what makes the legendary performers’ partnership with Autism Speaks all the more exciting. At the Autism-Friendly Performance, you get the full Blue Man experience without any of the overload, thanks to reduced sound levels and a “sensory break” space in the lobby, decked out with bean bags, dim lights and quiet corners. Best of all, $5 of every ticket purchased goes to Autism Speaks. ks. $49. 4 p.m. p m. Oct. p. Oct. 4. Briar Street Theatre Theatre, e, 3133 3133 3 N. Halsted St., ., Chicago. (773) 3) 348-4000, blueman.com. m.
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CALENDAR 1 | THURSDAY THE ARC OF ILLINOIS LIVING WITH AUTISM CONFERENCE.
The conference examines topics that help families, professionals and individuals living with autism. Keynote speakers are Carol Stock Kranowitz, presenting “The Out-of-Sync Child: Understanding Sensor Processing Disorder,” Marrea Winnega, presenting “Capturing Motivation: The Key to Changing Behavior” and Dr. Patrick Schwartz, presenting “From Possibility to Success: Achieving Successful Outcomes.” $130, $95 member; financial assistance available. 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Hilton Lisle/Naperville, 3003 Corporate West Drive, Lisle. thearcofil.org.
2 | FRIDAY
Autu Au tumn mn Harvestt mn Fe est stiv val
FAMILY BINGO AND PIZZA NIGHT.
SSeee Oc O t.. 4
Families with kids 3 and up enjoy an evening of pizza, prizes and bingo. $10. 6-8 p.m. Community Recreation Center, 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg. (847) 490-7020, parkfun.com.
3 | SATURDAY CHICAGO CORNUCOPIA FALL FESTIVAL.
Includes pony rides, a petting zoo, inflatables, a pumpkin patch, face painting and live entertainment, as well as an art fair and food. $2-5 activities. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Eugene Field Park, 5100 N. Ridgeway Ave. (773) 478-9744, chicagoparkdistrict.com. FAMILY DAY: RAINBOW FACES. Kids 4-12, with adult, try face
paintings and colorful self-portraits inspired by works by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, Emil Nolde, and Max Pechstein. All materials provided. 1-4 p.m. Smart Museum of Art, University of Chicago, 5550 S. Greenwood Ave. (773) 702-0200, smartmuseum. uchicago.edu. LINCOLN SQUARE APPLE FEST. Enjoy all things apple from pies
to pizzas, and apple-themed games for kids in the Kids Zone. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 4700 block of North Lincoln Avenue. lincolnsquareravenswood.org.
MIDNIGHT CIRCUS IN THE PARKS. Each 90-minute show
takes place under an intimate, little big top tent. With new acts and returning favorites, the tour is a Chicago family tradition. $20, $15 kids, free kids under 2. 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Independence Park, 3945 N. Springfield Ave. (312) 742-7590, midnightcircus.net.
SUBURBS MIDWAY VILLAGE MUSEUM SCARECROW HARVEST FESTIVAL.
Families can build a scarecrow with provided straw. Bring old clothes to stuff or buy clothes and accessories on site. Activities include traditional harvest crafts and activities, old-fashioned games, wagon rides around the village, square dancing and demonstrations. $7, $5 kids 3-17. Noon-5 p.m. 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford. (815) 397-9112, midwayvillage.com.
Neighborhood Center, 1223 Sharon Lane, Schaumburg. (847) 490-7020, parkfun.com. CHANGING OF THE LEAVES FALL FESTIVAL. Includes fall color hikes,
children’s crafts, games and fun family activities. Roast marshmallows and enjoy hot chocolate around a campfire. $3. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Pilcher Park Nature Center, 2501 Highland Park Drive, Joliet. (815) 741-7277, jolietpark.org. BREAKFAST AT THE FARM. A
traditional country breakfast, followed by a program examining the 1864 Shenandoah Valley Campaign, one of the final and pivotal campaigns of the
war. The breakfast includes waffles, eggs, bacon and coffee. $16. 9-11 a.m. Fischer Farm, 16W680 Old Grand Ave., Bensenville. (630) 766-7015, bensenvilleparkdistrict.org/pdcms/fischer-farm. COMMUNITY HEALTH FAIR.
Families can receive free flu shots (available only to those over 18), screen for various health risks, and learn how to make positive health behavioral changes. A special children’s section appeals to younger visitors. 9 a.m.-noon. Downers Grove Park District Recreation Center, 4500 Belmont Road, Downers Grove. (630) 963-1300, midwestern.edu/ DGhealthfair.
About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the November issue is Sept. 28. 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 92.
BOCKTOBERFEST. Kids 3-10
feast on traditional Octoberfest goodies, including apples, pretzels, root beer and cider. Also enjoy games, crafts and other activities. $9, $7 residents. 1-3 p.m. Bock
Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar
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CALENDAR DOWN IN THE DIRT. Explore life in the dirt. Kids must be accompanied by non-paying adult. $10, $8 residents. 10-11:30 a.m. Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Harrison and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. (630) 871-2810, lincoln marsh.org. TAP IN. TURN UP. The percussive
rhythms of dancing feet combine with classical works in Chicago Sinfonietta’s first concert of the season, featuring performances from Chicago-based flamenco troupe Clinard Dance Theatre and acclaimed Washington, DC-based tap-prodigy Cartier Williams. $10-$60. 8 p.m. Wentz Concert Hall of North Central College, 171 E. Chicago Ave., Naperville. (312) 236-3681 ext. 2, chicagosinfonietta.org.
4 | SUNDAY CHICAGO CHICAGO PARENT PLAYDATE.
Find activities at every turn, from entertainers to face painters to arts and crafts and sports as well as bounce houses, an obstacle course and a train ride. Plus, parents can get great information from schools and businesses that cater to children and families. This event also has a special Hey Baby room for little ones under 2 with their own entertainers and fun. $6 kids 2 and older, $3 kids under 2, free adults. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Windy City Fieldhouse, 2367 W. Logan Blvd. (708) 613-6305, chicagoparent.com. MIDNIGHT CIRCUS IN THE PARKS. See Oct. 3.
HEAVENLY BODIES OF HOLST.
New Philharmonic’s performance of Gustov Holst’s “The Planets” is accompanied by a series of aweinspiring short films. Recommended for families with kids 6 and up. $49. 7:30 p.m. McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. (630) 942-4000, atthemac.org.
SUBURBS
roasted corn and cold beverages available for purchase. $20 family (maximum six people), $5 person, free kids 3 and under. Noon-5 p.m. Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm, 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. (847) 985-2100, parkfun.com. GROVE FEST. Features live folk
music, square dancing, hayrides and pioneer craft demonstrations. Plus, storytelling for kids. $4, $1 kids under 12. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. The Grove, 1421 Milwaukee Ave., Glenview. (847) 2996096, glenviewparks.org. HARVEST DAYS. Join museum volun-
teers in this celebration of the season. Features continuous demonstrations of farm and household skills, 19th century music, and food. $6, $3 kids. 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Garfield Farm Museum, 3N016 Garfield Road, Campton Hills. (630) 584-8485, garfieldfarm.org.
AUTUMN HARVEST FESTIVAL.
FAMILY HAYRIDES. Families with
Hands-on demonstrations of frontierera and 1880s farm life, including cider pressing, blacksmithing, grain threshing and more. Plus, kids’ craft activities, 19th century games and live string music. Grilled food, taffy apples,
kids 3 and up take a harvest-moon hayride at a Naperville park. Bring food or fixings for s’mores to cook over the bonfire; hot chocolate and hot cider provided. Today’s location is Knoch Knolls Park, 336 Knoch Knolls Road, Naperville. $12, $8 resident; free kids under 3. Check website for times. Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 8485000, napervilleparks.org. HEAVENLY BODIES OF HOLST.
Glen Ellyn. Today’s time is 3 p.m.
5 | MONDAY MISS JAMIE’S MUSIC ON THE FARM. Miss Jamie and her
Fami F amily miily Ha ayr yrid des s See Oct Se Occt. t. 4
puppet friends take the audience on a magical barnyard adventure in a sing-along, dance-along show that’s fun for kids and grownups alike. The interactive performance teaches healthy eating. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Morton Grove Public Library, 6140 Lincoln Ave., Morton Grove. (847) 929-5102, webrary.org. TAP IN. TURN UP. The percussive rhythms of dancing feet combine with classical works in Chicago Sinfonietta’s concert, featuring Chicago-based flamenco troupe Clinard Dance Theatre
and acclaimed Washington, DC-based tap prodigy Cartier Williams. $10-$60. 7:30 p.m. Orchestra Hall of Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 236-3681 ext. 2, chicagosinfo nietta.org.
6 | TUESDAY THE ABC’S AND 123’S OF PRESCHOOL 2015: SCHOOL PANEL AND MEET N’ GREET. Meet
teachers, administrators and parents from each participating school. Plus, take home a comprehensive packet of information about the schools in attendance. Laura Gradman of Chicago Preschool Pro moderates the panel. $15 and up. 6-9 p.m. Bubbles Academy, 1504 N. Fremont St., Chicago. bump clubandbeyond.com/chicago. AFTER SCHOOL ADVENTURES: ROSIE THE RIVETER. Kids 5-12,
with adult, honor the women who worked on the assembly lines during World War II by creating an airplane made from Popsicle sticks. $3, $2 members. 3-5 p.m. Des Plaines History Center, 781 Pearson St., Des Plaines. (847) 391-5399, desplaineshistory.org. PUMPKINS GALORE. Kids 3-5
touch seeds, explore gourds of all colors, shapes and sizes, then decorate a pumpkin to take home. $25, $18 members. 9:30-11 a.m. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.
7 | WEDNESDAY PUMPKINS GALORE. Kids 18-35 months, with adult, touch seeds, explore gourds of all colors, shapes and sizes, then decorate a pumpkin to take home. $22, $15 members. 9:3010:45 a.m. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org. INCHWORMS PARENT-CHILD PROGRAM. Kids 18-36 months,
with adult, are introduced to nature through songs, simple crafts and outdoor exploration. Today’s theme is Exploring Autumn. $6, free parking. 9:30-10:15 a.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 6685161, cantigny.org.
