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If summer camp is part of your family’s plan, January and February are key months. Many camps start filling up by March, and waiting too long can mean fewer options or settling for something that’s not quite the right fit for your child. If you’re thinking ahead (or trying to catch up), here’s a realistic summer camp planning timeline, along with tips that have helped Chicago parents navigate the process with less stress. A Realistic Summer Camp Planning Timeline for Parents Most families book summer camps 2–3 months in advance, and many of us spend a month or two researching and coordinating before committing. Based on that, here’s a timeline that tends to work well: January - February: Start researching camps and mapping out summer logistics. Will your child attend multiple camps? Do you have family travel planned? Are you coordinating care around work schedules? This is the time to explore options without pressure. March - April: Make camp decisions, secure spots, and complete registration and paperwork. Many popular camps fill up quickly during this window. May - June: The countdown is over! Now's the perfect time to help your child prepare for camp. Talk through expectations, routines, and excitement (and nerves!). Getting kids mentally ready can make a big difference. How Chicago Parents Can Research Summer Camps More Easily Summer camp is more than childcare, it’s an investment of time, money, and trust. Your child will spend hours (or weeks!) there, so finding the right fit matters. Here are a few research tips many Chicago parents rely on: 1. Read reviews from families like yours Parent reviews are often the most helpful place to start. Look for feedback from families with similar-aged kids or priorities. Reviews can reveal what families loved and what they wish they had known. 2. Ask questions directly Don’t be afraid to reach out to camp directors or staff. Ask about safety protocols, staff training, daily schedules, and camp philosophy. The American Camp Association (ACA) offers a great list of questions to guide these conversations. 3. Talk to camps face-to-face when you can Meeting camp representatives in person can make decision-making much easier. You can get a feel for the people behind the program and ask questions in real time, something many parents find reassuring. Finding the Right Camp for Your Child At the end of the day, the “best” camp is the one where your child feels safe, engaged, and excited to go. Here’s what tends to help: Talk with your child and pay attention. Ask what they’re curious about. Art? Sports? Science? Nature? Even young kids often have strong opinions, and including them in the conversation builds buy-in. Have you noticed your kiddo is showing interest in music lately? Don't be afraid to throw out a few ideas to get the ball rolling, too. See what friends are doing - but don’t feel pressure. Signing up with a friend can help hesitant campers feel more comfortable, but every child develops at their own pace. What works for one family may not work for yours. Trust what you know about your child. Age guidelines are helpful and all but they aren’t everything. Some kids thrive in longer days or new environments earlier than others. Choose the camp experience that supports your child’s growth, not one that simply checks a box. So, that might mean pushing that overnight camp that you were excited about back another year if your kiddo doesn't seem ready for that sort of experience. One Easy Way to Get Ahead on Summer (and School) Planning If you’re looking for a simple, low-pressure way to explore summer camps and even start thinking about school options - get both done all in one place at our upcoming Winter School Fair & Summer Camp Fest! Designed to feel more like a family playdate than a formal fair, this event gives parents the chance to meet Chicago summer camps and schools face-to-face, ask questions, and gather information while kids enjoy activities in a welcoming space. If summer camp planning is on your to-do list, this is an easy way to get ahead before spots start filling up. Learn more and register for free here:

Feel the energy of the United Center and SEE RED with this member-exclusive offer! NPN members receive discounted tickets to select Chicago Bulls games. This special benefit helps families experience the excitement of live NBA action - and inspires the next generation of Bulls fans to gear up, cheer loud, and make memories together.

