Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in chicago, IL

Feeding Frenzy! Good Food for Your Family

by Caitlin Giles

April 28, 2009

Part of being a parent is feeding your child healthy food.  Easier said than done, right?  Every parent I know struggles with picky eaters, busy schedules that don't always allow for family meals and shrinking family food budgets.  To put it simply:  eating good food can sometimes be a hard thing to do.  But rather than throw up your arms and succumb to the lure of the golden arches, try to incorporate some strategies to simplify your meal planning and preparation.

Let the Food Come to You.  I don't know about you, but grocery shopping with three kids in tow can sometimes be more trouble than it is worth.  I have started using home delivery services for some of our groceries.  Check out Irv and Shelley's Fresh Picks for amazing organic produce and local, hormone-free meats.  When you are in a time crunch, another good standby is Peapod.  Sure, the prices aren't fabulous, but they have a decent selection of natural and organic products and most importantly, they bring the food you need to make a healthy dinner right to your door.

Shop Local.  If you are looking for fresh, healthy food for your family, make a local farmer's market your first stop.  My favorite market is the Green City Market which returns to its outdoor location on May 6th (we can't wait).  Stock up on all of spring's offerings including lettuces, radishes, and ramps.  If you are looking for a farmer's market near you, check out this list of farmer's markets in the city of Chicago. If you want farmer's market goodies but can't make it to the market yourself, visit the Green Grocer.   Owner Cassie picks up requested items from the Green City Market and you can pick them up from her store (how awesome is that?).

Join a CSA.  If you want to feed your family locally grown fruits and veggies all summer long, think about signing up for a CSA, which is short for Community Supported Agriculture. Here is how it works: you pay up front for a share of the crop over the growing season. Each week you get a box full of produce fresh from the farm.  This model is good for farmers and good for you and your family.  If you are looking for more information on CSAs in our area, check out Local Harvest. 

Grow Your Own.  Kids love to dig in the dirt.  Put them to work and start a little vegetable garden. You don't need to have a big yard -- a container, some sunshine and some inexpensive supplies will do.  Learn more from my story on gardening with kids in the spring issue of Going Places Magazine.

Feeding kids can be a struggle but keep in mind that if you are offering them delicious, healthy foods and you are modeling good eating habits, eventually they will give beets and artichokes a try.

Guest Post: Nutrition Tips for Busy Moms and Dads

by Caitlin Giles

March 02, 2009

I know, I know, being a parent is tough.  We're so focused on taking
care of our children that sometimes we forget to take care of
ourselves.  Nutrition-wise, we often take the quick and easy way out
-- a cookie here, a bag of chips there, a cup of coffee for breakfast,
half of our children's mac-n-cheese at dinnertime .  I'm as guilty as
anyone.  But what's a busy parent to do? Today's guest posters, Bonnie
Johnson and Deanna Segrave-Daly, serve up five great ways parents can
maintain a healthy lifestyle even in the midst of all the childhood
chaos.  As registered dieticians, they know the ins and outs of good
nutrition.  Even more important, they are moms who understand that our
busy, crazy schedules means we need quick, manageable solutions -- and
all the help we can get.
 ------------------------------
5 Basic Boosts for Busy Parents
From Two Spicy Moms
Bonnie Johnson, MS, RD and Deanna Segrave-Daly, RD, LDN (on behalf of
trim®)
 
1) Kick Up Your Heels - Don't make exercise a daunting chore. Have a
20-minute dance party with the kids. Everyone gets to pick one song.
Try out different rhythms or steps like hula, cha-cha, the twist or
the oldie-but-goodie chicken dance.
 
2) Faster Fruits- Often, we are so focused on getting our children to
eat healthy, we forget about ourselves (sound familiar?) And most of
us need to at least double our daily dose of fruit. So, instead of
trying to count that strawberry cheesecake as a serving, try:
 

• 1/2 cup applesauce - Add a dash of cinnamon and/or nutmeg
• 1 can of trim® Juice drink - New from Tree Top, one can
• counts as a 1/2 cup of fruit serving and comes in yum flavors like Mango Peach and Strawberry Kiwi)
• 1/4 cup dried fruit - Try tossed into cereal, over a salad or eaten on the go

 
3) Satiety is the new buzzword in healthy eating-it's that feeling of
satisfaction after a meal or snack. It makes sense - if you are
satisfied longer, you won't scarf down those extra calories you really
don't need (like the remnants of junior's PB&J.) Fiber has great
satiating power.  Shoot for getting more fiber by choosing cereals
with five grams or more fiber per serving, tossing a can of beans into
a pasta dish, having a small bowl of popcorn  or enjoying a single
serve can of trim® which has three grams of fiber per serving.
 