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CALENDAR 10 | SATURDAY CHICAGO MIDNIGHT CIRCUS IN THE PARKS. See Oct. 3. Today’s location
is Smith (Joseph Higgins) Park, 2656 W. Grand Ave. PINKELEPHANT PERFORMING TROUPE PRESENTS: LITERARY LUNATICS. A young girl attends
her first day of school at Bookington Academy, where she meets people who remind her of characters from books she has read. $11, $10 members. 2 p.m. Old Town School of Folk Music, 4545 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 728-6000, oldtownschool.org.
Ciirq C qu ue e Zu um ma Zu Z uma m
FAMILY DAY: KALEIDOSCOPIC.
Concoct vibrant, complex, and unexpected artworks, inspired by the exhibitions “Alexandre da Cunha,” “Rafael Ferrer’ and “The Freedom Principle.” With guest artist Regina Baiocchi Harris. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave. (312) 280-2660, mcachicago.org. AYA: AN AERIAL BALLET. The
world premiere of AYA, an eveninglength aerial ballet that takes the audience on a journey of wonder. Recommended for families with kids 7 and up. $18 and up. 8 p.m. Aerial Dance Chicago, Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport Ave. (773) 4634402, aerialdancechicago.org.
SUBURBS HERITAGE DAY. Explore the buildings, touch the artifacts, and connect with history. Outdoor picnic food and beverages available for purchase. Activities include candle making, pumpkin painting, a petting zoo, pony rides, arts and crafts, spinning wheel and weaving demos and rug braiding. Plus, Taylors Battery & Colonial Militia Reenactors, Hamilton’s Battery & Soldiers of the 7th New Jersey Continental Army and the Firing of the Cannon on the hour. $5 activity wristband. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fischer Farm, 16W680 Old Grand Ave., Bensenville. (630) 766-7015, bensenvilleparkdistrict.org/pdcms/ fischer-farm.
Seee O Se Occtt.. 10
HOBO NIGHT. Attendees are encouraged to wear hobo costumes; there will be a best costume prize. Everyone also receives a goodie bag upon arrival with all the ingredients necessary for s’mores. Plus, take tours of the Rail Park’s retired and restored Illinois Central locomotive and caboose. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Homewood Rail Park, Chestnut and Park avenues, Homewood. home sweethomewood.com. CANTIGNY FALL FESTIVAL.
Features hayrides, live entertainment, inflatable jumpers and slides, pumpkin decorating, monster mural and face painting. $5 parking. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org. CIRQUE ZUMA ZUMA. This African
Cirque-style show features non-stop action-paced entertainment and live music. Recommended for families with kids 7 and up. $46, $36 kids. 7 p.m. McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. (630) 942-4000, atthemac.org. ECO-EXPLORERS: SPINNING SPIDERS. Kids 6-8 learn how spiders
capture or hunt for their prey, search
for spiders on a hike, play a spider vs. fly games and make an eight-legged craft to take home. $19, $13 resident. 1-2:30 p.m. Knoch Knolls Nature Center, 320 Knoch Knolls Road, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, naper villeparks.org. REPORTING FOR DUTY: THE WWII EXPERIENCE. “Recruits”
enjoy a hands-on experience with the vehicles, weapons and first-aid used by soldiers during World War II. Program includes lunch, personalized dog tag and T-shirt. $100; $85 two or more. 8:45 a.m.-2 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.
FAMILY HAYRIDES. Naperville.
See Oct. 4. Today’s location is Seager Park, 1163 Plank Road, Naperville. CIRCUS IN PROGRESS: AN EVENING OF DARING NEW WORK.
Get a sneak peek at some of Chicago’s most exciting new works of circus art. This latest installation focuses on the development of new acts. $15. 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The Actors Gymnasium, Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes St., Evanston. (847) 328-2795, actorsgymnasium.org.
11 | SUNDAY CHICAGO
SECOND SATURDAY: INNOVATION. The McCormick
MIDNIGHT CIRCUS IN THE PARKS. See Oct. 3. Today’s location
Museum is celebrating Fall Fest by honoring Robert McCormick’s love of trees. $5 parking. Noon-3 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.
is Smith (Joseph Higgins) Park, 2656 W. Grand Ave.
SPIDER CITY. Brian Moskalik,
assistant professor of zoology at the University of St. Francis, introduces the world of miniature predators. Free with admission. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.
SUBURBS MAY THE MUSICAL FORCE BE WITH YOU. The ZAZZ jazz
combo performs a Star Wars themed concert. 2-3:15 p.m. Downers Grove Public Library, 1050 Curtiss St., Downers Grove. (630) 960-1200, downersgrovelibrary.org. SPIDER CITY. Lisle. See Oct. 10.
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CALENDAR 12 | MONDAY
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.
COLUMBUS DAY CRAFT. Try a
special craft inspired by the World’s Columbian Exposition. See original items from the collection and make a souvenir paperweight to take home. Children must be accompanied by an adult. $5, $3 junior members. 10-11 a.m. Glessner House Museum, 1800 S. Prairie Ave., Chicago. (312) 3261480, glessnerhouse.org.
13 | TUESDAY Fa ami mily mily ly Day ay: Ka ale eid dos sco cop piic
ANIMAL DETECTIVES. Kids 3-4,
with adult, make discoveries about animals through art, play and exploration. Class also includes storytime and outdoor experience. 10:45-11:30 a.m. Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 941-8747, obtpd.org/lvnc.
ORY
Oct. 7.
See O See Se Occt. t. 10
COLUMBUS DAY PARADE.
The parade celebrates Christopher Columbus’ historic voyage to America and Italian-American culture. 12:30 p.m. State Street from Wacker to Van Buren, Chicago. jccia.com.
PUMPKINS GALORE. Lisle. See
STROLLING THROUGH HISTORY.
COLUMBUS DAY MINI GOLF TOURNAMENT. Celebrate Columbus
PARENT/CHILD BINGO AND PIZZA. Kids 6 and up, with adult,
Day at the Holiday Miniature Golf Tournament. The tournament consists of 36 holes with a special holes on each course. Includes a hot dog, chips and a beverage. $15, $12 resident. 10 a.m.-noon. Maryknoll Park, 845 Pershing Ave., Glen Ellyn. (630) 4697888, gepark.org.
enjoy 12 games of Bingo, a snack, pizza and a drink. $22, $15 resident. Noon-1:15 p.m. Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Community Center, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org.
This light-hearted tour and lively discussion in the galleries is for parents and caregivers and their kids 18 months or younger. Tour ends with playtime for babies. Today’s theme is Magic & Mummies. $15, $10 members. 2-3:30 p.m. Oriental Institute Museum, 1155 E. 58th St., Chicago. (773) 702-9514, oi.uchicago.edu.
16 | FRIDAY
NATURE TOTS. Toddlers 2-3 explore
MIDNIGHT CIRCUS IN THE PARKS. See Oct. 3. Today’s time is 7
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ChicagoParent.com October 2015 75
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CALENDAR p.m. and location is Welles Park, 2333 W. Sunnyside Ave., Chicago.
a.m. Ed Paschke Art Center, 5415 W. Higgins Ave. (312) 533-4911, edpaschke artcenter.org.
FAMILY CAMPING AT THE FARM.
Spend the evening camping out at Fischer Farm and enjoy some family fun. Hotdogs (to cook on the fire), chips and a beverage for dinner, s’mores, and a continental breakfast is provided. Includes campfire stories, a scavenger hunt, fun, and games. $10, $8 resident. 5 p.m.-10 a.m. Fischer Farm, 16W680 Old Grand Ave., Bensenville. (630) 766-7015, bensenvilleparkdistrict.org/pdcms/ fischer-farm.
17 | SATURDAY CHICAGO MIDNIGHT CIRCUS IN THE PARKS.
See Oct. 3. Today’s location is Welles Park, 2333 W. Sunnyside Ave.
He H eri r ta tag ge ge D y Da
PASCHKE PAGES. A family storytime featuring EPAC exhibitionthemed kids lit read aloud by the Storybook Mom Nili Yellin. 11-11:45
Seee Oc Se Oct. t. 10
AYA: AN AERIAL BALLET. See
Oct. 10.
SUBURBS FALL FAMILY HIKE. Families with kids 3 and up enjoy a nature scavenger hunt and then end the afternoon around a blazing fire, roasting marshmallows and sipping coca. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. $11.25, $9 resident. 1:30-3 p.m. Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Harrison and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. (630) 871-2810, lincolnmarsh.org. NATURE NAVIGATORS: CAMPING FUN. Kids 6-9 enjoy two hours filled
with a wide variety of hands-on material, creative explorations and fun activities. Dress for a nature hike. $19, $15 resident. 1-3 p.m. Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 941-8747, obtpd.org/lvnc.
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CALENDAR 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. 10:3011:30 a.m. Mount Prospect Public Library, 10 S. Emerson St., Mount Prospect. (847) 253-5675, mppl.org.
18 | SUNDAY CHICAGO
stars. Recommended for families with kids 6 and up. $45-$50. 3 p.m. McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. (630) 942-4000, atthemac.org.
21 | WEDNESDAY Picado (paper banners) for Día de los Muertos/Day of the Dead. $3, $2 members. 3-5 p.m. Des Plaines History Center, 781 Pearson St., Des Plaines. (847) 391-5399, desplaineshistory.org.
21 | WEDNESDAY
Welles Park, 2333 W. Sunnyside Ave.
INCHWORMS PARENT-CHILD PROGRAM. Wheaton. See Oct. 7.
Today’s theme is Fall Fun.
23 | FRIDAY
FAMILY HAYRIDES. Naperville.
See Oct. 4. Today’s location is Seager Park, 1163 Plank Road, Naperville. AILEY II. Alvin Ailey American
Dance Theater highlights the next generation of great American dance
ORY
24 | SATURDAY CHICAGO
DIA DE LOS MUERTOS. Make Papel
MIDNIGHT CIRCUS IN THE PARKS. See Oct. 3. Today’s location is
SUBURBS
registration required. $25. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Resurrection College Preparatory High School, 7500 W. Talcott Ave., Chicago. (773) 775-6616, reshs.org.
