Monday 8/17 - Sunday 8/23

My apologies if you did not receive a Windy City Tot email on Sunday. I think I'm having some technical difficulties with Feed Burner. Grrrrr.....

If you missed the email, you can always log on to the WCT site for the weekly update: http://windycitytot.blogspot.com.

I'm feeling really hot, pregnant, and uninspired today. Maybe our marathon day of family breakfast at CBA, toddler soccer, a long walk to the airshow, the children's zoo, and an early dinner of gluttonous burgers, fries, and shakes at The Counter on Saturday has contributed to my sluggishness today. Anyway, Windy City Tot readers have been saved from an entirely half-assed blog this week by a chance email I received this afternoon. Which brings me to the thought of the week...

Thought of the Week: Alas! Alack! Thanks for the Tips

It never fails to blow me away when I receive an email from someone who reads my blog. In the beginning I never thought anyone aside from friends and maybe some friends of friends would hit the WCT. But alas, I am completely flattered that I have some readers who were strangers before I started this site. So cool. Anyway, thanks for the emails with tips and suggestions. Keep 'em coming! Today, one of my favorite mommy bloggers sent me some awesome info about a show that is pretty much right next door to me that I have never investigated. Poor form on my part and just another thing I'll blame on my pregnancy. Here's a synopsis of Alas! Alack! Zorro is Back! from Momtrolfreak:

Saw a show last night that is AWESOME, though not specifically for kids. Quest Theatre does FREE FREE FREE shows that are usually musicals and usually involve puppets. We've taken our 3 year old to see Little Shop of Horrors, Into the Woods, and The History of America (funny) there. Right now they are doing "ALAS! ALACK! ZORRO IS BACK!" It is an old fashioned melodrama and a guy comes out at the beginning to tell you what to do. You buy a $1 bag of popcorn when you get there (or one to eat and one to throw) and he tells you when the bad guy comes out (complete with handlebar mustache), you yell BOOO!!!! and throw popcorn at him. For the ingenue you go "AWWWW!!!!" and for the hero you yell YAY!!! Anyway, totally awesome and kid-friendly, and we sat in the front row with our son and he was practically part of the show. He threw popcorn in the bad guy's face during a big scene and the bad guy said "that's some right arm you got there kid, i'm gonna sign you up for a baseball career!" and he was SO EXCITED. Anyway, it's free, the refreshments are cheap, you can get up and leave if you need to, and it's totally fun.

Click here for times and tickets. Show runs through 9/27 in Andersonville at 1609 W Gregory. Thanks for the tip Momtrolfreak. This show sounds like a ton of fun. The Little Man is obsessed with puppets - he's going to love this.

Need a dose of parenting humor this week? Hit: www.momtrolfreak.com

THIS WEEK

Kick Croquet: Tick tock, tick tock. School starts soon and shortly thereafter cold weather will be upon us. So if you haven't yet checked out the newly redesigned outdoor Habitat Park at the Kohl Children's Museum, the time to do so is now. This week kids can learn to play the traditional game of croquet with a twist on the lawn at Habitat Park.

Where: Kohl Children's Museum • 2100 Patriot Blvd, Glenview

When: Mon-Fri 10:15a

Camp Hollywood Family Film Series at the Davis: Every Tuesday and Wednesday the Davis Theater in Lincoln Square is showing family films for $1 per person! This week the feature presentation is "Happy Feet". This is the final week of the Family Film Series.

Where: Davis Theater • 4614 N Lincoln Ave

When: Tues and Wed • Doors at 9:30a/Movie at 10a

Nature Story and Activity Hour: Head to Northerly Island for story time followed by a nature themed crafts activity sponsored by the park district. Come a little early or stay late to enjoy the nature paths, play areas, and views of the city skyline. Kids 6 and under. FREE.

Where: Northerly Island • 1400 S Lynn White Drive

When: Wednesday 10a-11a

Dancin' Sprouts at the Botanic Garden: Kids' band, The Amy Lowe Trio, will be performing two shows on Wednesday night at the Botanic Garden. Bring a picnic and your dancing shoes and make it a family outing. This event is free but you'll still have to pay the Botanic Garden's $20 parking fee.

When: Wednesday at 5:30p and 6:30p

Where: The Botanic Garden's Esplanade • 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe

Northcenter Town Square Concert: I'll file this one under things I wish I had discovered earlier in the summer. This is the final Wednesday of Northcenter's concert series in the square between Damen and Lincoln just north of Irving Park (next to CVS). The show includes free toys and bubbles for the kiddies, a free barbecue, and free tunes. Bring a chair and your adult beverages of choice in a cooler for a great evening! This week L'Orchestre Super-Vitesse is performing West African dance music.

Where: 4100 N Damen, Chicago

When: Wednesday 7p

Kid Olympics: No doubt to promote the possibility of the 2016 Olympics in Chicago, the Park District is hosting an olympic event for kids on Northerly Island. Kids can compete in everything from jumping rope, to making art, to naming animal species, and more.

Where: Northerly Island • 1400 S Lynn White Drive

When: Friday 11a-3p

Day Out with Thomas: Hopefully you purchased tickets for this event back in May when Windy City Tot posted a reminder for the first week of ticket sales. If not, there are still some time slots available for a ride on the Thomas Train. And even if you don't ride the train, Thomas fans will still have plenty to do as there is a Sir Topham Hatt meet and greet, clowns, puppet and magic shows, live music, story time, crafts, etc. The Railway Museum is a bit of a haul, but if your kid is a Thomas fan, this is one of the highlights of the year. Tickets are $18 for all riders over the age of 2. Click the above link to purchase tickets.

