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  1. How do Middle Schools Support the Development of Executive Function Skills in Students? Parents will learn from our school panelists on what exactly is Executive Function in the school setting, why it is important for students to develop these skills and how schools are supporting building EF in students to help them succeed in the classroom. In this recording, you will also enjoy a robust Q&A from parents who attended the live recording of the Webinar. Our Panelists include Representatives from Bennett Day School and The Academic Center at Whitney Young Magnet High School. Recorded on 2/16/2024
  2. There aren’t many topics that seem to ruffle feathers like the “Gentle Parenting” debate. And honestly, it makes so much sense. At some point the term Gentle Parenting came to be associated with permissive parenting, lack of boundaries, and parents who seemingly never get upset or raise their voice above 50 decibels. And while I didn’t coin the phrase, and I’m not too interested in defending the beast that gentle parenting has become, I will fiercely defend the parenting approach that I think it was trying to be. We love labels and categories, a quick google search on parenting approaches will turn up phrases like: gentle parenting, attachment parenting, connected parenting, permissive parenting, traditional parenting, conscious parenting, etc. But you don’t have to pay attention to any of that. If there is one thing I believe all parents need to understand, it’s that the best outcomes for our children depend on parenting in a way that builds a secure attachment between them (kids) and us (parents). And good luck trying to rebrand attachment theory, it’s grounded in decades of research. Its purpose and good name is here to stay! In my transformational parenting program The Empowered Parent: 90 Days to Parenting with Confidence, Pride, and Success, I lead parents to build this securely attached relationship with their children. And while my clients tackle aspects of parenting both deep and wide reaching, there is some myth busting that almost always takes place. So let’s set the record straight on three arguments I come across a lot. They’ll never be ready for the “real world” - which isn’t gentle at all. Yep! The world isn’t gentle. And guess what! Our kids are already living in that world. They experience pain, confusion, and heartache just as we do. They endure the death of family members, friends move away, they attend a new school, they encounter mistreatment, they witness images of violence. And they do all of this before they have a fully developed brain that could make better sense of it all. The world is tough, and we don’t need to be a source of that toughness. Instead, we provide security and safety. This is how our children grow to have resilience when they face hardships. The resilience is a result of having a safe and secure base in us to come home to. You can’t just let kids do whatever they want. I don’t know that anyone who understands attachment theory would advocate for letting kids do whatever they want - children need boundaries. I do however know that when parents move away from a mindset of needing to control their children and hold power over them, they see more cooperation and mutual respect. Think of your parenting as a set of guardrails along a path. If the guardrails are very narrow, our kids will constantly bump into them, causing friction and frustration for all of us. If the guardrails are too far apart or not present at all, our kids lack safety and reliable ways to learn from our leadership and presence. But when the guardrails are just right, we allow our children to explore, learn from mistakes with natural consequences, and provide the safety and leadership of thoughtful boundaries. Sometimes kids just manipulate for attention. This one may be half true! While I don’t think children misbehave to manipulate, I do think that a need for connection (i.e. attention) can show up with undesirable behavior. In her book Beyond Behaviors, Dr. Mona Delahooke explains that all behavior is communication. If we are able to shift from a behaviorist mindset that solely looks at behavior as something to be rewarded or punished, we are then free to examine beneath the surface and uncover the underlying cause of a child’s behavior. Often, our examination will reveal a child’s unmet need or an underdeveloped skill. At the simplest level, a newborn doesn’t cry to manipulate us. A newborn cries to get a need met - for example the need to be fed. And an infant hasn’t yet developed the skills (i.e. brain development) to ask for food with words or sign language. A key piece to the 90 day Empowered Parent Accelerator program is growing in knowledge of our child’s brain development. Understanding this development can make all the difference in how we respond to behavior - and probably most importantly the story we tell ourselves (and our children) about who our children are at their core.
  3. How To Handle Academic Pressure in Middle & High School: Panelists: Martin Moran, Lead Designer of Middle and Upper School, Bennett Day School (Panelist Sponsor) Anna Carey, Assistant Headteacher , British International School of Chicago, South Loop (Panelist Sponsor) Sarah Moon-Sarudi, Assistant Principal of Student Support, Walter Payton College Prep (Panelist) Tiffany Brownridge, Counselor, Whitney Young Magnet High School (Panelist)
  4. NPN Amy J.

