Chicago Parent September 2016

SEPTEMBER

2016 | FREE

Your squad goals

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

What NOT to say

Peanutfree

PLAY

Whitney Reynolds

From talk show to baby talk CP_Cover_September_2016.indd 5

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Call 844-533-CHMG to make an appointment today.

Visit chicagohealthmedicalgroup.com for more information.

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Personalized Learning.

Innovative Curriculum.

Ambitious Students.

Explore what awaits children in Preschool through Grade 12 at British International School of Chicago, South Loop! Visit our website to sign up for a Wednesday group tour and complete a 2017-18 application.

admissions@bischicagosl.org (773) 998-2472 www.bischicagosl.org ChicagoParent.com September 2016 1

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Ask about our wonderful infant program!

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Treating boo-boos to blood disorders.

At Lurie Children’s, there’s never a diagnosis too big or concern too small. All receive the same compassionate care. All get the same cutting-edge treatments.

All, for your one.

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Visit luriechildrens.org or call 1.800.KIDS DOC® to make an appointment

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contents IN THIS ISSUE 11

BEST IN CHI

17

GET OUT OF TOWN WN

21

FAILING WITH GUSTO STO

25

MOM OF THE MONTH

A visit to Funtopia, My Perfect Sunday and making plans for Chicago Parent’s Playdate aydate A once in a lifetime e mother-son trip Days of My Life

Getting to know Julianna Zobrist 27 59

CRAFT

Masterpieces in a squirt REASONS TO LOVE AUGUST

Check out our award-winning calendar for fun every day

17

ON THE COVER

SEPTEMBER 2016 | VOLUME 32 | NO. 9

Cover family: Talk show host Whitney Reynolds and her newborn babies David Acheson Heiner III (Acher) and Marlowe McKinley

FEATURES NEEDS 29 LOVE NO WORDS

Twins overcome autism’s barriers

MOM 33 BECOMING Love letters to my babies NOT TO SAY 38 WHAT Forget embarrassment, avoid

Heiner of Chicago

being mean to moms-to-be and moms in general

Photography: Andrea Plecko Design: Claire Innes Hair: Kristen LaMorte Paige Makeup: Christina Artrip (for baby maternity shoot); Starlight (for m shoot, see inside)

PEANUT-FREE 43 APLAYDATE A mom’s guide on how to host a child with a peanut allergy

ChicagoParent.com September 2016 5

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EDITOR’S NOTE SPONSORED

Chubby cheeks and twitchy tails

You are awesome From the moment I saw the big fat positive on the pregnancy test stick, I couldn’t imagine anything as scary or as exciting as being a parent. I wanted to do everything right. In fact, as a newspaper reporter and editor, I did all the research I could to assure I’d be perfect as a mom.

Who’s that skittering up the tree trunk, with the fluffy, twitching tail?

It’s our busy neighbor, the squirrel.

If you look up in a tree, whether it’s at The Morton Arboretum or in your backyard, you’re likely to spot gray squirrels. Sharp claws help them hang onto the bark. Long tails help them balance as they leap from branch to branch.

When the leaves start to fall from trees, you may see a cluster of brown leaves high in the branches.

That’s a squirrel’s home—a nest called a drey, made of branches woven into a hollow, insulated ball.

Squirrels always work hard to find food, including fruits and mushrooms. In autumn, they’re extra busy, stashing away nuts and seeds to eat during the winter.

Since squirrels don’t hibernate like bears do, and mother squirrels often have babies in winter, they need to save up lots of food.

A squirrel collects seeds and nuts in the pouches of his cheeks while he looks for a place to stash them.

He may hide them in holes or cracks in trees, but he’s most likely to bury them, planning to come back for them later. Many an oak tree has grown from an acorn that a squirrel planted.

Trees and squirrels need each other, just like trees and humans.

TAMARA L. O’SHAUGHNESSY

Of course, I learned quickly that perfect was never an option. I made a ton of mistakes; I panicked over every little fall, fever and food portion. And somehow, my son, Marty, survived.

Then after we added Arlee, and a few years later, Zoe, I became that totally relaxed mom on the playground you see and secretly hate. Believe me, everything about parenting still scared the crap out of me, but I got better at going with the flow.

I’m not big on celebrating milestones and anniversaries, but as we finished this month’s issue, I couldn’t ignore my own milestone in this parenting journey because it gives me a chance to personally thank you.

Ten years ago, I walked into Chicago Parent’s offices as an editor with three young kids and a passion for parenting. Over the years, I’ve met so many incredible parents who unselfishly shared their stories to help others in this little village we call Chicagoland.

Sometimes my story choices angered you (gay parenting, transgender kids, the sex issue and where to grab a beer with baby among them) and you let me have it in emails and voicemails. More often, though, we shared stories that inspired you or helped you at a particular moment in your life. All of the time, we’ve been the place to find something fun to do with the kids.

My great team and I take very seriously the responsibility we have in creating a magazine that matters to you.

So thank you for the past 10 years. I raise my glass to you. I truly am one lucky mom and editor.

4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, Ilinois 60532 mortonarb.org • 630-968-0074 6 September 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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CONTRIBUTORS

In honor of Grandparents’ Day, our favorite memory of our grandparents

EDITOR

Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy SENIOR EDITOR

Elizabeth Diffin DIGITAL EDITOR

Jackie McGoey ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Emily Adams ART DIRECTOR

Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNERS

Jacquinete Baldwin, Javier Govea IT AND DIGITAL DEVELOPER

Mike Risher CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Matt Boresi, Danielle Braff, Jerry Davich, Megan Murray Elsener, Keely Flynn, Cortney Fries, Natalie Rompella, Marianne Walsh DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES

My tiny, outspoken, Armenian Nana Alice spent endless hours with me—ensuring I knew how to play (and cheat at) cards like a champ.

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Annette Coffee, Christine Griffith, Lourdes Nicholls, Karen Skinner

As a child, my grandpa lived far away, so when he visited us, he would sneak me spare change in a secret handshake that, I later learned, wasn’t so secretive.

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My grandmother took me on vacation when I was 10 and let me get a six-scoop ice cream.

It was the best day of my life. It made me sick. But it was worth the pain.

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Joyce Minich

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CREDIT MANAGER

We’re excited to see you & your family’s smiles!

Laurie Myers PUBLISHER Dan Haley COMPTROLLER Ed Panschar FOUNDERS

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

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8 September 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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ON THE WEB

Changing seasons

at ChicagoParent.com Autumn days

JACKIE MCGOEY

It’s hard to believe but fall officially begins this month—Sept. 22 to be exact. With the crisp days and cooler nights come apple picking playdates, Labor Day barbecues, dives into crunchy leaf piles and Sundays cheering y spent p on the Da Bears. Head Hea for to bit.ly/CPFallFun fo all the deets on how to do fall right.

Older and wiser Whether you know them by Grandpa, GG, Mommom, Poppa or Nana, all grandparents share one common bond: they are the backbones of our families.

It’s only right that we take a special day to honor them. Visit bit.ly/CPGrandparents for fun ways to celebrate National Grandparents Day.

®

Registered sign Unicode:

Make a wish This month will always be special to me because my first-born, my Eden, was born on Sept. 9, 2011.

This year, I’m turning to Chicago Parent’s party central page for tips, tricks and budget-friendly ideas to throw her a memorable fifth birthday bash. Check it out for yourself at bit.ly/ CPBirthdayBlowout.

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The Classical Experience begins here

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Our commitment to the liberal arts challenges the ordinary. CGS students enjoy and thrive in an environment that nurtures curiosity, develops academic proficiency, and inspires personal virtue and wisdom.

Chicago Grammar School 900 N. Franklin, Chicago IL 60610 312.944.5600 www.chicagogrammar.org 10 September 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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u 2050 Tower Drive, Glenview u funtopiaworld.com/glenview

Funtopia is a kids’ paradise

C

lose your eyes and picture your kid’s ideal spot to play. If that includes places to climb or jump, it’s a safe bet they’re going to love Funtopia.

Glenview’s newest play place gives a new meaning to the words “climbing gym.”

Gone are the faux-rock walls, replaced by a beanstalk, dinosaur skeleton, tire ladder and more.

My nephews were big fans of the huge spider web cargo net (although it gave me traumatizing flashbacks to elementary gym

class), which they were allowed to climb in tandem. They also spent a remarkable amount of time building—and jumping off—their own “walls” made up of large, brightly colored bricks.

The climbing walls are the heart of Funtopia, and provide some enjoyable exercise, especially for competitive or challengeoriented kids.

There are also add-ons for the more adventurous: the free drop slide and the 20-foot jump. Older kids will also enjoy the Rope Course challenge, which lets them navigate sliding platforms,

wobbly logs and swinging tires.

The Rocktopia Cave became one of the favorites for my spelunking-obsessed nephews.

For kiddos who might be intimidated by the variety of options (and it is a bit overwhelming when you first arrive), the Soft Play area is a great warm-up spot, letting them get acclimated before getting their climb on.

The area is designed for kids under 8, with a special zone for the tiniest tots, and includes your typical slides, obstacles and ball pits.

Elizabeth Diffin

Best in Chi

Funtopia

ChicagoParent.com September 2016 11

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MY PERFECT SUNDAY

A day in

Naperville

T

o me, easy like Sunday morning means that I’m not working in the kitchen. My idea of Sunday fabulousness includes some sort of breakfast or brunch to fuel a day of fun.

A place to eat The Riverwalk Café just opened in June and is already a big hit. It opens at 7 a.m., great for early risers. The breakfast menu isn’t large, but the muffins are. They also offer items like egg and cheese bagels and sausage burritos, as well as fresh fruit and yogurt.

If you visit later in the day, there are lunch and dinner offerings and you can even enjoy a glass of wine or beer. I also love that there’s a section of the menu for dogs. Sitting outside near the Millennium Carillon is lovely. (There are Millennium Carillon concerts at 4 p.m. on Sundays.)

A place to play It’s a ton of fun to take a paddleboat or kayak on the Paddleboat Quarry, which is located along the Riverwalk, southwest of the corner of Jackson Avenue and Eagle Street.

From 10 a.m. until an hour before dusk, you can rent them, through October. napervilleparks. org/facilitieslist/paddleboats

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 Lori Smerz at lori@chicagoparent.com

9/30/16.

(847) 619-1900

12 September 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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MY PERFECT SUNDAY

Places for a treat In my family, there’s a raging debate about the best place to grab a frozen treat in downtown Naperville. Lucky for us, there are a lot of good options. I’m a big gelato fan and am always happy to duck into Frost Gelato, 50 S. Main St., and try fun flavors like Crema Di Biscotti and Stracciatella. My daughter loves Forever Yogurt, 22 Chicago Ave., where she enjoys a little frozen yogurt with her many tasty toppings.

Places for a rainy day I love when children’s authors come to Anderson’s Bookshop.

My daughter still talks about getting to meet Kate DiCamillo, one of her favorite writers, there.

You can check the schedule at andersonsbookshop.com or just pop into 123 W. Jefferson Ave. and pick up a schedule.

The DuPage Children’s Museum is a great place to visit any time, but it’s an awesome indoor option. You can never go wrong with the Bubbles exhibit.

Exhibits like Math + Motion and Make It Move are a great way to keep little minds working while having a ton of fun, too.

Shannan Younger

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INSIDE VOICE

Your kids will thank you

S

KEELY FLYNN

eptember means back to school, the best time to make classmates green with envy over summer adventures. Kids’ list a little lackluster? You’ve got plenty of time to check out these impressive events, sure to collect some serious playground cred.

Unhinged If “the symphony” conjures up images of stuffy, blue-haired patrons, prepare to be surprised by what the Chicago Sinfonietta has in store for your family with “Unhinged.” Anderson & Roe, classmates at Juilliard deemed “the most dynamic piano duo of this generation,” have been blowing up the Billboard classical charts and YouTube channels alike with their Emmy-nominated style that combines Coldplay, Gershwin, Michael Jackson and more. And for two nights, g , they’ll y team up p with lauded piano prodigy Clayton Stephenson for a wild ride by of two keyboards (including a floor one!) being played b six hands. Planning on bringing children with music in their blood and wiggles in their hands? During pre-show and intermission, the audience is welcome to play every instrument in sight.

Sept. 17 and 19; chicago sinfonietta.org

Kids Fringe

JourneyMaker Your kids have never explored the Art Institute of Chicago quite like this; the new JourneyMaker exhibit lets kids (and kids-at-heart) create highly customizable, highly fun tours throughout the museum.

Located in the Modern Wing’s David and Marilyn Fatt Vitale Family Room (and soon to be available online), the JourneyMaker touchscreens start visitors off with their choice of eight adventures: Strange and Wild Creatures, Superheroes, Time Travelers, Let’s Play, Wild Style, Museum Sleepover, Lines, Shapes, and Colors, and Extreme and Extraordinary. Repeat visitors?

With eight story lines and more than 200 works of art featured from the museum’s global collection, a whopping 260,000 different journeys can be made with nary the excuse to say “been there, done that.” artic.edu

Fans of the Chicago Fringe Festival (which, really, should be everybody) will love the newest addition to this two-week extravaganza—three kid-friendly shows on each Saturday and Sunday of the run. Punch and Judy aficionados will enjoy the returning FoolSize Theatre performances, while kids raised on Chicago’s particular brand of comedy are in for a treat, too. Barrel of Monkeys’ kid-written, grownupperformed sketch gold “That’s Weird, Grandma” will be featured, as well as Ashley Roberson’s part fairytale remix, part How-To Guide “Once Upon a Zombie Apocalypse.” Each weekend will provide free workshops and activities as well, ranging from science experiments to a parade to craft-making galore. There’s even a Starlight Café Open Mic, which will come in mighty handy once your kid is inspired into giving a career in the arts a go.

Runs through Sept. 13; chicagofringe.org

14 September 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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BEST IN CHI

Raise a glass

Three family friendly Oktoberfests to try this month

Photo by Max Herman

P

re-kids, Oktoberfest probably meant a stein of hearty beer after stein of hearty beer, rowdy German bands and tons of foods that ended in ‘wurst.’ Luckily, not much has to change post-kids when it comes to ushering in fall and celebrating German culture.

These three Oktoberfests are family approved:

1

Oak Park’s free Oaktoberfest had us at “kids’ root beer garden.” But also expect a great lineup of local and national musicians, hand-crafted microbrews, ethnic food and the popular zucchini races. Food costs extra. zucc 4-10 4- p.m. Sept. 16; noon-10 p.m. Sept. 17. Between Marion Street and Forest Boulevard, Oak Park. (708) 383-4145, oaktoberfest.net. o

2

When it comes to kids, St. Alphonsus Church pulls out the stops. At Oktoberfest Chicago, which features food, music and entertainment on three stages, kids get their very own celebration at KinderFest with face paintings, storytelling, inflatables, dance parties and art activities on Saturday and Sunday. $5. 5-10 p.m. Sept. 23; 11 a.m.10 p.m. Sept. 24; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sept. 25.

Southport and Lincoln avenues, Chicago.

(773) 868-3010, chicagoevents.com.

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Arrive hungry to the Naper Settlement Oktoberfest, which salutes Naperville’s German heritage. Expect to eat a lot of authentic German cuisine while your toes tap to the live Oompa music. Plan to visit noon-4 p.m. Saturday when Oktoberfest goes family friendly. $15, $10 kids 4-12; $10 in advance. Food and drinks cost extra. 5-10 p.m. Sept. 30; noon-10 p.m. Oct. 1. 523 S. Webster St., Naperville. (630) 4206010, napersettlement.org.

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DePaul University School of Music | Community Music Division Music instruction for all ages in a university setting

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GET OUT OF TOWN

Once in a lifetime mother-son trip

BY CORTNEY FRIES

M

y son, Luke, was on the precipice of turning 7.

He was getting taller, increasingly independent and certainly more opinionated.

He began saying he was too big for playgrounds and Mickey Mouse. I wanted to bottle up some of the magic of his boyhood before he got too big.

So I started dreaming up plans of something spectacular just for Luke and me—something to wow him and to cement our bond.

When the opportunity came up to explore Southern California, I jumped for the once-in-a-lifetime mother-son memories. With a CityPASS (citypass.com), we’d get to ride all the big kid rides at Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure, SeaWorld San Diego and Legoland California (for almost 30 percent off, plus skip the lines!). Luke would get to choose his own adventures, stay up extra-late and soak in copious amounts of fun with mom.

I saved the reveal for Luke’s 7th birthday. When he walked down the stairs on the morning of his special day, I was about to burst. As he perused the spread of Mickey Mouse T-shirts and stuffed ocean animals in front of him (gifts to correspond with our trip), he said, “I don’t really like Mickey Mouse.”

Then he opened the folder, with plane tickets and a packed itinerary, including breakfast with Goofy and rollercoasters galore.

Upon arrival at the Disneyland Resort, we were immediately swept up in the magic. Even the headboard on the bed plays music and twinkles with lights.

Walking through Downtown Disney, there’s music, performers and any treat or store a kid could desire (in my son’s case, ESPN Zone was the icing on the cake).

Matterhorn Bobsleds was the first ride Luke selected at Disneyland. Soon the rollercoaster rush took over him like a fever.

When he laid eyes on California Screamin’ at Disney California Adventure Park, it was

obsession at first sight. The loop-de-loop would be his first. The lightning speed and gigantic drops dismayed even me, but Luke would not stop insisting that he was big enough.