Where: IRM is located in Union - west of Crystal Lake

When: Sat and Sun 9a-5p

WTTW Fun and Run: If your kids are fans of Grover, Elmo, Big Bird, Curious George, Clifford, Super Why, and many other characters you'll find on WTTW, get down to the Fun an Run on Sunday. This is an awesome kids' event featuring an 8a Ralph's World concert for WTTW members only (still time to sign up this week). Non-members can enjoy all kinds of crafts, inflatables, performances from the Old Town School of Folk Music, photo ops with all of the above characters, and a little exercise to boot. I'm going to use my pregnancy as an excuse to skip the run/walk this year and line up early for a photo with Elmo. I learned last year that the smart parents jumped in the Elmo line while the race was still going. The rookies like me, waited in a 45 minute line just for my Elmo obsessed 1 year old to start hysterically crying when the giant, red, 5 foot monster tried to come near him for a picture. Online registration is closed. You can register at the event on Sunday or at various locations throughout the city this week. Click the above link for registration info.

Where: Lincoln Park between North Ave and Fullerton

When: Sunday walk up registration starts at 7:30a • 5K run at 9a • 3K walk at 9:30a

ON GOING

Monday 8/10 - Sunday 8/16

Sure, we were hot, sticky, dirty, and tired by the end, but our 6 hours at Lollapalooza, most of them spent in Kidzapalooza, were well worth it. I think the Little Man may have had the best day of his life. He would probably now describe kiddie heaven as having a painting wall, an instrument tent, a mohawk hair station, a Ralph's World show, ice cream, various crafts, a break dancing floor, and a park shaded by giant trees. And we all got to do things we enjoy as mom and dad were able to catch a few good adult bands and didn't even have to leave Kidzapalooza to see a performance by Band of Horses. My husband and I have done Lolla many times solo and with a tot in tow, but the last time our son was there he was a baby. We would both say that seeing the Little Man breakdance and rock out at Lolla yesterday was our fondest memory to date. A tip for parents planning to go next year, wearing a white shirt could be the worst idea in festival history. Covered in paint, food, drink, dirt and grass, I looked more like I had spent a day in the mosh pit than the kids stage.

***Reminder: Chicago Park District Fall Classes are now available to view online. Make sure to put the classes you are interested in into your shopping cart for quick-clicking online registering on Monday 8/17 at 9am. Popular classes sell out in a matter of minutes. Click here for classes.***

THIS WEEK

Camp Hollywood Family Film Series at the Davis: Every Tuesday and Wednesday the Davis Theater in Lincoln Square is showing family films for $1 per person! This week the feature presentation is "Horton Hears a Who".

When: Tues and Wed • Doors at 9:30a/Movie at 10a

Where: Davis Theater • 4614 N Lincoln Ave

Hawaiian Musical Train: Kids who are into music and trains should head to the Kohl Children's Museum on Thursday for a little of both. Kids can ride the luau train through Habitat Park and play different musical instruments while on board.

When: Thursday 2:30p

Where: Kohl Children's Museum • 2100 Patriot Blvd, Glenview

Concert in the Park: Dave Rudolf performs kids' music at one of the greatest playgrounds in the city. Bring your swimsuit and towels and hit the water playground pre-concert.

When: Thursday 6:30p

Where: Adams Playground • 1919 N. Seminary

Chicago Air and Water Show: It's crowded but it is such a cool show to witness against the backdrop of Chicago's lake front and skyline. If you don't care as much about the water show and just want to see the planes, bring your blankets and chairs to the east side of Lincoln Park and avoid the huge crowd at the lake. If your kids don't like loud noises, make sure to pack the ear muffs mentioned in last week's blog!

When: Sat and Sun • Water Show at 9a and Air Show at 11a

Where: North Ave Beach, Chicago

Day Out with Thomas: Hopefully you purchased tickets for this event back in May when Windy City Tot posted a reminder for the first week of ticket sales. If not, there are still some time slots available for a ride on the Thomas Train. And even if you don't ride the train, Thomas fans will still have plenty to do as there is a Sir Topham Hatt meet and greet, clowns, puppet and magic shows, live music, story time, crafts, etc. The Railway Museum is a bit of a haul, but if your kid is a Thomas fan, this is one of the highlights of the year. Tickets are $18 for all riders over the age of 2. Click the above link to purchase tickets.

When: Fri 8/14 - Sun 8/16 and Sat 8/22 - Sun 8/23

Where: IRM is located in Union - west of Crystal Lake

Edison Park Fest: If you have never checked out the north side neighborhood of Edison Park, this weekend is the perfect time. This fest has everything from a parade and dog show for the kids to a beer garden and live music for the parents. There is also a kids' stage with music and magicians as well as a children's play area. Aside from taking place in cute downtown Edison Park, the best part about this fest is that it starts early on Saturday and Sunday so those of us with toddlers can hit it pre-naptime!

When: Friday 5p-11p • Sat 9a-11p • Sun 10a-10p

Where: Olmsted and Oshkosh Avenues, Chicago

North Side Summerfest: This street fest in North Center promises good food, good music and a kiddie festival.

When: Fri 5p-10p • Sat 12n-10p • Sun 11a-10p

Where: Lincoln at Irving Park

Green Music Fest: This inaugural West Town Fest looks to be very promising for the green-hipster parent set and fun loving, eco-friendly kid set as well. Things I love about this fest:

Food from good local restaurants: Swim Cafe, Mexique, Green Zebra, Flo.

Good music for parents: tapes 'n tapes and Lucero

Eco-conscious family area: yoga for kids, musical petting zoo, nature exhibits, gardening for kids, rainbarrel ringtoss, book swap, the Purple Asparagus, organic vendors.

Parents can enjoy a decent beer: Fat Tire and Sierra Nevada are sponsors!

I'll see you there.

When: Sat and Sun 12n-10p

Where: Eckhart Park • 1330 W Chicago

Red Stars Soccer Clinic: Chicago's Women's Professional Soccer team is holding a soccer clinic for kids at Chase Park this weekend. Bring your little soccer fans to Chase for tips, Q&A, and autograph signing. Cost is $25.