JR. HIGH FINE ARTS WORKSHOP.
Girls in grades 5-8 enjoy food, fun and raffles and receive a souvenir T-shirt. Students select from two workshops: art, dance, drama or music. Advance
CATAPULT CONTEST. Build a
KIDS’ CONCERT SERIES STOMP YOUR FEET TO THE JAMMIN’ BEAT. Environmental
awareness, diversity and the ability to make your own music are a few of the themes covered. Selections from Parents Choice Award-winning CDs “I Like Gum” and “Brighter Than Fireflies” encourage the audience to clap, stomp their feet and sing along with Amy Lowe and guitar & drum duo KingKatz. $12, $10 in advance. Noon. City Winery Chicago, 1200 W. Randolph St. (312) 733-9463, citywinery.com/chicago.
SUBURBS SUGAR SKULL PAINTING. Kids
can paint sugar skills, and families are invited to compete in the first-ever Día de los Muertos altar competition. $3, $2 members. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Des Plaines History Center, 781 Pearson St., Des Plaines. (847) 391-5399, desplaineshistory.org.
working catapult, a device once used in medieval warfare. There are three categories of competition: distance, shot group and accuracy. Prizes will be awarded. Check website for cost. 10 a.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 6685161, cantigny.org. ECO-EXPLORERS: AMAZING ARACHNIDS. Kids 9-12 enter the
amazing world of arachnids—spiders, daddy longlegs, scorpions, ticks and mites. $19, $13 resident. 1-2:30 p.m. Knoch Knolls Nature Center, 320 Knoch Knolls Road, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, naper villeparks.org.
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www.drjuliewilson.com ChicagoParent.com October 2015 77
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EXHIBIT
Action stars in training
W
hen the leaves starts to change, parents start to worry about their kids going stir-crazy in the approaching winter months. But there’s a bigger concern: in these days of childhood obesity and “Let’s Move” initiatives, how does a parent get their child to exercise when the world outside is a frozen tundra? That’s where “Run! Jump! Fly! Adventures in Action,” Kohl Children’s Museum’s latest temporary exhibit, comes in. Created by the folks at Minnesota Children’s Museum (who definitely know cold weather), the exhibit explores different ways for kids to “work out”—although the ideas might not be what you would expect. In the spirit of Mad Max: Fury Road and Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation, “Run! Jump! Fly!” puts kids in the role of action stars with the whole exhibit as their training center. After donning a costume, they can practice kung-fu animal stances, pedal a Flycycle, and maneuver across a climbing canyon (competition is encouraged), or show off sick moves—and burn calories—in the dance club and balance on a snowboarding/surfing video simulator. As they
complete activities, they stamp them on Action Tracker logs to show progress. All of the exhibit’s activities are designed to test balance, strength, coordination or endurance. While there is a traditional gym set-up where kids can try a leg press, rowing machine and chin-up bar, Sheridan Turner, president and CEO of the museum, says the point is to get families thinking outside the box of what qualifies as “working out.” “Being physical can really be fun,” Turner says. “There’s all kinds of things you can do that get you moving.” She also says the timing is ideal, since the museum’s popular “Fitness for All” programs are held outdoors and are dependent on the weather. So the indoor space will help bridge the seasonal gap and keep kids
engaged and moving around. “It really promotes that creativity and imagination can be vital as children engage in physical activity,” Turner says. “Everybody can be physically active.” And thanks to the exhibit, they can do so even when it’s cold. Elizabeth Diffin
Run! Jump! Fly! Adventures in Action u Sept. 29-Jan. 10 u Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview u kohlchildrensmuseum.org
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FAMILY HAYRIDES. Naperville. See Oct. 4.
Today’s location is Knoch Knolls Park, 336 Knoch Knolls Road, Naperville. MIKE SUPER MAGIC & ILLUSION. The
magical mystifier Mike Super brings his jawdropping, eye-popping magic and illusions to the MAC. Recommended for families with kids 6 and up. $45-$55. 7:30 p.m. McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. (630) 942-4000, atthemac. org.
25 | TUESDAY NATIONAL ACROBATS AND CIRCUS OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA: “PEKING DREAMS.”
Colorfully costumed acrobats and contortionists defy gravity with impressive circus and acrobatic acts. Recommended for families with kids 6 and up. $46-$51, $36 youth. 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. (630) 942-4000, atthemac.org.
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FULL MOON TRAM TOUR: NATURE AT NIGHT. Discover what happens at the arbore-
tum at night. With the moon shining through the trees, a tram ride reveals a symphony of sounds, mysterious spaces, and wildlife on the move. $10, $8 members. 7-9 p.m. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org. PASCHKE PEE-WEES. A tour geared toward 0-2 year olds and their caregivers focused on the colors, patterns and big bright faces. Baby wearing is encouraged. 4 p.m. Ed Paschke Art Center, 5415 W. Higgins Ave., Chicago. (312) 533-4911, edpaschkeartcenter.org.
30 | FRIDAY RAY BRADBURY STORYTELLING FESTIVAL. Hosted by the Waukegan Public
Library, this annual award-winning storytelling festival features the work of Ray Bradbury. Check website for pricing and performance times. Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. waukeganpl.org.
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They might eat brains, but they’ve got a lot of heart. At least at Zombie Prom, a night that hat includes a dinner buffet, dancing and a bounce house for the he kids. Zombie attire is required, and an on-site makeup artist will help you obtain optimal spooky-chic style before taking part in the costumee contest. $50 couple, $40 resident couple; $10 addi-tional member. 5-8 p.m. Oct. 30. Alsip Park District, 12521 521 S. Kostner Ave., Alsip. (708) 08) 389-1003, alsipparks.org.
Can you outrun a zombie? Find out at the Zombie Outbreak Dash, a half-mile run through O’Brien Woods, which is populated by barriers and obstacles—and of course, zombies. The post-race monster bash includes music and dancing with the world’s friendliest ghouls. $25 first family member, $20 additional members. 4-6 p.m. Oct. 17. Bartlett Park District, 2054 W. Stearns Bartlett. (847) 608-3100, Road, Bar bartlettparkdistrict.com. bartlettp If the Zombie Apocalypse is at hand, you’d better be prepared. Get some practice pr dodging zombies to reach the d vvaccination point (teamwork is encouraged) and utilizing supplies at various “safe in zones.” For the younger set, a zone family-friendly course is available family-f from 5-6 p.m., but the intensity up for ages 11 and up at 6:30 ramps u dot. $15, $10 resident. 5-9:30 on the do p.m. Oct. 24. Wheeler Park, 822 N. 1st St., Geneva. (630) 232-4542, genevaparks.org. gene Your tween’s bravado might Yo
begin to slip a bit when they’re Trapped in a Room with a Zombie. At this unique team-building activity, groups of kids 11-17 have to work together to solve mind games, do physical challenges and put together a series of clues. Every five minutes the zombie creeps closer—and escaping becomes all the more essential. $15, $10 resident. 2-6 p.m. Oct. 10. Downers Grove Park District, 935 Maple Ave., Downers Grove. (630) 963-1300, dgparks.org. This is not your grandmother’s hayride. The Zombie Safari Hayride combines the oldfashioned pastime with some newfangled paintball action. After a short ride down a darkened path, riders can finish off the undead with artsy, but effective, ammunition. Best of all, the zombies can’t shoot back. $22. 7 p.m.-midnight FridaysSaturdays; 7-11 p.m. Sundays. Odyssey Fun Farm, 19111 S. Oak Park Ave., Tinley Park. (708) 429-3800, odysseyfunworld.com. Elizabeth Diffin
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HALLOWEEN HAPPENINGS
Alll Halllow ows Eve Eve Ev See paage g 83
HALLOWEEN HALLOWEE EN HAYRIDE. HAY Explore
things that goo “bump!” “bum in the night by taking a hayride hayrid while learning h about Hallow Halloween ween creatures along the includes an outdoor story way. Also inc clu “woods,” exploration time in i the “w w Nature Center, a “spooky” time in the he N craft activity and refreshments at tthe campfire circle. $6, $5 resident. 5, 6 and 7 p.m. Oct. 9 and 16. LLake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, 17W Terrace. (630) 941-8747, Oakbrook T obtpd.org/lvnc. obtpd.org/lvn
GREAT HIGHWOOD PUMPKIN FEST. Watch as Highwood attempts
to win the Guinness World Record by carving and lighting a pumpkin for each individual impacted by autism in Illinois. Other activities include trick-or-treating, food vendors, live music, hay rides, pumpkin carving, pet costume contest, pumpkin dump and more, plus nightly electronic pumpkin wall lighting ceremonies set to music and a Seed Spitting Contest. The autism-friendly event will have a sensory quiet area located at the Highwood Library. $2; $10 activity wristband. 4-9 p.m. Oct. 9; 11 a.m.-9
p.m. Oct. 10; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Oct. 11. 17 Highwood Ave., Highwood. celebratehighwood.com. HOWL-O-WEEN POOCH PARADE.
Dogs should come dressed to impress and ready to be judged for the most unique costume. Other activities include a dog agility course, fun tricks competition, a pooch parade and an area for free play. The first 50 dogs receive a special Halloween treat. All dogs must have current shots. $7 dog, $3 person; $5 resident dog, $2 resident. Noon-2 p.m. Oct. 10. Meineke Recreation Center, 220
HALLO
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HALLOWEEN HAPPENINGS E. Weathersfield Way, Schaumburg. (847) 490-7020, parkfun.com.
Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.
FAMILY FALL FEST. Head to Safety Town Village for some early Halloween fun and safe trick-ortreating through a kid-sized village. Dressed-up volunteers pass out candy and prizes. Plus, face painting, pony rides, petting farm, moon jump, pumpkins, food and more. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 10. The Depot, 511 S. York Road, Elmhurst. epd.org.