We hollered at the top of our lungs as we dropped down Splash Mountain. I giggled every time Luke ducked under the flames in Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. We snuggled at the dazzling Paint the Night Parade, then rushed to snag our final ride on Matterhorn Bobsleds as fireworks burst out over the mountain.

That night, the boy who said he was too big for Mickey Mouse was donning the CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

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MOTHER-SON TRIP

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

round ears and hugging his new stuffed buddy. It was hard to say goodbye to Goofy at breakfast the next morning, but knowing we were on our way to Legoland softened the blow.

I have never been to a more family-friendly resort than Legoland Hotel. The bright bricks

capture your imagination from the moment you arrive. Lego pits and pirate ships invite kids in. There’s a giant whoopee cushion on the floor and disco dancing in the elevator.

The themed rooms are absolutely adorable and make kids feel oh-so-special.

Luke was enamored with the treasure chest and felt like a king surrounded by his bounty.

Legoland California is big Legolan beautiful. The sprawling, and beau expansive park is reminiscent of a botanic garden, with roller b coasters, model cities, building areas and boats b tto boot. I actually had to pull Luke away from the p Build-A-Boat water play B area or he probably would ar have stayed there all day. ha SeaWorld San Diego was S the last stop on our CityPASS circuit. Luke was tickled circ silly by the fish that nibbled his sskin. We were impressed

by Se SeaWorld’s rescue efforts and eenchanted by our playful interaction at the Dolphin intera Encounter. I got to hold a Encou dolphin’s flippers and dance, dolphi

while Luke directed him to make farting noises on command. The contagious giggles and missing tooth grin I captured on camera are beyond priceless.

Eventually our trip had to come to an end. The silent, bittersweet tears Luke cried the entire ride to the airport signified how special the trip had been. He made new friends, stretched his imagination—and his limits—and won many bragging rights.

Cortney Fries is a freelance writer and mom of two.

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Fun at its best

Plan now for the next Chicago Parent Playdate Oct. 2

F

orget Da Bears! The best way to spend a Sunday afternoon in October is at Chicago Parent’s Playdate, a day for the whole family that brings the pages of our magazine to life.

“Chicago Parent Playdates are just plain fun, a great time for families to be together in a happy, adventurous, wideopen space,” Chicago Parent Publisher Dan Haley says.

Here’s some of what you can expect at the Playdate: u Activities and games you and your kids will love. Take a ride on a tot train,

Chicago Parent Playdate test your agility on a special climbing wall and jump around on a variety of bouncy houses. Plus, we’ll also have soccer drills and sports games running all day long to burn your little ones’ energy! u Interactive booths that keep kids’ hands busy while parents talk one-on-one with brands Chicago Parent knows you will love. u Entertainment from award-winning children’s entertainers such as Miss Jamie’s Farm, Storybook Princesses (yes, THOSE princesses), Buddha Belly Yoga, The Storybook Mom and Erin’s Farm and Nature Show (think: reptiles!).

u 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 2

u Max McCook Athletic & Exposition Center, 4750 S. Vernon Ave., McCook u Buy tickets at chicagoparent.com/ playdate u S Special Pokémon i l surprises i ffor P ké hunters.

Oh, yeah, and we will broadcast Da Bears from the playdate!

“There’s plenty to do for everyone in the family,” Haley says. “Come and play with Chicago Parent. We’d love to see you.”

Sara Fisher

ChicagoParent.com September 2016 19

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8/18/16 11:22 AM

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20 September 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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8/19/16 9:57 AM

FAILING WITH GUSTO

Days of My Life

I think I locked in an ulcer during the process.

A while later, I picked up a nervous tick in choosing to send my two oldest to Catholic school.

But you know. JESUS. This year, I am leaving behind the wonderful Chicago Public School therapists and counselors who have doted on my youngest as though he was their own.

They have worked with him to the point where his IEP probably wouldn’t even be issued if he was starting anew. He was

never in better hands. Joey has been dropped off the spectrum and will now sally forth into the world with only a mild case of ADHD (or as I consider it, a mild touch of his mother’s DNA).

It will be the first time all three of my children will be attending the same school. I should be celebrating, but instead?

I’m totally verklempting.

I grew up in suburbia where there was never any doubt where kids would go for their education. Folks moved to a certain

neighborhood FOR a school. There were no choices. My favorite Tabdrinking, chain-smoking moms had more time to worry about important things, like whether Marlena would finally escape the evil clutches of Stefano DiMaro.

No matter the era, geography or pharmaceutical intervention, there will always be things to keep parents up late at night.

We worry about education. We worry about them finding friends. We worry about them finding the wrong kinds of friends. We worry about a world that is now foreign to us, steeped in social media and cyber bullying, where any slight misstep could be live-streamed on the local moms’ Facebook page.

My husband tells me to relax.

My mom tells me it will all be fine.

My ticks and insomnia refuse to listen.

The thing is, there is no way of knowing what decisions are more likely to result in a happy, well-rounded child. I do not have Miss Cleo’s psychic abilities. I am riding high on guts, instinct and love.

One of my favorite times as a kid was actually watching a bit of “Days of Our Lives” with my mom. I loved the intrigue, the anguish and the all-important cliffhanger.

I never knew how it was going to end, but I never stopped hoping for the best.

It reminds me of parenting.

Except I have not once sent a baby upstairs to nap and had him back come downstairs a gorgeous, grown-ass 20-year-old man.

When I learn that trick, I will be sure to share.

Life in Chi

A new school year.

A new set of worries.

A new set of developmental obstacles.

A new case for increasing my Xanax prescription.

Every year for the last seven, I have spent September second-guessing myself. First, there was the life-changing and soul-sucking Selective Enrollment route. The testing, waiting, MARIANNE deciding. It was overwhelming. Danny was WALSH fine (I bought him an ice cream cone after his exam), but I knew The Holy Grail would include a spot in one of the state’s preeminent grammar schools.

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

ChicagoParent.com September 2016 21

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8/18/16 2:24 PM

VOICE: MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER

Want to be my friend?

When new school jitters also apply to parents

I

t was the night before my oldest was going to start kindergarten.

She was about to start full days at a new school with all new people in a community we’d just moved to for the exact reason of having her start kindergarten with kids she would grow up with.

I laid out her first day of school outfit and then for some reason, I laid out my outfit for the first time in more than a decade. Were my jitters for her, or for myself, being thrust into a new parenting experience?

I knew a few faces from around the neighborhood, but the majority of faces on the playground that late August morning were brand new. As I scanned the blacktop playground, I found myself looking for other moms like myself, while also looking for other little girls who might become friends with my daughter.

Those first few weeks of drop-off and pick-up felt a little bit like I was entering college sorority rush again. As the kids ran wild on the playground waiting for the bell to ring, the parents slowly started grouping and chatting. Day after day, the same small groups returned to each other.

There was a group of put-together working moms in suits who dashed off to catch the train. There was a group of adorable

trendy moms who exuded laughter in their little circle. There was a group of moms who clearly had done this before with older kids in the school.

Then there was me.

Where exactly did I fit in as a mom?

Which of the other parents were like me?

Would anybody invite my family to a barbecue or ask me for a girls-night out?

Would anybody want to be my friend?

I decided to take the same approach that I had always told my daughter. It’s best to be friends with everyone and have everyone like you. So rather than attach myself to one group that felt most comfortable to me, I made the effort to move around and chat with different groups of parents.

There were some bumps in the process.

One day I was standing with my younger boys in the stroller when one mom came over and looked me up and down to say, “You must stay home and not work. I could never do that. I am a lawyer.” Maybe I didn’t exactly need to be friends with everybody.

But overall, by mid-year, I could sense a positive shift. I knew the vast majority of other kindergarten parents and was friendly with all of them. We’d been invited to a few parties and dinners. It felt like we were finding a place in our local school community, both for my daughter’s sake and for my own.

It feels funny to acknowledge my own insecurities as an adult woman on a school playground surrounded by other moms, but it was a good learning experience. I’d never loved new experiences growing up or that initial pressure to make new friends.

But I needed to take the advice I was giving my daughter and put myself out there.

New friends and faces in our lives were a good thing. And hopefully they will be the faces that remain as my daughter and sons get older, so we can all look back and laugh at that first day on the blacktop together.

Megan Murray Elsener is a mom of three and freelance writer.

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www.grins4kids.com 22 September 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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8/18/16 11:24 AM

VOICE: JENNIFER WOOD

King for a day Special needs and special friendships

E

verywhere we go, my heart is happy when I hear kids say a cheerful “Hello” to my teenage special needs son. When we go to the park, the other kids shout a genuine, “Hey!” When we bump into my son’s classmates at church, they make a point to say “Hi” to him. I am so grateful to these kids and inspired by their kindness. It really brings me to my knees.

My son may not know how fantastic it is when this happens, but I do. I wish I could congratulate every parent of each kid who is kind to my son (who is pretty perceptibly autistic) and thank them for raising such cool people.

Don’t get me wrong, my son is definitely deserving of their attention and affection. He’s sweet, funny and smart.

What’s more, he authentically enjoys all of the other people in his path every day.

He wants to connect with them. He wants

Friends are “friends” in many different ways. If my son interprets kindness as friendship, that means my boy is rich with friends, his friends, according to his definition of friendship. to hang out with them. He wants to be friends with them.

Only he doesn’t have any friends.

My son once told me that he wanted to run for class president because he’s “popular” at school. I don’t doubt this. He is well-liked. And he might just be that kid you see on Facebook who gets elected Prom King or something for being so well-supported by his peers. And in that moment, I would be happy for him because something like that would be truly special.

But it wouldn’t last.

The memory would be rich and decadent, as far as adolescence goes.

And my son would be king for a day. But it would only be for a day, and I know it. He would have friends that day, that week, that month, that year maybe.

But they would not be real friends. They might enjoy being part of that moment, helping my son succeed.

After all, kids do some pretty terrific stuff when Tripp and Danny we let them.

But, even if he was the Prom King, my son would still have no one. The other young man was experiencactual friends. His acquaintances would ing life as exactly that, a young man, yet text one another to find out where my son was still interacting with him as they’re going on Friday night, who just a child. I quickly realized that this young broke up with whom and where to find man cared about my son, but may never the next pick-up basketball game. But be his friend. no one will text my son. After all, he And I was wrong. probably won’t be able to drive himself The next week, my son went to anywhere on a Friday night (ever), he’s therapy, as he does nearly every day, and not interested in dating (that I know of) told his speech therapist all about his and he still prefers Minecraft to hoops. weekend away. “I went with Danny, and The difference between kindness and he is my best friend in the whole world.” friendship became clear at my son’s IEP So my son does have friends. He may meeting this year, when his teachers and not share the same definition of friendteam noted that there’s a tremendous ship that I envision for a teenage boy, but difference between being liked and all of these awesome kids are still friends having friends. to him. They may not text him about But I’ll take well-liked. And I’ll take girls or basketball, but that is because nice all day long. I’m a school law atthey know he does not care about girls torney and I field calls about bullying or basketball. And, as I came to find out, every single day. So, I’ll gladly welcome they do text him, he just doesn’t text kindness, even in the guise of friendthem back because his social skills are ship. But still, my son never gets invited still a work in progress. to birthday parties anymore or to the I have quickly realized that my definimovies with his friends. He is well-liked tion of friendship needs to change. and people are very, very kind to him.

Friends are “friends” in many different But he has no real friends, and that ways. If my son interprets kindness as makes me feel helpless and depressed. friendship, that means my boy is rich Or, at least, it used to. with friends, his friends, according to his Recently, my kids and I went on addefinition of friendship. venture with some friends, another mom When my son looks in the mirror, he is and her boys. It was a dazzling, brilliant smiling. He is happy. experience.

And I am happy.

But I noticed that one of her kids was texting about teenage stuff and that my Jennifer Wood is a mom and the attorney behind Wood son was trying to connect with him on Law, which specializes in family and special needs law in Plainfield. She is a frequent Chicago Parent contributor. a whole different level, a more juvenile ChicagoParent.com September 2016 23

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8/18/16 11:24 AM

VIVA DADDY

Character study Viva has a birthday coming up. She is really into birthdays as, I suppose, are most kids. Birthdays are one of those topics we overemphasize to the youth of America, the same way we inexplicably make a huge deal about animal sounds and the names of Civil War battles. My wife and I haven’t had absurdly lavish blowouts for Viva’s MATT BORESI parties, but we have done very well with costumed characters: Disney princesses have come two at a time to her last couple of parties, and she’s gotten accustomed to command performances by cartoon royalty.

After Anna and Elsa, Belle and Ariel, where do we go?

There are princesses Viva kind of likes—Rapunzel and Tiana, for instance. There’s Cinderella and Snow White and all the old-school ladies who pined for princes, but the bloom seems to be off the Briar Rose with the princess schtick.

Lately, Viva has been asking for a seemingly random assortment of mascots—Paw Patrol, the Fresh Beat Band, Rey (Skywalker?) and more. Each has a challenge, however. If the character is a live actor with a face, how do you rent them? Who dresses up like “Go, Diego, Go”? Is Diego then a mascot or a little boy? A grown man dressed as a boy? (That seems like a bad scene.)

My wife and I have created this monster, I know. At some point, we needed to tell Viva that turning a year older doesn’t guarantee magical fictional people will manifest physically in your home. A birthday for her right now without a costumed character would be like a birthday for me without a desperate increase of push-up reps and a new package of brush-in Just for Men.

ILLUSTRATION BY STEPHEN SCHUDLICH

Am I going to end up pretending to duck out of the party for ice and coming back in a furry dog fireman suit? Will we take her to some sort of destination that precludes princesses and mascots? (I don’t even know where that would be? Rock climbing? A paintball place?

Off Track Betting?) Or will we just tell her she’s going to have to settle for a junior bacchanal featuring cake, ice cream, presents, games but (gasp) no visits by young actors stuffed into wigs and glass slippers?

I hope we figure it out soon. September is too hot for me to spend all day dressed as Skye the flying puppy.

Viva characters. Viva Viva.

Viva Daddy.

Viva is 4. Daddy is about 10x that age. They live happily with Mommy in Chicago.

24 September 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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8/18/16 2:21 PM

MOM OF THE MONTH

Baseball wife, music mom Julianna Zobristt Husband Ben (Chicago Cubs second baseman); Zion, 7; Kruse, 4; Blaise, 10 months Album Shatterproof available now Welcome to Chicago! How’s the adjustment been?

The moving part is never easy, we all know that, packing a thousand things and having to go through everything.

Like, how did we accumulate so many toys?! … After the moving part was done, it’s been a very easy transition, but people have made it very easy for us. They’ve been incredibly welcoming to us.

Have you found any favorite spots in the city to take the kids?

We have just loved discovering all of the little hidden parks everywhere. … We’re just kind of park-hoppers; we just like to go from park to park. That’s been so much fun. The Lincoln Park Zoo, I am obsessed with.

That was the first time I’ve heard a lion roar in person, and it was terrifying. … We’ve loved going there. And all of the museums.

What’s it like to watch Ben play? Do you get nervous?

I do! Not for him, I have endless confidence in him. But when he’s in pressure situations, I’m like “Ahhh!” Like I can’t decide if I want to watch or not, you know? But I always do. So yes, I do get nervous, but that’s part of the thrill of it all. … When I met him, I thought he was going to be a youth pastor. So, surprise! [laughs] It’s a little different.

How do you balance your music and supporting your husband and being a mom?

The foundation of our scheduling is that … we don’t spend any longer than six days apart from each other. … I’m able to do music where it fits with his schedule. If he’s on the road and I’m not going with him,

then I can do my shows then, or I can go and write then….

So we make it work.

What message do you want women to take away from the album?

The record is called Shatterproof, and the basic idea behind being a ‘shatterproof woman’ is being free to be who you are. … We’re all different, we all have different lives, but at the end of the day, we need to find what this common ground is between us. … Being a mom is hard enough, so the last thing we need as moms is feeling like I’m disapproving of you or you’re disapproving of me. I mean, God forbid our children actually act like 4-year-olds at one point or throw a tantrum!

That happens to every single mom. So encouraging [each other] could be a very powerful thing.

Elizabeth Diffin

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1 Centennial Trail - Schneider’s Passage, Romeoville

ACTIVITIES • GIVEAWAYS • FUN FOR ALL!

Julianna Zobrist, an Iowa native, ended up in Chicago when her husband Ben was signed to the Cubs late last year. But even if you’ve never seen her wrangling her three kids at Wrigley Field— they’re regulars at the concession stands—you might have heard her voice. That’s because Ben uses her song “Alive” as his walk-up music when he heads to home plate.

Julianna has a career of her own outside of being a baseball wife; this mom of three just released an album, Shatterproof, on July 1, Christian pop targeted at fellow moms. “Alive,” the first single, released on the same day Ben and Julianna’s youngest daughter, Blaise, was born (and just three days after Ben helped the Kansas City Royals win the World Series). The chorus seems strangely appropriate for a couple who are focused on the future for their family here in Chicago (and maybe, just maybe, another championship ring): “I, I feel alive/I feel like the air is rushing in/Now it’s clear, I can’t go back again.”

Walkers, runners, and cyclists are invited to attend this event to learn how to share and enjoy the trails safely. Learn best practices, sharpen your trail awareness and understand the rules of trail usage.

Spokes of Naperville is partnering with the Forest Preserve on this event.

10 A.M. - 1 P.M. • ALL AGES • NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED FREE !

For more information, visit ReconnectWithNature.org.