When; Sat 9a-10:30 for 8-11 year olds • 11:30a-1p for 12-16 year olds

Where: Chase Park • 4701 N Ashland, Chicago

Viking Breakfast: Head to Andersonville for a morning at the Swedish American museum which includes a Swedish pancake breakfast, crafts and a visit from Frey the Viking. Stick around to check out the museum where your kids can dress up as Swedish immigrants and sail a steamer ship towards America.

When: Sat 9a

Where: Swedish American Museum • 5211 N Clark, Chicago

ON GOING ACTIVITIES

The Alder Planetarium The Planetarium is currently showing One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure in which Big Bird, Elmo, and a friend from China, discover fun facts about the stars, planets, sun and moon. Weekday shows are at 1p and 2:30p and weekend shows are 12n and 3p. The cost of entry plus the show is $19 for adults and $15 for kids ages 3-14.

Where: 1300 S. Lakeshore Drive, Chicago.

When: Mon-Fri 10a-4p • Sat-Sun 10a-4:30p

Barnes and Noble Story Time: Are you looking for a free activity for a rainy day? You can enjoy a latte while your kids enjoy story time at one of the Barnes and Noble city locations. 2-3 times a week the city locations offers a story time activity for children ages 0-3 years.

Where: Webster Place (1441 W. Webster) or State and Elm (1130 N. State)

When: Webster- Every Mon, Tues, Thurs 10am / State- Every Mon & Sat 10am

Brookfield Zoo: In the Dinosaurs Alive! exhibit, the Brookfield Zoo has created a Jurassic Park experience minus all the scary stuff. Kids can touch and control the movement of life-sized dinosaurs along a wooded path in an outdoor forest setting. The exhibit also features a dig site that allows visitors to find replica dinosaur fossils. General zoo admission is $12 for adults and $8 for children 3-11. Admission for Dinosaurs Alive! is an additional $5 for adults and $3 for children 3-11. The exhibit runs through October.

Chicago Botanic Garden -Model Railroad Garden: Starting this week, the Botanic Garden is featuring an area devoted to model trains. Seventeen trains travel across bridges, through tunnels, and around various American landmarks in a miniature garden setting. Admission to the Botanic Garden is free but there is a $20 per car parking fee. There is an additional fee of $5 for adults and $3 for kids for the Railroad exhibit.
Where: 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe
When: Daily 5/9-10/25 • 10a-8p

Garfield Park Conservatory: Every Wednesday through the fall is Little Green Thumb Wednesdays at the conservatory. Little gardeners can unite to dig in the soil, plant pretend veggies, play with wheel barrels, and other gardening activities. No registration required. FREE!
Where: 300 N. Central Park Avenue, Chicago • Outside in the Demonstration Garden (moves indoors to the Children's Garden in bad weather)
When: Every Wednesday through 10/28 • 3p-6p

Green City Market: Visit Chicago's largest Farmer's Market in the heart of Lincoln Park every Wed and Sat through October 31st. Be sure to stop by the Growing Home booth for your organic produce. My son loves to run around the park and boogie to the live music while I shop for our groceries.
Tip: if you are not a zoo member, consider becoming one. why would i pay to join a free zoo, you ask? zoo membership gives you free parking adjacent to the zoo and a short walk to the farmer's market (as well as a short walk to the nature museum, the beach, etc). plus zoo membership is tax deductible. we usually get an early start on saturday mornings and hit the farmer's market and then make a stop at the zoo. this makes for a full morning of outdoor activities that the entire family can enjoy!
Where: The south end of Lincoln Park between Clark and Stockton.
When: Every Wednesday and Saturday 7a-1p

The Kids' Table offers cooking classes for 2-3 year olds almost every day of the week. Classes for 4-6 year olds, 7-10 year olds, and 11-16 year olds are offered several days a week as well. The classes for toddlers and kids are one hour and cost $25. The classes for teens are 1.5 hours and are $110 for a series of four. 2337 W. North Avenue.

Lincoln Park Zoo's Edible Garden: Don't have room for a garden on your back deck? Bring your little ones to the Farm-in-the-Zoo's Edible Garden where kids get hands-on growing, weeding, compost making, and harvesting practice. Your kids may leave with an understanding that corn and tomatoes are grown somewhere other than Jewel.

Where: Lincoln Park Zoo Farm-in-the Zoo • 2200 N Canon Drive, Chicago

When: Garden is open Wed and Sat 10a-1p

Museum of Science and Industry: Bring your kids to see the Harry Potter exhibit, the Green Home exhibit, and to see live science experiments. June through October the museum will host a free farmers market on the first and third Fridays of the month from 7a-2p. The museum will always have free admission on farmers market Fridays. Otherwise, general admission is $13 for adults and $9 for kids ages 3-11.

Where: 5700 S. Lakeshore Drive, Chicago

When: Mon-Sat 9:30a-5:3op / Sun 11a-5:30p

Pump It Up: when it is too hot or cold to play outside, Pump It Up offers indoor play in Chicago and the suburbs. Kids can jump, slide, and climb on giant inflatables during Pop-in Playtime on the weekdays. The city location also has a separate area designed for little kids age 1-4. Pop-in playtime is $8 -$10 for 1.5 hours. Hit their website for hours and the address of the location nearest you. Locations include: Chicago, Glenview, Elmhurst, and Vernon Hills. Don't forget socks!

Tots on Tuesdays at the Shedd: Every Tuesday the Shedd Aquarium offers activities devoted to toddlers and pre-schoolers. There are story times, crafts, animal touch programs, videos and costumed characters.
Where: The Shedd Aquarium • 1200 S. Lakeshore Drive, Chicago
When: Tuesdays • 9a-5p

Monday 8/3 - Sunday 8/9

As we approach Lolla weekend, my thought of the week from June is worth repeating.