    Head, Heart, Hand Parenting

    In this video, join Reena Vohra Morgan of Hive Educational Consulting and Parent Coaching as she shares a parent-centric framework grounded in attachment theory, brain science, and responsive parenting strategies. In this introductory workshop, you will learn ten pillars that can help you develop healthier family relationships and bring more peace, calm, and joy to your home. This session is useful for parents with children of any age, from 0 to adulthood. This video was recorded live on 8/11/23.
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    How do Schools Both Prepare Students and Support Families Through the High School Search Process? In this School Search Webinar Series, parents will learn how middle schools are helping to support families and students through the high school search process. Schools will share best practices in helping to prepare students through their academic journey with the high school search process in mind. Parents will learn what systems are in place to guide students and families through the process of entrance exams and tours. Schools will talk about how they support families through identifying schools that might be a good fit for their student and what that actually means as well as how to manage the stress and outcomes of the search process! Attendees will have time to ask questions and learn from our panelists. Our esteemed school panel consists of representatives from: Lake Forest Country Day School Catherine Cook School The Frances Xavier Warde School Sacred Heart Schools Chicago North Park Elementary School Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, Lake Forest Country Day School. And we appreciate our Supporting Sponsors: Catherine Cook School , Sacred Heart Schools Chicago and The Frances Xavier Warde School. By registering for this event, you agree that NPN may share your name and email address with our presenting sponsor. Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor: Lake Forest Country Day School
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    How do Elementary and Middle Schools Provide and Inclusive Environment for all Students? A healthy, diverse and inclusive classroom environment can allow every student to thrive. Children should be given the opportunity to learn free from discrimination and feel comfortable expressing their identities within their classroom and school community. Parents will learn what practical steps schools take to build a welcoming environment for all students including differing cultures, gender identities and learning differences. Schools will share why creating an inclusive and diverse community is important for all students and families and what they are doing inside the classroom and with families to support these principles. Our panel of speakers will include representatives from: Bennett Day School Francis W. Parker School The Frances Xavier Warde School North Park Elementary School
  7. NPN Amy J.

