Being Savvy: Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers and kids in Chicago, IL

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Seeing Green in Chicago

March 17, 2009

Since today is St. Patrick's Day (and because I am a good Irish girl), I have green on my mind.  The weather is beautiful, spring is around the corner and little pockets of green  (like the beginnings of my daffodils) are popping up everywhere.  Here are a few ideas on places to get your "green" fix until spring really takes hold.

The Garfield Park Conservatory. This spot is one of my very favorite, family-friendly destinations.  Admission is free and the Conservatory offers tons of programming for kids.  We love the "digs" in the Children's Garden on Wednesday afternoons and the "Morning Glories" drop-in series for preschoolers on Monday mornings.  Be sure to check out theazaleas that are in bloom right now -- they are totally spectacular.  Your kids will have a blast and you will love the serene, beautiful surroundings.

The Green City Market.   If you are longing for summer mornings spent picking up fresh produce at your favorite farmer's market, you can get your "green" fix at the Market at the Museum at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum .  Although you won't be able to stock up on your favorite berries and summer veggies, you will be able to pick up lots of tasty supplies -- including breads, pastries, cheeses and jarred items.  The next market is scheduled for March 21st.

Green Parent Chicago. If you are looking to make some eco-friendly changes in your family and home this spring (like I am), you should check out the website Green Parent Chicago.   This site has information on all of the latest "green" family events around town, plus great ideas for "green," eco-friendly crafts and activities. 

The Green Grocer.   If spring has you in the mood to cook fresh, organic foods for your family, you must check out my favorite new grocery store.  The Green Grocer (located at Grand and Noble) has wonderful organic, local food offerings.  I love to stock up on really quality food here and know that I am feeding my family the healthiest food available.  Check out the website for their frequent tastings and in-store events.

The Green Mama Cafe Series at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum.  If you are a parent of a young child and looking to lead a more eco-friendly lifestyle, check out this series of classes by Manda Aufochs Gillespie (aka The Green Mama).   Topics include cloth diapering and safer toys.

Where do you go to get your "green" fix in Chicago?  Read more...

Must Reads for Cooking with the Kiddos

November 26, 2008

Some of you foodies out there may already be familiar with cook book author Mollie Katzen from her very popular The New Moosewood Cookbook -- all vegetarian recipes -- very yummy. But she is also the author of three excellent cookbooks geared towards young children. Her approach to cooking is so practical and fun that your kids will want to get in the kitchen and help you with dinner.  Read more...

The Family Farmed Expo

November 12, 2008

Mark your calendars for the Family Farmed Expo from November 22nd through 23rd. This event is a must for every family interested in local, sustainable and delicious food. Our family made the trip to the Expo last year and we all really enjoyed it (plus Millennium Park is just across the street for the kids to enjoy a little outdoor time afterwards). The Family Farmed Expo is  Read more...

Guest Post: Why Your Family Should Eat Locally

October 27, 2008

Melissa Graham, a former attorney, is the chef and owner of Monogramme Events & Catering , a boutique catering company that specializes in seasonal and sustainable cuisine. She is also the president and founder of Purple Asparagus , a non-profit dedicated to bringing families back to the table by promoting and enjoying all the things associated with good eating.  Read more...

Why Your Kids Will Love Trader Joe's

August 18, 2008

Grocery shopping with kids can be . . . . hard. But it can also be a fun learning experience for everyone. Really, I swear it can be. Whenever I have to bring my kiddos along for a trip to the grocery store, I try to head to Trader Joe's . This place is seriously kid-friendly. Plus, Trader Joe's offers many, many affordable organic products (always a plus). Here are a few of the more  Read more...

More of Our Favorite Activities and Things to Do in chicago

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Creatures & Critters:
Our Urban Jungle

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Do, Re, Mi! Places to Hear, Sing & Play a Tune

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Artistic Endeavors:
Our Favorite Art Venues

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Room to Run:
Run, Jump & Wiggle Outdoors

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Rainy & Quiet Days:
Cozy & Crazy Indoor Fun

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A Sense of History:
Our City's Stories

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Tot's Science Fair:
Science & Nature Sites

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Splash, Spray, Play! Local Spots to Get Wet

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The Most Fun in Life Is Free!

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The Best of... Our Top Can't-Live-Without Spots

The Voice of Being Savvy chicago:
Caitlin Giles

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