Thought of the Week: All Ears

Just as you protect your child's sensitive skin from the scorching heat at summer fests, their sensitive ears need to be protected from the booming music as well. My son's sweet-looking "headphones" are a staple in the festival bag. The headphones are really noise-reduction ear muffs and he actually keeps them on while we are watching live music at summer fests. Not only does he wear them, but he looks super cool in the muffs and loves all the attention he gets from festival goers as he rides on my husband's back in a backpack or dances near the stage showing off his ear gear. Click here to buy a pair for your little one. At $17 they are an inexpensive investment in your child's health that will be used for many years to come.

Free Mocha Mondays: Need a pick-me-up? McDonald's is giving Starbucks a run for its money in the mocha world by offering free iced or hot mochas this Monday. No coupon necessary.

When: Monday 7a-7p

Where: Your nearest McDonald's

Camp Hollywood Family Film Series at the Davis: Every Tuesday and Wednesday the Davis Theater in Lincoln Square is showing family films for $1 per person! This week the feature presentation is "Alvin and the Chipmunks".

When: Tues and Wed • Doors at 9:30a/Movie at 10a

Where: Davis Theater • 4614 N Lincoln Ave

Dancin' Sprouts at the Botanic Garden: Kids' band, Dave Rudolf's It's A Jungle Out There, will be performing two shows on Wednesday night at the Botanic Garden. Bring a picnic and your dancing shoes and make it a family outing. This event is free but you'll still have to pay the Botanic Garden's $20 parking fee.

When: Wednesday at 5:30p and 6:30p

Where: The Botanic Garden's Esplanade • 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe

Toddlers, Tunes, and Turtles: this Park District program will make its way to various Chicago parks throughout the summer. Kids can get up close and personal with a turtle and other animals, participate in nature-themed art projects, and listen to live performances by artists from Old Town School of Folk Music. FREE.

When: Wednesday • 5p-7p

Where: Margate Park 4921 N Marine Drive

Stroller Strut: During this park district program, kids get to learn about nature from the comfort of their ride while mom or dad gets some exercise. FREE.

When: Wed 10a at Winnemac and Thurs 10a at Northerly Island

Where: Winnemac Park and Northerly Island

Hawaiian Musical Train: Kids that are into music and trains should head to the Kohl Children's Museum on Thursday for a little of both. Kids can ride the luau train through Habitat Park and play different musical instruments while on board.

When: Thursday 2:30p

Where: Kohl Children's Museum • 2100 Patriot Blvd, Glenview

Kite Festival: Go fly a kite at the Botanic Garden this weekend. The Chicago Fire Kite Team will put on a stunt kite show set to music near Evening Island. Kids can make their own flying machines during kite workshops throughout the weekend.

When: Sat and Sun 11a-4p

Where: The Botanic Garden's Esplanade • 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe

Lollapalooza: It takes a bit of a commitment, but if you can manage to get yourself, your kids, your gear, their snacks and your sanity all out the door and through the line of twenty-somethings leading into Grant Park, you will be rewarded with Kidzapalooza and perhaps a few forays to the adult stages as well. But not to worry, should you never leave the kids area there is sure to be a surprise special guest performance by a major player from one of the main stages (such as Jeff Tweedy and Jim James in years past). Aside from the music, your kids can get their hair punk-rocked out, play instruments, learn to break dance, paint a rock poster, or make crafts with recycled goods. It is the Mecca of all the Chicago kiddie festivals.

When: Fri-Sun 11a-5p

Where: Grant Park • Enter at Columbus and Congress or Columbus and Monroe

Wrigleyville SummerFest: Your typical Chicago street fest hits Wrigleyville this weekend. The Kids Zone features games, activities, and music. $5 donation.

When: Sat 12n-10p • Sun 10a-9p

Where: Wrigleyville • Seminary and Roscoe

Monday 7/27 - Sunday 8/2

Ahhh....heavenly bliss. A big shout out to my husband who treated me to a spa day while he took our son to Taste of Lincoln on Sunday. While they bounced, crafted, and ate their way through another summer street fest, I was rubbed, scrubbed, and pampered. Just what the doctor ordered.

Thought of the Week: You Scream I Scream

According to my son, he did not receive an ample amount of treats at Wicker Park fest on Saturday and was sure that he deserved some ice cream on the way out. His pregnant mama was sure she deserved a seat and some air-conditioning, so we rolled the stroller into the space-age looking iCream Cafe on Milwaukee. What makes this ice cream shop different from any other is that all the ice cream is made to order with liquid nitrogen, producing enough "smoke" to impress even the crankiest post-festival toddler. The flavors and choices are endless, from ice cream to frozen yogurt to sorbet, all created from scratch in front of your eyes. While the Little Man simply wanted some vanilla topped with jelly bellies, I was able to create a delicious fresh coconut, black cherry, chocolate concoction. Using fresh ingredients and some liquid magic, our frozen treats were produced like magic with plenty of "ews and ahs" from my son. Kids or kids-at-heart can order ice cream or yogurt in a variety of colors turning plain vanilla into a brightly colored frozen heap. Adults will love the grown-up flavor options like almond, green tea, or nutella. And those families with dietary restrictions don't need to worry as all items can be ordered lactose free, sugar free, nut free, or vegan. For kids obsessed with science and yumminess, iCream Cafe is available for birthday parties. It is a one of a kind experience and a local, independent business - a win-win in my book.

THIS WEEK

Free Mocha Mondays: Need a pick-me-up? McDonald's is giving Starbucks a run for its money in the mocha world by offering free iced or hot mochas this Monday and next. No coupon necessary.