HALLOWEEN HOLLOW. Features
carnival, food, activities, entertainment, Scarecrow Laboratory, hayrides, horse rides and contests. Carnival ride wristband specials are available. 5-9 p.m. Oct. 16; 1-9 p.m. Oct. 17; 1-6 p.m. Oct. 18. Main Park, 10925 La Porte Road, Mokena. (708) 390-2401, mokenapark.com. BOO BASH. Dress in costume and
FAMILY JACK O’ LANTERN HIKE. Explore the night life of owls,
bats and spiders at the arboretum. Decorate pumpkins and roast marshmallows over a fire. Kids must be accompanied by adult. Flashlights are recommended. $19, $16 member. 6-8:30 p.m. Oct. 10-11 and 17-18. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org. ALL HALLOWS EVE. Experience
two of the darkest nights of the year during this experience that brings some of the scariest literature of the past, present and future to life. For ages 8 and up; not suitable for young children. $15 at door, $10 in advance, members are free. 6:30-10 p.m. Oct. 16. Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville. (630) 420-6010, napersettlement.org. FAMILY NIGHT OUT: PUMPKINS & TREATS. Costumes
are welcome. Enjoy a fun craft, pumpkin decorating, trick-or-treating and more. $2 parking. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Oct. 16. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield
enjoy pumpkin decorating, Trickor-Treat Town, Glen Ellyn Public Library storytelling, special games and activities, apple cider, Halloween treats and try your luck in the inflatable corn maze. Plus, fun entertainment and a costume contest. $15, $10 resident. 1011:30 a.m. Oct. 17. 845 Pershing Ave., Glen Ellyn. (630) 469-7888, gepark.org. FAMILY PUMPKIN CARVING. Each
participant receives a pumpkin to carve and decorate. All supplies, juice and snacks provided. Prizes will be awarded in various categories. An adult must be with kids at all times. $23, $15 resident. 10-11:15 a.m. Oct. 17. Bock Neighborhood Center, 1223 W. Sharon Lane, Schaumburg. (847) 490-7020, parkfun.com. BOO! AT THE ZOO. The not-so-scary and fun-filled event has something for the entire family, including the “Crazy Maize” corn maze, haunted hayrides, the popular “Pumpkin Smasher,” professional pumpkin carving demonstrations, a 1 p.m. Costume Parade followed by the Costume Showcase at 1:30 p.m., scarecrow building, and
Boo Bo o!! at th the Zo Zoo oo SSeee this tthhis is pag age
OWEEN
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HALLOWEEN HAPPENINGS Spoo Sp poo ooky ooky ky Zoo o Sp S Spec pec ectta acu ula lar ar See pa Se page 85
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Zoo Chats about some of the zoo’s creepy critters. Free with zoo admission. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 17-18 and 24-25. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. (708) 688-8000, czs.org. THE PUMPKIN TROLLEY. Ride
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an old-time electric trolley to the Pumpkin Patch and choose a pumpkin. Pumpkins are $2 in addition to the fare. $4, $3 seniors, $2 kids 3-11, free under 3. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 17-18 and 24-25. Fox River Trolley Museum, 361 S. LaFox St. (Ill. 31), South Elgin. (847) 697-4676, fox trolley.org. HALLOWEEN GHOST STORY TRAIN. Ride a spooky trolley to the
haunted forest preserve and listen to chilling stories around the campfire while enjoying monstrously good treats. Advance reservations recommended. Call for cost. 5, 6:15 and
7:30 p.m. Oct. 17 and 24. Fox River Trolley Museum, 361 S. LaFox St. (Ill. 31), South Elgin. (847) 697-4676, foxtrolley.org. HALLOWEEN GEOCACHING ADVENTURE FOR FAMILIES.
Families learn how to use a GPS and go on a treasure hunt. Start by learning the basics of GPS units and then follow GPS coordinates to find an eight stage multicache containing tricks and treats. GPS units are provided. An adult must accompany child. $15 adult/child pair; $12 resident pair. 1:30-3 p.m. Oct. 18. Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 9418747, obtpd.org/lvnc. A HAUNTING IN THE VALLEY.
Costumed guides lead scheduled groups along a trail of Halloween fun, adventure and magic. Also
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HALLOWEEN HAPPENINGS includes refreshments, games, live owl display, and a bonfire. $8, $6 in advance. 6:15-9:30 p.m. Oct. 23-24. Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm, 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. (847) 985-2100, parkfun.com.
a separate Thomas the Tank Engine track. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 24. Highland Park Public Library, 494 Laurel Ave., Highland Park. (847) 681-7030, hplibrary.org/kids.
HALLOWEEN HOOPLA. Features
Includes trick or treating, a pumpkin patch, bounce house and Halloweenthemed games and refreshments. 1-3 p.m. Oct. 24. Lincolnwood Parks & Recreation, 6900 N. Lincoln Ave., Lincolnwood. (847) 677-9740, lincolnwoodil.org.
inflatable games, face painting, music, bonfire and movie in the park, costumed characters, hayrides, craft room and food for sale. $5. 7-9 p.m. Oct. 23; 3-6 p.m. Oct. 24. Jewett Park Community Center, 836 Jewett Park Drive, Deerfield. (847) 945-0650, deerfieldparks.org. SUBURBAN HORROR STORY: LINCOLN HOTEL. As the sun goes
down, a different story unfolds within the shadows. Kids 10 and up spend an evening of terror as the dark halls of the Lincoln Hotel reveal a grisly horror story. $8. 7:30-10:30 p.m. Oct. 23-24. Downers Grove Park District, 935 Maple Ave., Downers Grove. (630) 963-1300, dgparks.org. CLARK STREET SPOOKTACULAR. Includes refresh-
ments, crafts and games, plus trickor-treating to businesses throughout the community. Enjoy magicians, balloon twist artists, jugglers and stilt walkers, plus Scarecrows on Parade, costume contests for adults and kids, prizes and special savings, and an afternoon of family fun. 1-5 p.m. Oct. 24. Clark Street between Armitage and Diversey and Diversey from Orchard to Lakeview, Chicago. visitclarkstreet.com. SPOOKY ZOO SPECTACULAR.
A safe alternative to trick-or-treating, as well as a variety of entertainment, crafts and fun for the whole family. Dress in costume and come to the zoo ready for a day full of fun and games. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 24. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org. HALLOWEEN RAILROAD.
A special run as the model trains run through Spookytown. Some visitors will be able to “drive a train” and earn their “NCOG Honorary Jr. Operating Engineer” certificate. Plus,
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BATFEST. Features trick-ortreating, Mothers’ Club Parade, pumpkin roll, contests and games. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 24. Batavia Riverwalk. (630) 879-5235, down townbatavia.com.
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HALLOWEEN HAPPENINGS
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$18 resident. 10-11 a.m. Oct. 24. Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 8485000, napervilleparks.org. COOL SCIENCE: HALLOWEEN POTIONS, ELIXIRS & MIXTURES.
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Kids 6-10 learn about basic principles of chemistry while following ancient recipes and using various “magical” ingredients to create potions, elixirs and other mixtures. At the end of the evening, receive a certificate of Advanced Potion Making. $53, $35 resident. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Oct. 24. 95th Street Center, 2244 W. 95th St., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org. HALLOWEEN HAYDAY. Kids 10 and under enjoy games, costume contest, bounce houses, hayrides and more. $10, $7 resident. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 24. Persinger Recreation Center, 3507 Kaneville Road, Geneva. (630) 2324542, genevaparks.org. PUMPKIN DECORATING AND S’MORES. Each child receives a
pumpkin and everything needed to create a Halloween masterpiece.
Games, prizes, hayrides and s’mores are included. $20, $13 resident. 9-10 or 10:30-11:30 a.m. Oct. 24. Seager Park Interpretive Center, 1163 Plank Road, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org. SCARE-ILLON CONCERT. A Halloween-themed concert at the Millennium Carillon. Concert-goers hear spooky and atmospheric pieces, featuring both classical and popular music. 7-8 p.m. Oct. 24. Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, naper villeparks.org. HALLOWFEST: A GARDEN OF GOOD...AND EVIL! Take either the
“friendly” or “spooky” path to activities in the Regenstein Center and McGinley Pavilion. Experience familyfriendly thrills and chills, including entertainment, fortune telling, face painting, a spooky snack shack, and a ride on the “Howlin’ Express.” As night falls, walk through the Model Railroad Garden, decorated in ghastly lights and running special ghost trains. $19, $14 members in advance, free kids 2 and under. 5:30-9 p.m.
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HALLOWEEN HAPPENINGS Oct. 24; 4-7:30 p.m. Oct. 25. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org/hallowfest. HALLOWEEN HAPPENING.
Lots of free Halloween activities at this fest for kids 10 and under. 1-4 p.m. Oct. 25. Riverwalk Grand Pavilion, 912 Sindt Court, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org. HALLOWEEN HAYRIDES. Dress
up in Halloween costumes (parents included). Each registered child ages 3-12 receives a Halloween goodie bag filled with treats and prizes. Bring food to cook over the bonfire or the fixings for s’mores. Hot chocolate and apple juice provided. Registration required. $13, $9 resident, free kids under 3. 4:30-6:30 p.m. Oct. 25. Knoch Knolls Park, 336 Knoch Knolls Road, Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org. BOO BASH! PARENT-CHILD ACTIVITY. Kids 3-5, with adult,
are invited to wear their costumes to this fun hour of not-so-spooky activities and stories, ending with a yummy treat. $10. 10-11 a.m. Oct. 30. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org. MUMMIES NIGHT. Kids 4 and up, with adult, get up close and personal with a mummy, discover painted coffins and a Book of the Dead, try on an outfit from King Tut’s closet, and go on a treasure hunt in the Egyptian Gallery. 5-8 p.m. Oct. 31. Oriental Institute Museum, 1155 E. 58th St., Chicago. (773) 702-9514, oi.uchicago.edu. SPOOKY SINGALONG. A spooky, but not scary, sing-along featuring local kids’ favorites The Dreamtree Shakers. Be sure to wear Halloween costumes. $12, $11 members. 10:30 a.m. Oct. 31. Old Town School of Folk Music, 4545 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 728-6000, oldtown school.org. SPOOKY POOCH PARADE.