ChicagoParent.com September 2016 25

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8/19/16 1:54 PM

REAL PARENTS IN THE TRENCHES

The best way we’ve found to keep the kids connected with their grandparents

I am a mother and a grandmother. Phone calls, FaceTime and Google chats are nice, but WhatsApp videos with a message from the grandchildren are a real hit. Oldfashioned drawings with a real photograph are really appreciated. They’re up on the fridge. Playdates a real must!

Lisa Cheruff, Skokie

We have lunch weekly with my mom, my son’s Nana. He looks forward to Thanksgiving with his out-of-state grandfather. Skype, letter writing, phone calls and sharing creative works are also great ways to keep in touch.

Kate AtkinsTrimnell, Homewood

My son is now 11 and he has developed a relationship via text messaging with his grandparents. It’s great and gives him a personal relationship without having to rely on mom and dad.

Ryan Salzwedel, Chicago

@

Want more? Visit ChicagoParent.com/parentpanel

I keep my kids connected with their grandparents by weekly visits and phone calls. I have raised them to value the importance of family and as they’re getting older it is a pleasure to watch the relationships with their grandparents grow now that they can start to foster them on their own.

Tracie Guzolek, Chicago

Experience Learning.

I got my twins into the habit of calling their grandparents once or twice a week on the way to school.

This allows their grandparents to hear about the activities taking place in their lives and vice versa.

Diane Oliver, Chicago

On my husband’s side, a couple times a year, a one-on-one date occurs where the activity surrounds each grandchild’s interests. Since my parents are older, at least once a week we go out for ice cream or bring them to our house and do something fun. It takes effort on all sides.

Kerry Quirin, Downers Grove

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26 September 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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8/19/16 1:54 PM

CRAFT

Masterpieces in a squirt Outdoor art that holds on to summer STORY AND PHOTOS

BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER

S

chool may be back in session, but the calendar officially still says summer.

Before the weather changes, break out those squirt guns one more time for this fun outdoor art project.

Supplies Su S u Water squirt guns u Tempera paint u Blank canvases u Water u Medicine syringe (optional) D Directions Get some squirt guns; even the cheap ones from a dollar store will do the trick. Don’t worry about the paint ruining the guns if you are using more expensive squirt guns, because they can be washed out once you are done.

Mix 1-2 Tablespoons of tempera paint with 4-6 Tablespoons of water. Add more or less paint depending on how bold you want the colors to be. More water will lessen the colors once they are on the canvas.

To make it easy to get the colored paint water into the small squirt gun opening, use a medicine syringe to shoot the paint directly into the gun without making a mess.

Take your canvas outside. If you have an easel, use that to hang up your canvas. It’s best to do the spraying over grass or lay down a drop cloth to catch the excess paint.

Squirt away and create a masterpiece!

1

2

3

4 5

Megan Murray Elsener is a freelance writer and mother of three.

ChicagoParent.com September 2016 27

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CHIPAR0916_028.indd 1

8/18/16 11:28 AM

Love needs no words

Twins overcome autism’s barriers

BY JERRY DAVICH PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRANK PINC ylan and Liam Healey play barefoot in the sand at Kelly Park in Wheaton, looking like any other smudge-faced kids.

The 8-year-old shadows of each other, however, have a special bond that transcends brotherhood and even the fact that they’re fraternal twins.

Dylan has autism. He struggles to speak and lacks ageappropriate social skills. Liam acts as normal as normal can be, and readily talks for both of them.

D

“We have ways of talking to each other,” Liam says matter-of-factly.

For these brothers, this bond dates back to their first memories, first moments together, first steps, words and laughs.

They’ve developed a profound connection, one that likely will last the rest of their lives.

“We are so glad that Dylan and Liam have each other,” says their mother, Amy Healey.

“They have always been close, even though they have different interests and cannot talk to each other like other siblings would.”

The boys communicate with each other through wrestling, tickling and hugging.

“And through our iPad,” Liam adds.

Dylan points to pictures on his iPad and Liam springs into action. A picture of a garage prompts Liam to open the garage door for Dylan so they can ride their bikes. Still, Liam knows that Dylan can’t ride on his own.

“Sometimes he escapes,” Liam says, meaning that Dylan can easily wander away.

The boys’ father, Kevin, is convinced that Dylan, who he calls “Dilly,” will never wander away very far from Liam.

“Liam’s presence helps calm him even if he doesn’t say a word about it,” Kevin says. “Yes, he can barely talk, but he finds ways to communicate enough to get what he is looking for. And he smiles and laughs as much as the rest of us.”

At the park, Liam and Dylan spin in circles on the playground equipment, Liam on Dylan’s lap.

“Dylan likes to spin,” Liam explains.

Dylan also likes to show off his playground talents on the monkey bars. He’s taught Liam as much about life as Liam has

taught him, simply in a different way.

“Liam is lucky to have Dylan as a twin brother,” their mother says. “Dylan has taught Liam patience, compassion and acceptance. Dylan and Liam are both so patient with each other to the point I can hardly recall a time when they got angry with each other.”

Kevin agrees. “Liam and I both wonder sometimes if Dylan actually struggles or if he is just fine, like the rest of us. He just wants to do the things he wants to do, just like the rest of us.”

Amy and Kevin also have a younger son, Grayson, 4.

“All three of my boys have sweet, sensitive, sympathetic souls and, for that, we are very proud,” Amy says.

The Healeys have lived in Chicago’s suburbs all their lives.

Amy is a veterinarian, Kevin a soccer coach and stay-at-home father.

“We were blessed to find out we were having twins, and that their birthdate would be on St. Patrick’s Day,” Amy says, noting Kevin’s Irish ancestry.

Kevin, who’s very athletic, envisioned himself and his two sons playing sports together as they got older. “Little did I know that only one of them would be a typical athlete, and the most impressive strength they would display would be of the mind and heart,” Kevin says.

Amy’s pregnancy and delivery went off without any problems, and the twins’ development was on track during their first year.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

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TWIN LOVE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

At 15 months old, the couple began worrying that Dylan was not yet talking. He also showed other curious habits, with more rigid fixated behavior than Liam and other toddlers his age.

“He learned to say words, but then he lost them,” Amy recalls.

At 3, Dylan was diagnosed with autism.

“Dylan’s biggest challenge is still his verbal communication,” Amy says before Dylan catches her attention on the playground.

“Dylan! Dylan! Get down from there!” she yells to him before completing her thought.

“He has verbal apraxia, so he uses verbal approximations to express himself,” she says.

At his school, Dylan uses an iPad to help support his verbal skills. At home, his parents can usually understand him, sometimes with Liam’s help.

“Liam and Dylan have an indescribable bond,” says Sarah Taschetta, the 18-year-old caregiver for Dylan who came into his life a couple of years ago.

“They will grow up on different paths socially and educationally but, at the end of the day, they will always wrestle before bed.”

“Everyone says how Dylan is lucky to have his twin, but I believe Liam is just as lucky,” says Taschetta, who lives in nearby Winfield. “He will grow up to be the most loving, compassionate and patient young man. He gets to see the world through the eyes of opportunity, as siblings of special needs children often do.”

Taschetta found Dylan and his family through Care.com.

She initially applied to help the family only once or twice a week over a summer. But Dylan stole her heart and those visits became

Love needs no words u Watch Sarah Taschetta’s documentary about Liam and Dylan at www.youtube.com/ watch?v=m7JnD7tISII

“Everyone says how Dylan is lucky to have his twin, but I believe Liam is just as lucky.”

— Sarah Taschetta more frequent.

“That short summer job became a year-round, full-time commitment,” she recalls. “I’ve loved seeing Dylan grow up, and I believe he’s changed my life forever.”

So much so that, in May, she created a four-minute video of the twins’ unique relationship.

“When I sat down with Liam to film my project, it was amazing to see someone so young put his acceptance and love for his brother into words at the mere age of 8,” says Taschetta, who will be attending Benedictine University to earn a degree in secondary special education.

“My short film was going to be about nonverbal communication and autism, but … I knew these boys were too special to settle on a simple topic.”

In the poignant video, Taschetta cites data stating 40 percent of people with autism are not able to speak.

“Not being able to speak is not the same as not having anything to say,” she says in the video. “A special individual with autism

taught me that love needs no words.”

Individualism is key with autism, as the video points out with clever graphics.

“If you’ve met one person with autism,” Taschetta says in the video. “You’ve met ... one person with autism.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 68 children have been identified with autism spectrum disorder, totaling roughly 3.5 million individuals in this country. It is approximately 4.5 times more common among boys (1 in 42) than among girls (1 in 189), CDC data suggests.

CDC-supported studies show that, among identical twins, if one child has ASD, then the other is more likely to have it.

The Healeys are well versed on such statistics and hindsight probabilities, yet they instead focus on Dylan and Liam’s gifted relationship and their future together.

“Every family has some sort of challenge,” Amy reasons while watching her three boys play together. “But we have high hopes for Dylan, who’s a smart, strong, sweet and affectionate boy.”

Taschetta adds, “Dylan will have his own guardian angel, best friend and bodyguard for the rest of his life. I would love to be there when the Healey twins sit together in cap and gowns at their high school graduation.”

In her video, she shows Dylan and Liam playfully wrestling in bed.

“Does Dylan love you?” she asks Liam.

“Yes, he totally does,” Liam replies.

“Does he tell you he loves you?” she asks.

“In special words,” he replies with a nod. “By hugging me.

And wrestling with me.”

Taschetta asks, “Is there anything you would change about Dylan?”

Liam shakes his head no. “I want Dylan to stay just the way he is.”

Jerry Davich is a Chicago area freelance writer.

30 September 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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8/18/16 11:29 AM

MY LIFE

Becoming

The new season of The Whitney Reynolds Show kicks off this fall.

Check your local listings for the PBS station in your area. As a new mom, Whitney devotes one episode to parenting in Chicago. Watch for Senior Editor Elizabeth Diffin sharing great information on parenting and Chicago Parent.

mom Love letters to my babies

BY WHITNEY REYNOLDS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA PLECKO y dream to be a mom blossomed into a reality times two. It’s transformed me in more ways than I ever expected.

M

12-16-15

Dear Acher or Marlowe, (We didn’t know we were having twins at this point) Mommy and Dad found out we are pregnant with you just two days ago. We have been praying for this moment for a long time.

So far only your aunts and uncles know and we will be surprising your grandparents soon. Your Pittsburgh (Dad’s) side will find out next week and my parents over Christmas. We get to hear your heartbeat on Jan. 18 and it couldn’t come soon enough. We decided we were ready for you during our anniversary celebration in Puerto Rico. We were going to wait until I turned 30 but we got too excited thinking about you. Oh, to think of your first breath.

We can’t wait! Your due date is Aug. 20.

Your dad is so handsome, smart and a hard worker. I hope you are just like him. He loves me dearly and lets me chase my dream of being a talk show host. Love you to the moon and back already.

P.S. You have an 11-year-old sister Miss Puffy Doo-Little xoxo -Mom CONTINUED ON PAGE 34 ChicagoParent.com September 2016 33

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WHITNEY

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33

1-11-16 Dearest.... TWINS!!!!!!

We found out there are two of you in there today.

I am 8 weeks pregnant and we met with your new doctor. We were shocked because we were hoping for a healthy heart beat and then they found two.

SOOOO SHOCKED! Both of you look so cute (so tiny). Your heartbeats were 154 and you are fraternal twins in two sacks (so you will both be unique). We called all your grandparents from the hospital and none of them believed us. Your due date now moved up to the last week of July or the first week of August.

I love you both so much. We will find out your genders at my 30th b-day gala in front of everyone.

CAN’T WAIT! LOVE -Mom

3-29-16 Babies, I felt your first kicks today! Best feeling ever.

4-4-16

2-27-16 Dearest Twinspirations, That is your Instagram name. LOL. People love you already!!!

Week 10-11 we did your genetic testing and you came back “perfect.” The coolest part of the test was seeing you both so active in the womb. Baby A, you are constantly dancing, and Baby B, you are chill. I love dreaming about the people you will become.

The following week we announced you publicly to the world. We teamed up with Volvo to create a video that gave hints that something big was happening. At the end of the video, we shut the trunk and ta-da, a “Twins on Board” sticker was on the back. It was an instant hit; the video hit more than 10,000 views the first day.

The support from Chicago was overwhelming and everyone is excited for you!

P.S. 3 weeks until we find out your genders.

P.P.S. Baby A is on the right and Baby B is on the left! SOOOO COOOLLLL. Love you babies!

-xoxo Mommy

Dearest Marlowe and Acher (David Acheson Heiner III), THESE ARE YOUR NAMES!!!

This weekend at my show’s first gala and my 30th birthday party we found out Baby A is a girl and Baby B is a boy. This was the best weekend of my life. We did your gender reveal in front of 250 guests and also live on Facebook.

We opened two boxes with balloons and outfits for the genders in each. Your video reached over 30,000 and your dad’s reaction was priceless.

I thought I was having two boys, yet I am beyond thankful to have my little girl. Oh, how God is so faithful! We went for your ultrasound earlier that week but had the doctor seal the envelope. You both were just moving

around and having a ball. Acher, you were easy that day and posed for pictures... Marlowe, not so much, LOL. (You are a wild woman!)

Your Oklahoma grandparents were in for the reveal and were ecstatic. Your Pittsburgh grandparents were in the week before helping us construct your room.

Ya’ll will be the fourth set of twins in our family and just like my great-grandmother Hallie & her twin Harry, you are boy/girl!

Now it’s time to register.

Love you forever, Momma

5/10/16 Dear Acher and Marlowe, Happy 25 weeks. We want you to stay in much longer. However at this stage if anything goes wrong, we are in a safer position. Next week we head to Catalina Island for our babymoon and we can’t wait. I am obsessed with Bacon Gouda and eat it every day! Marlowe, you love to kick me, and Acher, you like to play right after I eat dinner. Dad had his first dream of you last night and has been smiling since. xoxo, MOM <3

34 September 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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5/23/16

6-15-16

Hello My Little Love Nuggets, Your nursery is Noah’s Ark theme (two-by-two they came)! Your Florida grandparents got us our rocker and cribs. Everything is really coming together. Our babymoon was amazing and while we were in Cali, we got to meet your cousin. SHE’S PRECIOUS!!! Made this whole baby thing that much more real. We passed our glucose test, however I had a small fall.

Luckily both of you kicked me immediately to let me know you were OK! Love you, Mom

7-29-16

Born 3:35 p.m. July 29, 2016 Length 19 inches Weight 5 pounds 13 ounces

Miss Marlowe and Mr. Acher, Can’t believe you are finally here. YOU BOTH ARE SO WORTH IT. After 37 weeks and a natural delivery, you entered the world with the most precious smiles I’ve ever seen. That moment in the delivery room has changed my life forever. My love for you is unconditional and I am so proud to be your mom.

Love you forever my kids, - Xoxo Momma

David Acheson Heiner III (Acher)

Whitney Reynolds is host/executive producer of The Whitney Reynolds

Born 3:51 p.m. July 29, 2016 Length 17 inches Weight 5 pounds 10 ounces

Show, which airs on PBS in Chicagoland and the Quad Cities, and a

Marlowe McKinley Heiner

Tweiners, OK, our last trip is done! We are 30+ weeks and had your first shower in Oklahoma. I decided to take a speaking engagement while in town (bad idea)... I had three contractions during the speech. I’m hoping the guests just thought I was really intense on my topic, entrepreneurship. My ankles now swell daily.

I am up 65 pounds and you weigh over 4 pounds. Your dad is really nesting; he’s fixing up everything in our house. So far, so good. Hope to keep cooking you another six weeks, fingers crossed. You both love to party at night and my tummy looks like a wave pool. I had my first dream of you last night and was able to see your beautiful faces.

You are my sunshines!

-xx Mom

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Dr. Bob Tentler ChicagoParent.com September 2016 35

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8/18/16 12:18 PM

?

What

NOT

Forget the embarrassment, avoid being mean

W

BY DANIELLE BRAFF hen I had my miscarriage, I received plenty of unsolicited advice, meant (I hope) to comfort me. This is your body’s way of getting rid of a baby with problems; it wasn’t meant to be; aren’t you glad it happened now, rather than later when you were really attached to the baby?

My co-worker, a woman who never wanted to have children, was the only person who actually got it right, when she simply hugged me and told me that she was sorry that I was hurting.

To curb the bad advice, we created some lists of what not to say and what to say in common situations.

to say

What NOT to say when someone is experiencing pregnancy problems u If it’s meant to be, it’ll be.

After my second miscarriage at 11 weeks, a family member said this to me.

Amanda Dieterich, a designer who lives in Chicago’s Logan Square with her 3-yearold and 5-year-old u Just relax, it will happen.

This makes me so mad—not only is it insulting, but it makes it sound like this is my fault.

Stephanie Fosnight Regester, a youth pastor at the Evanston Vineyard Church in Evanston, who has been battling infertility with her husband for five years and is currently awaiting a foster child u When are you having another baby?

It took us five years to get the one we have. So this is a bad question from the infertility standpoint and from a one-anddone standpoint.

Sara Youngblood-Ochoa, mom of a 7-year-old, publisher and editor of Macaroni Kid Chicago

u I have some suggestions for treatments you should try.

Everyone wants to share the treatment and cure that they found and read about—Have you tried this, I had a friend who tried this—whether it’s invasive surgery or natural treatment.

