Suburban Parent June 2015 by Townsquare Publications, LLC

Summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s here!

Look inside for our special water park edition I 4-7

Sailing away

Kids getting involved in popular pastime I 8

A product of NICHE Publications, a division of Daily Herald I WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2015

Edible explorations

s u b u r b a n pa r e n t

Smooth transition to veggie-boosted treats We’re a smoothie family. Since the boys were little I’ve used smoothies as a way to make sure they get their recommended number of fruits. My go-to smoothie contains orange juice, frozen bananas, canned pineapple and vanilla yogurt. Recently I’ve added protein-rich Greek yogurt to the mix. I’ve sneaked carrot juice into the blender on occasion without being discovered, but an attempt at kale smoothies met more resistance. The vibrant green puree sure looked lovely in the glass, but the boys couldn’t get past the color. It didn’t matter that it tasted pretty good, they just could see that it Deborah Pankey & Henry Gabriel wasn’t their normal morning beverage. Next time I’ll follow the advice of bloggerturned-cookbook author Deborah Harroun: “Colored cups are helpful if you have a child who is picky about the color of the smoothies. Green smoothies can be hidden away easily inside an opaque purple cup with a lid.” Harroun’s latest book, “Best 100 Smoothies for Kids” (Harvard Common Press, 2015), hasn’t left my kitchen counter since I brought it home. The recipes cover the meal spectrum from breakfast to bedtime and incorporate all manner of produce from acai to watermelon. Harroun passes along great tips like using chia seeds to pump up a smoothie’s omega 3s (especially important if your family doesn’t eat much fish), adding oats to give a smoothie staying power and sweetening with mild agave syrup and even dried dates. The pages are full of tempting quaffs including Coconana, Carrot Mango Orange and Kiwi Strawberry. One smoothie in particular jumped out at us for its rich purple hue. Pineapple Red Cabbage and Banana. Henry, understandably turned his nose up at it, leaning toward testing the citrusy Creamsicle. The next morning I added shredded red cabbage, pineapple juice and a couple frozen bananas to my Blendtec (Harroun recommends a high-powered blender especially when incorporating veggies) and poured the thick chilly liquid into a couple of cups. Not quite the intense purple saturation I expected, but it still looked pretty good. The result was tasty but didn’t have the texture we’re used to so I added a scoop of vanilla yogurt. In my mind, dairy (or dairy substitute) adds the “moo” to smoothies. Another thing we like about smoothies is that there’s never any waste. We pour any extra into plastic molds for frozen treats that refresh on a hot day. No added sugar, no artificial color and the bonus of a serving of fruits and veggies. Henry says: I like smoothies because you can throw anything

Suburban Parent A product of NICHE Publications, a division of Daily Herald 155 E. Algonquin Road Arlington Heights, IL 60005 (847) 427-4300

Chairman, CEO and Publisher Douglas K. Ray President and Chief Operating Officer Scott Stone

Courtesy of “Best 100 smoothies for Kids” By deBorah harroun, harvard Common Press

Shredded red cabbage blends with pineapple juice and frozen bananas into a smoothie that’s a vibrant purple hue and tasty to boot. into the blender and come up with a delicious drink. Pineapple, orange and mango are my favorite fruits for smoothies. Strawberries are good too. I like smoothies to be smooth — not too crunchy with ice. Smooth, just like the name says. I didn’t think I’d like the red cabbage smoothie but it looked like a fun color and tasted good. I liked it better once we added the yogurt. They were even better as frozen pops. Some of my friends ate them and didn’t even know they were healthy. • Deborah Pankey, former food editor at the Daily Herald, is the mother of two boys. Her youngest, Henry, is a sixth-grader and a picky eater who is finally beginning to explore new foods.

Pineapple, Red Cabbage and Banana Smoothie 2 2

cups pineapple juice 2 frozen ripe bananas cups shredded red cabbage Pour the pineapple juice into a high-powered blender. Add the cabbage. Slice the bananas, add them to the blender, and blend until smooth. Serves four.

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

“Best 100 Smoothies for Kids” by Deborah Harroun (2015 The Harvard Common Press)

Purple Power Pops

2½ 2

Courtesy of deBorah PanKey

Henry Gabriel, 12, and Josh Song, 11, cool off with an icy treat that’s packed with the health benefits of pineapple juice, bananas, red cabbage and Greek yogurt.

Volume 6, Issue 6 June 17, 2015

cups pineapple juice cups shredded red cabbage

2 ½

frozen bananas, sliced cup vanilla Greek yogurt

Pour the pineapple juice into a high-powered blender. Add the cabbage, bananas and yogurt and blend until smooth. Pour into frozen treat molds and freeze several hours until solid. Serves eight to 12 (depending on size of molds). Cook’s note: If you don’t want to wait for these to freeze, pour into cups and enjoy immediately.