Dogs are allowed in the Botanic Garden for two hours for a canine
Halloween costume parade. The event includes parade, judging and awards. Nonprofits and vendors from a variety of local pet supply shops share information and sell dogrelated products. $25, $20 members in advance. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 31. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org. BLODGETT HOUSE BOO FEST! Come to the Downers Grove
Museum for a trick-or-treating event featuring games, crafts, treats and other Halloween fun. Noon-3 p.m. Oct. 31. Downers Grove Park District, 935 Maple Ave., Downers Grove. (630) 963-1300, dgparks.org. HALLOWEEN WORKSHOP WITH LEGO. 20,000 Legos and the help
of a Lego engineer bring spooky creations to life. Kids 7-12 create Haunted Lego creations such as haunted houses with trip doors, a walking Frankenstein and wicked witches. $39, $26 resident. 1-2:30 p.m. Oct. 31. 95th Street Center, 2244 W. 95th St., Naperville. (630) 8485000, napervilleparks.org.
13th Annual Southland Model Railroad Show October 10 & 11
Presented by the Harold L Richards High School Performing Arts Department
Saturday, October 10, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, October 11, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Harold L. Richards High School, 10601 S. Central Avenue, Oak Lawn Don’t miss this family fun event for all ages! Exciting model train displays and operating layouts, demonstrations on setting up your own model trains, huge LEGOTM displays, kids’ activities, vendors, concessions and much more! Admission is $6 for Adults, $5 for Seniors Children under 12 are FREE!!!
hlrband@att.net or 708 -499-2550 X 5096 All proceeds benefit the HLR Performing Arts Department
JUNIOR HALLOWEEN WORKSHOP WITH LEGO. Kids
5-6 make spooky Lego creations such as haunted houses with trip doors, a walking Frankenstein and wicked witches. $39, $26 resident. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 95th Street Center, 2244 W. 95th St., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, napervilleparks.org. BOO BREAKFAST. A Halloween breakfast complete with visits from favorite characters. Costumes are encouraged. Check website for cost. 9-11 a.m. Oct. 31. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org. HALLOWEEN AT THE ARB. All
kids are admitted free to meet fantasy characters and take part in a trick-or-treating scavenger hunt (10 a.m.-2 p.m.). Halloween costumes are encouraged. Free kids; non-member adults pay arboretum admission. Oct. 31. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 9680074, mortonarb.org.
North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie
TiCkeTS oN SAle Now 847.205.1234 or Keshet.org
KESHET
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PERFORMANCES THE OUTFIT. Through Oct. 10. In
Theatre, Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn, Chicago. (872) 2229555, chicagochildrenstheatre.org.
this modern fairy tale noir, Nora lives in a world of shadows, with the world’s worst boss and a pack of co-workers straight out of Mean Girls. Recommended for families with kids 3 and up. $27, $11 kids 3-11, $70 Family PAK. 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 3 p.m. Sundays. Piccolo Theatre, 600 Main St. (inside the Main Street Metra Station), Evanston. (847) 424-0089, piccolotheatre.com.
OKLAHOMA! Through Oct. 18.
Tensions are mounting between local farmers and cowboys in the Oklahoma Territory. In the midst of it all is cowboy Curly, who’s fallen for farm girl Laurey. $41-$56. 1:30 and 7 p.m. Wednesdays; 7 p.m. Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays; 3 and 8 p.m. Saturdays; 1 and 5:30 p.m. Sundays. Paramount Arts Centre and Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. (630) 896-6666, paramountaurora.com.
OCTOBER SKY. Through Oct. 11.
Homer Hickam, the teenage son of a coal miner, is determined not to end up like generations before him. Inspired by the world’s race to space, Homer and his buddies begin to light up the starry skies. $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. GOODNIGHT MOON & THE RUNAWAY BUNNY. Through Oct.
O to Oc obe er S Sk ky
PETER AND THE STARCATCHER.
Seee thhis paagge Se
11. Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia returns to amaze and introduce the performing arts to kids 3 and up with this enchanting duo of family
favorites by Margaret Wise Brown, featuring Mermaid’s signature innovative pupperty and evocative original music. $28 and up. Chicago Children’s
Through Oct. 18. A company of 12 actors play more than a hundred unforgettable characters on a journey to solve the mystery of how Peter Pan become “The Boy Who Never Grew Up.” Recommended for families with kids 10 and up. $52. Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 530-0111, drurylaneoakbrook.com.
& present Based on the novel by
RICHARD & FLORENCE ATWATER
MR. POPPER’S PENGUINS Broadway’s timeless classic musical whisks you away to a place where dreams are born and no one ever grows up! Friday, October 9th at 7:30pm Saturday, October 10th at 7:30pm Sunday, October 11th at 2pm Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center 150 E Wood St, Palatine, IL 60067 Tickets: $18 in advance, $20 at the door Students/Children/Seniors: $16 in advance, $18 at the door Group Discounts Available For Tickets - Please visit the Cutting Hall Ticket Page at www.cuttinghall.org
Buy 3 Tickets, Get 1 FREE
Must be purchased in advance, using the coupon code CHIPARENT.
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 ChicagoParent.com October 2015 89
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PERFORMANCES SPAMALOT. Through Oct. 18. Dancing
divas, a legless knight, flatulent Frenchmen and killer rabbits combine in this epic story of King Arthur and his Round Table Knights. Recommended for families with kids 10 and up. $40$44. Check website for dates and times. Theatre at the Center, The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Ind. (219) 836-3255, theatreatthecenter.com. MAGIC TREE HOUSE: A NIGHT IN NEW ORLEANS. Opens Oct. 3.
Magic Tree House characters Jack and Annie venture through the tuneful streets of 1915 New Orleans, where they discover 14-year-old Louis Armstrong and must set him on the trumpeting path to become the “King of Jazz.” Recommended for families with kids 5-10. $15 and up. Emerald City Theatre Company, Apollo Theater in Lincoln Park, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 935-6100, emeraldcity theatre.com. TREASURE ISLAND. Opens Oct. 7.
Set sail with Jim Hawkins, Long John Silver and a crew of swashbuckling rogues. Recommended for families with kids 10 and up. $35 and up. Lookingglass Theatre in the Water Tower Water Works, 821 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 337-0665, lookingglasstheatre.org. ALICE IN WONDERLAND. Join Alice
as she journeys through Wonderland. $9.50, $7.50 kids. 10 a.m. and noon. Oct. 8-10. Theatre at the Center, The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Ind. (219) 836-3255, theatreatthecenter.com. ALEXANDER AND THE TERRIBLE, HORRIBLE, NO GOOD, VERY BAD DAY. Opens Oct. 10. In this
musical adaptation, everything goes wrong for grumpy young Alexander. 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.
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HANSEL & GRETEL MEET THE SWAMP WITCH. Opens Oct. 14. Join
Hansel Jo and Gretel Lou as they journey into the Louisiana bayou in search of the legendary swamp treasure. Recommended for families with kids 2-10. $7 weekdays; $10 weekends. 10:30 a.m. Check website for schedule. AlphaBet Soup Productions, P.O. Box 85, Lombard. (630) 932-1555, absproductions.com.
DRAGONS LOVE TACOS. Opens Oct. 17. Dragons love parties, but if you want to throw a party for dragons, you have to remember the tacos. 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.
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PERFORMANCES
works for the Ministry of Truth in the nation of Oceania, where dissent is not tolerated and citizens are under perpetual electronic surveillance by Big Brother. Check website for cost. Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St., Chicago. (312) 335-1650, steppenwolf.org. THE MIRACULOUS JOURNEY OF EDWARD TULANE. Opens Oct. 23.
The story of a dapper china rabbit who gets lost at sea and bounces from person to person until he discovers the transformative power of love. Recommended for families with kids 7 and up. $28 and up. Check website for schedule. Chicago Children’s Theatre, Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn, Chicago. (872) 222-9555, chicagochildrenstheatre.org. ALICE IN WONDERLAND. Opens
Oct. 23. Follow Alice as she travels down the Rabbit Hole. Recommended for families with kids 2-6. $6-$12. 10:30 a.m. Chicago Kids Company, Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St., Chicago. (773) 205-9600, chicagokids company.com. CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S FILM FESTIVAL.
Features more than 250 films from more than 40 countries and engages kids of all ages with screening Q&A’s with filmmakers, interactive workshops filmmaker-led seminars and the CICFF Children’s and Youth Juries. Oct. 23-Nov. 1. Facets Multi-Media, 1517 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago. (773) 2819075, cicff.org. WHITE CHRISTMAS. Opens Oct. 29.
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
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. Opens
Oct. 30. Full of comedy, romance and audience participation, this onehour musical adaptation is geared at kids 2-6. $6-$12. Check website for schedule. Chicago Kids Company, Stahl Family Theater, 5900 W. Belmont, Chicago. (773) 205-9600, chicagokids company.com THE TEMPEST. This classic tale of revenge is reimagined as a traveling tent show of trickery and amazement, underscored by the ballads of Tom Waits and Kathleen Brennan and the pioneering choreography of Pilobolus. Recommended for families with kids ages 10 and up. $48-$88. Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 5955600, chicagoshakes.com. THREE LITTLE KITTENS. Three little
kittens are on the hunt for their missing mittens, and they need help finding them. 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) 935-6100, emerald citytheatre.com. RING OF FIRE: THE MUSIC OF JOHNNY CASH. More than two dozen
Johnny Cash hits take audiences on a musical journey. Recommended for families with kids 6 and up. $25-$55. 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays; 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays; 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturdays; 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sundays. Mercury Theater, 3745 N. Southport, Chicago. (773) 325-1700, mercurytheaterchicago.com. THEATRE HIKES. Join the theater group for a retelling of “War of the Worlds” by H. G. Wells. Low-impact hike takes place Oct. 4. Each performance lasts about three and a half hours. $20 adult nonmember, $10 adult member; $10 child nonmember, $5 child member. 1 p.m. weekends and Oct. 12. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.