    Head, Heart, Hand Parenting

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    Join Reena Vohra Morgan of Hive Educational Consulting as she shares a parent centric framework grounded in attachment theory, brain science and responsive parenting strategies. In this introductory workshop, you will learn ten pillars that can help you develop healthier family relationships and bring more peace, calm, and joy to your home. This session is useful for parents with children of any age, from 0 to adulthood. Reena Vohra Morgan is a mother to three children and has over twenty years of experience in education. She holds a Master's Degree in Early Childhood Development, Montessori certificates, and is a Jai Certified Parenting Coach. In combination with theoretical knowledge, practical experience, and compassion, Reena uses a strengths-based, reflective approach to coach and empower educators and parents. She offers concrete strategies, tools, and manageable action plans to support adults who interact directly with children. Reena is certified in positive discipline and Resources for Infant EduCareers (REI). Reena resides in Chicago with her family. Questions? Contact Amy at amy@npnparents.org.
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    According to a 2017 APA Stress survey, 83 percent of teens identify school as a major stressor. Pressure to succeed academically in school has been shown to increase overall stress and anxiety in students. Knowing this, NPN will talk with schools about how they are thinking about academic pressures in regards to their middle school and high school programs. What are schools doing to alleviate student stress? What tools are they offering parents and students to set realistic expectations and encourage a balanced school experience? Join us as we tackle this topic with our esteemed panels of presenters. Our Esteemed Presenters Are: Martin Moran, Lead Designer of Middle and Upper School, Bennett Day School Anna Carey, Assistant Headteacher, British International School of Chicago, South Loop Sarah Moon-Sarudi, Assistant Principal of Student Support, Walter Payton College Prep Tiffany Brownridge, Counselor, Whitney Young Magnet High School Thank you to our panelist sponsors: Bennett Day School and British International School of Chicago, South Loop
  9. Raising a child is expensive, especially when your child has special needs. Government benefits are helpful however understanding the process can be overwhelming. Well NPN is here to help! In this session, we will discuss what types of benefit programs exist, which benefits programs are available to you, and what is needed for the application process. You will walk away with clarity about government benefits and how to set your child up with financial support as they become an adult. This session is helpful for parents of special needs children from ages 3 to 22. Our Esteemed Presenter: Sherri Schneider, founder, Family Benefit Solutions, Inc For more than 25 years, Sherri has been tirelessly dedicated to helping individuals with special needs and their families. Her career began as a Case Manager in a Community Integrated Living Arrangement (CILA) where she helped those with developmental disabilities and mental illnesses acquire the government benefits they so desperately needed, including SSI, Medicaid, and food stamps. She was instrumental in creating one of the first Community Living Facility (CLF) facilities funded under a Medicaid waiver. Sherri now meets privately with families to thoroughly assess their individual situations and pursue the appropriate benefit assistance program(s), personally guiding them through the application process. Based on her vast experience, she has skillfully established and maintained open, productive relationships with government agencies involved in the decision-making process. Professionals find her in-service expertise to be invaluable as they navigate the government benefit process.
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    The Parents as Leaders training is designed for parents who aspire to become powerful leaders in their child's education. This comprehensive course offers valuable leadership skills and tips for building strong partnerships with schools and parent committees. Through this training, parents will hone in on their leadership abilities, communication skills, and emotional intelligence. They will also learn effective decision-making and time management skills, how to handle conflicts and set expectations for their family, and much more. With the knowledge gained in this course, parents can establish a positive family culture and empower their children to become resilient, independent, and confident. Ultimately, this training is the key to unlocking your full potential as a leader in your child's education and life. This is a free, online event. RSVP is necessary. Please go here to register. This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: Txjbrand@gmail.com.
  11. Does your child struggle with focus, irritability, or sleeping? Have you noticed that your child has become more clingy, fidgety, or finicky with food? Are you concerned about a change you observe in your child's behavior? Trying to figure out what is the root cause of a change in a child's behavior can be overwhelming. Well, NPN is here to help. In this session, we will discuss anxiety and bring clarity around what anxiety symptoms look like, when a diagnosis is appropriate, and what supportive resources and treatments are available. This webinar is for children ages 2 - 8 years old who are neurodiverse or neurotypical. Our Esteemed Panelist: Dr. Chrisna M. Perry, Ph.D., Founder & Director, Comprehensive Learning Services Dr. Bill Pasola, Psy.D., Psychotherapist, Smart Love Family Services