It’s every parent’s daily puzzle: you ask, “How was school today?” and your child answers with the dreaded one word response, “good.” While short responses are totally normal, they don’t always give you the full picture of how your child is really doing - socially, emotionally, or academically. The truth is, kids often need a little help opening up. By asking thoughtful, specific questions, you can create space for them to share their experiences and feelings in a safe way. Here are 10 questions that go beyond the surface and help you check in on your child’s well-being at school. 1. Who did you play with (or hang out with) today? This simple question gets them naming names. If your child regularly says “no one,” it could signal they’re struggling to make connections. 2. Who do you sit with at lunch? What do you all usually talk about? Lunch is social prime time! This reveals whether your child feels included and has friends to spend time with during the most social part of the day. 3. If you had to invite one friend from school over, who would it be? Asking about a potential playdate or hangout shows you who they trust and genuinely enjoy spending time with. 4. Did anyone make you feel really happy (or really upset) today? This opens the door to both the positive and the negative. Helping kids feel comfortable sharing the highs and the lows. 5. Who do you think is the funniest kid in your class? A fun, lighthearted way to learn who your child gravitates toward or admires. Sometimes laughter is the glue that bonds friendships. 6. Has anyone ever said something mean or teased you? What did you do? Kids may bring up teasing before admitting to bullying. This question lets them process tough interactions without feeling pressured or like they're tattling. 7. Is there anyone at school you don’t really like being around? Why? It gives kids a safe space to talk about uncomfortable or tricky situations without labeling it as conflict or drama. 8. If I asked your teacher who your best friend is, what would they say? This helps you see if your child’s “friendship reality” matches how others might perceive it and it’s a good way to check in on how connected they feel. 9. When you’re working in groups, who do you usually end up with? Academic and social dynamics overlap here. Group work can highlight whether your child feels included or left out by peers. 10. If you saw another kid getting picked on, what would you do? This not only reveals your child’s perspective on bullying, but can also hint at whether they’ve experienced it themselves. These questions aren’t meant to be an interrogation. The goal is to sprinkle one or two of them naturally into your daily routines - on the walk home, during dinner, or at bedtime, so conversations feel easy and open. Over time, these check-ins build trust and give your child the confidence to share more about their world at school. And let's be realistic, your child probably won't ope up right away. Don’t be discouraged. Keep asking, keep listening, and keep showing up.

When we think about back-to-school season, most of the focus lands on the morning hustle of packing lunches, racing the clock, and getting everyone out the door on time. But here’s the secret many parents overlook (myself included...until now!): what happens after school may actually matter more than what happens before it. The after-school hours set the tone for the entire evening, influencing everything from your child’s mood to their ability to learn and your family’s overall stress level. By prioritizing a strong, predictable after-school routine, you’re not just managing chaos - you’re laying the foundation for parenting success this school year. Not buying it? Here are a few tips to give it a try this week and see if you notice a difference. 1. Start with a Reset Ritual Kids hold it together all day at school, and when that final bell rings, they need a chance to exhale. Build in a short transition ritual before jumping into homework or activities. This could be a snack at the kitchen table, 15 minutes of quiet time, or even a quick walk around the block. It signals to your child that school is over, home is safe, and now it's time to reset. 2. Fuel with the Right Snacks Am I the only one with kids that are true believers that they are near starvation after school? The dreaded 'fridge binge is real. Keep a rotation of easy, healthy snacks on hand to hold the kiddos over until dinner. Easy grabs like fruit, cheese sticks, hummus and pita, or even something light like popcorn are your no-prep saviors. Pairing protein and carbs help stabilize energy so kids don’t crash before dinner. Food prep isn't my favorite hobby but I'm giving it a try this year for after school snacks, to keep me sane and to keep my kids away from the fridge (and out of our stash of other lunch items for the week). 3. Create a Homework Habit (That Works for Your Family) Some kids like to dive right into homework, while others need downtime first. Don't let the influential moms on social media get you down because your kid's homework routine doesn't look like theirs. The real key is consistency. Choose a regular time and place for schoolwork, whether it’s the dining table, a cozy corner, or the library down the street. Keep supplies handy to cut down on the “Where’s a pencil?!” scramble. 4. Balance Activities with Downtime Chicago offers endless after-school options from sports, arts, tutoring, you name it. While enrichment activities are great, don’t forget that kids also need unstructured time to rest, play, and just be kids. Striking a balance helps prevent burnout - for them and for you. 5. Build in Connection Moments Evenings can slip by in a blur of dinner, homework, and bedtime. Make it a goal to carve out at least one intentional moment of connection each night. Whether it’s a conversation about the day, a family walk, or simply laughing together over dinner. These little check-ins strengthen bonds and give you valuable insight into your child’s school life. 6. Prep for Tomorrow, Tonight Want to make your mornings less stressful? Do as much as possible in the evening. Pack lunches, lay out clothes (I even started letting my kiddos sleep in one piece of clothing that they'll wear to school the next day to ease grumpy getting dressed sessions), stuff homework folders, and sign permission slips. And by 'do' I mean do together. Enlist the help of your kiddo, no matter how old they are - to teach them how to be prepared and get them excited for the following day. A calm morning can be a whole lot easier with a well-organized night. The Bottom Line: Parenting success this back-to-school season isn’t about having the most color-coded calendar or Instagram-worthy lunchbox. It’s about creating an after-school rhythm that supports your child’s well-being and gives your family more peace at the end of each day. By prioritizing these hours, you set everyone up for smoother mornings, stronger connections, and a school year that feels less frantic and more fulfilling.