Henry Gabriel, inspired by “Best 100 Smoothies for Kids” by Deborah Harroun (2015 The Harvard Common Press)

Assistant Vice President and Director of Strategic Marketing and Innovation M. Eileen Brown NICHE Editor Kay Long Graphic Designer Ana Hinkhouse Division Sales Manager, Entertainment & New Business Development Mike Evans Director of Advertising Pete Rosengren

We welcome and encourage feedback on Suburban Parent. Please submit comments and suggestions to suburbanparent@dailyherald.com.

health

Protect your baby’s skin this summer Brandpoint Content

Shield baby’s skin from the sun Melanoma, the most common form of skin cancer, accounts for about 3 percent of all childhood cancers, and just five sunburns in childhood raises lifetime melanoma risks by 80 percent, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. “Always apply a sunscreen specifically designed for use on infants whenever you take your baby outdoors, even on overcast days,” Hes says. “If you’re not sure what sunscreen to use, talk to your pediatrician. Keep in mind that you can only use sunscreen on infants six months and older. Until then you must keep your baby in the shade or provide your little one with a hat and UV-protected clothing.”

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Lake Park Golf Course & Marina

Your destination for family fun all summer!

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Parents should take special care of their babies’ skin in the summer.

Soft, smooth, fresh and flawless — it’s how parents envision their baby’s skin. Your little one may be born with perfect skin, but protecting that perfection requires work. “The skin acts as a protective barrier, and many environmental factors can affect a baby’s skin,” says Dr. Dyan Hes, medical director of Gramercy Pediatrics in New York City and a pediatrics expert who’s been featured in media ranging from CBS This Morning to The Wall Street Journal and TIME Magazine. “Allergens, UV exposure, heat and even the laundry detergent parents use to wash baby’s clothing can all irritate an infant’s skin.” The arrival of warm weather often comes with an increase in rashes and skin irritation for infants. Fortunately, parents can take steps to help protect

their baby’s skin from common irritants. Hes recommends parents focus on a few key areas:

FootGolf comes to Lake Park! The hottest game in the country right now is an exciting combination of soccer & golf. Bring your soccer ball or rent one of ours, and get kickin.’ Vintage attire optional! As a member of the Illinois FootGolf Association, we will host our first FootGolf Open on Saturday, August 22. Details and registration at footgolfillinois.com. Gooaal!

Golf Course • Marina Des Plaines Park District

1015 Howard Ave. • Des Plaines • DPParks.org

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

Lake Park 18-hole par-3 short course. We welcome beginners of all ages! This is a great course for young players, and a perfect place for any golfer to practice their all-important short game. Youth play rounds, with an adult, for just $7. There are lessons, leagues and special events, including tournaments, all season. Find everything on our website at DPParks.org, or call the clubhouse: 847-391-5730. • We proudly sponsor Sticks for Kids, and provide clubs free of charge. • Lake Park Junior Open, Friday, July 17. Under 11 and 11+ age groups. • Lake Park Open Championship, Friday, August 14. For all ages. • Save with 10-play passes and Lake Park Golf Course Memberships. • We do parties! Our staff will help put together an event to remember.

Family Picnics, Parties & Company Outings Lake Park is a popular spot for weekend get togethers, family reunions, and company parties large & small. Rent one of two large picnic shelters, or the wide open space on the south end and put up a tent. Find facility rental info on our website, DPParks.org, or call Mary Ann at 847-391-5700. Boats, Boats, Boats! Rent paddleboats, kayaks, and fishing boats. Enjoy the park from a beautiful new angle. • Family sailing lessons start June 16.

Water Park SPecial edition

recreation Blue HarBor resort and spa 725 Blue Harbor Drive on Lake Michigan Sheboygan, Wisconsin (866) 701-BLUE www.BlueHarborResort.com

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

s u b u r b a n pa r e n t

CourteSy oF Blue HArBor reSort

‘Sp

t i s c a d t e ’ a h l s a y r a t n n d u o P C h i h l ll s p la f or S

Let it soak in!

Phillips Park Family Aquatic Center OR Splash Country Water Park! Free admission applied to lowest-priced admission. Resident and non-resident rates vary. Special after-hour event admission not included.

For details, visit

foxvalleyparkdistrict.org

ips Par k!

Buy 2, get 1

FREE! daily admission

Expires Aug. 16, 2015. Valid for one use only. Not valid with any other offer.

Welcome to Blue Harbor Resort, the No. 1 Resort on Wisconsin’s Lake Michigan coast in scenic Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Located two hours north of Chicago, Blue Harbor has 180 all-suite hotel rooms and 64 villas. The resort’s recreation is diverse, whether it’s a rollicking visit to our yearround indoor water park and mini-golf course, a thrilling experience on our new indoor surf simulator, or a relaxing stroll on the lakeshore trails. Treat yourself to the expertise and personalized care available at our expanded Reflections Spa & Salon, one of the top spas in the state. It’s always a balmy 84 degrees inside Blue Harbor’s 54,000-square-foot entertainment area and water park, an ideal escape for both kids and parents. It’s large enough to afford adventurous young ones a touch of independence yet small enough for parents to feel kids are safe and supervised. New this year: Indoor Double Surf Simulator and the Riptide Surf Club, offering semiprivate Riptide surf lessons with early or afterhours access.

