The fresh air, smell of pine, and finding that perfect tree . . . It must be Christmas time! This is one holiday tradition sure to thrive this year. As a child, driving out to the Christmas trees farm with carols playing, standing in the cold until we found the perfect tree, and then having cookies and hot chocolate while…
If you didn’t get a chance to go apple picking yet, this is the list for you! Fall weather is coming, leaves are starting to turn, and it’s time to get those pumpkins! We love these places because you can do everything in one day. As my kids get older, it’s getting more difficult to find time to do our…
Oh my gourd, I love fall! It’s time for one of our favorite outings of the fall season . . . picking the perfect pumpkin at the pumpkin patch! You’ll find locations that not only offer pick-your-own pumpkins, but also all kinds of great attractions, children’s rides, and tasty fall treats. Spend a few hours or a whole day with…
Updated 11/30/20 with cancellations. 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…
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…
Does your child love to tinker, get lost in a pile of LEGOs, or take apart their toys? These interests are all related to STEAM: science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. At these STEAM classes, kids learn critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork. They’ll have fun with friends while coding their own video game, designing their own invention, and so much…
If your child is anything like my girls, the pony rides are our first stop at any festival. These farms offering horseback riding classes give children the opportunity to deepen their love of horses and spend a beautiful summer day outside. A simple trail can ignite a life-long interest in horses. Whether you’re starting out with introductory lessons and camps,…
Take advantage of all the extra time you are spending at home this summer and clean out those closets! Sign up to be a consignor at these fall children’s resales and turn those outgrown clothes into cash. While you’re earning money, stop in to add some new pieces to your child’s wardrobe for a fraction of retail prices. You’ll be…
This summer is the perfect time to bring the fun to your own home! Bounce houses, water slides, and inflatable obstacle courses will provide your kids with hours of entertainment. Even if you’re expecting a smaller crowd or just your own kids, check out these bounce house and party rentals to maximize the fun at your family get-together. Many of…
Splash pads are the perfect way for families to cool off in this summer heat. Young toddlers can explore the spouts and sprays, while big kids can drench themselves with dumping buckets. Some of these locations are even fenced in to contain your littlest runners. Click the links to confirm details about safety guidelines, modified hours or advanced registration requirements….
We’ve heard from almost all of the park districts now that playgrounds are open! Please note that they are not being sanitized regularly, so they are “use at your own risk”. (We have included overall guidelines below.) Our wonderful local park districts have been busy planning and executing playground replacements! Check out the new playgrounds that were just completed as…
Last night, I was scrolling through photos from June last year: a waterpark vacation, visits to the library, playgrounds, restaurants, splash pads . . . wow, things are certainly different this year! But working on this round-up of 2020 summer fun energized me. There are still fun things to do around town if you know where to look! And our…