NOV. NOV. 55 –– 15 15 ALLSTATE ALLSTATEARENA ARENA
NOV. NOV. 19 19 –– 29 29 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
1984. Opens Oct. 21. Winston Smith
Lane Oakbrook Terrace, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 5300111, drurylaneoakbrook.com.
329019
ELF: THE BROADWAY MUSICAL.
Opens Oct. 21. Join Buddy the Elf in his larger-than-life quest from the North Pole to New York City to find his true identity. $50-$55. 8 p.m. WednesdaysFridays; 4:30 and 8 p.m. Saturdays; 1 and 5 p.m. Sundays. Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. (847) 634-0200, marriott theatre.com.
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ONGOING EVENTS
Oktoberf rffes e t-N Na aper Se ett ttle leme ment nt Seee th Se this is pag agee
EXHIBITS MODEL RAILROAD GARDEN: LANDMARKS OF AMERICA.
Through Oct. 25. Visitors enjoy the sights and sounds of garden-scale trains. $6, $5 seniors, $4 kids 3-12, free kids under 3. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 8355440, chicagobotanic.org. BOATS. 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, chicagochildrensmuseum.org. AMPHIBIANS. The one-of-a-kind exhibit offers an immersive visual, audio and hands-on experience about the changing lives of salamanders, sirens, frogs, toads, newts and more. John G. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 939-2438, sheddaquarium.org.
ROBOT REVOLUTION. Exhibit
explores how robots will ultimately change how we play, live and work together. 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. NATURE CONNECTS: ART WITH LEGO BRICKS BY SEAN KENNEY.
Marvel at 13 larger-than-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.
OTHER EVENTS OKTOBERFEST AT HOFBRÄUHAUS CHICAGO. An
annual celebration of Bavarian culture, cuisine and delicious beer. Check website for cost. Sept. 11-Oct. 31. Hofbrauhaus Chicago, 5500 Park Place, Rosemont. (847) 671-2739, hofbrauhauschicago.com. U.S. PARACHUTE ASSOCIATION NATIONAL WINGSUIT FLYING CHAMPIONSHIPS. Nearly 100 of the
country’s top wingsuit flyers vie for the chance to be the first-ever U.S. National Wingsuit Flying Champion. Jumpers wear specially designed suits to allow them to soar through the sky. Between jumps, visitors can hang with the pros as they prepare for skydives. Check website for schedule. Sept. 29-Oct. 4. Chicagoland Skydiving Center, 1207 W. Gurler Road, Rochelle. uspa.org. THE SCARECROW TRAIL.
Artistically decorated scarecrows from
local Girl and Boy Scout troops are on display around Meadow Lake. Free with admission. 7 a.m.-sunset daily. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org. WEST TOWN ART WALK.
Showcases dozens of local and upcoming artists and designers. 5-8 p.m. Oct. 2; noon-8 p.m. Oct. 3. Chicago Avenue from Milwaukee to Leavitt and Ogden, Chicago. (312) 850-9390, westtownartwalk.com. OKTOBERFEST-NAPER SETTLEMENT. Hear live music
and enjoy authentic German cuisine during a fun salute to one of the community’s ethnic heritages. Family-friendly activities available on Saturday afternoon. $15, $10 kids 4-12; $10 in advance, $5 kids in advance; free kids under 4. Additional cost for food and beverages. 5-10 p.m. Oct. 2; noon-10 p.m. Oct. 3. 523 S. Webster St., Naperville. (630) 4206010, napersettlement.org.
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ONGOING EVENTS ST. BENEDICT’S OKTOBERFEST. Enjoy authentic
oom-pah bands, Spaten bier and specialty cuisine, plus carnival midway rides, activities and games and a pumpkin patch. Cost for food and rides. 3-10 p.m. Oct. 2; 1-10 p.m. Oct. 3; 1-9 p.m. Oct. 4. 2215 W. Irving Park Road, Chicago. stbensoktoberfest.com. ST. CHARLES SCARECROW FEST. View more than 150
handcrafted scarecrows. Plus, live entertainment, arts and crafts show, carnival, petting zoo, canine corner and make-your-own scarecrow. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Oct. 9-10; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 11. Downtown at Route 64 and Fox River, St. Charles. (630) 377-6161, scarecrowfest.com. NORTH AMERICAN REPTILE BREEDERS CONFERENCE AND TRADE SHOW. Attendees get an
up-close view of reptiles, including snakes, frogs, turtles, geckos, iguanas and tortoises. $15, $8 kids 5-12, free kids under 5. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 10; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 11. Tinley Park Convention Center, 18451 Convention Center Drive, Tinley Park. (708) 9328044, reptileconference.com. FAMILY WEEKEND. Includes
storytelling, face painting, science experiments, critter shows and live music. Small pumpkins to paint are available for purchase and costumes are encouraged. Free with arboretum admission. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 10-12.
The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org. PINBALL EXPO. Features ex-
hibitors, seminars and speakers. Plus participate in a pinball tournament. Check website for cost and schedule. Oct. 14-18. The Westin Chicago North Shore, 601 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling. pinball expo.com.
www.classiccinemas.com
Party Packages Include:
Movie Kids’ Pack Party Room
Visit www.classiccinemas.com click “Plan an Event/Party”
GLASS PUMPKIN PATCH AT THE MORTON ARBORETUM. Delight in
colorful hand-blown glass sculptures. Live glass blowing demonstrations take place every day. The Glass Pumpkin Sale takes place Oct. 16-18. Free with arboretum admission. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 14-18. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org. ART ON HARRISON. Includes art, music, food, dance and handson demonstrations for the whole family. 6-10 p.m. Oct 16; noon-8 p.m. Oct. 17. Harrison Street, Oak Park. oakparkartsdistrict.com/events/ art-on-harrison. TREE POSE YOGA. Kids 4-6, with
adult, learn about the environment while stretching, moving and breathing like the creatures around them with a certified YogaKids instructor. $17, $10 members. 10-11 a.m. Mondays. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.
Piinb P nba alllll Ex E xpo po
Special Halloween Shows at a theatre near you! Visit classiccinemas.com for more info.
LINDO THEATRE PARTY ROOM
What they are saying about us “We have advertised (print and online) with Chicago Parent Going Places for many years and it has helped us reach people who probably wouldn’t know we exist otherwise! More recently we have utilized their email advertising opportunities and have found that to be useful as well. Our coupon redemption has increased significantly in the past year. We will continue to work with their great staff in the future!” -- Ann Marie Walker, Marketing Manager, Discovery Center Museum “Since handling marketing efforts for many family entertainment properties throughout Chicagoland for the last 5 years, I’ve had the distinct pleasure of working with several contacts at Chicago Parent to create allencompassing campaigns including print, web, and social. Their laser targeted, multi-faceted approach has led to successful results for years and I look forward to more successful campaigns to follow.” -- Jonathan Troy, Marketing, Feld Entertainment
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// www.npnparents.org // special advertising section Up to $2,000 off early childhood tuition! I N FA N T S • T O D D L E R S • P R E S C H O O L E R S
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LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
NPN puts parents’ interests firsts
T
here are so many choices when it comes to finding the right school or day care. The Neighborhood Parents Network has been helping families for 35 years, giving them the tools and resources to make betterinformed decisions. Here are just a few schoolchoice resources NPN provides: School directory: Go to npnparents.org/schools to search according to your criteria (e.g., cost, location, public or private, etc.), then save your top picks to My Directory, which you can download to an Excel spreadsheet or customized pdf for easy reference. Discussion forums: Gain access to our members’ thoughts about Chicago schools. Search within existing post categories such as “preschoolers” and “school days.” Or start your own topic.
School fairs: More than 150 public and private preschools and elementary schools send representatives to meet parents, giving you one-stop access to make personal connections, consider new options and determine next steps in the application process. Chicago School Choice: Monthly sessions offered where panelists and school search experts discuss the process and answer questions (npnparents.org/groups/ chicago-school-choice). We know how stressful finding the right school or day care can seem, but we’re here to help as you start exploring your options.
Melanie Schlachter Executive director Neighborhood Parents Network
MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR NPN’S ANNUAL SCHOOL FAIR Oct. 18: Annual NPN Preschool and Elementary School Fair. Meet representatives from more than 150 public and private schools and enrichment programs. Hosted by Grossinger City Autoplex. $25, free for NPN members. Visit npnparents.org/school-fairs for the latest event details, to RSVP and to join NPN.
9/10/15 2:35 PM
special advertising section // www.npnparents.org //
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ChicagoParent.com October 2015 95
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// www.npnparents.org // special advertising section
I
An NPN primer on elementary school terms
t’s your kids who are starting school, but for many parents searching for schools feels like being in the classroom all over again. You’re taking notes on various schools, coming across terms you’ve never seen before and— gasp!—maybe even compiling a spreadsheet to keep everything straight. It’s overwhelming, and the urge to play hooky to escape all this is tempting. But Neighborhood Parents Network wants to ease some of the anxiety that comes with finding the right school for your child with our annual school fairs, CPS 101 classes and more. But let’s drill down on the basics: a lesson on elementary school terms. Charter (adj.): a school that gets both private and public funding but is not subject
PHOTO COURTESY OF ALEXIS STARYK PHOTOGRAPHY
to the same regulations and school-board policies as traditional public schools. Students must apply, and the schedule and curriculum may be differ-
ent from other public schools. Used in a sentence: I have one child in a CPS school and another in a charter school, and even though their days off
don’t always align, it’s still the best option for our family. Lottery (n.): a computerized student-selection process that is, on its face, random, but is actually influenced by a few factors. If your child has a sibling in the school; if you live within 1.5 miles from the school; and/or if you live in an area that, according to U.S. Census data, is considered to be in a low socioeconomic tier, your child moves up on the list. Used in a sentence: I am praying to the lottery gods that our proximity to the school will grant my son a spot. Magnet (adj.): a school that specializes in certain subjects, such as math and science, or teaching and learning styles, such as Montessori. Students
continued on page 99
At Mary Meyer Preschool we learn through purposeful play P R O J E CT:
Mary Meyer Original Paints
CUR R I CUL UM G O AL : I DE A:
LET’S MIX LET’S PLAY LET’S LEARN
Introduction to color theory and language arts
Students mix and name their own paint color
HO W W E P L AY E D : We read books, observed, explored and talked about color and what happens when it is mixed; plain old “green” became “frog green” and “pea green”. Each child took turns with our Resident Artist to choose and mix their own paint and name their color.