Fox Valley park district Phillips Park Family Aquatic Center 828 Montgomery Road Aurora (639) 851-8686 www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org Family-friendly aquatic center features a zero-depth leisure pool, two drop-off slides into a plunge pool, a twisting enclosed flume slide and two winding body flume slides. The kid-friendly area features spray guns, waterfall, small slide and a dumping cocount tree. Two sand volleyball courts and a sand play area round out the fun. Lap swimming at designated times.

Splash Country Water Park 195 S. Barnes Road Aurora (630) 906-7981 www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org Family-friendly aquatic center offers six-lane zerodepth pool with children’s play features, second largest lazy river in Illinois with 1,100 feet winding through dumping buckets, sprayers, jets and bubbling rapids and two flume slides, one open and one enclosed. Also features a kid-friendly area with spray guns, waterfall and interactive features for kids under 48 inches tall. Don’t forget the sand-play area and the two sand volleyball courts. Lap swimming at designated times.

recreation Des Plaines Park District

st. charles Park District

Mystic Waters 2025 Miner St. Des Plaines (847) 391-5740 www.DPParks.org

Otter Cove Aquatic Park 3615 Campton Hills Road James O. Breen Community Park St. Charles (630) 513-4377 ottercove.org Themed around a river otter and his friends, Otter Cove offers water fun for everyone! Featuring a 25-yard pool, zero-depth entry activity pool, a shallow pool just for toddlers, a splash park with water wheels, dumping buckets and spray cannons, a sand/water play area, and rides that twist, turn, and twirl through water that shoots, sprays, and spins. Exciting activities are sure to appeal to every water enthusiast, from the most energetic cannon baller to the most laid-back floater. Speed down the salamander slides. Enjoy an inner tube ride along turtle creek. Flitter around Dragonfly Den. Hop all over the Frog Bog. Exercise in the Crayfish Canal. These exciting water attractions and green open space offer thrills and relaxation for all ages.

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One of the most beautiful water parks in

northern Illinois, this is a family destination all summer long. Two 37-foot giant slides in Otter’s Run tower over the pool, with over 600 feet of awesome waterslide excitement. Brave the cliff dives & drop slides in Sea Lion Falls, then relax and float down a 550-foot lazy river in Crocodile Cove. Beluga Beach is designed for tots and non-swimmers, with sprays and sprinklers, a jungle gym, and sand play area.

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Mystic Waters is a favorite summertime destination for families throughout Chicagoland. It’s filled with splashtacular water-park activities for all ages. Adventurous? Experience 600 feet of awesome excitement on two giant slides that tower 37 feet over the pool in Otter’s Run. After braving those, the cliff dives and drop slides in Sea Lion Falls will look easy. Need to relax? Cruise down the Crocodile Cove lazy river, with 550 feet of inner-tube floating fun. Everyone enjoys the expansive Dolphin Bay leisure pool, with its fountains, jet sprays, and child-size dolphin slide. Beluga Beach is designed just for tots and non-swimmers, with lots of sprays and sprinklers, a jungle gym, and a sand play area. Hungry? Refresh and recharge at the Island Café with a delicious lunch. They have snacks, beverages, and ice-cream treats, too. Come for an hour or spend a fun day in the sun.

Water Park SPecial edition

The Island Café is where you’ll find snacks,

lunch, drinks and delicious ice cream treats. Mystic Waters is a delightful place to come for an hour, or spend the day. It’s close to home, and the resident rate is just $8/day. Save all summer with a family pool pass. and group outings of all sizes are just more fun at Mystic. Our party experts are ready to help you to create the perfect event.

Mystic Waters

550-foot lazy river at Crocodile Cove

Giant slides at Ot

ter’s Run

Family Aquatic Center 2025 Miner Street, Des Plaines 847-391-5740 • www.DPParks.org

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

We do parties! Birthdays, family reunions,

recreation

Water Park SPecial edition

Protect your baby’s skin this summer From Page 3 Parents can also shield babies from the sun with long sleeves, covered strollers and sun shields in vehicle windows.

s u b u r b a n pa r e n t

Be aware of laundry irritants “Infants can be exposed to skin irritants in their own homes,” Hes says. “In fact, laundry detergents are a common cause of contact dermatitis — red, itchy bumps that develop on a baby’s skin wherever it comes in contact with clothing.” Hes recommends expectant and new parents use a laundry detergent that’s hypoallergenic and specifically designed to be gentle on baby’s skin, such as Dreft. Trusted by parents and pediatricians for more than 80 years, Dreft has launched a line of products that match the stages of babyhood, including newborn and age 5 months and older. Parents of older children who still crave that new-baby scent for their laundry, can turn to Dreft Blissfuls — an in-wash scent booster (like dryer beads) that imparts that baby fresh scent to fabrics.