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    We're excited to launch Parent Chats! Your monthly virtual opportunity to join in on a casual conversation centered around topics that matter to you. Unlike our monthly webinars that are more structured and have a presenter and topic - you get to lead the discussion, vent about current happenings, or just observe and chime in as you see fit; think of it as our forum in video format! Sitaara and Amy from the NPN staff team will join you. If you've been craving connection but not eager about getting out in the real world for it to happen - we hope you join us. Here are the topics and dates for each Parent Chat this June through August. Participating parents will be automatically entered to win raffle prizes at each chat! In this July chat, focusing on the elementary school years, you could win: - A four-hour party rental for 50 people or less at The Joinery - Four sessions of therapeutic tutoring from Smart Love Family Services - Two pairs of Bel Air full custom boxing gloves (one for a child and one for an adult) - $100 in childcare credits at Otter June 9th: Chat about the early years: pregnancy - preschool July 14th: Talk about the elementary school years: Kindergarten - 6th grade August 18th: Celebrate the tween-teen years: 7th grade - 12th grade
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    Choosing a preschool for your child can be an overwhelming task, especially in Chicago where there are so many options. What does a Reggio-Emilia, Arts-Integrated, or Play-Based curriculum mean? What does a STEM-focused curriculum look like in preschool? With so many different preschool philosophies, how do you know which philosophy works for you and your family? In this discussion, you will learn about various philosophies in early childhood education programs and the benefits of each philosophy regarding character development in early childhood. In addition, our panelists will discuss some things to consider during the preschool search to help you prepare to choose a preschool for your family. There will be time for Q&A at the end! Our esteemed school panel consists of: Kevin O'Brien, Director, Mary Meyer School Meg Fitzgerald, Director of Early Childhood (PreK-SK), Bennett Day School Samantha Maxwell, Preschool Director, Bubbles Academy Arts-Integrated Preschool Dr. Camille Franklin, Ed.D, LSW, Family Engagement Coordinator Network 4, Chicago Public Schools OECE Sarah Cudnik, Owner and Executive Director, Kids' Work Chicago Riverview Thank you to our Presenting Sponsors: Mary Meyers School and Bennett Day School. And we appreciate our Supporting Sponsor: Bubbles Academy Arts-Integrated Preschool By registering for this event, you agree that NPN may share your name and email address with our presenting sponsor. Thank you to our Presenting Sponsors
  14. If you're like me, saving for my children's future is a top priority. But it's more than just saving for college: I want to help my kids have positive relationships with money. And that means talking to them early and often about money and finances so that they are equipped with the tools to make good financial choices as adults. However, in the last 10 years, the financial landscape and possibilities have changed drastically with the introduction of cryptocurrency and the Metaverse. As a parent, this leads me to ask so many questions: What does this mean for our kids and their future? How can I better educate myself so that I can safely introduce the world of web3 to my kids? And most importantly, is there a way that I can leverage crypto to incorporate it into our larger wealth-building journey to benefit both myself and my family? All of these questions led my husband and I to start a company called The CryptoMom App, the premiere destination for all things crypto for women, by women. I wanted to create an inclusive, secure platform for women to learn about crypto and then invest it in products that are meaningful to our lives, like college funds. And with April being Financial Literacy Month, there's no better time than today to start learning about cryptocurrency. Here are three ways to start conversations about financial literacy and web3 with your children: 1. Model good behavior by researching first The best way to learn about the basics of crypto is to start researching. There are really great social media accounts for women that encourage conversations and provide the basics of cryptocurrency; Some of my favorites are CryptoWitchClub on Instagram and Elana @TradingFemale on Twitter. You don’t have to know all of the jargon and buzzwords; It’s more about increasing your exposure to slowly gain familiarity. Then, talk about what you've learned with your kids in a casual setting, like at the dinner table. Your kids will certainly be impressed and you get to flex your 'cool mom' muscles! 2. Read Books Together Kids of all ages love to cuddle up and read books together. You can find books at your local library or online that teach kids the basics of crypto, even board books for infants and toddlers like Bitcoin for Babies. For your teens, offer to start a book club and read the book together. Not only are you learning together but you're also building authentic connections that are often difficult to maintain in the teen years. 3. Take the plunge by purchasing yourself first There's no better teacher than experience so now that you're prepared with research and knowledge, take your first step by purchasing your first coin. Don’t feel the need to invest large amounts of money; Invest what you feel comfortable with, whether it's $20 or $200. Platforms like The CryptoMom App allow you to buy small fractions of bitcoin in just three easy steps. If you're looking to connect with other women on their crypto wealth-building journey, sign up for the waitlist for The CryptoMom App to get exclusive, first access to our product.
  15. Spring is here and that means summer is just around the corner! Yes, parents, it's that time to plan for Summer Activities and Camp! This process can be overwhelming especially if you have a child with special needs. Well NPN is here to help. There are many options, whether it's art, music, drama, speech, executive functioning, or swimming! In this session, you will hear about summer activities, camps, and extended school year programs available in the Chicagoland area for special needs kids. Our Esteemed Panelists: Dana Hutchins, MS DT, Chief Clinical Executive Director, Quantum LEEP Academy, Cheryle Yallen, Executive Director, One In A Hundred Summer Camp, Sam Mauceri, Director of Education & Access Programs, Chicago Children's Theatre, Shannon Tovey, Human Resources Manager, SEASPAR, Joel Gutierrez, Senior Program and Event Coordinator, Chicago Park District, Bradley J. Dembs. J. D., Attorney & ESY Advocate, Matt Cohen & Associates
  16. NPN Tareema