A gorgeous array of paints created by children who have gained an understanding of color theory. Students’ language skills developed and their vocabulary expanded. Skills of independence and self-confidence are fostered as children learn to do things for themselves.
R E SULT S:
Come get to know us better at a Prospective Parent Night. CALL 773.549.0870 TO REGISTER www.marymeyer.org
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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
ChicagoParent.com October 2015 97
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E N L I G H T E N • E M P OW E R • E X C E L
• Full day Pre-K & Kindergarten • Low student/teacher ratio • Foreign Languages, Music, Choir, Band, Art
Your child is our mission.
• Physical Education & Athletic Teams • Excellent test scores & top high school placement
Strong in studies, serious in purpose, rich in the spirit of life and love. This is a Sacred Heart education.
Enlightened by 200 years of wisdom & tradition.
Empowered by the most modern teaching & learning tools.
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
A Comprehensive Catholic Education for Pre Kindergarten through 8th Grade 2245 North Southport Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60614 773-549-0909 phone 773-549-3127 fax
www.stjosaphat.net CALL TO REGISTER FOR A TOUR: September 9, October 21, November 18, December 9, January 20
Going Places FREE | FALL 2015
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High School and Middle School Open Houses Sunday, November 15th, 2015 PHOTO COURTESY OF ALEXIS STARYK PHOTOGRAPHY
School terms continued from page 96 are selected via lottery (see: lottery). Used in a sentence: The school right across the street from me is a magnet, but I can’t count on my daughter getting in. Magnet cluster (adj.): a neighborhood school (see: neighborhood school) that specializes in certain subjects or teaching styles and accepts students based on attendance boundaries. Students who live outside the boundary may apply, and they’re selected through a lottery (see: lottery). Used in a sentence: Affordable real estate sur-
rounding Lakeview’s Blaine Elementary, a highly rated CPS magnet cluster school that focuses on the fine arts, is hard to come by. Neighborhood school (n.): the CPS school your child is automatically accepted into, based on your address. Used in a sentence: The CPS School Locator at www.cps. edu/map tells you what your neighborhood school is. Selective enrollment (adj.): schools for academically advanced students; testing is required for acceptance. Used in a sentence: Bob and Judy have been using math flashcards with their daughter since she was 6 months old in hopes she’d test into a selective enrollment school.
MIDDLE SCHOOL: Lab will accept up to 40 new students into 6th grade for fall, 2016. Apply online starting September 1, 2015 Middle School Open House date: Sunday, November 15, 2015 at 10:00 am. Please RSVP at www.ucls.uchicago.edu
HIGH SCHOOL: Lab will accept up to 40 new students into 9th grade for fall, 2016. Apply online starting September 1, 2015 High School Open House date: Sunday, November 15, 2015 at 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm. Please RSVP at www.ucls.uchicago.edu
PHOTO COURTESY OF ALEXIS STARYK PHOTOGRAPHY
University of Chicago Laboratory Schools 1362 E. 59th St. Chicago, IL 60637 773-702-9451 admissions@ucls.uchicago.edu ChicagoParent.com October 2015 99
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9 questions parents should be asking schools
W
hether you’re attending one of NPN’s School Fairs or you’re going on a school tour, asking the right questions of a school representative is one of the most important ways of determining whether a school is right for your child. But what should you ask? Below are some of the most common questions parents ask when chatting with school reps, along with why their answers are so important. WHAT IS THE EDUCATION PHILOSOPHY? You’ll want to know whether it lines up with what you believe and how you want your child to learn. WHAT IS THE AVERAGE CLASS SIZE AND TEACHERTO-CHILD RATIO? An obvious question, but an
4
IS THERE RECESS? Recess is not a given, and if a school does have it, it may not be as frequent or as long as you or your child would like. Better to set your expectations now, or use this factor as a tipping point in choosing a school with a longer recess if that’s a priority for you.
5
D OES THE SCHOOL HAVE BEFORE- AND AFTERSCHOOL CARE?
1 2
PHOTO COURTESY OF ALEXIS STARYK PHOTOGRAPHY
important one: The smaller the class size and teacher-to-child ratio, the more attention each student receives.
3
W HAT SPECIALS DOES THE SCHOOL HAVE? Specials are classes in
areas such as music, art, gym, drama, band and foreign language. Not every school offers them, so if any of these subject areas are important to you, make sure they’re also important to the school.
If you’re a working parent, this question is crucial. Find out if the hours of the beforeand after-school care work for your schedule, and if the cost works for your budget. Some schools offer care on-site, but others contract it out, which will likely have your child walking or being bused to another location.
Middle School (Grades 6-8)
Saturday, October 24 1 p.m.
Get to know
PARKER
Upper School (Grades 9-12)
Saturday, November 21 10 a.m. Apply to Parker Visit fwparker.org/apply • Accepting applications for Grades JK-12 • Need-based financial aid available
ATTEND AN OPEN HOUSE RSVP fwparker.org/openhouse FRANCIS W. PARKER SCHOOL | 330 W. WEBSTER AVE., CHICAGO, IL 60614
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W HAT IS THE APPROACH TO STANDARDIZED TESTING, AND HOW HAVE TEST SCORES GROWN OVER THE YEARS? This answer to this question will reveal the school’s academic priorities and how the school handles students’ stress when it comes to testing. How a school’s test scores are improving shows you its potential. If the scores are improving every year, that’s obviously a good sign. Even if the school’s test scores are not where you want them to be right now, they might be there by the time your child is in school. HOW DO TEACHERS SUPPORT STUDENTS WHO ARE WORKING ABOVE OR BELOW GRADE LEVEL? If students are excelling or struggling, some schools give individual work suited to their level, but other schools expect all children to move at the same pace as the rest of the class. Parents should ask this question so they can be prepared to supplement their advanced child’s learning at home with enrichment activities or, for struggling students, spending extra time on
7
homework or hiring a tutor.
8
W HAT IS THE DISCIPLINE POLICY? Many schools use a strategy called “restorative justice,” which eschews punishment for mediation and agreement to solve problems. Others go the traditional detention and suspension route. How a school handles discipline reflects its culture and, with a few more questions (e.g., How many detentions and suspensions were handed out last year? At what point would the teacher or principal call a parent?), you can get a sense for how nurturing the administration is and how safe the environment is.
9
W HAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE THERE FOR PARENTS TO GET INVOLVED IN THE SCHOOL? In many ways, a school’s success depends on parent involvement, from fundraising to helping their kids with homework to advocating for improvements. It also gives you a feel for “extra” activities a school might provide, such as movie nights, dances and winter celebrations, which often are organized by parents.
Be a part of something greater. At Northside Catholic Academy, you’ll find a challenging and diversified curriculum within a nurturing learning environment. Our dedicated and experienced faculty inspire NCA students to grow in intellect and character. Yet, what’s even greater, is the sense of belonging you’ll feel when you join our community. At NCA, your entire family will thrive. We invite you to be a part of something greater at Northside Catholic Academy.
+ Full & Half Day Preschool + Top-ranked Academics + Renaissance Programs + Enrichment Programs + Affordable Before & After Care Now Accepting 2016-17 Applications Visit Us at an Open House: Thursday, October 22, at 9am Thursday, December 3, at 9am Sunday, January 31, from 10am-1pm
Northside Catholic Academy For more information please call 773-743-6277 or visit www.northsidecatholic.org PHOTO COURTESY OF ALEXIS STARYK PHOTOGRAPHY
ChicagoParent.com October 2015 101
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NPN: Co parents nnecting public & with schools, private and re support, sources .
2015 ANNUAL PRESCHOOL AND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FAIR
Sunday, October 18 10am–2pm Grossinger City Autoplex 1530 N. Dayton Free to NPN members, $25 for non-members
NPNPARENTS.ORG/SCHOOL-FAIRS NPNPARENTS.ORG/SCHOOL-FAIRS
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Looking for the best schools in your area? ChicagoParent.com has hundreds of resource listings for
junior kindergarten through grade eight
• Preschools
A multi-denominational community school
• Elementary Schools
Join us for a Prospective Parent Meeting! Thursday, November 5 7:30 p.m.
• High Schools • Enrichment Programs and more! Go to chicagoparent.com and click on Hot Topics education.
To RSVP or for more information, please contact Cortney Stark Cope, Director of Admissions. cstarkcope@chicagojewishdayschool.org 773-271-2700
Educating our children in the richness of their past, the diversity of their present, and the possibilities for their future.
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5959 North Sheridan Road Chicago, Illinois 60660 www.chicagojewishdayschool.org
95% cumulativ e graduate placement to Gifted & Selected School s
Serving Ages 2-6 years, 7 am-6 pm; After School, 7-12 years
www.lakefrontchildrensacademy.com Missed your deadline for selected schools? Experience our network of enriched learners. Limited fall spaces available for private enrollment.
East Randolph Street Suite 6B Chicago Conveniently located across from a Chicago Park District Playground Security Monitored classrooms
312.819.1760 fax 312.819.17633 email lakefrontacademy@gmail.com ChicagoParent.com October 2015 103
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Chicago Grammar School …experience the richness of a classical curriculum.
Sapere Aude – Dare to Know Congratulations to our students! On the Iowa Test of Basic Skills May 2015, the CGS class scores ranged from 98th99th percentiles.
Information Nights: Oct. 22, Nov. 10, Dec. 9. Register Now.
Follow us on Facebook
900 N. Franklin, Chicago, IL 60610
The
312-944-5600
www.chicagogrammar.org
Preschool at CGS ...begin the Chicago Grammar School experience.
Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, our program sparks children’s curiosity, enabling them to experience the world purposefully, acquire social skills and build the necessary foundation for a successful and joyful academic journey. • Active learning • Creative play • Daily art and gym classes • Nurturing environment with low student/teacher ratio • Half, full and extended day option Follow us on Facebook
900 N. Franklin, Chicago, IL 60610
• Private log-in for daily photo/narrative reports
312-944-5600
www.chicagogrammar.org
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Independent, progressive PreK to 8th grade school, where children and teachers construct learning together. N E W F L A G S H I P C A M P U S O P E N I N G FA L L 2 016
657 W. Fulton Street, Chicago
School Tours Oct. 23 and Nov. 6
TinkerThon Oct. 24
Early Admission Applications Due Nov. 2
I
312.bennett
TinkerTime Playdate Nov. 22
Learn more about these and other great events at bennettday.org
It’s a great feeling to belong. No matter what part of this great city you’re from, you’ll find a second home at Latin. Currently, our students come from 70 different neighborhoods and 16 suburbs. Visit us and learn about why Latin could be the place for you.
Chicago
Open House For Grades 5-12 Sunday, October 25 59 W. North Blvd. | Chicago Sessions begin at 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
Register at:
The neighborhoods of current Latin students are shaded orange.
latinschool.org/visitus ChicagoParent.com October 2015 105
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// www.npnparents.org // special advertising section Ancona School
in the vibrant South Loop.
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.
161 West 9th Street, Chicago (773) 998-BISC bischicagosl.org
4770 South Dorchester Ave., Chicago (773) 924-2356 anconaschool.org
Nurturing, technology-rich environment inspiring personal excellence and community values. Open House: November 1
Bennett Day School Where students and teachers collaborate to construct learning together. A progressive PreK to 8th Grade independent school.
657 W. Fulton, Chicago (312) BENNETT
British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park BISC-LP educates a community of learners, Nursery–Grade 5, to be innovative and ambitious through rigorous, international academic programming grounded in values and personalized learning.
814 W. Eastman Street, Chicago (773) 506-2097 bischicagolp.org
British International School of Chicago, South Loop BISC delivers differentiated, acclaimed and authentically international curricula to a diverse community of learners, ages 3-18, proudly under one roof
Catherine Cook School Preschool - 8th Grade
226 W. Schiller Street, Chicago (312) 266-3381 catherinecookschool.org
Chicago Grammar School Critical thinking and cultural literacy through rigorous classical curriculum with creative progressive practices for PreK-8th Grade. Open House: Oct. 22, Nov. 10, Dec. 9 6:00-7:30 PM
900 N. Franklin St., Chicago (312) 944-5600 chicagogrammar.org
Chicago Jewish Day School CJDS is a multi-denominational community school serving students in Junior Kindergarten through Grade Eight and is committed to celebrating the diversity of Jewish customs, philosophy and practice.
5959 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago (773) 271-2700 chicagojewishdayschool.org PHOTO COURTESY OF NPN
EVERY EVERYMORNING MORNINGMY MY HUMAN HUMANSHAVES SHAVESOFF OFF HIS HISFACE FACEFUR, FUR,HE’S HE’S FUNNY FUNNYLIKE LIKETHAT. THAT. —TUCK —TUCK adopted adopted05-04-11 05-04-11
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special advertising section // www.npnparents.org // Chicago Waldorf School PreK-12th Grade 1300 W. Loyola Ave (Rogers Park Campus) 2156 W. Montrose Ave (Lincoln Square Early Childhood Center) Chicago Waldorf’s progressive approach meets distinct stages of child development by focusing not only on what children learn but how they learn. Tour our school to see why we are the fastest growing educational movement in the world.
(773) 465-2371 discoverchicagowaldorf.org
Lakefront Children’s Academy
Lincoln Park Preschool & Kindergarten
Preschool thru 6 years old; after school care includes ages 7-12. Enhanced educational curriculum with outings to the playground across the street, and local museums.
NAEYC 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.
400 E. Randolph St., Suite 6B, Chicago (312) 819.1760 lakefrontchildrensacademy.com
Latin School of Chicago Pre-K through 12th grade.
Serving Junior Kindergarten-12 Grade
A co-educational independent day school on the near north side of Chicago. Open House for Grades 5-12: Sun., Oct. 25
Parker is a school where inspired teachers, dynamic curriculum and a diverse community of learners thrive. Register for an Open House event at fwparker.org
59 W. North Blvd. Chicago (312) 582-6000 latinschool.org
Little Green Tree House
330 W. Webster Ave., Chicago (773) 797-5107 fwparker.org
6 weeks to 5 years old Year-round enrollment for all ages 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
Francis W. Parker School
JUF Right Start Program 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
BEYOND EDUCATION YOUR CHILD’S FUTURE BEGINS HERE.
joy, curiosity and confidence
Montessori Academy of Chicago Serving 6 weeks-12 years old. Top rated activity-based learning environments.
1335 W. Randolph St., Chicago (312) 828-0907 montessoriacademychicago.org
108 W Germania Place 312 W Belden 2150 N Lincoln Park West Toddlers-Kindergarteners www.lppschools.com
Northside Catholic Academy Serves grades PreK-8
Lycée Français de Chicago 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
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.
1929 W Wilson Ave Chicago lyceechicago.org.
Primary Campus: 6216 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago Middle School Campus: 5525 N. Magnolia Ave., Chicago (773) 743-6277 northsidecatholic.org
Mary Meyer School
Sacred Heart Schools Independent, Catholic, Single Gender, Coed Campus, K-8, Extended Care Mr. Nat Wilburn, Head of Schools
PreK, 3 & 4 yrs. 2817 North Pine Grove Ave, Chicago MaryMeyer.org (773) 549-0870 For over 70 years, children have passed through the doorway of Mary Meyer. Offering two daily half-day programs under the care of three teachers. This NAEYC accredited preschool inspires children to encounter the world with
Educating Chicago children since 1876. Join us for Admissions Coffees: 9:30am to 11am Oct. 7, Oct. 28, Nov. 4, Nov. 20, Dec. 9, Jan. 13
6250 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago (773) 681-8436 shschicago.org
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 Oct. 7 | 8:45 a.m. Wednesday Nov. 4 | 8:45 a.m.
Elementary Open House Dates
Wednesday Oct. 21 | 8:45 a.m. 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
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PHOTO COURTESY OF LITTLE MONSTERS PHOTOGRAPHY
Sonnets Academy 6 Weeks - 6 Years A private preschool and infant care center focused on nurturing the whole child. Students discover how to express themselves through the arts, language & wellness.
Lincoln Park, Gold Coast, River North, West Loop & Hyde Park (312) 951-5439 SonnetsAcademy.com
St. Benedict Preparatory School Preschool - Grade 12 We offer a unique college prep PK-12 program in a welcoming, inclusive, faith-filled community. Tours are conducted weekly or scheduled at your convenience.
3900 N Leavitt Street, Chicago (773) 539-0066 stbenedict.com
St. Josaphat School Enlighten. Empower. Excel. St. Josaphat Catholic Elementary School Call to register for 2015 tour dates: October 21, November 18, December 9, January 20.
2245 N. Southport Ave., Chicago Pre-K thru 8th grade (773) 549-0909 www.stjosaphat.net
The 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
Sign up online for
Weekly Newsletters Be in the know about family events, coupons and great giveaways! Find us on Facebook Join the Twitter party! Follow us @ChicagoParent 108 October 2015 ChicagoParent.com
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Make Extra Income from Home!
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1-847-991-4242 Infant and Toddler Care Preschool Afterschool Care Summer Camp visit us on-line @ kidwatchplus.com 3901 N. Ridgeway • Chicago, IL 60618
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Now! Store Hours: Mon. - Sat. 10-6 • Sun. 12-5 Discover our new online store at 2ndChild.com
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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
(708) 429-BABY • SweetDreamsInfantCare.com ChicagoParent.com October 2015 109
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WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS
A new chance to fall for Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo
u 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 2-4, 9-12 and 16-18
F
rom gourd displays to bumpy hayrides, fall means different things to different people. But it’s probably safe to say that at least one of your favorite autumnal activities will make an appearance at Lincoln Park Zoo’s new Fall Fest. The inaugural celebration brings the traditions of fall into an urban setting every weekend, complete with a corn maze, hayrides through the Farm-in-the-Zoo, a hay mountain to scale and—most fun of all—a giant 60-foot burlap sack slide on the zoo’s Main Mall (hold on tight!). Other fun includes a pumpkin carver, Ferris wheel, inflatables, educational activities and live entertainment. And if you don’t have time to make it out to one of the more traditionally scenic spots, you can pick your perfect jack-o-lantern in sight of the Hancock, thanks to a daily pumpkin patch in the middle of Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo. And of course, while you’re there, you won’t want to miss the zoo’s main draw: those always adorable animals celebrating fall in their own ways. Because if you haven’t watched a dwarf mongoose play hide-andseek in a jack-o-lantern, well, you haven’t really lived. Elizabeth Diffin
u Free; $3 per ride ticket, 10 for $27, 20 for $51 u lpzoo.org
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Attend Our
A “Classroom” Unlike Any Other At GEMS World Academy – Chicago, we believe learning shouldn’t be contained by a classroom’s four walls.
Fall Open House - October 24 Meet with faculty and the heads of school, and tour our state-of-the-art classrooms from 10 a.m. to noon. To learn more and reserve your spot, visit gemschicago.org/Parent 312-809-8910 admissions@gemschicago.org
As a premier JK - 12 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 our students through structured interactions with Chicago’s neighborhoods, institutions, and environment, empowering students to ask and answer deep question. To know the world, you have to explore the world – up close and in focus.
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50
– More Than –
years of experience and educational leadership worldwide
9/11/15 12:22 PM
Learning is Personal At British International School of Chicago, learning is personal. Our highly skilled teachers deliver handson, collaborative lessons according to each student’s unique learning style. We engage and challenge children of all ages on two thriving campuses, inspiring them to be innovative and ambitious in all endeavors.
We’re now enrolling for 2016-17. Contact us to learn more about joining our community.
Lincoln Park Preschool – Grade 5 admissions@bischicagolp.org (773) 506-2097
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South Loop Preschool – Grade 12 admissions@bischicagosl.org (773) 998-2472
www.bischicago.org
9/10/15 11:32 AM