Help them handle the heat Warm weather can affect infants’ skin in

multiple ways. Exposure to heat and chlorinated water can dry out their skin. Babies may also develop a heat rash — an uncomfortable, red, prickly rash that can appear on a baby’s face, neck or bottom. And intertrigo — a raw, oozy red rash that appears in skin folds — can show up at any time of year, but may get even worse in summer. This can be bacterial or fungal, so it’s important to check with your doctor if you see a rash appear in those areas. To keep baby’s skin from drying, apply a gentle moisturizer specifically designed for infants. Treat any existing rash with petroleum jelly or a moisturizer designed for infant dermatitis. Dress babies in comfortable, loose, lightweight clothing to help prevent prickly heat. Wash little ones with water and a gentle baby soap to prevent dermatitis. Note that over-bathing can lead to dry skin and rashes as well, so make sure your baby does not bathe more than two to three times per week. “You should always consult your pediatrician whenever your baby has a rash or other health condition that concerns you,” Hes advises. “Some simple precautions, such as using a moisturizer and a hypoallergenic, gentle laundry detergent, can help parents keep their baby’s skin protected.”

Introduce children to water at an early age so they can quickly grow acclimated to water.

tterCove Aquatic Park Special Events all season long!

Metro Creative

Something for every water ter enthusiast!

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

From the most energetic cannon nnon baller oater. to the most laid-back ﬂﬂoater.

Crayﬁsh Canal with drop slides, lap lanes and diving boards Frog Bog zero-depth entry activity pool Dragonﬂy Den shallow toddler pool Turtle Creek lazy river and spray cannons Salamander Slides with or without inner tubes Splash Park with geysers, dumping buckets and more Sand/Water Play Area Concessions In James O. Breen Community ty Park 3615 Campton Hills Road, St. Charles 630-513-4377 ∞ ottercove.org

How to teach your child to swim

10-Visit Pass = 20% off daily admission fee

Swimming is a popular activity once temperatures heat up. Millions of people flock to beaches and water parks to dip their toes in the water, and spend afternoons exploring the depths of backyard pools. Upon being introduced to the water, younger children may be somewhat apprehensive, as swimming in pools or oceans can be intimidating to youngsters. Parents should exercise extreme caution when teaching kids to swim, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that more than one in five fatal drowning victims are children under the age of 14. Although swimming can be

dangerous, experts in pediatric and adolescent medicine affirm that participation in formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning considerably. Children whose parents swim may be eager to join mom and dad in the pool. The following are some tips for parents as they start to develop a plan to teach their kids to swim. • Wait until the child is developmentally ready. The American Association of Pediatrics recommends that parents wait until after a child’s fourth birthday to teach them how to swim. This is when children have developed enough to understand commands and have the

Water Park SPecial edition From Page 5 Swanson Pool 8 North Ave. Pottawatomie Park St. Charles (630) 584-3314 www.swansonpool.org

Lombard Park district Paradise Bay Water Park 437 E. St. Charles Road Lombard (630) 627-6127 www.lombardparks.com/ paradise-bay-water-park/ Paradise Bay Water Park is an award-winning stateof-the-art facility featuring Hurricane Cove, a zerodepth entry leisure pool with spouts, fountains, water sprays, whirlpool and host to Sidewinder (body slide), Wipeout, (bowl slide), Pipeline (speed slide) and the Alligator Crossing water walk. Splashdown, a 12-foot dive well, boasts both a 3-meter and 1-meter dive board and a drop slide. Dolphin Cove, the eight-lane lap pool can be set up to encourage lap swim, water basketball or water volleyball. The young visitors will enjoy a zero-depth entry Turtle Cove with its fountains, island, water slide just their size.

Teach your child to swim

Free Waterpark, Free Surf Simulator & Free Sailing With An Overnight Stay This Summer

P lay

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BlueHarBorresort.com | 866.701.Blue

swallow a lot of water, which can be dangerous. Sputtering water also may turn a child off to swimming completely. • Begin in calm water. The open ocean can be daunting, even to adults. So it might be better to begin swimming lessons in a calm body of water, such as a lake or pool. • Invest in formal swimming lessons. Parental perceptions and anxieties may interfere with parents’ abilities to properly teach their children how to swim. Therefore, hire thirdparty professional instructors to teach kids to swim. The Red Cross can put you in touch with certified swimming instructors who also are knowledgeable in first aid. As children become more confident in the water, they can practice swimming strokes and submerging themselves for underwater swimming.

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

motor skils required for swimming. At this point, parents can register children for swimming lessons with trained instructors. • Introduce playing in the water early on. Parents should make sure their children grow accustomed to playing in the water. Many kids start to like the water around the time they become toddlers, when bathing introduces them to splashing and bobbing toys. Use these opportunities to take your child into the water, so he or she acclimates to feeling the water on his or her body and face. Kids can sit with adults on pool steps or retrieve toys from within reach. An adult always should be nearby. • Wait before submerging kids. The American Red Cross says to wait until a child is around age three before submerging him or her under the water. Young kids can

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A splashtastic good time for all ages! Test your sense of balance and strength across the Lily Pad, a play area with a braided rope canopy over many buoyant steppingstones that span the pool’s width. Jump off springy diving boards. Enjoy wading in the zero-depth entry activity pool with an interactive water play area. Swoop down the drop slides. Swish around the water slides. Shade structures are positioned around the deck and at the sand/water play area. Family locker rooms available, too.