4) Get Some Extra Zs - That's sounds dreamy but how do you get your
head on the pillow when  you are multitasking long after the kids are
in bed? Research shows that a good night sleep can reduce stress,
improve your memory and even increase your success at weight loss.
While experts recommend at least 8 hours a night, start by going to
bed just 15 minutes early. Do that every night for a month - and see
how you feel (and if you can up it another 15 minutes.) And yes, this
is one of Deanna's New Year's resolutions.
 
5) Cover Your Bases - As dietitians, we recommend getting your
vitamins and minerals from food first. But as moms, we know you can't
have it all. Add a basic multivitamin to your morning routine just to
be sure. But remember, it's called a supplement because it SUPPLEMENTS
your diet (rather than replaces food) - and really, we're all about
keeping as much tasty and healthy food in your diet as possible!)
 
 
 

Giving at the Holidays

by Caitlin Giles

December 15, 2008

I think that it is difficult for young children to really get the concept of charity and need. My daughter and I have had some confusing conversations about homeless people and why there are children who don't have any toys. At this age, I think that the most important thing that parents can do is model charitable behavior, explain difficult situations as best we can, and answer any questions  Read more...

Fancy-Schmancy Holiday: Children's Tea at the Four Seasons Hotel

by Caitlin Giles

December 10, 2008

Around this time of year, many families plan special outings or traditions to mark the season. If you are looking to really indulge your little elf on a holiday outing this year, you should consider the Children's Storytelling Tea at the Four Seasons Hotel . The event sounds like a little girl's dream come true. Dress up in your finest and head downtown to hear popular Christmas tales, sip  Read more...

Giving Thanks for Your Little Turkeys

by Caitlin Giles

November 27, 2008

I tend to get a little weepy on Thanksgiving when I think about how lucky I am to have my family. You too? I wanted to leave you with this thought today as you gorge yourself on turkey, count your blessings, and hold your little ones tight. How wonderful it would be if we could help our children and grandchildren to learn thanksgiving at an early age. Thanksgiving opens the doors. It  Read more...

The Family Farmed Expo

by Caitlin Giles

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...

A Few Fun Ideas for Halloween Dinner

by Caitlin Giles

October 31, 2008

Do you have something special planned for dinner tonight after all of the trick-or-treating fun has been had? Your little ghosts and goblins will surely be hungry and I think that Halloween night is the perfect time to share some "fun food" for dinner. Here are a few clever ideas that I have come across while trying to plan our Halloween  Read more...

The New USDA Food Pyramid for Preschoolers

by Caitlin Giles

October 29, 2008

Every single mother I know worries about nutrition. Whether she is fretting over the fact that her child's lunch comes home uneaten every single day or feeling frustrated by her child's insistence on only eating "white" foods (you know, the mac & cheese and toast diet), moms worry about what their kids are putting in their mouths. The  Read more...

Just Say No to Candy Overload!

by Caitlin Giles

October 28, 2008

We are already starting to be inundated with Halloween candy at our house. . . and the big event is still three days away. I don't mean to be a big grump, but Halloween candy is one of my least favorite parts of Halloween. I work hard to make sure that my kids eat well . . . and then all of my efforts go to hell as their treat bags fill up with sugar-laden snacks. I  Read more...

A Sustainable Dining Experience for the Whole Family

by Caitlin Giles

September 24, 2008

I wanted to pass on some information about an opportunity to enjoy a sustainable meal with the whole gang. On Wednesday, September 24th, Craig Charlton, the Chef/Owner of Trattoria 225 , will create a four course dinner incorporating local, organic products from Keewaydin Farm in Viola, WI. The experience includes more than just a delicious meal. Farm owner Rufus Haucke will share his  Read more...

More Ideas for Homemade Fun

by Caitlin Giles

September 22, 2008

Some Moms are so damn clever with their do-it-yourself ideas and I like to copy them. From time to time I need a good reminder that my own house and yard are full of things that my children will find fascinating. These are some of the more brilliant ideas for preschooler activities that I have come across recently. Homemade Puffy Paint. We are  Read more...

Ladies and Gents Who Lunch: Tea Parties

by Caitlin Giles

September 19, 2008

A tea party is of course the consummate social get together for sophisticated preschoolers. From the outfits (sometimes feather boas and wide brimmed hats) to the food (finger sandwiches and petit fours), the whole affair is the stuff that little girls dreams are made of (and I am proud to say that my son seems to enjoy them quite a bit as well). Need some tips on planning your next  Read more...