When: Monday 7a-7p

Where: Your nearest McDonald's

Bees at Work: Every Tuesday and Saturday during the summer, the Garfield Park Conservatory bee keepers allow visitors to watch bee hive maintenance in action. Guests will learn all about what the busy bees are up to and can ask questions of the bee professionals. FREE.

Where: Garfield Park Conservatory Demonstration Garden • 300 N Central Park Ave, Chicago

When: Tuesdays and Saturdays 10:30a-11:30a

Cavalia: When you try to envision this show, think Cirque du Soleil meets magical horse extravaganza. It features acrobats, dancers, aerialist, trick-riders, and over 30 horses - the stars of the show. The acts are set to live new-age music performed by a hidden orchestra under a white big top tent in the middle of the west loop. This is a dramatic show at a dramatic price. Be prepared to pay anywhere from $35-$210 based on when you go and where you sit. Click on the link above for pricing details.

Where: Racine and Jackson, Chicago

When: Tues-Sun through Aug 2nd

Craft Mobile: Throughout the week the Chicago Park District is bringing an outdoor crafting station to various parks and playlots throughout the city. Kids under age 6 can enjoy outdoor craft projects including sidewalk murals, stained glass window hangings, drawing, and more. All crafting supplies will be provided. Hit their website for where to find the Craft Mobile this week. There are 13 stops this week including the Ravenswood Manor and Senn playlots. FREE.

Where: Various playgrounds throughout the city

When: Weekdays - check link above for schedule

Camp Hollywood Family Film Series at the Davis: Every Tuesday and Wednesday the Davis Theater in Lincoln Square is showing family films for $1 per person! This week the feature presentation is "Kung Fu Panda".

Where: Davis Theater • 4614 N Lincoln Ave

When: Tues and Wed • Doors at 9:30a/Movie at 10a

Family Evening at Kilbourn Park: Kilbourn Park never fails to disappoint me with their kids events. Stop by this week to tour the organic green house (where I always buy my veggie seedlings for our spring planting), have an encounter with small animals, do some arts and crafts and watch a cooking demonstration. There will be something for parent and tot alike!

Where: Kilbourn Park • 3501 N Kilbourn, Chicago

When: Wednesday 5:30p-7:30p

Wild Wednesdays: On the last Wednesday of the month, Garfield Park has a live animal show-and-tell with professional animal handler Scott Heinrichs. This week guests can get a close-up look at bats, participate in a scavenger hunt and other animal activities. FREE

Where: Garfield Park Conservatory • 300 N Central Park Ave

When: Wednesday 3p-6p (drop in anytime)

Open Streets: On Saturday 8-miles of Chicago's Boulevards are turned from a thoroughfare for cars to a playground for your feet. From Fullerton all the way south 24th Blvd, the people of Chicago can walk, run, bike, skip, and play without the fear of cars getting in their way. This is a great way to get some exercise while checking out Chicago's beautiful tree-lined Boulevards.

Where: From Logan Square to Little Village (click above link for map)

When: Saturday 8:30a-2p

Retro on Roscoe: This fest has something for the whole fam - an antique car show, chili cook-off, art, antiques, various vendors, and music. The west stage features all the major names in kids' bands including Mary Macaroni, Scribble Monster, Ralph's World, and Justin Robers. The kids' area will also feature crafts, games, costumed characters, and more.

Where: Roscoe Village • 2000 West Roscoe, Chicago

When: Sat and Sun 12n-10p

Russian American Kids Circus: Ravina isn't just for the wine and cheese crowd anymore. Jump on the Metra with your little ones and a picnic basket and head to the Northshore concert venue this weekend to hang with the PB&J crowd. On Saturday, veterans of the Moscow Circus take the stage performing acrobatics, unicycling, juggling, balancing acts, and more. Click on the above link to buy your tickets ahead of time.

Where: 200 Ravinia Park Road • Highland Park

When: Saturday • Gates at 10a and performance at 12n

Chicago Children's Museum: Sunday is a free day at the Children's Museum and a perfect time to check out the new Block Party exhibit. Block Party is a kids-sized replica of Chicago's neighborhood festivals. Kids will have the chance to get on stage to perform in a rock band, prepare meals in food booths for the festival goers, use the cash registers, or just chill out on the lawn for some people watching and live music.

Where: Navy Pier • 700 E. Grand Ave, Chicago

When: Sunday is free for kids 15 and under • Hours are M-W/F-Sun 10a-5p and Th 10a-8p

ON GOING ACTIVITIES

The Alder Planetarium The Planetarium is currently showing One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure in which Big Bird, Elmo, and a friend from China, discover fun facts about the stars, planets, sun and moon. Weekday shows are at 1p and 2:30p and weekend shows are 12n and 3p. The cost of entry plus the show is $19 for adults and $15 for kids ages 3-14.

Where: 1300 S. Lakeshore Drive, Chicago.

When: Mon-Fri 10a-4p • Sat-Sun 10a-4:30p

Barnes and Noble Story Time: Are you looking for a free activity for a rainy day? You can enjoy a latte while your kids enjoy story time at one of the Barnes and Noble city locations. 2-3 times a week the city locations offers a story time activity for children ages 0-3 years.

Where: Webster Place (1441 W. Webster) or State and Elm (1130 N. State)

When: Webster- Every Mon, Tues, Thurs 10am / State- Every Mon & Sat 10am

Brookfield Zoo: In the Dinosaurs Alive! exhibit, the Brookfield Zoo has created a Jurassic Park experience minus all the scary stuff. Kids can touch and control the movement of life-sized dinosaurs along a wooded path in an outdoor forest setting. The exhibit also features a dig site that allows visitors to find replica dinosaur fossils. General zoo admission is $12 for adults and $8 for children 3-11. Admission for Dinosaurs Alive! is an additional $5 for adults and $3 for children 3-11. The exhibit runs through October.