Stephanie Fosnight Regester

What TO say when someone is experiencing pregnancy problems u I’m sorry for your loss. I’m here for you if you need anything.

Amanda Dieterich u I’m going to try to get pregnant. How would you like me to tell you if I do get pregnant?

It’s horrible for me to find it out through the grapevine, I feel isolated.

Stephanie Fosnight Regester

38 September 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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What NOT to say to pregnant women 8-year-old, 11-year-old and 13-year-old, and owner of The Sensory Kids Store, a store for kids with developmental differences

u You must be due any day. How much bigger could you possibly get?

I had nine weeks left of my pregnancy.

Marci Lehnert, a Lakeview mom of a 2-year-old and owner of a catering company

u I keep waiting for your hips to get bigger, but it hasn’t happened yet.

I was six months pregnant, working in an office environment, when a coworker said this to me. In that moment, I didn’t know if I should feel flattered or offended.

Melissa LaHann, mom of a 3-year-old in Chicago’s North Center neighborhood and founder of Happy Fig Latch Pal, a breastfeeding clip that keeps your shirt from falling down

u Are you having twins? When I replied, ‘No,’ she said, ‘Are you sure?’

Ellen Sternweiler, Wilmette mom of an

u When pregnant with my third, someone actually asked me, ‘Wow, did you plan this?’

Ellen Sternweiler

What hat TO O say to pregnant women omen u You’re glowing.

Someone omeone once said thiss to me when I was 10 weeks pregnant and d not even showing.

It sounds ounds silly, but I thought ught it was so nicee to hear.

Kate Elisco, mom to a 2 year-old and d 4-year-old in the northern suburbs, urbs, and founder nder of Elisco Communications mmunications

What NOT to say to moms in general

What TO say to moms in general

u Did you breastfeed your child? That usually prevents allergies.

A stranger asked me this as I was standing in line at a bakery with my toddler who had multiple food allergies, trying to figure out if there was something she could eat there. I had breastfed exclusively for a year, but that was hardly the point.

Emily Paster, a food writer and mom of a 12-year-old and a 9-year-old

u It gets better. It gets so much better, hang in there.

It was from a stranger at Starbucks, when my oldest was 21 months and I had a 1-monthold strapped in the Ergo. My kids were both hot messes, I hadn’t showered or slept in days, and I felt like frazzled sludge.

That was literally the whole interaction, but that carried me through a few more days. Oh, and it helped that he turned out to be totally right.

Kate Rockwood, a writer and a mom of a 3-year-old and 1-yearold in Roscoe Village

u Enjoy this time.

As a new mother, I struggled to balance breastfeeding, sleep schedules, showering and daily tasks that I’d previously taken for granted. In these moments, friends and family often told me to ‘enjoy this time.’ This collection of words burdened me with guilt because I was underslept, overtired, maxed out and just trying to make it through the day.

Melissa LaHann

u It must be really hard to be a teen parent.

This was said to me while my boys were having a tantrum at the supermarket because they didn’t get cookies. Oh, and I was 32 at the time.

Amanda Collins Simkin, a Mount Prospect blogger and mom of 3- and 4-year-old sons u How could you make your child an only child?

Jessica Roubitchek, mom of a 6-year-old and owner of Purple Monkey Playroom

u Let me take your bags for you. Just get yourself and your child onto the plane. I have five of my own and I’ve been there.

This was after flight delays, missing naps and lugging plenty of luggage, car seats and a stroller on board. We will never forget that flight, nor the kindness of strangers.

Serena Yuen-Beltz, mom of 9- and 11-year-old sons, and owner of Skokiewood Candles, a home-based start-up soy candle company u He did so well on the plane. We didn’t even know there was a baby on the plane.

My child was a restless flier when he was a baby and I was sure the whole plane heard him fussing. But it’s amazing how just a few kind words from a stranger can make traveling so much more enjoyable.

Lidia Varesco Racoma, a Chicago West Loop mom of a 4-year-old son and an 8-monthold daughter, who is an art director, designer and blogger Danielle Braff is the mom of two and freelance writer.

ChicagoParent.com September 2016 39

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A peanut-free playdate A mom’s guide on how to host a child with a peanut allergy

BY NATALIE ROMPELLA

Y

ears ago, when I dropped my son off at camp, I mentioned to his camp counselors that he had a peanut allergy. One asked, “Are Goldfish and stuff safe?”

I wish my answer to them were that simple.

If you have a child with a life-threatening allergy, you probably get it. If you don’t, I hope you’ll read on, because chances are, you’ll have someone visit your house with food allergies (for a playdate, a party, a school project, etc.).

I am not a medical professional. I am, however, a mom of a child with a fatal allergy (peanut) and I have a fatal allergy myself (tree nut). I created this how-to to help other moms better understand the caution needed when serving food.

So what can you feed a child who has a peanut/nut allergy? You need to ask the parent. If you bought a snack you feel is safe, have the parent or child approve it— you may have missed that fine print stating, “May contain peanuts or tree nuts,” or “Made in a facility with peanuts/tree nuts.”

Here are some quick facts about foods containing peanuts:

1

Peanuts and tree nuts are different. Just because someone is allergic to peanuts does not mean he or she is also allergic to tree nuts (peanuts are a legume, not a nut). However, people can be allergic to both. Clarify with the parent what the child is allergic to. If a package says, “May contain nuts,” the company might have grouped peanuts and tree nuts together. If someone is allergic to a specific nut, foods containing other nuts are often unsafe, too, since nut companies might have used the same equipment for various nuts.

2

It is not sufficient to read the ingredients label. You need to look for a section often below the ingredients list (but not always) that states, “Contains peanuts,” “May also contain peanuts,” “Made on shared equipment with peanuts,” or “Made in a facility that also processes peanuts.” If peanuts are mentioned here, the product is not safe for someone with a severe allergy.

Peanut trivia Your child’s friend is coming over to play. He has a peanut allergy. Which of the following could you safely feed him without checking the label? a. Pretzels b. Plain M&Ms c. Gummy worms d. Ham and cheese sandwich Answer: None of the above.

Here’s why: a. Although some pretzel brands are safe, others aren’t. Some companies make peanut-butter-filled pretzels on the same line as their regular pretzels. b. Plain M&Ms have a disclaimer on the bag that states that they may contain peanuts. c. Some brands of gummy worms are safe; some aren’t. d. Some brands of bread are made on equipment that also processes peanuts.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 44

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PEANUT FREE

How to make your house safer

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 43

3

Never assume a food is safe.

Many foods are made on shared equipment with other products the company makes. Plain M&Ms, for instance, are not safe for someone with a peanut allergy.

If possible, avoid eating foods with the allergen the day before/day of the visit.

If anyone in the family ate peanut butter, have that person wash his or her hands.

Even being in contact with the food can cause a reaction.

Rewash utensils, baking surfaces, etc., in case they were not washed thoroughly and could contain the allergen.

Set out only safe snacks.

Ask the allergic child’s parent to explain what to do in case of an emergency.

I drop my child off at playdates with the protocol of what to do if he seems to have eaten a peanut, with an epinephrine auto-injector and with instructions on how to use it. Always have the parent leave a contact number.

4

Companies are not obligated to have a warning label for cross-contact situations (made on the same equipment/in the same facility as peanuts). I recently bought granola bars that didn’t have a “May contain peanuts” label; however, I know granola bars are usually unsafe. I called the company and found out that the bars were made on shared equipment with peanuts.

5

Let the parent or child read the package. If you are hosting a party, it is much easier if you save the box the fruit snacks came in or the bag the snack-sized candy bars came in and show it to the parent. (Note: Individual wrappers often do not have that information.)

bowling laser tag video games gravity ropes & MORE! Ideal for birthday parties, group outings, company events & team building Opening in late August!

Hoffman Estates | 2575 Pratum Ave.

Visit us at mainevent. mainevent.com com

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6

Different-sized containers or variations of the same product may be made in different locations/ factories. For instance, I know of a brand of chocolate chips that has different allergen labels for white chocolate chips (may contain peanuts), mini chocolate chips p (made in a facility that also s processes so peanuts) and regular r re chocolate chips p ps (safe).

7

Realize that it’s not fun for the parent or child to have to ask if a food contains peanuts. I’ve had to do it for the last 30-plus years, and it’s still awkward.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 46

Watch out Here is a list of foods that surprisingly are often unsafe (meaning they have a label stating the food was made in a facility with some form of possible cross-contamination): • Chocolate chip cookies—both homemade and store-bought (many brands of chocolate chips are unsafe, making homemade cookies off-limits) anything • Gummy Gum G • Most Mo candy bars M • Cakes Cak and cookies from bakeries (including grocery C store sto ore baked goods) Fried foods (some are fried in peanut oil) •F • Gluten-free products (may use peanut flour) • Many foods from specialty grocery stores (since tthey produce smaller amounts of the product, they more often use shared lines, so items you wouldn’t m eexpect to be unsafe are, such as cereals, cookies and other boxed items) ot Bird seed (if doing art projects) •B •D Dog treats (some are made with peanut butter)

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Learn to

Ice Skate Check out our classes today at www.SkokieParks.org.

PEANUT FREE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 45

8

Suggest that the parent pack ack a safe snack. This is an easy sy solution and can put you at ease that what the child is eating g has been approved by the parents.

9

If the parent provides food, d, don’t give the child other food. Label reading is tricky, ky, and one slip-up can be dangerous. s. I send a snack with my child so I know he will be safe. It scares me when n he comes home and says the parent fed him a different snack.

10

Please realize the parent rent or child is probably not exaggerating about out the child’s allergy. An anaphylactic ic reaction is life-threatening. Err on n the safe side. If you’re not sure if a food is safe, be honest.

9340 Weber Park Place, Skokie • (847) 674-1500, ext. 2900

Want more info?

To get more information about peanut allergies, here are some helpful websites: u kidswithfoodallergies.org/page/peanut-allergy.aspx u mommity.com/the-ultimate-list-of-peanut-andtree-nut-free-snacks-for-school (double check that the snacks listed here are still considered safe) u allergyfreetable.com u allergyeats.com u nutphrees.com (offers all peanut-free and nut-free desserts. Sold in many Chicagoland grocery stores and has its own shop)

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“guiding educational pathways that light the way to success”

www.guidinglightacademy.org

A Therapeutic Day School

It’s not school, it’s Quest

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

Does your child. . .

• Thrive on complexity?

• Seek deeper understanding?

• Make connections?

Then, learn more about our . . .

• Innovative curriculum for active learning • Committed faculty who challenge their students • Nurturing culture and small classes

Guiding Light Academy is approved by the Illinois State Board of Education. We provide therapy and academic instruction for students ages 5-21 who have extraordinary needs, including: - Autism

- Developmental delay

- Other health impairments

- Emotional disability

- intellectual disability

- speech or language impairment

addressing the needs in school and home environments.

1051 internationale parkway woodridge, IL 60517

P. 630.739.7500 F. 630.739.7503 www.guidinglightacademy.org

SEPTEMBER 16 & 17

FREE ADMISSION

Kids’ Root Beer Garden Zucchini car races, Ninja obstacle course, Root beer floats, and games and activities.

Schedule a tour today!

Scan for more information

Contact Director of Admission, Kitsana Salyphone

OCTOBER 15 (11-3)

FREE ADMISSION

Eek-O-Friendly, Healthy Kids’ Halloween Event

kitsana.salyphone@questacademy.org or call 847.202.8035, ext. 438 today. questacademy.org 500 North Benton, Palatine, IL 60067 ChicagoParent.com September 2016 47

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48 September 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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advertising directory // ABA Preschool Academy Ages 3-6 Intensive ABA therapy Preschool Multiple locations (224) 241-1784 www.abapreschoolacademy.com

Advanced Family Dental Carlinville, Chicago, Crest Hill, Crest Hill – Orthodontics, Frankfort, Joliet, Lockport, Lombard, Mt. Olive, Naperville, Plainfield, Romeoville, Shorewood, Westmont, Woodridge (815) 768-2188 AdvancedFamilyDental.com

AiepA: Advocate and Instructional Expert for People with Autism Affordable advice, advocacy, and support for autism and other disabilities 918 W Agatite Apt G Chicago (312) 316-2884 www.aiepautism.com

Autism Family Center Providing a uniquely comprehensive approach from two disciplines - Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Clinical Counseling.

Center-based services at 560 Green Bay Rd, Suite 10, Winnetka Home and School Based Support throughout the Greater Chicago Area.

(847) 814-1096 www.autismfamilycenter.com

Autism Home Support Services Center and home-based ABA therapy, maximizing your child’s full potential.

Serving All of Chicagoland 844-AHSS-ABA (247-7222) AutismHomeSupport.com

Autism Therapy Group ABA therapy in home and

Chicago Parent is having a new baby, too!

Special Needs Listings

communities in Chicago and suburbs Chicago and all suburbs (224) 554-9634 www.theautismtherapygroup.com

kidsdds.net Specialized dentistry for children and adolescents.

(773) 528-5766 www.lekotek.org

Center for Independence through Conductive Education

GiGi’s Playhouse Hoffman Estates Down Syndrome Achievement Center 2350 West Higgins Road Hoffman Estates (847) 885-PLAY hoffmanestates@gigisplayhouse.org

Christopher J. Morin, DDS 811 W. Wellington, Chicago (773) 871-4964 BigSmilesChicago.com Practice dedicated to infants, children and adolescents.

Intensive motor training programs for children with Cerebral Palsy 100 W. Plainfield Rd., Ste. 100 Countryside (708) 588-0833 www.Center-for-Independence.org

Dentistry For Kids, Ltd. 4801 W. Peterson Avenue, Chicago (773) 790-4282 Dentistry4Kids.net Long-term relationships built on confidence and trust.

Dr. Russell S. Pollina Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Kids are special people Mt. Prospect, Barrington (847) 253-KIDS www.grins4kids.com

Elmhurst Learning and Success Academy (ELSA) Excellent post-secondary experience for students with developmental disabilities.

Elmhurst College Elmhurst (630) 617 3752 Elmhurst.edu/elsa

Every Tooth Counts Pediatric Dental Center Specialist in dentistry for infants, children and adolescents.

2711 Flossmoor Road, Flossmoor (708) 799-9755 EveryToothCounts.com

Fredric S. Tatel, D.D.S. and Associates 16345 S. Harlem, Tinley Park (708) 633-8700

Pediatric Dentistry

Guiding Light Academy A Therapeutic Day School, ages 5-21 1051 Internationale Parkway Woodridge (630) 739-7500 guidinglightacademy.org

Jewish Child & Family Services Integrated Pediatric Interventions 255 Revere Drive, Suite 200 Northbrook (847) 412-4379 jcfs.org/ipi Experts in speech, occupational and developmental therapy

Southwest Dental Group 16600 107th St, Orland Park (708) 403-3355 We believe there is no need too special.

Stuart Ferst School, Anixter Center 6050 North California Avenue Chicago (773) 761-4651 www.anixter.org Nonpublic school, students with autism and intellectual disabilities

Treasured Smiles 10313 West Lincoln Highway, Brookside Commons, Frankfort (815) 806-1600 TreasuredSmilesDentistry.com Specializing in Dentistry for Children & Adolescents.

Keshet 3210 Dundee Rd., Northbrook (847) 205-0274 Keshet.org A Rainbow of Hope for Individuals with Special Needs

Learning Disabilities Association of IL Learning Disabilities Association of Illinois 10101 S. Roberts Rd. Ste. 205, Palos Hills (708) 430-7532 ldail.com Provides resource information and support

National Lekotek Center, a division of Anixter Center Family-based inclusive therapeutic play, toy lending 2001 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago

Hey Baby, (in conjunction with Bump Club and Beyond) is an essential guide for expectant and new parents.

SPRING 2016

FALL EDITION COMING SOON! CONNECT WITH CHICAGO PARENT 708.386.5555 ADVERTISING@ CHICAGOPARENT.COM

ChicagoParent.com

*Cover HEY BABY 2016.indd 5

…BROUGHT TO YOU BY… Spring 2016 • Hey Baby 5

3/28/16 3:53 PM

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High School Choice // special advertising section Chicago School GPS

“Hidden Gems”

Public & Private

C H I CAGO

High School Fair

Sunday, Sept. 25, 2016 @ 1-4PM British International School of Chicago

South Loop Campus

161 W. 9th Street, 60605

$15/family via pre-paid online registration $25/family @ door

Need-based fee Waivers Available

Pre-Register & be entered to win RAFFLE PRIZES!

RSVP www.chischoolgps.com Includes Seminars for Middle School Parents to learn: • Navigating the high school admissions process • Entrance test tips & strategies • Private school scholarships Includes Workshops for Middle School Students: • Peer to peer info session Q&A with current HS students • Admission essay “how-to” for middle schoolers • Planning for success in High School & beyond

info@chischoolgps.com

See our list of participating schools and resources online!

312.324.GPS4 (4774)

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High School Choice Choosing the right school for your child special advertising section //

By CARRIE RODOVICH

W

hen the time comes to choose a high school for your child, the seemingly limitless options can feel daunting. However, experts have suggestions on things to keep in mind while sifting through the possibilities – and surprising ideas on things that shouldn’t deter you.

Whether your child learns best through project-based learning, listening to lectures or real-world experiences, it’s best to find a school whose atmosphere allows your student to thrive.