The #1 ResoRT on Wisconsin’s Lake Michigan coasT

education

Don’t judge ‘Spelled’ by its cover; it goes beyond Oz

S u B u r B a n pa r e n T

By Terri Schlichenmeyer

When you were small, thanks to fairy tales, you were quite afraid of giants. You simply knew they were just waiting to crush your house or grind your bones to make their bread. With hands the size of small cars, they’d pick you up and fling you aside. And if a giant didn’t do it, an ogre could, unless of course you’re a princess and, as in the new book by Betsy Schow, you’re “Spelled.” Crown Princess Dorthea was really “pixed.” It was bad enough that she was confined inside Emerald Palace, courtesy of some ancient fire-making curse that nobody was sure even worked anymore, but her parents kept trying to marry her off to some dumb prince from another stupid kingdom, the latest of which — Prince Kato of Somewhere-Somewhere — was a big jerk. For Grimm’s sake, Dorthea was still only a teenager! But OK, well, maybe it was infantile to throw a hissy-fit during the Muse Day ball. It was childish to “pix” off her parents. And it was definitely wrong to wish upon a star that a Fairy Godmotherwanna-be gave her, a star that Verde, the Kingdom’s head sorceress, would’ve warned Dorthea not to take.

Because that star — that pocketsize white-rock star — ruined everything. As soon as Dorthea wished aloud that she didn’t have to attend the ball or dance with “Spelled” by Betsy Kato or folSchow (2015, Source- low any rules books), $9.99, 352 — boom! — pages. everything went white. Chandeliers shattered. People Dorthea had known her whole life were changed. Even Kato was suddenly a tiny, furry creature the size of a puppy. And there, standing in the middle of the chaos was a silvery-pale woman who said her name was Queen Griz — and though she hated to do it, she was going to kill Dorthea. As the Emerald Palace collapsed in a heap, Dorthea fled on a vacuum cleaner with furry Kato and a snarky kitchen girl. She wasn’t sure where to go; before Verde disappeared, she had shouted something about Dorthea’s sparkly red

shoes and a rainbow. Whatever that meant, with Griz’s cackle resounding in her head, Dorthea knew she had to get there, fast. There are two words to describe “Spelled”: Clev. Er. With a starting point of a basic “princess story,” author Betsy Schow moves with lightning speed through just about every fairy tale and fantasy story you can remember, taking her main character on an original adventure with an Oz flair and a flirt with classic Grimm. There are cameo appearances in this story from Cinderella, Rapunzel and a magical dragon, plus big roles for chimeras, a sometimes-fairy godmother and a head-swapping hag, giants and a caterpillar army, an Ice Queen, leprechauns, flying puppies, and a “Mimicman” who can copycat anyone. That all adds up to a fast-paced, magical story with quick-witted dialogue and a spoiled royal who learns that there’s gnome place like home. Not too hard and not too soft, this book is just right for 12- to 17-year-old readers, but be sure to borrow it back for yourself. Fee, Fi, Fo, Fum, “Spelled” smells like gigantic fun.

• Terri Schlichenmeyer, aka The Bookworm, has been reading since she was 3 years old and she never goes anywhere without a book. She lives on a hill in Wisconsin with two dogs and 12,000 books.

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Apps for kids: Animals 100 Zoo Animals

By Chelsey Boutan Daily Herald Correspondent

Your child loves going to the zoo and seeing the different animals. Don’t worry, there are ways to see and learn about animals even when your family isn’t at the zoo. Below are three interactive iPad apps that teach your child about animals without a trip to the zoo.

Pocket Zoo with Live Animal Cams Cost: Free by wed Follo ion & est a Qu Session er w s ast! An the C h t Wi

M O N DAY

T U E S DAY

Pocket Zoo gives your child the ability to watch animals all over the world in real-time. With one touch of the screen, your child can interact with animal sounds, facts, live video, and photos.

W E D N E S DAY

July 1

T H U R S DAY

10am 5

FR I DAY

3 10am

10am 10

10am 12

10am 19

26 10am

10am

10am* 20

Your child can explore the animal kingdom with this flashcard app. The app’s flashcards incorporate animal names, sounds, and photos. The app’s visual and auditory cues make it ideal for expanding your child’s animal vocabulary.

10am 25

10am 31

10am

Ages: 4 and up

30 10am

Explore the Animal Kingdom Cost: $1.99

10am

A 100 high-quality photos and sound clips, help your child see, hear, and learn about the animal kingdom.

10am

S AT U R DAY

Ages: 5 and under

s u B u r B a n Pa r e n t

S U N DAY

Ages: 4 and up

Cost: $2.99

10am Aug. 1

10am

2 10am

*Thursday, July 16th is a special hearing-impaired interpreted performance.