Chicago Botanic Garden -Model Railroad Garden: Starting this week, the Botanic Garden is featuring an area devoted to model trains. Seventeen trains travel across bridges, through tunnels, and around various American landmarks in a miniature garden setting. Admission to the Botanic Garden is free but there is a $20 per car parking fee. There is an additional fee of $5 for adults and $3 for kids for the Railroad exhibit.
Where: 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe
When: Daily 5/9-10/25 • 10a-8p

Garfield Park Conservatory: Every Wednesday through the fall is Little Green Thumb Wednesdays at the conservatory. Little gardeners can unite to dig in the soil, plant pretend veggies, play with wheel barrels, and other gardening activities. No registration required. FREE!
Where: 300 N. Central Park Avenue, Chicago • Outside in the Demonstration Garden (moves indoors to the Children's Garden in bad weather)
When: Every Wednesday through 10/28 • 3p-6p

Green City Market: Visit Chicago's largest Farmer's Market in the heart of Lincoln Park every Wed and Sat through October 31st. Be sure to stop by the Growing Home booth for your organic produce. My son loves to run around the park and boogie to the live music while I shop for our groceries.
Tip: if you are not a zoo member, consider becoming one. why would i pay to join a free zoo, you ask? zoo membership gives you free parking adjacent to the zoo and a short walk to the farmer's market (as well as a short walk to the nature museum, the beach, etc). plus zoo membership is tax deductible. we usually get an early start on saturday mornings and hit the farmer's market and then make a stop at the zoo. this makes for a full morning of outdoor activities that the entire family can enjoy!
Where: The south end of Lincoln Park between Clark and Stockton.
When: Every Wednesday and Saturday 7a-1p

The Kids' Table offers cooking classes for 2-3 year olds almost every day of the week. Classes for 4-6 year olds, 7-10 year olds, and 11-16 year olds are offered several days a week as well. The classes for toddlers and kids are one hour and cost $25. The classes for teens are 1.5 hours and are $110 for a series of four. 2337 W. North Avenue.

Lincoln Park Zoo's Edible Garden: Don't have room for a garden on your back deck? Bring your little ones to the Farm-in-the-Zoo's Edible Garden where kids get hands-on growing, weeding, compost making, and harvesting practice. Your kids may leave with an understanding that corn and tomatoes are grown somewhere other than Jewel.

Where: Lincoln Park Zoo Farm-in-the Zoo • 2200 N Canon Drive, Chicago

When: Garden is open Wed and Sat 10a-1p

Museum of Science and Industry: Bring your kids to see the Harry Potter exhibit, the Green Home exhibit, and to see live science experiments. June through October the museum will host a free farmers market on the first and third Fridays of the month from 7a-2p. The museum will always have free admission on farmers market Fridays. Otherwise, general admission is $13 for adults and $9 for kids ages 3-11.

Where: 5700 S. Lakeshore Drive, Chicago

When: Mon-Sat 9:30a-5:3op / Sun 11a-5:30p

Pump It Up: when it is too hot or cold to play outside, Pump It Up offers indoor play in Chicago and the suburbs. Kids can jump, slide, and climb on giant inflatables during Pop-in Playtime on the weekdays. The city location also has a separate area designed for little kids age 1-4. Pop-in playtime is $8 -$10 for 1.5 hours. Hit their website for hours and the address of the location nearest you. Locations include: Chicago, Glenview, Elmhurst, and Vernon Hills. Don't forget socks!

Tots on Tuesdays at the Shedd: Every Tuesday the Shedd Aquarium offers activities devoted to toddlers and pre-schoolers. There are story times, crafts, animal touch programs, videos and costumed characters.
Where: The Shedd Aquarium • 1200 S. Lakeshore Drive, Chicago
When: Tuesdays • 9a-5p

Monday 7/20 - Sunday 7/26

The weekend took a turn for the unexpected when my toddler came down with the Hand, Foot, and Mouth Virus on Saturday. This is apparently the time of year for it, so keep your antibacterial wipes and gels handy. So while my husband enjoyed 2 days of music at Pitchfork, I had a hot little head laying in my lap watching 2 days worth of DVR'ed Little Einsteins and Blues Clues. And while there is nowhere else I'd rather be when my little man needs his mommy, I'm thinking that next weekend is spa weekend. Quid pro quo hubby.

Thought of the Week: Land of No

I consider myself a gold medalist at the sport of shopping. I know when the markdown days are at my favorite stores, I keep my receipts handy for price adjustments, I always seek and find my way to discounts. I started shopping online this week for my toddler's big boy bed. I've decided that he needs a trundle bed so that when his little bff sleeps over one day, we'll have a place for him to crash. An extra mattress, the same footprint as a twin bed, what's not to love? The price. Pottery Barn and Land of Nod want to charge me along the lines of $1000 for a trundle bed. Not including the mattress. My little man has bit, scratched and kicked his crib enough to confirm that the $249 crib from Walmart was the way to go (btw, if you are in the market for a crib, click here for the one I own and love). Anyway, dropping four figures on a bed that my child will trash seemed like a ridiculous idea so I decided to make a trek up to the Land of Nod outlet, Nods and Ends, in Northbrook. With 2.5 year old in tow on Thursday, we snacked and sang our way up I-94, finally finding the legendary store in a bizarre industrial office park. We walked in and I couldn't believe it, among the sea of furniture was a beautiful trundle bed for $419. Fully assembled. Fab. I asked the not-so-helpful guy behind the counter if I could purchase it over the phone later in the day after I measured to make sure it would fit in my door? No. Do they deliver? No. Any further discount for the nick in the bed? No. If I buy today, can I pick it up next weekend? No. While the little man attempted to destroy the store and climb on top of every bed and beanbag in sight, I hurriedly worked out the details of truck rental and pick up coordination with my husband. I report back to cashier man that I'll purchase it and pick it up that night. Done deal. That's when the guy gives me information that a bargain hunter can't resist: Thursday night is "power hour" night. Between the hours of 5p-8p on Thursday night all items in the store are an additional 15% off. Cell phone calculator tells me this is an additional $63 discount. New plan, husband purchases and picks up bed at 5p. Excitedly, my toddler and I leave with visions of a the insta-big boy bed floating in our heads. What the Nods guy didn't tell me is that items fly out the door at this place. When I called a few hours later to confirm that the bed was still there, the girl on the phone told me she had just sold it. Lesson learned: when you see it, snatch it at Nods and Ends. Although I'm still bitter about the bed, I'm not knocking it. In fact, I can't recommend Nods and Ends enough for dressers, beds, bedding, and storage items for your kids. But here's some things to know before you go: all purchases have to be made on site, you must pick up within a week, 15% off hours are Monday 9a-11a and Thursday 5p-8p. As much as I enjoy the thrill of the hunt at Nods and Ends, it looks like I'm going with the Costco trundle as I can't take the emotion of losing in the furniture shopping olympics again. This time, the gold medal goes to some north shore mom who knows to buy a trundle bed on discount when she sees it. Yay for her.