Pride Month in Chicago is a vibrant celebration of love, acceptance, and community - and families across the city have more ways than ever to join in the fun. Whether you’re crafting rainbow art with your toddler, attending a family parade, or dancing at Navy Pier, there’s something for every age and stage. Here are a few family-friendly Pride events happening around Chicago this June: Rainbow Family Story Times Pride is the perfect time to read books that celebrate love in all its forms. South Shore Branch Library (June 23): This inclusive story time celebrates the beauty of diverse families through joyful storytelling. Edgewater Branch Library (June 9): Don’t miss Drag Story Time, a dazzling experience with books, music, and movement for kids ages 2–5, plus open play afterward! Creative Pride Crafts & DIY Fun Tap into your kids’ creativity and celebrate Pride Month with color and flair. Pop Out with Pride at Woodson Regional (June 4): Kids 6+ can explore LGBTQIA-themed crafts and activities at this engaging library event. DIY Pride Sunglasses at Lincoln Belmont (June 14): Teens can design festive sunglasses to wear all month long. Tie-Dye Party at Lincoln Park Branch (June 24): Teens 13+ can create wearable rainbow art. Registration is required and supplies are provided. Celebrating Pride: Family Nail Painting (Santori Library, June 19): Celebrate self-expression through a fun, all-ages nail painting event. Walk, March, and Dance Together What better way to show your pride than by getting out into the city with your loved ones! Walk with Pride at Sagawau Environmental Learning Center (June 1–30): Take a peaceful, educational self-guided walk in nature to learn about LGBTQ2S+ conservationists. Aurora Pride Parade (June 8): Celebrate community spirit and inclusivity as a family in this energetic and welcoming parade. Chicago Pride Parade (June 29): Join tens of thousands on the city’s north side for the iconic 54th annual Pride Parade. Arrive early, bring snacks, and wear your rainbow gear! Festivals with Something for Everyone Chicago Pride Fest (June 21–22): With drag shows, a pet parade, dance exhibitions, and a Youth Pride Space for teens, this event is packed with activities that the whole family can enjoy. Navy Pier Pride (June 28): One of the most inclusive family Pride events in the city! Enjoy music, storytelling, dancing, and live performances spread throughout the pier. Chicago’s Pride Month celebrations offer more than just fun - they’re a chance to teach kids about inclusion, kindness, and being true to yourself. Whether you’re raising a future activist or just looking for a joyful afternoon with family, there’s a Pride event calling your name.