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

the list

Your guide

to family fun

in the suburbs

s u b u r b a n pa r e n t

THEATER “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer,” Cutting Hall Theatre, 150 E. Wood St., Palatine: 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 22. This musical adaptation (recommended for grades K-8) is the story of a 14-year-old boy growing up in the heartland of America. This version of Mark Twain’s novel is set in 1840 in Hannibal, Mo., a bustling town on the banks of the Mississippi River. In the course of the story, Tom matches wits with his stern Aunt Polly, falls in love with the beautiful, feisty Becky Thatcher, and goes on the adventure of his life with Joe Harper and Huckleberry

Finn. Along the way he meets a terrifying villain named Injun Joe and a wayward Muff Potter. In the end, Tom learns who to trust and how to become one of the noblest characters in literature. Presented by American Eagle Productions. Tickets: $6 (all ages). For groups of 10 or more attending the same performance, tickets are only $5 each. Tickets must be purchased in the same order and in advance (before door sales) in order to qualify. Contact: Box office (847) 2025222 or cuttinghall.org. “Clearbrook on Cue Presents The Pied Piper,” Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights:

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Wednesday, June 17, 2015

7 p.m. Tuesday, June 30. Metropolis Performing Arts Centre and Clearbrook are once again collaborating to make the arts accessible to all members of our community. For the fourth year in a row, “Clearbrook On Cue” will present a play adapted by its members for the enjoyment of all. This year’s play is entitled “The Pied Piper” and centers around two down-on-their-luck brothers who use a magic flute to bring peace and happiness to the town of Hamlin. Tickets are $20 with half of the proceeds going to Clearbrook. All tickets can be purchased at MetropolisArts.com or by calling the box office at (847)-577-2121. “Moon Over Buffalo,” Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights: Thursday, July 16, through Sunday, Aug. 16. (Previews Thursday, July 9, through Sunday, July 12.) Get an inside look at life backstage in the 1950s in this madcap comedy. George and Charlotte Hay’s careers as big time stars are fading as the family performs in Buffalo, New York. But when a big-time producer wants to see Charlotte for a movie role, can they get

Dr. Russell S. Pollina Diplomate American Board of Pediatric Dentistry Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics*

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Brookfield Zoo is hosting several Festival of Flight shows daily through the summer. their act together in time to make a good impression? Tickets can be purchased at MetropolisArts. com or by calling the box office at (847) 577-2121.

MUSIC Free Concert: Southwest Community Concert Band, Cantigny Park, First Division Museum, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton: 3 p.m. Saturday, July 4. Enjoy patriotic music and more at this special Independence Day performance. The Southwest Community Concert Band, established in 1982 and under Musical Director Ray Forlenza, is always a popular attraction at Cantigny. Lawn seating; chairs and blankets welcome. Free with parking ($5). Free Children’s Concert: ScribbleMonster, Cantigny Bandshell, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton: Noon Sunday, July 5. Kids want to sing, dance and get creative when ScribbleMonster performs. This award-winning group delivers a high-energy, play-along rock concert the whole family can enjoy. Lawn seating; chairs and blankets welcome. Free with paid parking ($5). Free Concert: The Steve Meisner Band, Cantigny Bandshell, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton: 3 p.m. July 5. Steve Meisner is a multitalented musician, entertainer, composer and arranger. He brings his brand of traditional American polka into

the 21st century with a fresh spark and swing while retaining the roots of the music. Lawn seating; chairs and blankets welcome. Free with parking ($5).

PLANTS & ANIMALS Nature Connects: Art with Lego bricks by Sean Kenney, Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle: 7 a.m. to sunset daily in July and August. Marvel at 13 larger-than-life displays created from nearly half a million Lego bricks. Walk the arboretum’s tree-lined grounds on the east side to find nature-themed sculptures crafted by Lego artist Sean Kenney, including a monarch butterfly boasting an eight-foot wingspan and an enormous hummingbird sipping nectar from a colorful trumpet flower. Free with arboretum admission. (630) 968-0074 or mortonarb.org. Thursday Family Nights, Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle: 5:30 to 8 p.m. Thursdays in July and August. Be sure to explore the Children’s Garden, Maze Garden, and Tree House Tales. Enjoy live music, kidfriendly fare, and entertainment after-hours in the Children’s Garden. No registration required. Free for members, arboretum admission is $5 for nonmembers after 4:30 p.m. Contact: (630) 968-0074 or mortonarb.org. Theatre-Hikes, The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle: 1 p.m. weekends in July and August. In July, follow the cap-

the list 11:30 a.m., 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. daily through Sept. 7. Guests can watch birds soar, swoop, and dive as they demonstrate their natural flight abilities during the Festival of Flight show. The 30-minute presentations are held west of the zoo’s Tropic World habitat. During the zoo’s “Summer Nights,” now through Aug. 8, an additionaly 7 p.m. show will be held (and the 11:30 Friday show will not be held). The schedule is subject to change and is weather permitting. The show is free with general admission. General zoo admission is $16.95 for adults, $11.95 for children 3-11 and seniors 65 and older. Children 2 and younger are free. Parking is $10. For further information about Festival of Flight, visit www.CZS.org/ upcomingevents or call (708) 688-8000.