THIS WEEK

Cavalia: When you try to envision this show, think Cirque du Soleil meets magical horse extravaganza. It features acrobats, dancers, aerialist, trick-riders, and over 30 horses - the stars of the show. The acts are set to live new-age music performed by a hidden orchestra under a white big top tent in the middle of the west loop. This is a dramatic show at a dramatic price. Be prepared to pay anywhere from $35-$210 based on when you go and where you sit. Click on the link above for pricing details.

Where: Racine and Jackson, Chicago

When: Tues-Sun through Aug 2nd

Craft Mobile: Throughout the week the Chicago Park District is bringing an outdoor crafting station to various parks and playlots throughout the city. Kids under age 6 can enjoy outdoor craft projects including sidewalk murals, stained glass window hangings, drawing, and more. All crafting supplies will be provided. Hit their website for where to find the Craft Mobile this week. There are 13 stops this week including the Ravenswood Manor and Senn playlots. FREE.

Where: Various playgrounds throughout the city

When: Weekdays - check link above for schedule

Camp Hollywood Family Film Series at the Davis: Every Tuesday and Wednesday the Davis Theater in Lincoln Square is showing family films for $1 per person! This week the feature presentation is "Mall Cop". Probably best suited for kids over age 12.

Where: Davis Theater • 4614 N Lincoln Ave

When: Tues and Wed • Doors at 9:30a/Movie at 10a

Toddlers, Tunes, and Turtles: this Park District program will make its way to various Chicago parks throughout the summer. Kids can get up close and personal with a turtle and other animals, participate in nature-themed art projects, and listen to live performances by artists from Old Town School of Folk Music. FREE.

Where: Tues = Daily Bicentennial Plaza • Wed = Lincoln Park (meet at Notebaert Nature Museum)

When: Tuesday and Wednesday • 5p-7p

Nature Story and Activity Hour: Head to Northerly Island for story time followed by a nature themed crafts activity sponsored by the park district. Come a little early or stay late to enjoy the nature paths, play areas, and views of the city skyline. Kids 6 and under. FREE.

Where: Northerly Island • 1400 S Lynn White Drive

When: Wednesday 10a-11a

Dupage County Fair: City dwellers, want to expose your kids to an authentic county fair? Hit Wheaton's this week for entertainment which will include an antique tractor parade, magic shows, 4-H contests, kids' music, a watermelon eating contest, flower and vegetable shows, and more. There will be enough horses, goats, pigs, etc to make you feel like you are way out in the country. Bonus for parents: Los Lobos is playing Wednesday night. Admission is $10 for adults, $3 kids age 3-12, and free for kids 2 and under.

Where: DuPage County Fair Grounds • 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton

When: Wed-Fri 8a-10a • Sat-Sun 8a-11a

Newberry Library Book Fair: The whole fam can get smarty and get shapely at the 25th annual Newberry Book Fair. Head downtown early for free 9a adult yoga followed by kids' yoga at 10:30a in Washington Park. There will be book signings, live music, and a historic soap box debate between Lincoln and Douglas on Saturday. Aside from the entertainment, the Newberry will have over 100,000 books for sale, many of them priced at $2, which includes children's books.

Where: Newberry Library 60 W Walton Street, Chicago

When: Th-Fri 12n-8p Sat -Sun 10a-6p (book sale is thur-sun and festival is on saturday)

Kid Olympics: No doubt to promote the possibility of the 2016 Olympics in Chicago, the Park District is hosting an olympic event for kids on Northerly Island. Kids can compete in everything from jumping rope, to making art, to naming animal species, and more.

Where: Northerly Island • 1400 S Lynn White Drive

When: Friday 11a-3p

Taste of Lincoln Ave: Big props to the Taste of Lincoln's kids' carnival - while you will have to donate $7 to get into the street festival, the kids fest is absolutely free! There will be children's music on the kids' stage all day plus a giant slide, petting zoo, arts and crafts, pony rides, face painting, games, etc. Enter the kids' carnival on Halsted where it meets the Altgeld cul-de-sac for free admission! If you enter through the street fest, you'll have to pay to get in.

Where: Street Fest is Lincoln Ave between Fullerton and Wrightwood • Kids Carnival is on the 800 Block of West Altgeld

When: Sat and Sun - 12n-6p Kids Carnival • 12n-10p Street Fest

Wicker Park Fest: This fest is clearly targeted to indie rock fans, hipsters, and people who enjoy food from trendy Wicker Park/Bucktown restaurants. Sounds great if you didn't have kids right? Although it is not widely publicized, there is going to be a kids' play area with performances geared to please your little ones. Maybe it will be the best of both worlds. $5 donation.