Mother’s Day in Chicago often brings to mind flowers, brunch reservations, and maybe a last-minute card scribbled with love (and crumbs) from the kids. And while mimosas and pancakes are always welcome, the truth is — many moms are craving something deeper this Mother’s Day. I asked moms across Chicago, from Rogers Park to Beverly, what they really want. The answers? They're refreshingly real. “I want a break. Just a real break.” "I'm with my kids all the time — I love them to death, but I'd give anything for a day with no one saying 'Mom' for a few hours. Even two!" — Jasmin, mom of 3 in Bronzeville Rest topped nearly every response. And not the kind of rest where you sneak in a nap between laundry loads. Moms are asking for guilt-free, uninterrupted rest. The kind where someone else handles things, even if just for a day. “Help around the house — without having to ask.” "A clean kitchen. No laundry on the stairs. I want my family to just see what needs to be done and do it." — Maria, Logan Square For many moms, emotional labor is the real thief of peace. The gift of initiative — not having to direct help — was high on the list. More than physical gifts, moms wanted the mental load lightened. “Time alone. And time together.” These two may sound contradictory, but Chicago moms are masters of nuance. "I want to start the day alone with a hot cup of coffee and a guilt-free scroll through my phone. Then I want to end it with my family, doing something simple like a movie night, a bedtime story, or even a picnic at the park." — Shaye, Hyde Par Solitude and connection are both precious — and most moms want a balance of both. “To be seen — and appreciated.” "Honestly? I want to feel like what I do is noticed. Not just on Mother’s Day, but still... it’s nice to hear ‘thank you’ and know it’s meant." — Katie, Edgewater A sincere thank-you, a handwritten note, or even a heartfelt conversation can go a long way. It's not about a grand gesture. It's about being seen. “Time off from the invisible job.” While many workplaces offer PTO, parenting doesn’t come with days off — even on Mother’s Day. "I love my kids more than anything, but what I want is someone else to plan the meals, pack the bags, think through what everyone needs. Just for one day." — Leigh, Lakeview Being the default parent, the planner, the finder of lost shoes — it’s exhausting. Taking over that invisible labor, even temporarily, is one of the most thoughtful gifts a partner or family member can give. The Bottom Line Yes, brunch is lovely. But what Chicago moms really want this Mother’s Day is something that lasts longer than a latte. They want space to breathe. Support without asking. Gratitude that feels real. So if you're wondering how to show up for a mom in your life this year — ask her what she needs. And then listen. It might be brunch… but it also might be silence, sleep, or someone else doing the dishes.

In today’s digital age, screens are an integral part of daily life, but managing screen time for children can be a challenge for many parents. Excessive screen time has been linked to various issues, including poor sleep, decreased physical activity, and even negative effects on mental health. Fortunately, there are a variety of resources available to help parents guide their kids towards healthier screen habits. 1. Educational Websites and Apps Several websites and apps are designed to help parents monitor and manage screen time effectively. Tools like Circle Home Plus and Qustodio allow parents to set limits on screen time, monitor usage, and even filter content. These apps can be a good starting point for creating a more balanced digital environment at home. Even some home internet service providers have tools to help you shut down internet access to specific devices at a certain time. I personally have Xfinity home internet and use many of the tools in their Parent Hub and home app. 2. Books on Screen Time Management Will Smith once said: And that's true for learning how to free our children from screens! Books can offer deeper insights and practical strategies for managing screen time. Some recommended reads include: Reset Your Child's Brain: A Four-Week Plan to End Meltdowns, Raise Grades, and Boost Social Skills by Reversing the Effects of Electronic Screen-Time by Dr. Victoria Dunckley: This book delves into the science behind screen time and offers actionable strategies and a four-week plan. The Tech-Wise Family: Everyday Steps for Putting Technology in Its Proper Place by Andy Crouch: This book provides steps to making conscientious choices about technology as a family. 3. Online Parenting Communities Connecting with other parents who are facing similar challenges can provide support, ideas, and a reminder that we are not alone in our parenting experiences. It's no secret that NPN is a great resource for parents but there are a plethora of additional resources like Common Sense Media, which provides resources on managing screen time and promoting digital well-being. 4. Professional Guidance Sometimes, professional advice can be invaluable. Child psychologists and family therapists can offer personalized strategies for managing screen time and addressing any underlying issues at a level that is more specific to your needs. Here are a few additional professional resources that can help: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): Provides guidelines on screen time and offers resources for parents to help balance digital media use. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Offers information on how excessive screen time can affect mental health and provides guidance for parents. 5. Family Activities and Alternatives Engaging in screen-free activities can help children develop a healthy balance and see just how much fun they are missing out on in the real world! We are excited to launch Screenless Family Playdates! These are playdates for older children that are dedicated to learning something new, exploring a new school or space, and taking a much needed break from screens. Click here to learn more about our upcoming playdate on October 12, 2024. Additional resources for finding screen-free activities include: The Family Dinner Project: Provides ideas and resources for family activities that encourage face-to-face interaction and can be a great alternative to screen time. Outdoor Family: Offers suggestions for outdoor activities that can replace screen time and help kids stay active and engaged with nature. Even in Chicago! Managing screen time is an ongoing process that requires patience and consistency. By leveraging educational tools, seeking professional advice, engaging with parenting communities, and exploring screen-free activities, parents can help their children develop healthier digital habits. Balancing screen time with other activities not only supports better physical and mental health but also strengthens family relationships and enriches children's lives.