“What gets your kid really excited during the day? Is it a teacher who does one-on-one learning, or do they love art class, or do projects get them really excited?” asks Kate Klein, head of school for GCE

Lab School in Chicago. “That’s what you should look for in their next school. It might not necessarily be the cornerstone of their curriculum or process, but you need to make sure it’s there.”

Karen Fisher, director of admission and financial aid for the Francis W. Parker School in Chicago, says it’s important to make sure the school meshes with your family’s values and educational aspirations. It’s also important to examine your own motivations for looking at certain schools.

“Are you seeking to live out an unfulfilled dream of your own, or are you thinking clearly about your child’s strengths and challenges,” Fisher asks.

It’s important to consider everything from your child’s interests and abilities and your goals for their education as well as things like the his-

tory and legacy of the schools and what level of involvement you want in their school community, she says.

Grace Lee Sawin, founder of Chicago School GPS, says it’s important to not get caught up with the “big name schools” that attract all of the attention.

“I like to emphasize that you should look past the name on the door,” she says.

“The marquee high schools might not be a good fit, even if you can get into them. If (your children are) at a school for four years and it doesn’t meet what their passions are, it could make for a really difficult four years.”

Whether your child is interested in fine arts or culinary arts, broadcast journalism or video game design, there are schools that cater to unique interests, Sawin emphasizes.

Attending open houses and

sporting events, visiting the websites and shadowing a student are all great ways to get to know the school and its students.

“After you’ve done online research and talked with families in your neighborhood who might have kids at the school, getting a firsthand experience and insight through a visit is a great next step,” says Carolyn Gorowski, dean of admission at Lake Forest Academy. “(Your child) can walk on campus and look at the students and envision themselves interacting with the kids and making friends with them. They can sit in a class and see the interactions between students and teachers, and see what teaching and learning styles are there.

That’s the most critical piece to determining if the school is a good fit.” continued on page 52

It’s a great feeling to belong.

Find out more at Open House or one of our upcoming Information Sessions:

Open House for grades 5-12

Sunday, October 16 11 a.m. & 12:45 p.m.

REGISTER ONLINE AT WWW.LATINSCHOOL.ORG/VISITUS

Middle & Upper School Information Sessions Thursday, October 20 Tuesday, November 8 Thursday, January 19 US at 8:30 a.m., MS at 8:45 a.m.

ChicagoParent.com September 2016 51

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High School Choice // special advertising section Choosing

continued from page 51

High School Open House Saturday October 29, 2016

University High School is expanding, and will welcome approximately 50 new students into 9th grade for fall, 2017!

Learn more and RSVP at www.ucls.uchicago.edu

Has your child turned two?

Applications to Nursery 3 for the 2017-18 academic year are due October 16, 2016 Learn more at www.ucls.uchicago.edu

University of Chicago Laboratory Schools 1362 E. 59th St., Chicago, IL 60637 773-702-9451 admissions@ucls.uchicago.edu

While you’re shadowing at the school, you’ll have the opportunity to get to know a little bit about what kind of community there is within the school’s campus, Klein says.

“Does the school have a 15-minute meeting every morning? We have people from all over the city and suburbs who have come together to form an intentional community,” she says. “The socioemotional environment and student support are very important.”

The location of the school in relation to your home doesn’t necessarily have to be a deterrent, but it’s definitely something to keep in mind, the experts agree.

“Sometimes kids travel 90 minutes and pass by two or three good schools on the way to their own school,” Sawin says. “You have to think really hard about making that commuting sacrifice, especially if you’re overlooking something that’s closer to you.”

If your child falls in love with a school and carpooling or shuttles aren’t viable options for a daily commute, some schools, like Lake Forest Academy, offer a boarding option.

“They can attend school during the week and come home on the weekends,” Gorowski says. Lake Forest Academy is the largest boarding school in the Chicago area, with 210 of the school’s 430 students living on campus. “We have students from all over the world, including 25 percent international students, to give a diverse population for students to interact and share with. Living on campus can be a rich opportunity to encounter in high school.”

However, Klein cautions that if you are going to be responsible for the day-to-day transportation and promptness is an issue, you might

want to stay within a more reasonable distance from home.

“If your child has a passion for the school and an hour doesn’t seem daunting, that’s great,” she says. “But you have to set your child up for success. If you know you’re not going to be able to get there on time, you might want to think about it first.”

And while sometimes parents get “sticker shock” when they first see what private schools can cost, it’s important to look beyond the initial numbers and ask questions about financial aid.

“There is a lot of financial aid that might be available, whether it be merit-based or need-based. Ask the school what their average financial aid package is. It’s unfortunate when sometimes parents see the sticker price but don’t take the next step and ask questions” Gorowski says.

Sometimes when you consider the cost of the school, you have to think about your child’s education as a longrange investment.

“Many parents try to save for the college years at the expense of the primary and secondary years,” Fisher says.

“What is important to you? A strong start? A strong finish?

Graduate school? Look at the here and now, and plan, consider and discuss.”

No matter what school your child ultimately chooses, it’s important to start the selection process early, Sawin says.

“Start the whole process in the middle school years, because you learn a lot each year,” she says. “In sixth grade kids start to get an inkling what their interests are.

Seventh grade you can start looking at schools and narrowing down a list of schools to visit and seriously pursue.

You don’t want to get overwhelmed. It’s better to start early.”

52 September 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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special advertising section //

High School Choice

What do I need to do?

Public and Private High School Search timeline Early work •S ixth grade: Visit one or two “high interest” schools to determine requirements for admission and enter seventh grade with a goal •S eventh grade: Attend open houses, concentrate on schoolwork (standardized tests and school grades). Solidify relationships from potential recommendation providers •S ixth- to eighth-grade families should attend the Hidden Gems High School Fair this month to widen the net of schools for consideration.

Eighth grade •E arly fall: Attend open houses, write essays and gather recommendations (if required) • L ate fall: Apply by deadline and register for any entrance exams •W inter: Take entrance exams and complete parochial and charter applications • Spring: High school notifications arrive Source: ChiSchoolGPS PHOTO COURTESY OF HIDDEN GEMS CHICAGO HIGH SCHOOL FAIR

lake forest academy Midwestern Heart. Global Mind.

Fall Open House Sun., Oct. 23, 1 - 3:30 p.m.

All the opportunities to participate in our vibrant boarding environment offer both day and boarding students a lifelong passport to new challenges, building character that is uniquely transformed by combining a global outlook with Midwestern values.

Learn more: www.lfanet.org/Admissions/CP 1500 West Kennedy Road | Lake Forest, IL 60045 | 847-615-3267 | www.lfanet.org ChicagoParent.com September 2016 53

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High School Choice // special advertising section Francis W. Parker School

Lake Forest Academy

Serving Junior Kindergarten through 12 Grade 330 W. Webster Ave., Chicago (773) 797-5107 fwparker.org

1500 W. Kennedy Rd Lake Forest (847) 615-3267 www.lfanet.org LFA offers day and boarding students a transformative experience through a culture of participation characterized by rigorous academics, a global outlook, and Midwestern values.

Francis 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.

FXW School is driven by a vision of creating a unique urban educational program for the children of Chicago.

GCE Lab School 1535 North Dayton Street, Chicago (312) 643-0991 gcelabschool.com An elite private high school located

PHOTO COURTESY OF GCE LAB SCHOOL

in Lincoln Park, GCE breaks down the walls of the classroom to engage students with the real world.

Rachel Gemo, Head of Parish School

PreK (4yrs)-Grade 8 2524 North Orchard, Chicago (773) 348-8212 StClementSchool.org

Pre-K through 12th grade 59 W. North Blvd. Chicago (312) 582.6000 latinschool.org

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

3 & 4 year old Preschool – Grade 12 Before & After School Care Available 3900 N Leavitt St., Chicago (773) 539-0066 www.stbenedict.com

Saint Clement School

Latin School of Chicago

Frances Xavier Warde School

St. Benedict Preparatory School

A co-educational independent day school on the near north side of Chicago.

Before and after school care available Principal: Mari Jo Hanson

Sonnets Academy

The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools

Boundless learning through play.

Six weeks to six years.

Lincoln Park: 1932 N. Clark St. (312) 951-1024 River North: 430 W. Erie St. (312) 344-1926 West Loop: 229 S. Peoria St. (312) 733-7580 Hyde Park: 5548 S. Hyde Park Blvd.

(773) 891-0029 sonnetsacademy.com

Serving Nursery 3 (3 year olds) Grade 12 1362 E. 59th Street, Chicago (773) 702-9451 A co-educational independent day school that is home to the youngest members of the University of Chicago’s academic community.

Call or email admissions@ucls.uchicago.edu.

ATTEND AN OPEN HOUSE RSVP fwparker.org/openhouse Middle School (Grades 6-8)

Saturday, October 22 • 1 p.m.

Upper School (Grades 9-12)

Saturday, November 19 • 10 a.m.

Apply to Parker Visit fwparker.org/apply • Accepting applications for Grades JK-12

St . Benedict PREPARATORY HIGH SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE Sunday, November 6 11AM - 1PM

Shadow a Bengal for the day or schedule a tour!

Contact Ms. Isabel Gonzalez, Director of Admissions 773-509-3831 igonzalez@stbenedict.com

ST. BENEDICT PREP

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advertising directory // All Seasons Orchard 14510 IL Route 176, Woodstock (815) 338-5637 allseasonsorchard.com Apple picking, pumpkin patch, corn maze, petting zoo, bakery, restaurant

Apple Holler 5006 S. Sylvania Avenue Sturtevant, WI 53177 (262) 884-7100 appleholler.com

Chicago Pet Show Sept. 17 and 18, 10am-5pm $1 off coupon in this issue!

Libertyville Sports Complex, 1950 U.S. 45 ChicagoPetShow.com

Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn Two floors of fun, hands-on learning for kids through 10!

5100 Museum Drive, Oak Lawn (708) 423-6709 www.cmoaklawn.org

Didier Farms Pumpkinfest 16678 W. Aptakisic Rd. Prairie View/Lincolnshire (847) 634-3291 www.didierfarms.com 9/24/16-10/31/16 Hayrides,Corn Maze,Pig Races,Pony Rides, Animal Land, Pumpkin Playland.

Downtown Oak Park Oaktoberfest. Kids’ Root Beer Garden. Green Halloween check web for info.

(708) 383-4145 downtownoakpark.net

A Fairytale Ballet & Academy Fairytale Ballet w/ costumes & props.

Advanced Academy too! (1.5-17yrs) Lakeview, Bucktown, Evanston (773) 477-4488 (LV & EV) (773) 606-0318 (BT) AFairytaleBallet.com

Fall Arts & Crafts Fair Saturday, Oct.1st 9 am to 3 pm 200+ crafters! Admission – nonperishable food item or $1 donation to food pantry Reavis High School 6034 W. 77th Street Burbank (708) 921-0334 Reavishighschoolcraftshow@ gmail.com

Fall Fest at DesPlaines Park District Lake Park Three Days Family Fun. Free Admission. Free Concerts.

September 16-18 2200 Lee St. Des Plaines FallFestDesPlaines.com

Fleetwood Roller Skating Rink 7231 W. Archer Ave., Summit (708) 458-0300 fleetwoodrollerrink.com Public skating, private parties, fundraisers. Artistic speed and roller derby skating.

Funtopia- Glenview 2050 Tower Dr, Glenview (224) 432-5435 funtopiaworld.com/glenview Adventure facility playground for all ages

Girls on the Run End-of-season celebration 5k: November 19th at Arvey Field in Grant Park gotrchicago.org Inspiring girls to be healthy and confident using a fun, experience based curriculum that creatively integrates running.

Jonamac Orchard Pick-your-own orchard opens Labor Day week end 19412 Shabonna Rd, Malta (815) 825-2158 Jonamacorchard.com

Kuipers Family Farm U-pic apple orchard, Pumpkin Farm and Christmas tree farm.

1N318 Watson Road, Maple Park (815) 827-5200 KuipersFamilyFarm.com

Odyssey Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze open Sept. 24.

Pump It Up Party Orland Park Chicago

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

Showcase of Arts and Crafts Barrington Park District Fitness & Recreation Center 235 Lions Drive, Barrington (847) 381-0687 www.barringtonparkdistrict.org 80 juried artists; ceramics, jewelry, wood, glass, pottery, photography & more. Free admission & parking.

Nov. 5; 9am-5pm, Nov. 6; 10am-4pm

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

Sonnets Academy Lincoln Park: 1932 N. Clark St. (312) 951-1024 River North: 430 W. Erie St. (312) 344-1926 West Loop: 229 S. Peoria St. (312) 733-7580 Hyde Park: 5548 S. Hyde Park Blvd., (773) 891-0029 sonnetsacademy.com Boundless learning through play. Six weeks to six years.

Fall Fun

Stade’s Farm and Market Stade’s provides healthy home grown fresh produce and fine family entertainment.

3709 Miller Road, McHenry (815) 675-6396 stadefarm.com

Starbright Dance Chicago - Lakeview (773) 606-1345 StarbrightChicago.com Hip Hop Jazz, Troupe, Broadway & more. Recital too! (3-17yrs)

Trail Safety Days Forest Preserve District of Will County Oct. 1: Centennial Trail Schneider’s Passage, Romeoville 10 a.m.-1 p.m. All ages.

ReconnectwithNature.org

Trail of Terror Travel the Spectacular Come to Northern Illinois Fall Festivals, Haunted Happenings, Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes Illinoistrailofterror.com

Visit Springfield Illinois Discover the makings of your legendary vacation in Springfield, IL. (800) 545-7300 www.visitspringfieldillinois.com

The Little Gym of Chicago 3216 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago (773) 525-5750 thelittlegym.com/ChicagoIL Little Gym is the world’s premier experiential learning and physical development center.

Ages: 4 mos-12 years

The Morton Arboretum 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle (630) 968-0074 mortonarb.org Ribbit! The Exhibit (whimsical frog sculptures) runs through September 25

North Shore School of Dance 505 Laurel Ave., Highland Park (847) 432-2060 northshoredance.com Contemporary and traditional dance classes for all levels of dancers.

Odyssey Fun World Tinley Park: 1-80 & Harlem Ave. Naperville: 1-88 & Rt. 59 Odyssey Fun Farm: Located next to the Odyssey Fun World, Tinley Park (708) 429-3800 OdysseyFunWorld.com ChicagoParent.com September 2016 55

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Arts Education Guide // advertising directory North Shore School of Dance

American Dance Center A nationally recognized school and performing company.

10464 163rd Place, Orland Park (708) 349-4964 1933 Ridge Road, Homewood (708) 747-4969 AmericanDanceCenter.net

Disney On Ice Dare to Dream September 7-11 United Center Disneyonice.com (800) 745-3000

Ensemble Español Center for Spanish Dance & Music Building J Dance Studio Northeastern Illinois University 5500 N. St. Louis Avenue Chicago (773) 442-5916 info@ensembleespanol.org

Local, National, And Internationally Renowned Faculty Ballet, Pointe, Modern, Jazz, Tap, Hip-Hop, and Contemporary.

Summer Dance Camps and Master Classes.

A Fairytale Ballet & Academy

Ages 2-1/2 – Adult. Beginner through Professional.

Performance Opportunities Celebrating our 28th Annual Production of The Nutcracker

North Shore Repertory Dance Ensemble • North Shore Dance Company • North Shore Ballet Theatre

Teaching Dancers to Achieve their Dreams Since 1989 North Shore School of Dance • 505 Laurel Avenue, Highland Park • 847.432.2060 www.northshoredance.com • email us at nssdance@aol.com Like us on Facebook! • Tweet us on Twitter!

free!

Fairytale Ballet w/ costumes & props.

Advanced Academy too! (1.5-17yrs) Lakeview, Bucktown, Evanston (773) 477-4488 (LV & EV) (773) 606-0318 (BT) AFairytaleBallet.com

Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts and Fitness Associates We’ll help your child’s strength and confidence 6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park (708) 383-3456 Master-SH-Yu.com

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament I-90 & Roselle Rd., Schaumburg (888) WE-JOUST (935-6878) medievaltimes.com

North Shore School of Dance Contemporary and traditional dance classes for all levels of dancers.

505 Laurel Avenue, Highland Park (847) 432-2060 northshoredance.com

Octonauts Live The Rosemont Theatre Sunday, October 23 2 pm OctonautsLiveUs.com

Starbright Dance Hip Hop Jazz, Troupe, Broadway & more. Recital too! (3-17yrs) Chicago - Lakeview (773) 606-1345 StarbrightChicago.com

four days of art, music and play for all ages

every sunday in september 10am – 2pm Lincoln & Marshfield

Sponsored by

Interactive art • Fun activities

Local music and dance • Outdoor workout classes for kids • and so much more!

Presented by Special Service Area 27 in partnership with 47th Ward Alderman Ameya Pawar and local businesses and neighbors.

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Planning a Party?

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

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 Lori Smerz at lori@chicagoparent.com 58 September 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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calendar SEPTEMBER JANU JANUARY JA NUAR ARY

1

When you think fall foods, you probably go straight to apples and pumpkins, maybe with a nice pot of chili thrown in. But the Lakeview Taco Fest is all about highlighting the humble taco, with more than a dozen local vendors showing off tortilla-wrapped masterpieces in hopes of being named Chicago’s Best. Plus, enjoy music and Mexican wrestlers for an extra spicy weekend. $7. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sept. 17-18. 3500 N. Southport, Chicago. (773) 868-3010, lakeviewtacofest.com.