Where: Milwaukee at North Ave, Chicago

When: Sat and Sun • 12n-10p

ON GOING ACTIVITIES

The Alder Planetarium The Planetarium is currently showing One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure in which Big Bird, Elmo, and a friend from China, discover fun facts about the stars, planets, sun and moon. Weekday shows are at 1p and 2:30p and weekend shows are 12n and 3p. The cost of entry plus the show is $19 for adults and $15 for kids ages 3-14.

Where: 1300 S. Lakeshore Drive, Chicago.

When: Mon-Fri 10a-4p • Sat-Sun 10a-4:30p

Barnes and Noble Story Time: Are you looking for a free activity for a rainy day? You can enjoy a latte while your kids enjoy story time at one of the Barnes and Noble city locations. 2-3 times a week the city locations offers a story time activity for children ages 0-3 years.

Where: Webster Place (1441 W. Webster) or State and Elm (1130 N. State)

When: Webster- Every Mon, Tues, Thurs 10am / State- Every Mon & Sat 10am

Brookfield Zoo: In the Dinosaurs Alive! exhibit, the Brookfield Zoo has created a Jurassic Park experience minus all the scary stuff. Kids can touch and control the movement of life-sized dinosaurs along a wooded path in an outdoor forest setting. The exhibit also features a dig site that allows visitors to find replica dinosaur fossils. General zoo admission is $12 for adults and $8 for children 3-11. Admission for Dinosaurs Alive! is an additional $5 for adults and $3 for children 3-11. The exhibit runs through October.

Chicago Botanic Garden -Model Railroad Garden: Starting this week, the Botanic Garden is featuring an area devoted to model trains. Seventeen trains travel across bridges, through tunnels, and around various American landmarks in a miniature garden setting. Admission to the Botanic Garden is free but there is a $20 per car parking fee. There is an additional fee of $5 for adults and $3 for kids for the Railroad exhibit.
Where: 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe
When: Daily 5/9-10/25 • 10a-8p

Chicago Children's Museum: The first Sunday of the month is always a free day at the Children's Museum and a perfect time to check out the new Block Party exhibit. Block Party is a kids-sized replica of Chicago's neighborhood festivals. Kids will have the chance to get on stage to perform in a rock band, prepare meals in food booths for the festival goers, use the cash registers, or just chill out on the lawn for some people watching and live music.

Where: Navy Pier • 700 E. Grand Ave, Chicago

When: M-W/F-Sun 10a-5p and Th 10a-8p

Garfield Park Conservatory: Every Wednesday through the fall is Little Green Thumb Wednesdays at the conservatory. Little gardeners can unite to dig in the soil, plant pretend veggies, play with wheel barrels, and other gardening activities. No registration required. FREE!
Where: 300 N. Central Park Avenue, Chicago • Outside in the Demonstration Garden (moves indoors to the Children's Garden in bad weather)
When: Every Wednesday through 10/28 • 3p-6p

Green City Market: Visit Chicago's largest Farmer's Market in the heart of Lincoln Park every Wed and Sat through October 31st. Be sure to stop by the Growing Home booth for your organic produce. My son loves to run around the park and boogie to the live music while I shop for our groceries.
Tip: if you are not a zoo member, consider becoming one. why would i pay to join a free zoo, you ask? zoo membership gives you free parking adjacent to the zoo and a short walk to the farmer's market (as well as a short walk to the nature museum, the beach, etc). plus zoo membership is tax deductible. we usually get an early start on saturday mornings and hit the farmer's market and then make a stop at the zoo. this makes for a full morning of outdoor activities that the entire family can enjoy!
Where: The south end of Lincoln Park between Clark and Stockton.
When: Every Wednesday and Saturday 7a-1p

The Kids' Table offers cooking classes for 2-3 year olds almost every day of the week. Classes for 4-6 year olds, 7-10 year olds, and 11-16 year olds are offered several days a week as well. The classes for toddlers and kids are one hour and cost $25. The classes for teens are 1.5 hours and are $110 for a series of four. 2337 W. North Avenue.

Lincoln Park Zoo's Edible Garden: Don't have room for a garden on your back deck? Bring your little ones to the Farm-in-the-Zoo's Edible Garden where kids get hands-on growing, weeding, compost making, and harvesting practice. Your kids may leave with an understanding that corn and tomatoes are grown somewhere other than Jewel.

Where: Lincoln Park Zoo Farm-in-the Zoo • 2200 N Canon Drive, Chicago

When: Garden is open Wed and Sat 10a-1p

Museum of Science and Industry: Bring your kids to see the Harry Potter exhibit, the Green Home exhibit, and to see live science experiments. June through October the museum will host a free farmers market on the first and third Fridays of the month from 7a-2p. The museum will always have free admission on farmers market Fridays. Otherwise, general admission is $13 for adults and $9 for kids ages 3-11.

Where: 5700 S. Lakeshore Drive, Chicago

When: Mon-Sat 9:30a-5:3op / Sun 11a-5:30p

Pump It Up: when it is too hot or cold to play outside, Pump It Up offers indoor play in Chicago and the suburbs. Kids can jump, slide, and climb on giant inflatables during Pop-in Playtime on the weekdays. The city location also has a separate area designed for little kids age 1-4. Pop-in playtime is $8 -$10 for 1.5 hours. Hit their website for hours and the address of the location nearest you. Locations include: Chicago, Glenview, Elmhurst, and Vernon Hills. Don't forget socks!

Tots on Tuesdays at the Shedd: Every Tuesday the Shedd Aquarium offers activities devoted to toddlers and pre-schoolers. There are story times, crafts, animal touch programs, videos and costumed characters.
Where: The Shedd Aquarium • 1200 S. Lakeshore Drive, Chicago
When: Tuesdays • 9a-5p