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

Summer in the City: Four Family-Friendly Must-Do's

by Caitlin Giles

May 22, 2009

Summer in Chicago is the best.  Summer in Chicago with little kiddos is even better. There is so much great stuff to do over the next few months. Don't get overwhelmed.  Keep it simple.  Keep it focused on family.  Here are four things on our summer must-do list.

The Beach. We are so lucky to live in a city with such a beautiful beachfront.  If you are looking for a family-friendly spot, check out these recommendations.

Millennium Park. Splash in the fountain. Have a picnic dinner. Catch a concert. Wander through the gardens. Take advantage of the Target Family Fun Festival. You won't believe how much there is to do. And it is all FREE (my favorite part).

The Edible Garden.  Give your kids the chance to get their hands dirty and learn about organic gardening at the Edible Garden.  This program is sponsored by the Green City Market and takes place in the Farm in the Zoo at the Lincoln Park Zoo on Wednesday and Saturday mornings.  It is truly a chance for your kids to get a hands-on experience with how food grows.

Toddler Tunes and Turtles.  This is one of my favorite Chicago Park District Programs. Toddler Tunes and Turtlestakes place in various parks throughout the summer.  It is a laid-back, free family activity.  Kids can play dress up, sing-a-long and pet a real turtle.  Check out the Chicago Park District website to find out when this program is coming to a park near you.

Wishing you lots of fun in the sun with your little ones -- no matter what is on your summer agenda!  Read more...

Whatcha Doing This Weekend (April 23rd-26th)?

by Caitlin Giles

April 23, 2009

Spring rolls on in Chicago and this weekend is full of more great family events and activities.  Here are your best bets.

A Teddy Bear Picnic at the Suzuki-Orff School of Music.  If you are looking for a sweet, family-oriented activity, bring your favorite child (and their favorite teddy bear) to the Suzuki-Orff School at 1148 W. Chicago Avenue on Sunday at noon for this free event.  Bring a picnic blanket and sack lunches to this indoor picnic and hear a mini recital.  Visit the website to learn more or make your reservation.

Tree Whisperers at the Morton Arboretum.  In my opinion, there is no better place to celebrate Arbor Day than the Morton Arboretum.  This place is beautiful and family-friendly. This weekend between the hours of 11:00 and 4:00, take part in the Treewhisperers Program.  Write poems and environmental messages using recycled paper, leaves, grasses, and other natural materials.  Don't forget to check out the wonderful Children's Garden and meander through the maze while you are there. 

Little Miss Ann Band.  Head down to the Chicago Children's Museum (always a favorite spot) and catch this (FREE FREE) concert starting at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 23rd.

Happy weekending to you all!  Read more...

Whatcha Doing This Weekend (The Earth Day Edition)?

by Caitlin Giles

April 16, 2009

With Earth Day just around the corner, many of the best events this weekend have a "green" theme.  Here is a round-up of some of the best things going on in Chicago this weekend.

Critters and Bugs at the Old Town School of Music. On Sunday, April 19th, get the kids decked out in their favorite bug outfits and enjoy an Earth Day-themed concert at the Old Town School of Music. Visit the website for more information and to purchase tickets.
 
Earth Keepers at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum.   On Saturday, April 18th, stop by the (always wonderful) Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum for their Earth Keeper seminar where kids and adults can sing songs and tell tales about Mother Earth.

Chicago Park District Clean Up at Humboldt Park.   Why not show your kids what it means to celebrate Earth Day by getting out there and doing something to take care of our planet.  On Saturday, April 18th, meet up at Humboldt Park to clean up, mulch, make a craft, and celebrate Earth Day with other like-minded families.

Even though Earth Day might seem like a cliche at this point, don't let this weekend pass you by without taking the opportunity to talk to your kids about the importance of respecting Mother Earth and her resources.  Read more...

Giveaway: Tickets to Dan Zanes and Friends!

by Caitlin Giles

April 02, 2009

I am really, really excited about this giveaway.  Not only are the prizes awesome, but you have great odds of winning.  I am giving away a set of four tickets to see Dan Zanes and Friends perform on May 30, 2009 at the Harris Theater (205 E. Randolph, Chicago). Dan Zanes is an internationally-known musician making music for families.  Kids love him. Parents love him.

But wait, there is more.  I am also giving away five copies of Dan's CD Nueva York. That means there will be six winners in all (one set of concert tickets and five cds). 

So you are probably thinking, "My kid would love this. How do I enter this amazing giveaway?"  Simple.  Just email me at beingsavvychicago@savvysource.com by midnight (CST) on Friday, April 10th. One entry per person.  I will contact the winners directly.  Good luck!  Read more...

Whatcha Doing This Weekend (March 26th - 28th)?

by Caitlin Giles

March 26, 2009

Once again, this weekend has lots of family-friendly offerings!  Here are my top three picks.

Spring Into Action Day.  Stop by the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum on Saturday, March 28th and take advantage of some great programming -- from learning about seasonal foods in Club Sprout to the adopt and release a butterfly program.  Visit the website for all of the details.

Malott Japanese Garden Spring Weekend at the Chicago Botanic Garden. If you haven't ever visited this serene and beautiful spot, I highly recommend that you do so.  This weekend features musical performances and storytelling between 11:00 a.m and 4:00 p.m.

Ralph's World.  Ralph Covert and his band are a big hit with kids and their parents. On Sunday, March 29th, head over to the Old Town School of Music at 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue for concerts at 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.  Tickets at $17.

Speaking of music, be sure to check back on Monday when I will have a chance for you to win a great (and I mean great) children's CD plus tickets to an upcoming concert!  Read more...

Whatcha Doing This Weekend (February 20-22)?

by Caitlin Giles

February 20, 2009

More of Our Favorite Activities and Things to Do in chicago