3 2

Don’t let the rancor surrounding the election dull your kids’ sense of patriotism.

At Family Workshop: My America, families with kids 6-12 can visit the exhibition “America After the Fall: Painting in the 1930s” and learn how artists such as Georgia O’Keefe and Jackson Pollock shaped our view of this country.

Then kids can create their own artistic vision for America … hopefully one that’s defined more by peace than politics. $8, $5 members. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or 2-3:30 p.m. Sept. 10. Art Institute of Chicago, 159 E. Monroe, Chicago. (312) 443-3600, artic.edu.

There might not be a last-minute sprint through the airport to catch a flight to Mongolia, but Oak Lawn’s Famazing Race has pretty much everything else from the hit TV show. Teams made up of at least one adult and one kid (5 and up) compete in different challenges—both both physical and mental—in a wild race for some prizes..

Past challenges have included archery, a “snowball” throw, and something involving moving an Oreo across your face, so you really never know what you’ll be up against. Bonus for all snazzy dressers: there’s also a costume contest! $10. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sept. 24. Oak Lawn Park District, 10444 S. Central Ave., Oak Lawn. (708) 857-2215, olparks.org.

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CALENDAR

Vo Vo on nS Stteube eube eu ben Pa Para rad de e S e Se Se Sept pt.. 100 pt

2 | FRIDAY

4 | SUNDAY

MOVIE ON THE GREEN.

CHICAGO

Enjoy a movie at dusk. Sit back, relax and enjoy the outdoors. Today’s movie is The Muppets’ Wizard of Oz. 8 p.m. Odyssey Fun World, 19111 S. Oak Park Ave., Tinley Park. (708) 429-3800, odysseyfunworld.com.

3 | SATURDAY CHICAGO MIDNIGHT CIRCUS IN THE PARKS. In honor of the 10th

anniversary, the show involves a new storyline and new awardwinning artists. The troupe features acrobats, aerialists, eccentrics, one rescued dog and a few talented kids. 3 p.m. $5-$20, free kids under 2. Gately Park, 744 E. 103rd St. midnightcircus.net.

MIDNIGHT CIRCUS IN THE PARKS. See Sept. 3.

SUBURBS MALOTT JAPANESE GARDEN FAMILY SUNDAY. Families can rake

miniature dry gardens, try chopsticks and practice calligraphy. Today’s take-home project is kimono paper dolls. $30 parking. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

MATINEE PERFORMANCE. Enjoy a

performance of the Tempel Lipizzans set to classical music. The program follows the horses through varying stages of development and training.

Afterward, take a self-guided tour through the stallion stable and visit foals in the pasture. Riders, trainers and handlers can answer questions. $17-$32. 1 p.m. Tempel Farms, 17000 Wadsworth Road, Wadsworth. (847) 244-5330, tempelfarms.com.

with adult, are introduced to nature through songs, simple crafts and outdoor exploration. Today’s theme is “Come Camp with Me.” $6, free parking. 9:30-10:15 a.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

6 | TUESDAY

NATURE SLEUTHS. Kids 6-10 work

TWILIGHT TUESDAY. Families with

kids 6 and up learn about the animals that call the woods home during a hike and talk, then complete a fun project to attract wildlife to their backyard. $8. 7-9 p.m. Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center, 3609 Spring Road, Oak Brook. (630) 850-8110, dupageforest.org.

7 | WEDNESDAY INCHWORMS PARENT-CHILD PROGRAM. Kids 18-26 months,

together to solve mysteries about the natural world through weekly themes and hands-on experiments. $8, $5 members. 4 p.m. Midwest Museum of Natural History, 425 W. State St., Sycamore. (815) 895-9777, mmnh.org.

8 | THURSDAY AFTER SCHOOL ADVENTURES: “THE DOVE AND THE FROG: FRIDA KAHLO AND DIEGO RIVERA.” In honor of Hispanic

Heritage month, kids 5-12, with adult, create a Kahlo or Rivera masterpiece.

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CALENDAR

9 | FRIDAY FAMILY TWILIGHT ADVENTURES.

Families with kids under 10 go on a hike, do activities and roast marshmallows before taking a silent tram ride through the woods after dark to see what animals come out when people go home. $19. 7-9 p.m.

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

10 | SATURDAY CHICAGO FAMILY DAY: MAKE A CLAY WARRIOR. Kids 4-12, with

adult, build clay figures inspired

by Chinese mingqi objects on view. 1-4 p.m. Smart Museum of Art, University of Chicago, 5550 S. Greenwood Ave. (773) 702-0200, smartmuseum.uchicago.edu.

MIDNIGHT CIRCUS IN THE PARKS. See Sept. 3. Today’s times

are noon and 3 p.m. and location is McKinley Park, 2210 W. Pershing Road.

ROALD DAHL BIRTHDAY PARTY! Celebrate the beloved author

with cake, Dahl-themed activities, face-painting, storytelling and more.

3 p.m. Women and Children First, 5233 N. Clark St. (773) 769-9299, womenandchildrenfirst.com.

THE FESTIVAL ON PRAIRIE AVENUE. Includes music, inflatables,

sports games, pony rides, petting zoo, face painting, magic shows, historic tours, and arts and crafts. $7 donation, free kids 12 months and under; food costs extra. Noon-6 p.m.

Prairie Avenue at 18th Street. (312) 401-2688, pdnachicago.com.

VON STEUBEN PARADE.

Features floats, ethnic costumes and marching bands. 2 p.m. Lincoln Avenue between Irving Park Road and Lawrence Avenue. (630) 6533018, germanday.com.

SUBURBS BLOOMINGDALE SEPTEMBERFEST. The end-of-

summer gathering kicks off with a parade. The day of events and entertainment in Old Town Park includes a car show, stage performances, food and craft vendors, beer tent and scholarship presentations. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. 201 S. Bloomingdale Road, Bloomingdale. (630) 893-7000, villageofbloomingdale.org.

OPENING OF THE REGENSTEIN LEARNING CENTER. Visitors can engage in

mini-classes showcasing what the garden’s education programs have to offer. Plus, explore the new campus, hear live music, and participate in a scavenger hunt. Windy City Harvest will have a farmstand with fresh produce. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the October issue is Aug. 29. 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 71.

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar

NOV. 4 – 13 NOV. 17 – 27

ALLSTATE ARENA

UNITED CENTER

FREE PARKING in all official arena parking lots with ticket purchase.

Visit arena website for details. ticketmaster.com • 800-745-3000 RINGLING.COM

357865

$3, $2 members. 3:30-5 p.m. Des Plaines History Center, 781 Pearson St., Des Plaines. (847) 391-5399, desplaineshistory.org.

Celebrations

CHICAGO PARENT’S PARTY PLANNING GUIDE Coming in October For more information, call (708) 386-5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com

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CALENDAR HAPPY BEE-DAY! Celebrate the

Children’s Garden’s birthday with a garden party. Play pin the leaf on the tree, make a froggy party hat and enjoy a sweet b-day treat from the bees. Free with arboretum admission. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb. org.

JACK AXE GAMES & FESTIVAL.

The games include a 1.5-mile course where competitors encounter obstacles focused on strength and endurance.

Festival includes live music, bouncy house and scavenger hunt, beer and food tent, food vendors, small farmers market and Jack Axe Game Zone.

Check website for cost and schedule.

Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles. (630) 7814054, jackaxe.com.

REVOLUTIONARY WAR REENNACTMENT. Soldiers give

history lessons on camp life, military artillery and war time in the 1700s.

Piion P onee eerr Day See Sept. 18

Hundreds of reenactors assemble on the battlefield twice a day, firing cannons and muskets. $10 parking.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cantigny Park, IS151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 6685161, cantigny.org.

SECOND SATURDAY: REVOLUTIONARY WAR. Try a

colonial-era printing activity and use a quill pen to put your John Hancock on a copy of the Declaration of Independence. Plus, visit an activity station featuring ladies of the 18th century. $10 parking. Noon-3 p.m.

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

TAILS ON THE TRAILS. Enjoy a day out with your pup on the arboretum’s hiking trails. Shop from local businesses and organizations in the pet expo, test out the agility course and take guided hikes. Meet dogs available for adoption and inquire about volunteering with local pet shelters.

Sign your pooch up for dog-friendly

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CALENDAR games, including the peanut butter licking contest. $5 per dog, plus admission. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

THE GLEN ELLYN BACKYARD BBQ. More than 60

teams compete for trophies and bragging rights in three categories.

Festivities include live music, a dunk tank and activities for kids. All proceeds support Bridge Communities in their efforts to help transition homeless families in DuPage County to self-sufficiency. Check website for schedule. Glenwood Avenue parking lot, Glen Ellyn. glenellynbackyardbbq. org.

healing, spirituality and more. The event will open with an interfaith prayer session: Prayers from Faiths of the World. $5 parking. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

The Theosophical Society in America, 1926 N. Main St., Wheaton. (630) 668-1571, theosophical.org.

Malo Ma ott tt Jap pan nes ese Ga G ard rden e Fam amilily ily Su Sun nd day ay

TOUCH A TRUCK. Kids get to

touch, feel and climb through a variety of trucks and vehicles, including fire trucks, tow trucks and more. 10 a.m.-noon. Berens Park, 493 Oaklawn Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 993-8900, epd. org.

11 | SUNDAY

Seee Sept Se Seept pt.. 4

and silent/live auctions. $10, $5 kids and seniors. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 6300 N. Ridge Avenue (at Devon). (773) 9736300, misericordia.com.

CHICAGO

includes entertainment, food vendors and children’s activities. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Old Train Depot, Kankakee.

(815) 933-ARTS, community artscouncil.org.

SUBURBS THEOSOFEST! MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT FESTIVAL. Features

MIDNIGHT CIRCUS IN THE PARKS. See Sept. 3. Today’s times

vegetarian food, more than 150 holistic vendors, a festive Kids’ Korner and hands-on demonstrations in Tao Chi, yoga and other practices.

Participants can also enjoy talks on meditation, Buddhism, holistic

are noon and 3 p.m. and location is McKinley Park, 2210 W. Pershing Road.

MISERICORDIA FAMILY FEST.

Includes games, clowns, food, music

OPENING OF THE REGENSTEIN LEARNING CENTER. Glencoe. See Sept. 10.

FALL ART STROLL. Features dozens of artisans exhibiting everything from paintings to pottery. Also

CORNFEST FAMILY FUN DAY. Celebrate fall with an old-fash-

ioned family picnic featuring burgers and hot dogs, roasted corn on the cob, homemade pies and taffy apples.

Entertainment includes games, races and a fishing tournament for kids.

Kids can use hammers, nails and

Learning Disabilities Association of Illinois

Has your child been diagnosed or do you suspect that your child has a learning disability?

For Information contact:

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www.ldail.com 2016 Fall Workshops September 17 - Games for Learning: Ordinary Objects, Extraordinary Motivation October 1 - 60 Sixty Second Behavior Interventions October 22 - Legal Issues in Dyslexia and other Learning Disabilities November 12 - Gender in Special Education: Working with Girls Who Have a Learning Disability

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ChicagoParent.com September 2016 63

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CALENDAR

14510 IL Route 176 Woodstock, IL

815-338-5637 allseasonsorchard.com

Ba ark rkap apal aloo al oo oza a

OPEN SEPT 3 TO OCT 30

Seee Se Se Sept p . 25 pt 2

10am - 5pm weekdays, 10am - 6pm on weekends & holidays

apple picking • pumpkin patch • corn maze • pig races • apple cider donuts • fresh pressed cider • caramel apples • jumping pillow • petting zoo • pony rides • Country Kitchen • Farm Market and more

paint to create a craft project in the giant woodpile. Food and activities cost extra. 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Graue Mill, 3800 York Road, Oak Brook.

(630) 655-2090, grauemill.org.

HAPPY BEE-DAY! Lisle. See Sept.

10.

NEIGHBORHOOD FUN FAIR.

Activities include a moon jump, dunk tank, games, prizes, face painting, live music, hot dogs, snow cones and popcorn. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. St. Matthew United Church of Christ, 1420 S. Gables Blvd., Wheaton. (630) 665-1236, stmatthewucc.org.

PUMPKINFEST

SEPTEMBER 24-OCTOBER 31 Come make a Family Memory!

Pig Races Daily • Hayrides & Corn Maze • Animal Land Zoo Pumpkin Playland/Mini Tractor Play Area Pony & Camel Rides • Kiddie Rides • Gem Mining Sluice Homemade Apple Cider & Pumpkin Donuts Homemade Pies & Fudge

REVOLUTIONARY WAR REENNACTMENT. Wheaton. See

Sept. 10.

SCANDINAVIAN DAY FESTIVAL.

Celebrate the cultures of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. There will be morning church services and entertainment throughout the day, including a performance by ABBA Salute. Plus, cultural displays and Scandinavian food and vendors. $10, free kids under 12. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Vasa Park, Route 31, South Elgin. (847) 6956720, scandinaviandayil.com.

MATINEE PERFORMANCE.

Wadsworth. See Sept. 4.

16678 W. Aptakisic Rd. Prairie View/Lincolnshire, IL 60069 847-634-3291 • www.DidierFarms.com

12 | MONDAY BUMP CLUB & BEYOND TODDLER TALK - THE ABCS AND

123S OF PRESCHOOLS: YOUR OPTIONS AND WHERE TO BEGIN.

Laura Gradman, Chicago Preschool Pro, answers the question, “Where do I get started?” as parents start to uncover the preschool/school process in Chicago. She will go over options, where to look, what to look for, when to start and what to expect. Tickets include admission to BCBest in Childcare on Sept. 17. $25. 7-8 p.m.

Little Beans Cafe, 1809 W. Webster, Chicago. bumpclubandbeyond.com.

MOON MONDAYS. The Buzz Aldrin

Education Cart, a tech-equipped mobile exhibit, is available for exploration. 2-3 p.m. Swedish American Museum & Brunk Children’s Museum of Immigration, 5211 N. Clark St., Chicago. (773) 728-8111, swedish americanmuseum.org.

14 | WEDNESDAY INCHWORMS PARENT-CHILD PROGRAM. Wheaton. See Sept. 7.

Today’s theme is “Let’s Take a Hike.”

15 | THURSDAY IN SEARCH OF BATS. Investigate

the myths and facts about bats.

Families roast marshmallows around a campfire while learning about bats, then go on a hike to find these mosquito-eating machines, using bat detectors to “listen” for them as they search for food. $8. 7-8:30 p.m.

Pilcher Park Nature Center, 2501 Highland Park Drive, Joliet. (815) 741-7277, jolietpark.org.

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Join the Girls on the Run community!

At Girls on the Run, we and prepare 3rd-8th grade forinvolved a lifetimeand of Weeducate have various opportunities for yougirls to get self-respect and healthy living.

Our after-school program combinestheinteractive make a positive impact. Whether it’s bringing program lessons and activities with training a celebratory 5k, where thousands of young to your girl’sfor school, volunteering to coach, or supporting girls experience the power of “I Can.” This year, our goal is to serve 12,500 girls our annual fundraisers, YOU can ensure a brighter future throughout 8 countiesfor in the next Greater Chicagoland area. Help us make it happen! generation of women.

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ChicagoParent.com September 2016 65

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CALENDAR 16 | FRIDAY MIDNIGHT CIRCUS IN THE PARKS. Chicago. See Sept. 3. Today’s

time is 7 p.m. and location is Wicker Park, 1425 N. Damen Ave. REPRISE. An old man returns a violin

Child’s Develop r u o me tY nt! s o o Roge oge ers rs Pa arrk Ha Harv rv ves e t B Ro Ce ele ebr brat atio at io on Seee Se Se S pt pt.. 24

focused on the park’s biggest, tallest and coolest trees. After the walk, relax around the campfire. Families are welcome to bring s’more fixin’s. $5 parking. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

SYD ROCKS LIVE. Includes music

BCB and more than 50 preschools, day care facilities, nanny placement agencies and more to get a look at what they have to offer. $10. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. iO Chicago Theater, 1501 N. Kingsbury St. bumpclubandbeyond.com.

from five local high school bands, Syd Rocks necklace making, beach yoga and food trucks. Proceeds benefit Syd Rocks to fund medical research for Langerhan’s Cell

problem-solving, self-regulation and social skills

IMPROVE

speech, language & information processing

Jewish Child & Family Services is a partner with the Jewish United Fund in serving our community. 9.2016

17 | SATURDAY CHICAGO BCBEST IN CHILDCARE, PRESCHOOL AND BEYOND. Join

is part of your favorite social networks

Integrated Pediatric Interventions

ENHANCE

FAMILY NIGHT: TREE HIKE AND CAMPFIRE. Take a nature hike

that Ms. Harriet Vittum lent it to him 80 years earlier, with the promise that he bring it back to Northwestern Settlement when he was done. With original music and lyrics inspired by Chicago’s cultural traditions, “Reprise” follows an immigrant to discover what he did with the instrument all those years, how he knew he was finished and what it meant to keep his promise. $12-$17. 7 p.m. Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St., Chicago. (773) 342-4141, vittumtheater.org.

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Find us on Facebook Join the Twitter party!

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66 September 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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CALENDAR MIDNIGHT CIRCUS IN THE PARKS. See Sept. 3. Today’s times

are 2 and 5 p.m. and location is Wicker Park, 1425 N. Damen Ave. REPRISE. See Sept. 16. Today’s

times are 4 and 7:30 p.m.

wagon rides, the annual bean bag tournament, pony rides, games, art and craft vendors, a pumpkin patch and food from local eateries. Plus, a free showing of The LEGO Movie.