As summer bids farewell and fall begins to paint the world in hues of amber and gold, families often face the challenge of transitioning from the relaxed, free-spirited days of summer to a more structured fall routine. This shift can be both exciting and daunting, but with a little planning and creativity, you can make the transition smooth and enjoyable for everyone. Here’s a guide to help you establish a fall routine that fosters balance, productivity, and family togetherness. 1. Reflect on What Worked in Summer Before diving into the new routine, take a moment to reflect on what worked well during the summer. Did your kids enjoy the flexibility of later bedtimes? Did family dinners become more frequent? Use these insights to inform your fall routine. For example, if you found that evening walks became a cherished family tradition, consider incorporating them into your autumn schedule. 2. Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule As days get shorter, it’s important to reset sleep schedules for everyone in the family. Gradually shift bedtimes and wake-up times to align with the new season. Consistent sleep routines help improve mood, concentration, and overall well-being. A calming pre-bedtime ritual—like reading together or having a soothing bath—can also help ease the transition. 3. Plan a Balanced After-School Routine With school back in session, it's crucial to establish a balanced after-school routine. Designate specific times for homework, extracurricular activities, and downtime. Create a family calendar to keep track of each member’s commitments and responsibilities. This helps everyone stay organized and reduces the stress of last-minute scrambles. Related bonus! I purchased this super-sized clear calendar for my family over the summer. We mounted it outside of our kitchen and it helps us stay organized and plan ahead for the week at a (screen-free!) glance! 4. Embrace Seasonal Activities Fall offers a plethora of activities that can enrich your family’s routine while establishing new traditions! Visit a local pumpkin patch, take a scenic hike or walk and collect colorful leaves, or bake seasonal treats together (here's a cute list of fall treats!). Integrating these activities into your routine not only makes the season enjoyable but also creates lasting memories. 5. Designate Family Time As schedules get busier with school and activities, it’s important to prioritize family time. Set aside dedicated periods for family bonding, whether it’s a game night, a movie marathon, or a weekend outing. Regular, intentional family time helps strengthen relationships and provides a comforting routine amidst the busyness. 6. Stay Flexible and Adapt While routines are beneficial, flexibility is key. Unexpected events and changes are a natural part of life, so be prepared to adapt your routine as needed. Encourage open communication within the family to address any challenges or adjustments that might arise. 7. Reflect and Adjust Finally, take time to reflect on how the new routine is working. Are there areas that need tweaking? Is your family feeling balanced and happy? Regularly assess and adjust your routine to ensure it meets everyone’s needs and keeps the family dynamic positive and productive. Transitioning from summer to fall doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By thoughtfully establishing a new routine, you can create a season filled with structure, joy, and family connection. Embrace the change, celebrate the season, and enjoy the beautiful fall journey with your loved ones.

🚨 BIDDING CLOSES TONIGHT AT 10PM! 🚨 NPN's annual Online Auction offers great items that Chicago parents want and love, including kids' classes, activities, restaurant gift certificates, massages and access to cool experiences you can't find anywhere else! Peep some of the items at biddingforgood.com/npnparents. 🌟 NEW THIS YEAR! There will NOT be a second-chance auction this year so bid while you can to avoid missing out on a great deal! NEW auction items released DAILY so check back each day! Check back often to see if an item you're eyeing has a slashed price! With the proceeds from our auction, NPN, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, will be able to continue to provide support and resources designed to solve the challenges of parenting in Chicago. Questions? Email Amy Johnson at amy@npnparents.org. Want to donate an item, gift certificate, or experience? Donate here. Thank you to our Online Auction Sponsors