ON STAGE Opera in Focus: Opera in Focus, 300 W. Central Road, Rolling Meadows: 4 p.m. Wednesdays and 1:30 p.m. Saturdays. Puppeteers perform over 30 operas in the Kungsholm tradition through elegant puppets. Tickets: $12 adults; $11 seniors 60 and older; $7 for children 12 and younger. Advanced registration required, call (847) 818-3220, ext. 186 or visit perainfocus.com. Laugh Out Loud Theater: 601 N. Martingale Road, Suite 171, Schaumburg: 7:30 (all ages) and 9:30 p.m.(adults) Fridays and Saturdays. Improvisational comedy in the style of “Whose Line is it Anyway?” Admission: $12$18. Contact: (847) 240-0386 or LOLtheater.com.

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FUN & GAMES Scottish Festival and Highland Games, Hamilton Lakes, 333 Pierce Road, Itasca: 4 to 10 p.m. Friday, June 19, and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, June 20. Activities include Highland dance competition, heavy athletics, rugby exhibition, Celtic music, piping/drumming competition, dogs of Scotland, cultural exhibits, parade of clan tartans and more. Admission: $12 Friday, $20 Saturday, $30 both days, $5 for ages 3-12. Free on Friday for ages 12 and younger. Contact: chicagoscots.org. History Alive! Series: American Revolution, First Division Museum, Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton: 1 to 3 p.m. every Thursday throughout

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

tivating story of “Iron Mask,” an adaptation by Spencer Davis, and watch as performers attempt to uncover the mystery behind the man whose face and identity is obscured for decades. In August, hikers can play along in a game of “Clue: The Musical,” where they get to select the killer’s weapon and room in which the murder takes place. Low-impact hikes suitable for strollers, walkers and wheelchairs will take place on July 5 and Aug. 2. Each performance lasts about 3½ hours. Wear comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing and bring a chair or blanket, water bottle and insect repellent. $10 for adult member, $20 for adult nonmember, $5 for child member, $10 for child nonmember. Contact: (630) 968-0074 or mortonarb.org. Summer Science Camps, Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle: Monday, July 6, through Friday, Aug. 14. This year’s Summer Science Camp lineup features dozens of camps for kids in kindergarten-8th grade. Each weeklong session will engage and educate kids as they explore outdoor adventures, bizarre bugs, wriggling frogs, enchanted forests and more. Morning and afternoon supervised play as well as supervised lunch in between half-day camps will once again be available for an additional fee. Additional information is available at mortonarb.org/sciencecamp. Fees vary. Contact: (630) 968-0074 or mortonarb.org. Movie Nights Under the Stars: “The Lego Movie,” Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle: 8:30 p.m. Saturday, July 18 (opens at 6 p.m.). Gather beneath the towering trees of the Arboretum. Follow the adventures of Emmet as he saves the Lego universe in this animated family favorite. Concessions and beverages will also be available during the event. Contact: (630) 968-0074 or mortonarb.org. Wild Wednesday, Visitors Center backyard, Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton: 1 to 3 p.m. Wednesdays through Aug. 5. Kids, ages 3-10, can enjoy hands-on nature exploration through games and crafts. Each week has a different theme. No signup necessary, just drop in. Free with paid parking ($5). Festival of Flight, Brookfield Zoo, First Avenue between the Stevenson (I-55) and Eisenhower (I-290) expressways, Brookfield:

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the summer. Children ages 6-12 are invited to learn about a different military topic each week. Kids can dress in a soldier’s uniform, interact with interesting artifacts and participate in games and crafts. No signup necessary, just drop in. Free with paid parking ($5). All Ages Youth Basketball Skills Training, St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church, 133 S. Roselle Road, Palatine: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Northwest Knights, a program under Integrity Youth Sports NFP, offers weekly skills training on Tuesday nights, open to all players ages 8-17 who want to improve their basketball skills. Practices cost $20 for 90 minutes of training from AAU and NCAA certified coaches. Visit www.facebook.com/ nwknightsbasketball. Los Bilinguitos: Waukegan Public Library, 128 N. County St., Waukegan: 6 p.m. Tuesdays and 3:30 p.m. Sundays. Children, ages 4-7, can listen to bilingual stories, sing songs and create craft projects in the art center. No registration required. For details, call (847) 623-2041 or visit waukeganpl.org. Family Fun Night: Hastings Lake YMCA, 1995 Grass Lake Road, Lindenhurst: 7 to 9 p.m. the first Friday of every month. Spend quality time together as a family and meet other families while having fun at the YMCA. These nights are free and open to the entire community. Visit www.hastingslakeymca.org. Anime Club: Indian Trails Public Library District, 355 S. Schoenbeck Road, Wheeling: 4 to 6 p.m. the first and third Mondays of the month. Teens in grades 6-12 can enjoy a new Anime movie or series and Japanese snacks. For information, call (847) 459-4100 or visit www.indiantrailslibrary.org. Family Storytime at the Branch, Indian Trails Library District Prospect Heights Branch, 99 Palatine Road, Prospect Heights: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Join the library every Tuesday at the Branch for storytime in English and Spanish. Everyone is welcome. No registration required. Free, for information, www.indiantrailslibrary.org. Cosmic skating: Northbrook Sports Center, 1730 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook: 8 to 10 p.m. Fridays. Games, music and special effects while a DJ plays the hits in the Cosmic Club Room. All ages are welcome, and skate