11 a.m.-10 p.m.. Martin Avenue from Hickory to Ridge Road, Homewood. homesweethomewood.com.

BRI-KO. Filled with audience

participation, incredible costumes and mind-blowing props and visuals, Bri-Ko is appealing and fun for the whole family. 2 p.m. $12, $6 kids 12 and under. Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave. (773) 327-5252, stage773.com.

SUBURBS ROCK & MINERAL IDENTIFICATION. Geologist Sara

Johnson presents an introduction to rocks and minerals for families with kids 8 and up. Hands on identification procedures include observation skills and hardness tests. All materials are provided. Reservations required. $5, $3 members. 10:30 a.m. Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, 220 Cottage Hill Ave. (in Wilder Park), Elmhurst.

(630) 833-1616, lizzadromuseum.org.

MONARCH FESTIVAL.

Participants learn how to assist in the preservation of the Monarch butterfly species. Activities include butterfly arts and crafts for kids, an interactive puppet theater, face painting, music and more. Plus, live butterfly tagging, a bug zoo, caterpillar aquarium and a movie. 2-5 p.m. Oak Lawn Park District, 9400 S. Kenton Ave., Oak Lawn. (708) 857-2222, olparks.com.

Shades of Autumn

FALL FESTIVAL AT

Stade’s Farm & Market

8 WEEKS OF FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT Open Weekends 10 am-6pm • Sept 10th-Oct 30th Also Open Columbus Day & Fridays in October FEATURED WEEKENDS Sept. 10 & 11: 12th Annual Tractors for Charity Sept. 17 & 18: 12th Annual Car & Truck Show Sept. 24 & 25: Craft Show

What a great way to spend quality time with friends and family!

Theme Park Featuring 30+ Attractions ($15) Ages 3 - 64* Pick Your Own Pumpkins Fresh Farm Produce Lunch & Bakery Items For Purchase *Kids 2 and under are free Ages 65+ ($10)

FAMILY TWILIGHT ADVENTURES.

Lisle. See Sept. 9.

(815) 675-6396

18 | SUNDAY CHICAGO MIDNIGHT CIRCUS IN THE PARKS. See Sept. 3. Today’s times

CP/16

Expires Oct. 30, 2016

Stade’s Farm, 3709 Miller Rd, McHenry, IL Visit us at: www.stadefarm.com

are 2 and 5 p.m. and location is Wicker Park, 1425 N. Damen Ave.

ROCKIN’ JEWELRY FOR KIDS.

Kids 8-16 make their own gemstone jewelry to keep. Choose two different types of jewelry to make with stones from the Museum Shop and learn how to work with jeweler’s tool. $10. 1:30 p.m. Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, 220 Cottage Hill Ave. (in Wilder Park), Elmhurst. (630) 833-1616, lizzadromuseum.org.

HARVEST WEEKEND.

Celebrate the harvest season through displays, activities and demonstrations. Families can enjoy hands-on activities designed especially for children, such as sniff and guess, and the creation of pumpkin prints to take home. $30 parking. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

SUBURBS HARVEST WEEKEND. Glencoe. See

Sept. 17.

MALOTT JAPANESE GARDEN FAMILY SUNDAY. Glencoe. See Sept.

4. Today’s project is gyotaku (fish prints). $30 parking. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

PIONEER DAY. Features reenactments, historical demonstrations, old-fashioned games and crafts, museum tours and a petting zoo. $10 to create a life-sized scarecrow with the Garden Club. 1-5 p.m. Elk Grove Historical Museum, 399 Biesterfield Road, Elk Grove Village. (847) 4393994, elkgroveparks.org.

The Little Gym off-ers a wide variety of classes that help children ages 4 months through 12 years reach their greatest potential.

FAMILY TWILIGHT ADVENTURES.

Lisle. See Sept. 9.

MONARCH BUTTERFLY FESTIVAL. Attractions include a

HOMEWOOD FALL FEST AND CHILI COOK-OFF. Features

butterfly tent, an arts and crafts fair, hayrides, face painting, scarecrow making, canoe and kayak rentals, live

live entertainment, horse-drawn

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

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S’more fun, please!

Y

ou might think of s’mores as a purely summertime food—those gooey marshmallows! that melty chocolate!—but they’re starting to ease into fall as well. Good thing, because we can never get enough.

Check out these five events that promise a little s’more satisfaction this September.

Ever wanted to hang out at Chicago Botanic Garden after the sun goes down? You can with Nature Nights, which include a short tram ride and a planting project, followed by s’mores around a campfire. This month’s theme is Harvest Hootenanny, which means a raucous good time celebrating lebrating nature’s nature s bounty. $26 kids. 5-7:30 30 p.m. Sept. 3.

Chicago Botanic Garden, en, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

What good is a campfire if it doesn’t include some spooky stories? At Campfire Nights, families can enjoy games, mes, crafts and nature hikes, es, plus kid-friendly camppfire stories. Naturally,, marshmallows are available ailable for roasting (BYO Hershey’s rshey’s bars

and graham crackers for the true s’mores experience). $7. 7-8:30 p.m.

Sept. 6. Pilcher Park Nature Center, 2501 Highland Park Drive, Joliet. (815) 741-7277, jolietpark.org.

This is one fall fest that gets the year-round appeal of a nice roasted marshmallow. Goodenow Grove Fall Fest features hayrides, pumpkin painting, tree climbing, slacklining and tugo’-war, all of which will work up your appetite for the campfire with ss’mores mores and live music. Free. Noon-4 p.m. Sept.

10. Plum Creek Nature Center, 27064

S. Dutton Road, Beecher. (708) 9462216, reconnectwithnature.org.

Creativity doesn’t just belong in the classroom—it can also be right at home around the campfire. The Night Hike & S’More-gasbord lets kids discover nocturnal creatures on a nighttime hike, and then craft their own s’more-ish concoction (or just try one of the provided recipes). $7.

7-9 p.m. Sept. 10. Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center, 3609 Spring Na Road, Oak Brook. (630) 850-8110, Ro dupageforest.org. du S’mores go a little urban at the Chicago Park District’s Family Camping Ch events. Camping novices and pros take eve a nature hike, go fishing and learn n camping basics before bedding down in cam tents. ten Hotdogs and marshmallows are provided for the campfire. $50 family pro (up to six members). 2 p.m. Sept. 10-10 a.m. a.m Sept. 11. Northerly Island, 1400 S. Linn Lin White Drive, Chicago. (312) 7452910, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

29 Elizabeth Diffin

ChicagoParent.com CommunityCalendarEducationBabiesWebExtrasFamilyMuseums PartyPlanningSpecialNeeds TravelWeekendScoopCPrEwards ...and much more! Visit us today.

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CALENDAR animals, children’s farm, children’s games and crafts and food vendors. $6, free kids 3 and under. 11 a.m.4:30 p.m. Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens, 7402 Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights.

(708) 361-1873, lakekatherine.org.

CANTIGNY CAR SHOW.

Nearly 100 awards are presented to the 400-plus vehicles on display. The First Division Museum’s historic fleet of military vehicles will be exhibited.

Live entertainment by Joe Kalish and DJ music by Carousel Sound, plus food and drink concessions available. $10 parking. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.

(630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

Ellilim E im Dut u ch F es esttiival S e Se Se Sept pt. 244

21 | WEDNESDAY INCHWORMS PARENT-CHILD PROGRAM. Wheaton. See Sept. 7.

Today’s theme is “Cookin’ Up Some Campin’ Fun.” NATURE SLEUTHS. Sycamore. See

Sept. 7.

24 | SATURDAY CHICAGO

and learn about the amazing things they do. Representatives from local science and technology organizations set up hands-on demonstrations and activities, such as building a bridge out of paper, learning how concrete is made, or seeing light refracting through prisms. Noon-4 p.m. Des Plaines Public Library, 1501 Ellinwood St., Des Plaines. (847) 827-5551, dppl.org.

pannekoeke (pancake) breakfast, and then the Dutch Village shops open, or sit and enjoy the all-day entertainment. Kids enjoy the petting zoo, magic show, Kids carnival, and other entertainment—and someone might catch a glimpse of Sinterklaas (Dutch Santa Claus). 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Elim Christian Services, 13020 S. Central Ave., Palos Heights. (708) 389-0555, elimcs.org.

Center and see a clown create balloon art. Plus, activities such as children’s games, pony rides, petting zoo, pumpkin train, pumpkin bowling, wagon rides and amusement rides. Some activities cost extra. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

West Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake. downtowncl.org.

25 | SUNDAY CHICAGO

MIDNIGHT CIRCUS IN THE PARKS. See Sept. 3. Today’s times

are 2 and 5 p.m. and location is Oriole Park, 5430 N. Olcott Ave. ROGERS PARK HARVEST CELEBRATION. Features hayrides,

pumpkins, treats and entertainment.

1-4 p.m. Willye B. White Park, 1610 W. Howard St. hellohoward.org.

MUSEUM DAY LIVE!

Smithsonian Magazine sponsors a free day for museums all over the country, and a number of Chicago area museums are participating, including the DuSable Museum of African American History, Smart Museum of Art and Illinois Holocaust & Education Center. Get tickets on the website. smithsonianmag.com.

SUBURBS FAMILY SCIENCE EXPO. Kids talk to real engineers and scientists

FLYING FOX ANIMAL SHOW.

Meet unique creatures from other lands, and some from right around here. Learn interesting animals facts about what these animals eat, their habitats and where they live. 2-3 p.m.

Morton Grove Public Library, 6140 Lincoln Ave., Morton Grove. (847) 929-5102, webrary.org.

ROALD DAHL SPLENDIFEROUS SHOWDOWN. A fun, interactive

theater performance celebrating the legendary author’s 100th birthday and release of the new Penguin book series. Live, interactive trivia with the audience performed by wonderful and wacky characters celebrate this iconic author’s stories and themes. $12 adult/child pair. 10-11 a.m.

Gorton Community Center, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest. (847) 2959075, gortoncenter.org.

ELIM DUTCH FESTIVAL.

The day begins with a home-cooked

FALL FAMILY CAMP OUT. Gather

at one of the densest wilderness areas in Cook County for a day of yoga, paddling, fishing and astronomy. The day ends with music, food and drink. Bring a tent and sleeping bags. $38, $32 resident; $15, $12 resident kids. Camp Bullfrog Lake, 9600 Wolf Road, Willow Springs.

(708) 671-3760, palospark.org.

GEODE FIND. Kids 6 and up learn more about the theories on how geodes form and where they are found. $5. 2 p.m. Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, 220 Cottage Hill Ave. (in Wilder Park), Elmhurst. (630) 833-1616, lizzadromuseum.org.

JOHNNY APPLESEED FESTIVAL. Meet Johnny Appleseed

as he strolls the streets. Plus, watch demonstrations of an antique apple cider press and apple peelers, enjoy music, dance, gymnastics, martial arts and storytelling in front of the Raue

MIDNIGHT CIRCUS IN THE PARKS. See Sept. 3. Today’s times

are 2 and 5 p.m. and location is Oriole Park, 5430 N. Olcott Ave.

SUBURBS FALL FUN FEST. Features games, activities and other fun things.

This year’s theme is literacy. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn, 5100 Museum Drive, Oak Lawn.

(708) 423-6709, cmoaklawn.org.

BARKAPALOOZA. Features a Dog

Walkathon, Pet Expo and blessing of animals at 10 a.m., plus an agility demonstration and more than 25 vendors. Kids’ activities include clowns, face painting, balloon sculptures and a Kids and Kindness Zone. Food for humans and dogs available. $20 registration, free kids 12 and under.

10 a.m.-2 p.m. Lisle Community Park, 1825 Short St., Lisle. wshs-dg.org.

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A night out in support of kids with disabilities featuring….

Ride

FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY JUNE 3 - SEPTEMBER 18

FREE TROLLEY SERVICE

Saturday evening November 12

Looking for an adventure close to home this summer? Take a free ride on the Explore Elmhurst Express trolley running weekends through September 18!

Hop off the trolley to explore more and enter to win weekly prizes through a citywide sweepstakes!

For details, visit ExploreElmhurst.com.

EXPLORE RIDE

SHOP

EAT

North Shore Center for the Performing Arts keshet.org 847-205-1234

ExploreElmhurst.com

2016 SOUTH SIDE PRESCHOOL AN D ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FAIR Saturd

NPN: C parentos nnecting public with schools,& private and re support, sources .

ay, September 10, 10am–1pm Hyde Park Neighborhood Club 5480 S. Kenwood Ave. Free and Open to the Public

NPNPARENTS.ORG/SCHOOL-FAIRS 70 September 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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ONGOING EVENTS

Ho H om me er H Ha arv ve es st Days Da D ays ys See th Se thhis iiss page agge

FESTS CHICAGO JAZZ FESTIVAL.

Showcases Chicago’s jazz talent with live musical performances in the Chicago Cultural Center and Millennium Park. Check website for schedule. Sept. 1-4. Grant Park, Chicago. (312) 744-3315, chicago jazzfestival.us.

NAPERVILLE LAST FLING. Enjoy

entertainment, carnival, unique contests and a Family Fun Land at Naper Settlement with pony rides, petting zoo, Bounce Town, family stage, crafts, food and beverages, and a family-focused business expo. Check website for schedule and cost. Sept.

2-5. Naperville Central High School, 440 W. Aurora Ave., Naperville. (630) 961-4143, lastfling.org.

TASTE OF POLONIA. Features four

stages of music, Polish cuisine, arts and crafts, carnival and a Kids World with activities and entertainment. $10, free kids 12 and under. Check website for schedule. Sept. 2-5.

Copernicus Center, 5216 W. Lawrence Ave., Chicago. (773) 777-8898, topchicago.org.

AFRICAN FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS. Highlights African culture

with dancing, music, art and entertainment. Check website for cost and schedule. Sept.

2-5. Washington Park, 51st and Cottage Grove, Chicago.

(773) 955-2787, aihusa.org/ african-fesitval-of-the-arts.

FRANKFORT FALL FESTIVAL.

Features artisans, live entertainment,

carnival and a parade on Sunday at 1 p.m. Check website for schedule. Sept.

3-5. Kansas Street, Frankfort. (815) 469-3356, frankfortfallfestival.info.

FOX VALLEY FOLK FESTIVAL. Features eight stage areas

with performances of folk music and storytelling, as well as workshops and kids’ activities. Plus, a barn dance and ghost stories on Sunday night.

11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sept. 4-5. Island Park, routes 25 and 38, Geneva. (630) 8973655, foxvalleyfolk.com.

FESTIVAL DE LA VILLITA.

Community event celebrates Mexico’s independence. Highlights include food, music, carnival rides and kids’ entertainment. On Sunday, the festival is the end location of the 26th Street Parade, one of the largest

celebrations of Hispanic culture in the Midwest. Carnival rides cost extra.

6-11 p.m. Sept. 9; 2-11 p.m. Sept.

10-11. Plaza Garibaldi, 2700 W. 26th St. (just east of California), Chicago.

(773) 868-3010, chicagoevents.com.

FESTIVAL OF THE VINE.

Features food, flower markets, kids’ activities, arts and crafts show, live music and entertainment. Cost for food and wine. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sept.

9-10; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 11. Route 38 and North Fourth Street, Geneva.

(630) 232-6060, genevachamber. com/festival_of_vine.php.

HOMER HARVEST DAYS.

History comes alive with demonstrations of farm activities and old-time handmade items, old-fashioned entertainment, live animal exhibits,

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ONGOING EVENTS

Flamenco Flamenco Children Dance Classes for

Where ?

Ensemble Español Center for Spanish Dance & Music Building J Dance Studio Northeastern Illinois University 5500 N. St. Louis Avenue Chicago, IL 60625 773.442.5916 info@ensembleespanol.org

When?

th

Ages 4-6 Ages 7-12 Beginners Ages 7-12 Intermediate

Seee pa paggee 75

pony rides, antique tractors, hayrides, food, children’s activities, vendors, live music and other amusements from a simpler era. 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sept. 10; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 11.

Trantina Farm, 15800 W. 151st.

St., Homer Glen. (708) 301-0632, homerharvestdays.com.

DOWNTOWN DOWNERS GROVE ART FESTIVAL. Features

Session I: Sept. 6 through Oct. 18 Session II: Oct. 25th through Dec. 6th th

Okto Ok tob be erffe es stt-Na t-Na ap pe er S Se ett ttle eme ment nt

6:00 pm – 6:45 pm 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Class rates: $75 Adult classes also available

In residence at Northeastern Illinois University

spanish dance theater

the work of 50 juried artists, plus a kids’ art project. Art available for sale. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 10-11.

Main Street and Burlington Avenue, Downers Grove. (847) 926-4300, downersgroveartfestival.com.

LAKEVIEW EAST FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS. Showcases more

than 150 juried artists, two live music tents, a beer and wine garden, a landscape garden oasis, interactive children’s area, a mosaic muralmaking booth, live glass blowing and more. Plus, tea with Alice and the Mad Hatter at noon, 1, 2 and 3 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday for kids 12 and under. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sept. 10-11.

Broadway, from Belmont Avenue to

Roscoe Street, Chicago. lakevieweast festivalofthearts.com.

TRACTORS FOR CHARITY.

Features antique tractors, trucks and construction equipment. Includes activities for families, such as a petting zoo, food vendors, craft vendors, hayrides and toy vendors. Check website for schedule. Sept. 10-11.

