IT’S ALIVE! (Halloween, that is.) Dust those cobwebs off your costumes, because Halloween is happening! The western suburbs have pulled out all the stops to ensure you and your little goblins have a spook-tacular time. After all the spring and summertime cancellations, we’re over the moon at the sight of so many family-friendly Halloween events. Creep through haunted forests, carve…
The company behind the Polar Express train ride at Chicago’s Union Station just announced the event is cancelled for this year — but other events are still planning to go ahead. We know it’s hard to think ahead right now, but it’s time to book holiday train and trolley rides if you want to avoid wait lists later on! This…
The first few years of parenting can be the most overwhelming, and sometimes the best thing for both you and your baby is a change of scenery. Climbing, dancing, playing and visiting animals are great ways to get out of the house and have fun with your little ones! Here’s our roundup of best places to go with a baby…
Kindergarten is the age when parents can breathe a collective sigh of relief. You’re no longer carrying a diaper bag around or worried that your toddler is going to run from you at the park. Celebrate this new independence by trying out places that may have felt intimidating before. These top activities are perfect for elementary-aged children as they transition…
Fall is our favorite season of the year, and fall festivals and Oktoberfests are the perfect way to celebrate it. This year, many are requiring advance registration, so make your plans early! Pumpkin carving, oompah bands, and hayrides are sure to get you into the fall spirit. Whether at an official event, or month-long festivities, spend as much time outside…
Our local businesses, teachers, and coaches are getting creative to offer safe outlets for kids to explore athletics, arts, academics, and more! When our team started putting this guide together, we realized that even if some of the traditional options aren’t available, these spots are still amazing resources for parents to help their kids stay connected to the activities they…
Drawing and painting are wonderful ways for kids to express themselves! Creative kiddos of all ages can draw or paint during open studio time, classes, workshops, and summer camps. Take your little Picasso to a studio near you today and watch their inner artist shine through! This article is sponsored by the featured listings. Kids Drawing and Painting Studios in…
Does your child love to watch the winter Olympics? Do they dream of twirling across the ice? We’ve looked into all of the ice skating lessons in Chicago’s western suburbs to help you find the best rink for your family. Whether your child is interested in figure skating or improving their skating skills for hockey, these rinks fit the bill….
Do you have a little one who loves listening to music and twirling around your house? If your kids are anything like mine, they love any excuse to have a family dance party. Participating in dance activities is great for fitness and coordination — and dance is for everyone! Many of these studios offer the typical ballet and tap, but…
Classes for little kids ages 0–5 years old help keep kids playing, learning, exploring, and engaging with other children. With countless classes offered for children at this stage in life, there’s something for everyone! Almost as important as the benefits for the kiddos: parents can meet and connect with other parents in this same stage of life. Check out all…
Tutoring services offer a big help, especially when tutors tailor learning to your individual child’s needs and interests. That might mean bridging gaps or extending content further than classroom curricula. If your child struggles to stay organized, needs to know how to prepare for an upcoming test, or just wants homework help, these tutoring companies can help provide both academic…
All I do is pin, pin, pin, no matter what! Does your athlete have an interest in joining a wrestling club or trying out the sport? Check out one of these wrestling clubs in the western suburbs. Wrestling clubs teach weight training, cardio, flexibility, and sportsmanship. If you son or daughter is competitive, these clubs and academies have the coaching…