Packing a Green Lunch (Plus a Giveaway!)

by Caitlin Giles

September 03, 2008

Making school lunches is just one of those things that all Moms do (along with doing laundry, washing dishes, kissing boo-boos, etc.). Recently, I have definitely noticed a trend towards packing greener lunches. Packing a green lunch means creating less waste. My daughter's school is big on sending lunches where nothing has to be thrown away so I have had some practice at this. Here are a  Read more...

Why Your Kids Will Love Trader Joe's

by Caitlin Giles

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...

Eating Out With The Kiddos

by Caitlin Giles

August 13, 2008

Do you like to have a meal out with the kiddos from time to time? Do you try to avoid the usual kid's menu fare (mac and cheese again)? Do you also want to bring your kids to a place where they are welcome and other diners won't be giving you that I can't believe you brought your kids here look? Me too. Luckily, Chicago has many restaurants that serve great food in a family-friendly  Read more...

Dinner Table Destinations: China and the Olympics

by Caitlin Giles

August 04, 2008

You probably aren't planning on bringing the whole family to Beijing for the Summer Games. But there is no need to travel across the world to introduce your little ones to foreign cultures and customs. Turn dinnertime into an opportunity to teach your preschoolers a little bit about China and the tradition of the Olympics. What's For Dinner? The first step in your dinner table  Read more...

Pickin' Blueberries

by Caitlin Giles

July 11, 2008

It is berry time around these parts! Mmmmmm. So good. Have you ever taken your urban-dwelling kids to a real farm? Have your little ones ever had the chance to pick their own berries? Berry picking with kids can be so much fun and our area is full of different pick-your-own farms where your little guys can roll up their sleeves and get pickin' (one in the basket, one in the  Read more...

Neighborhood Spotlight: Bucktown/Wicker Park

by Caitlin Giles

July 07, 2008

is made up of many wonderful small neighborhoods and communities each with its own appeal and offerings. Being Savvy: Chicago is going to periodically highlight some of the family-friendly offerings in various neighborhoods around the city. I am going to start with what I know best: my neighborhood. Bucktown/Wicker Park is more than just home to hipsters, artists, and some of  Read more...

Taking the Kids to the Taste

by Caitlin Giles

June 26, 2008

I have a confession to make. The Taste of Chicago isn't my favorite event. I worked at the Taste for two summers when I was in college and let's just say that I am not rushing down to Grant Park each year to relive the experience (in fact I still have the occasional nightmare about people walking around eating turkey legs and corn on the cob). But I do recognize that, for many, an  Read more...

Bringing the Kids to the Green City Market: What You Need to Know Before You Go

by Caitlin Giles

June 19, 2008

On Wednesday mornings in the summer and fall, Lincoln Park 's Green City Market is teeming with Mamas and their babes. But I have found that in order to have a successful outing to the Green City Market with the kiddos in tow (and actually have a moment to buy anything), you have to have a plan. Here is my recipe for a successful and fun trip to the Green City Market with little shoppers.  Read more...

Father's Day in Chicago: Five Fun Activities for Dad

by Caitlin Giles

June 10, 2008

Father's Day is a low-key event at our house. We are doing brunch with family and homemade gifts from the kiddos - nothing fancy. But if you are looking to really wow Dad this year, Chicago has tons of great events to choose from. Here are five ideas to get you started. 1. Hey Dad, Wanna Have a Catch What Dad wouldn't jump at the chance to play catch with his kids at  Read more...

Little Gourmets: Chicago Kid's Restaurant Week

by Caitlin Giles

June 09, 2008

Could your little ones use some practice in the fine dining department? Would you like to be able to go out for a family dinner that doesn't include macaroni and cheese? Have I got the event for you! Gourmet and Cookie Magazine have partnered together with some of Chicago 's best restaurants for the first ever Chicago Kid's Restaurant Week . From June 21st through the 28 th  Read more...

You Say It's Your Birthday! Top Five Cupcake Resources in Chicago

by Caitlin Giles

June 03, 2008

I am proud to say that I know a thing or two about the Chicago cupcake scene. And, as you well know, cupcakes are the centerpiece of any fantastic birthday party. Here are a few tips on where to get delicious cupcakes for your little one's next birthday celebration. Make Them Yourself. I have to confess that I am a do-it-myself-kind-of-a-gal. My daughter and I worked together  Read more...

How to be A Princess for a Day

by Caitlin Giles

May 16, 2008

When I started researching this topic, I came across some pretty indulgent princess activities for your preschooler (for example, a shocking variety of princess camps). The truth is I would never take my daughter to an activity like that so I don't want to make those recommendations to you. Yes, we do the requisite Disney princess obsession at our house. And sure, my  Read more...