Stade’s Farm and Market, 3709 Miller Road, McHenry. (815) 979-9212, stadesfarmandmarket.com.

OAKTOBERFEST. Includes a music lineup featuring local and national artists, a microbrew, kids root beer garden and ethnic food offerings. Food costs extra. 4-10 p.m. Sept. 16; noon-10 p.m. Sept. 17.

Between Marion Street and Forest Boulevard, Oak Park. (708) 3834145, oaktoberfest.net.

BERWYN OKTOBERFEST.

Includes an international food court, live bands, carnival and amusements, family pavilion, crafters, vendors and beer garden. 6-11 p.m. Sept.

16; noon-11 p.m. Sept. 17. Berwyn’s

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ONGOING EVENTS Depot District, Windsor and Stanley avenues, Berwyn. (708) 788-8100, berwynoktoberfest.com.

OKTOBERFEST. Features German food and beverages, authentic music and activities for all. Family activities on Saturday afternoon include music, art and other activities. 4 p.m.-midnight Sept. 16; noonmidnight Sept. 17; noon-6 p.m. Sept.

18. Smith and Slade streets, Palatine. palatinerotary.com.

OKTOBERFEST CHICAGO AT ST. ALPHONSUS. Features food,

music and entertainment on three stages, arts and crafts, and KinderFest with face paintings, storytelling, inflatables, dance parties and art activities on Saturday and Sunday. $5. 5-10 p.m. Sept. 23; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sept. 24; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sept.

25. St. Alphonsus Church, Southport and Lincoln avenues, Chicago. (773) 868-3010, chicagoevents.com.

LONG GROVE APPLE FEST. Get

showcase and sell creative work.

Plus, enjoy local food, live music and interactive features including a graffiti wall, Art Bingo and photo booth. $10. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sept. 17; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sept. 18. Washington Boulevard from Halsted to Aberdeen, Chicago. starevents.com/festivals/ west-loop-art-fair.

PARK FOREST ART FAIR.

Features fine art, kids’ art activity, food and music. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept.

17-18. 367 Artist Walk, Park Forest.

(708) 748-3377, tallgrassarts.org.

WEST END ART FESTIVAL.

Features an eclectic blend of artists from throughout the U.S., art activities, children’s events and musical entertainment. Check website for cost and schedule. Sept. 17-18. Stone Avenue Station, Burlington Avenue at Brainard, La Grange. lgba.com.

HARVEST & HARMONY FEST.

Features nationally known musical acts. Saturday morning kicks off with a children’s performer. Kids’ activities and crafts, food and other vendors, wine, craft beer and mule flights, drum circles and percussion gatherings round out the event. 4-9 p.m.

Sept. 23; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sept. 24. Jens Jensen Park, 486 Roger Williams Ave., Highland Park. cityhpil.com.

BBQ ON THE HILL.

Entertainment includes magic, bingo, games, music and family-friendly competitions. 5-10 p.m. Sept. 23; noon-10 p.m. Sept. 24. Blue Island Park District, 12804 S. Highland Ave., Blue Island. (708) 385-3304, blueislandparks.org.

your apple fix on treats like brown bag apple pies, apple cider doughnuts and more. Plus, participate in free family activities, including apple-themed games like the apple pie eating contests. $5, free kids 12 and under; free 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday. 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Sept. 23; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Sept. 24; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sept. 25. (847) 634-0888, longgroveonline.com.

EDGEWATER ARTS FESTIVAL.

Features more than 100 artists, three stages of music, and food from local restaurants. Kid-friendly activities include the Children’s Activity Corner with face painting, finger painting, sidewalk chalk drawing, interactive puppet shows, mask-making workshops, magic and live storytelling. The Children’s Music Talent Showcase features performances by local elementary children. Plus, a Pet Parade and Costume Contest. $5 suggested donation. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sept. 24-25. Granville Avenue between Broadway and Kenmore, Chicago. edgewater artists.com/ edgewater-fall-art-fair.

SEPT. 7 – 11 UNITED CENTER FREE PARKING

in all official arena parking lots with ticket purchase.

DisneyOnIce.com ticketmaster.com • 800-745-3000

356543

WEST LOOP ART FEST. Artists

HYDE PARK JAZZ FESTIVAL.

Features the finest in local, national and international jazz artists, diverse performance venues, outdoor dance floor, food/beverage vendors, artisan vendors and activities for kids. $5 donation. 1 p.m-midnight Sept.

24; 1-8 p.m. Sept. 25. Hyde Park neighborhood and Midway Plaisance, Chicago. (773) 324-8614, hydepark jazzfestival.org.

Going Places FREE | SUMMER 2016

Water, water

everywhere

PASSPORT

TO PLAY

11

WAYS TO CHILL OUT

FARM HERITAGE FESTIVAL.

Features tractors, cars, engines and other farm machinery. Daily highlights include a tractor parade,

GP Cover Summer 2016.indd 1

5/3/16 12:30 PM

The Ultimate Guide to Family Fun!

Fall edition coming soon!

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

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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

ITS TY R A P E! M I T Party Packages Include:

Movie  Kids’ Pack  Party Room

Visit www.classiccinemas.com click “Plan an Event/Party”

plan your party around these coming movies!

9-9: The Wild Life • 9-23: Storks 10-7: Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life 11-4: Trolls

74 September 2016 ChicagoParent.com

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ONGOING EVENTS sheep herding demonstrations, live music, scarecrow making, wagon and barrel train rides, and a petting zoo. $10, $5 kids 4-17 and seniors, free kids 3 and under. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept.

24-25. Lakewood Forest Preserve, Route 176, west of Fairfield Road, Wauconda. (847) 968-3400, lcfpd. org/farmheritage.

HIGHWOOD STARVING ARTISTS FESTIVAL. Art festival also

features live music, food and kids’ art activities. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 24-25.

Sheridan and Highwood Avenue, Highwood. (847) 926-4300, highwoodstarvingartistsfestival.com.

WORLD WAR II DAYS. Includes

realistic battles with tanks, artillery, armored vehicles and pyrotechnic displays. Battle shows held at 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Saturday, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday. Plus, displays and encampments. Check website for cost. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 24; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 25. Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road,

ORY

Rockford. (815) 397-9112, midway village.com.

PASSPORT EUROPE FESTIVAL.

Get immersed in the cultures of Europe with culinary delights, musical performances, dancing demonstrations and more. Explore the arboretum’s collections of trees and plants native to Europe. Free with admission. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept.

24-25. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 9680074, mortonarb.org.

Butttterrfl But Bu fliie ies & Bloo ies Bloo Bl ooms ms S e pa Se page ge 76

OKTOBERFEST-NAPER SETTLEMENT. Hear live music

and enjoy authentic German cuisine during a salute to one of the community’s ethnic heritages.

Family-friendly activities 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. Sept. 30; noon-10 p.m. Oct. 1. 523 S. Webster St., Naperville. (630) 420-6010, napersettlement.org.

OTHER EVENTS 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. No class Sept. 5. $17, $10 members. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Mondays.

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

ACORN EXPRESS ADVENTURES.

Families with kids 2 and up take an open-air tram ride through the arboretum. Plus, make a craft and explore new topics each week. $5, $4

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY Pediatric dentistry

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Outstanding Pediatric Dental Care –

We take the fear out of dentistry for your child.

• Shots and drilling are no longer necessary • Computer x-rays reduce your child’s exposure to radiation • We use smaller chairs and instruments • We welcome patients with special needs • Pleasant, comfortable surroundings

pediatric dentistry

It’s at the heart of what we do.

Nominated as one of CHICAGO’S FAVORITE

Kids

Doc

John P. Kenney, DDS, MS

Diplomate American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

Children's Dentistry in Park Ridge

As an award-winning practice, we pride ourselves on providing the finest comprehensive dental care for the children in our practice so they leave with a healthy smile and positive attitude toward dental care as they approach adulthood.

101 S. Washington St., Suite 114 Park Ridge, IL 60068

847-698-2088

24-Hour Answering Service We are an Authorized Under Armour Performance Mouthwear Provider - with Armourbite® Technology

Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

16345 S. Harlem • Tinley Park

708-633-8700 • www.kidsdds.net

Infants, Children, Teens & Special Needs Children

www.care4kidsteeth.com

1125 S. Harlem Ave., Forest Park (708) 386-5437 • (708) FUN-KIDS www.kidsdentistforestpark.com ChicagoParent.com September 2016 75

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ONGOING EVENTS member, plus admission. 11-11:45 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

PARENT AND TODDLER YOGA.

Through Sept. 15. Toddlers practice animal yoga poses and engage in activities like guided nature exploration, reading storybooks and more. $20.

10-11 a.m. Thursdays. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago.

(312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

ANIMAL TALES. Interactive sensory

experiences accompany the naturebased story for kids under 2. Program consists of 10 minutes of story and activities, and 10 minutes of social time for adults. Free with museum admission. 10:15 a.m. Thursdays.

Midwest Museum of Natural History, 425 W. State St., Sycamore. (815) 895-9777, mmnh.org.

BRISTOL RENAISSANCE FAIRE.

Through Sept. 5. More than 1,200 performers, artisans and merchants take

visitors on a trip through Elizabethan England. Kids Kingdom is an enclosed play area filled with oversized sand boxes, a pirate ship, interactive games and crafts. $24.95, $11.50 kids, free kids 4 and under. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. weekends. Bristol Renaissance Faire, west of I-94, Kenosha, Wis. (847) 3957773, renfair.com/bristol.

2nd St., Rockford. (815) 987-8858, nicholasconservatory.com.

TOYS: THE INSIDE STORY.

Through Sept. 4. Kids explore the linkages, cams, pulleys and circuits that make their playthings tick, spin, buzz and jump. Free with museum admission. Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org.

meadow and cave. Free with museum admission. Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org.

ZOOM ROOM. Send toy cars hurtling

BUTTERFLIES & BLOOMS.

through race jumps, long runs, loops, dips and super spirals within a colossal, multilevel race course. Free with museum admission. Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 527-1000, chicagochildrensmuseum.org.

Through Sept. 5. Visitors can immerse themselves with hundreds of live tropical butterfly species from around the world. $6, $5 seniors, $4 kids 3-12. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

STINGRAY TOUCH. Shedd staff members guide guests through the 15-minute touch experience. $5 addon. John G. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 939-2438, sheddaquarium.org.

WINGS OF WONDER: THE LORIKEET EXHIBIT. Opens Sept.

ANIMAL SECRETS. Opens Sept.

BRICK BY BRICK. Features a col-

3. Visitors will be “face to beak” with the small- to medium-sized parrots known for their playful personalities, vibrant coloration and their ability to mimic words and sounds. Free with conservatory admission. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N.

28. Families learn where chipmunks sleep, how an eagle feeds its young and more, as they explore the hidden habitats of forest animals. Kids will discover nature from an animal’s point of view in naturalistic environments, including a stream, woodland,

lection of more than a dozen giant Lego-built structures of engineering marvels. Requires a separate, timed-entry ticket. Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 6841414, msichicago.org.

GOODNIGHT, FROGS. Read a version of “Goodnight, Frog,” and play a hide-and-seek game. Free with arboretum admission. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

EXHIBITS

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ONGOING EVENTS Chicago. (773) 334-4543, lilbuds theatre.org.

CHINA’S FIRST EMPEROR AND HIS TERRACOTTA WARRIORS.

Explore the life of the ruler who vanquished his rivals, unified China’s states, constructed the Great Wall, and standardized China’s currency.

Included with Discovery and AllAccess passes. The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago.

(312) 922-9410, fieldmuseum.org.

HOGWASH: AN IMPROVISED TALL TALE. Interactive kids’ show

where the kids help guide the story from scene to scene and song to song. For tickets, email shelby@ bughousetheater.com. Recommended for families with kids 2-12. $10 kids, free adults. 10:30 a.m. Saturdays.

Bughouse Theater, 1910 W. Irving Park, Chicago. hogwashkids.com.

DAVINCI MACHINES EXHIBITION.

The exhibition displays hand-crafted inventions built from Leonardo DaVinci’s 500-year-old designs. The main features include the “bicycle,” “spring powered car,” “hang glider” and the “air screw.” $18.95, $16.95 seniors, students and military, $14.95 kids 4-12, free kids under 4. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. Water Tower Place, 835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago. discoverdavinci.com.

PERFORMANCES THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: IT CAME FROM THE VOTING BOOTH.

A variety show of short sketches and

ORY

STORYTOWN. Kids are invited on stage to decorate the backdrop and start to bring the story to life.

Recommended for families with kids 3-10. $10. 10:30 a.m. Saturdays. Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago.

(773) 327-5252, stage773.com.

T at’s Th at’s ’s Wei eirrd d, Gr Gran andm dma dma a:: It Came Ca m fro rom tth rom he V Vo oti ting ting ng Boo ooth th See th Se this i pag age

songs adapted from stories written by kids. The line-up changes each week. $12, $6 kids under 12. 8 p.m.

Mondays. Barrel of Monkeys, The Neo-Futurarium Theater (2nd Floor), 5153 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago. (312) 409-1954, barrelofmonkeys.org.

SATURDAY MORNING FUNNIES. A sketch comedy show

for kids, inspired by kids and performed by kids. $10; $5 students and seniors. 10 a.m. Check website for dates. Li’l Buds Theatre Company, 5451 N. Broadway,

THEATRE HIKES. Experience Alfred Uhry’s Pulitzer Prize winning play, “Driving Miss Daisy.” $20, $10 member; $10 kids, $5 kid member.

1 p.m. weekends. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY Pediatric dentistry

Pediatric dentistry

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Children’s Oral Care Only P.C. Caroline Scholtz, D.D.S., M.S. Gail Czarnecki, D.D.S. Pediatric & Laser Dentistry Dentistry for Special Needs

Christopher J. Morin, DDS 811 W. Wellington, Chicago, IL 60657

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cocodds@comcast.net www.carolinescholtzdds.com ChicagoParent.com September 2016 77

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What’s hoppening?

I

f you haven’t been to Morton Arboretum in a while, it’s time to hop to it. Because while you’ve been goofing off (or, you know, living your life), the arboretum has had a frog infestation.

These frogs aren’t of the slimy green variety. Ribbit! The Exhibit features 23 people-sized frogs made out of sheets of copper—and doing all kinds of things that humans love to do.

The frogs are all situated on two paved, accessible loops that are ideal for families (they’re even strollerfriendly!). And the entire exhibit is designed with multiple generations in mind thanks to Ribbit! stickers the little ones love, a scavenger hunt for elementary-aged kids, and an app for the tweens and teens who are glued to their smartphones.

Of course, while you’re out hunting for frogs, you’ll also be introduced to some fun facts about trees (you are at the arboretum,

after all), explore some parts of Morton’s 1,700 acres that you don’t typically visit, or keep an eye out for the living, breathing, hopping frogs who call the arboretum home.

“We really hope people will take away the idea that everything’s connected,” says Cindy Crosby, the interpretation program coordinator. “We have frogs, trees, and once you start paying attention, you’ll start seeing other amazing inhabitants of the material world. It’s an exercise in reacquainting ourselves in what’s out here.”

Crosby also shared some of the favorite frogs to look for when you stop by Ribbit! The Exhibit. u For your tiny dancers, Sasha the Ballerina is a popular pick. At 4 feet tall, she’s the smallest frog, and is modeled after a Degas sculpture. u Axel Grimm is a familiar face, inspired by the fairytale frog prince. He also guards The Sterling Morton Library, where kids can read books related to the exhibit and fold origami in the style of the frog sculptures. u For caffeine- and Instagram-addicted

moms and dads, there’s Emerson, a coffeedrinking frog practically begging to be in a selfie. If you share pics on social media, use #RibbitTMA. “[The frogs] really complement our mission and the aesthetic of the arboretum,” Crosby says. “There’s so much bad news in the world, and people are so stressed out. …

It’s just a respite from the chaos.”

Elizabeth Diffin

Ribbit! The Exhibit u Through Sept. 25

u Free with arboretum admission u Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle u mortonarb.org

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WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS

There’s no place like

Oz Fest

I

t’s time to dust off those ruby slippers and head straight to Tinley Park. It might not be Kansas, sas, but Wizard of Oz fans will feel right at home at The Midwest Wizard of Oz Festival.

The festival is in its second year at Odyssey Fun Farm, which transforms into the Dorothy Gale Farm area, complete with hayrides, a petting zoo, corn maze and cow train (BYO Toto). There will also be performances by The Spirit of Oz troupe, Auntie Em’s pie-eating contest, a chance to “melt” the Wicked Witch of the West in a dunk tank, and an honest-to-goodness Yellow Brick Road, custom-made for photo ops.

If you want to take your Halloween costumes for a test run, the fest is the perfect chance to debut your #flawless Dorothy, Glinda or Cowardly Lion. There will even be a costume contest for both kids and adults—perfect for that group costume you’ve always wanted to try out. (A troop of Winkies, anyone?)

When the rubber meets the yellow brick road, this is going to be one Oz-some fest. And we’re guessing you— and your munchkins—are going to want to be there.

Elizabeth Diffin

M Midwest Wizard of Oz Fest

Noon-5 p.m. Sept.

9; 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sept. 10-11

$9, free kids 1 and under u Odyssey Fun Farm, 19111 191 Oak Park Ave., Tinley Park Tinle midwestozfest.com m

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