NPN's annual Online Auction offers great items that Chicago parents want and love, including kids' classes, activities, restaurant gift certificates, massages and access to cool experiences you can't find anywhere else! Peep some of the items at biddingforgood.com/npnparents. 🌟 NEW THIS YEAR! There will NOT be a second-chance auction this year so bid while you can to avoid missing out on a great deal! NEW auction items released DAILY so check back each day! Check back often to see if an item you're eyeing has a slashed price! With the proceeds from our auction, NPN, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, will be able to continue to provide support and resources designed to solve the challenges of parenting in Chicago. Bidding opens March 13th at 5am and closes at 10pm on March 17th. Questions? Email Amy Johnson at amy@npnparents.org. Want to donate an item, gift certificate, or experience? Donate here. Thank you to our Online Auction Sponsors

NPN's annual Online Auction offers great items that Chicago parents want and love, including kids' classes, activities, restaurant gift certificates, massages and access to cool experiences you can't find anywhere else! Peep some of the items at biddingforgood.com/npnparents. 🌟 NEW THIS YEAR! There will NOT be a second-chance auction this year so bid while you can to avoid missing out on a great deal! NEW auction items released DAILY so check back each day! Check back often to see if an item you're eyeing has a slashed price! With the proceeds from our auction, NPN, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, will be able to continue to provide support and resources designed to solve the challenges of parenting in Chicago. Bidding opens March 13th at 5am and closes at 10pm on March 17th. Questions? Email Amy Johnson at amy@npnparents.org. Want to donate an item, gift certificate, or experience? Donate here. Thank you to our Online Auction Sponsors

NPN's annual Online Auction offers great items that Chicago parents want and love, including kids' classes, activities, restaurant gift certificates, massages and access to cool experiences you can't find anywhere else! Peep some of the items at biddingforgood.com/npnparents. 🌟 NEW THIS YEAR! There will NOT be a second-chance auction this year so bid while you can to avoid missing out on a great deal! NEW auction items released DAILY so check back each day! Check back often to see if an item you're eyeing has a slashed price! With the proceeds from our auction, NPN, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, will be able to continue to provide support and resources designed to solve the challenges of parenting in Chicago. Bidding opens March 13th at 5am and closes at 10pm on March 17th. Questions? Email Amy Johnson at amy@npnparents.org. Want to donate an item, gift certificate, or experience? Donate here. Thank you to our Online Auction Sponsors

NPN's annual Online Auction offers great items that Chicago parents want and love, including kids' classes, activities, restaurant gift certificates, massages and access to cool experiences you can't find anywhere else! Peep some of the items at biddingforgood.com/npnparents. 🌟 NEW THIS YEAR! There will NOT be a second-chance auction this year so bid while you can to avoid missing out on a great deal! NEW auction items released DAILY so check back each day! Check back often to see if an item you're eyeing has a slashed price! With the proceeds from our auction, NPN, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, will be able to continue to provide support and resources designed to solve the challenges of parenting in Chicago. Bidding opens March 13th at 5am and closes at 10pm on March 17th. Questions? Email Amy Johnson at amy@npnparents.org. Want to donate an item, gift certificate, or experience? Donate here. Thank you to our Online Auction Sponsors

Event Details: Give your baby a smart start! Maya Smart, author of Reading for Our Lives, will describe how reading unfolds from birth through the early elementary years and outline what caregivers can do to nurture it at each stage. You will leave armed with information about the six parent levers for literacy success, plus easy and research-based ways to nurture your child’s language and literacy development from the start. Chicago Public Library staff will facilitate an active play space for children and a caregiver before, during and after the presentation to demonstrate early literacy skills in action! Register for this event on the Chicago Public Library's website by clicking here. This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: Children's Services (312) 747-4780 REGISTER HERE This event takes place in person at Harold Washington Library Center @ 400 S. State Street Chicago IL 60605. Masks are strongly encouraged in all CPL locations. Register by the start of the event. Chicago Public Library cannot collect personal information online from kids 0 to 13. A parent or guardian’s email address must be used to register.