rentals are available. For more information, call (847) 291-2993. STEAM, Prospect Heights Public Library, 12 Elm St., Prospect Heights: 4 to 5 p.m. on the third Friday of each month, STEAM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics. The library’s STEAM program motivates children, in grades 3-6, to learn science, technology, engineering, art/design and math concepts by engaging them in hands on project-based activities. For information, (847) 259-3500 or www.phpl.info. STEAM, Prospect Heights Public Library, 12 Elm St., Prospect Heights: 4 to 5 p.m. on the first Friday of each month, STEAM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics. The library’s STEAM program motivates children in grades K-2 to learn science, technology, engineering, art/design and math concepts by engaging them in hands on project-based activities. Call (847)-259-3500 or visit www.phpl.info. STEAM, Prospect Heights Public Library, 12 Elm St., Prospect Heights: 11 to 11:30 a.m. on the first Monday of each month. STEAM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics. The library’s STEAM program motivates children ages birthkindergarten, with an adult, to learn science, technology, engineering, art/design and math concepts by engaging them in hands on project-based activities. Call (847) 259-3500 or visit www.phpl.info. Tiny Tot Saturday Mornings: Orbit Skate Center, 615 S. Consumers Ave., Palatine: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturdays. Enjoy time with your children 10 and younger at the Tiny Tot Session every Saturday morning. Skate, play and have a mini-lesson for just $6 including skates. Nonskating parents can be out on the floor. For informaiton, www. orbitskate.net/schedule/tiny-totsaturday-mornings. Gaming Sundays: Poplar Creek Library, 1405 S. Park Ave., Streamwood: 12:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Sunday of each month. All ages are invited to bring your friends and games to play or join the Yu-GiOh!, Pokémon and other players. Snacks provided, no fees or registration. Call (630) 483-4928 for information.

health

How to support a parent of a child with special needs by Jamie Davis smith Special to The Washington Post

that comes along with her care is thrown into the mix. Offering to tag along to a pediatric therapy session with a Mom or Dad still learning how to navigate the world of special needs, putting a parent in touch with another local family with a child with special needs who may know about great resources, watching other children so a parent can spend a little more time at a doctor’s appointment, bringing over dinner for when a child is sick, or even bringing a Mom some coffee and magazines when her child is in the hospital can be enormously helpful. 5. Treat us normally. Just because Claire will never learn how to add doesn’t mean I’m not interested in hearing about your child being a whiz at algebra. I don’t expect you to support me without also being there for you when you need someone with whom you can share your own parenting frustrations or your child’s accomplishments. 6. You don’t always need to know what to say or do. When I talk about whether she will develop seizures or about her needing a CT scan, it’s OK to just listen and tell me that you don’t know what to say. If you aren’t sure how you can help when I seem like I’m at the end of my rope, it’s OK to ask. 7. You can be curious. It’s OK to ask when you have questions. Although not every parent of a child with special needs feels this way, I would rather people ask me anything at all on their minds about Claire or our life with her then wonder or make assumptions.

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Nearly nine years ago I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl named Claire. I had all of the standard prenatal testing that my doctor recommended and had a very easy pregnancy and delivery. So, it was no small surprise when just before we were set to be discharged from the hospital we learned something was wrong with our baby and we would not be able to take her home. Although it took a couple of years, we finally got a diagnosis of a genetic disorder so rare it has never been written about in any medical journal. The family and friends who supported and surrounded us were given a glimpse into the world of special needs as well and often struggled about how to help and support us. Often they did not know what to do, what to say, or how to act around us. If someone you love, know, or even come into contact with casually has a child with special needs, there are some things you do to better support your friend. 1. Ask specific questions. I love it when people ask about my kids — all parents do. With Claire there are always a lot of things going on, some good and some bad, and most of which no one without a child with special needs can relate to easily. Asking specific questions makes it easier for me to know where to start. If you ask about how her physical therapy is going or if she has learned any new signs, I’m more likely to answer with

more than “fine” since you’ve let me know what you are interested in hearing and given me a starting point. 2. Be inclusive. Although a child with disabilities may be limited in what she can do, there are likely still plenty of things she can enjoy. Claire enjoys playgrounds and movies but not all playgrounds and movies are appropriate for her. Asking us if we would like to meet at a playground that has adaptive equipment or to see a sensory-friendly showing of the latest kids’ movie sends that message that you want to include our entire family on outings. 3. Be respectful of parents’ needs. I sometimes need a break. Other times I need to let off steam. There are many times when things are not going well — when she’s not reaching another milestone, when she facing another surgery, or when I am facing another battle with insurance. During these times I may be consumed with her care and just need a break or I may need to talk for a half-hour about a struggle. If I don’t seem to want to talk about Claire, respect that I don’t want to think about special needs for that moment and would rather talk about which show I am currently binge watching instead. Or, if I need to rant for a half-hour about how Claire’s insurance denied coverage for her hearing aid, wheelchair, or ABA therapy, just humor me. I’ll feel so much better when I’m done. 4. Offer to help. Life can be overwhelming for everyone at times but these times tend to occur more frequently when a child with special needs and the stress

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