    Preschool Philosophies Round 1

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    Choosing a preschool for your child can be an overwhelming task, especially in Chicago where there are so many options. What is English Early Years curricula? How about Catholic, French Language Immersion, and Montessori, what are the differences, what are the similarities? With so many different preschool philosophies, how do you know which philosophy works for you and your family? In this discussion, you will learn about a variety of philosophies in early childhood education programs and the benefits of each philosophy in regard to character development in early childhood. In addition, our panelists will discuss some things to consider during the preschool search to help you prepare to choose a preschool for your family. There will be time for Q&A at the end! Our esteemed school panel consists of: Erin Woodhams, Director of Marketing, Admissions, and Communications, British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park Erin Roenna, Community Relations Coordinator, Montessori Academy of Chicago Cecilia Porter, Director of Admissions, Lycée Français de Chicago Corey Jacobsen, Director of Marketing & Admissions, Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph School Thank you to our Presenting Sponsors: British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park, Lycée Français de Chicago, and Montessori Academy of Chicago. And we appreciate our Supporting Sponsors: Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph School By registering for this event, you agree that NPN may share your name and email address with our presenting sponsor. Thank you to our Presenting Sponsors
  17. NPN Tareema

    NPN Playdate at CST Academy

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    NPN Playdates are back! Join us for Sunday play at CST Academy! There will be fun activities and snacks for the kids! Parents, grab a cup of coffee, relax and enjoy as your kids experience some fun activities! This event is for kids aged 2 - 5 years old. Spots are limited so register today! CST Academy is located at 1765 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
  18. NPN Tareema

    NPN Playdate at LEEP Forward

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    NPN Playdates are back! Join us for Sunday play at LEEP Forward! There will be fun activities and snacks for the kids! Parents, grab a cup of coffee, relax and enjoy as your kids experience some fun activities! This event is for kids aged 2 - 5 years old. Spots are limited so register today! LEEP Forward is located at 1280 W Washington Blvd, Chicago, IL 60607
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    Join us for a Sunday Playdate from 9-11am at Bright Horizons in Lakeview as you have the opportunity to Create Art, Engage in STEM activities and Play in the space. Healthy snacks will also be provided. This is a great opportunity to connect with other parents, have fun as a family, and take part in exciting and educational activities for your preschooler. This event is for children ages 2 - 5 years old. Spots are limited so register today! BONUS! All families in attendance will be entered into a raffle to win four tickets to the new Cirque du Soleil show, Crystal, at the NOW Arena. Bright Horizons at Lakeview is located at 2840 N Lincoln Ave. Street parking is available directly in front of the school.
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    Join NPN on Sunday, February 11, from 9:00 -11:00 AM at the British International School of Chicago, South Loop (BISC-SL) for a fun and free, Super Bowl-themed playdate. It will be a big win for your 2-5-year-old when they suit-up for the BISC-SL team. We’ll be exploring, experimenting, imagining, creating, playing, and meeting new teammates at our very own Super Bowl Sunday playdate. Your child will enjoy a half-time allergy-conscious snack while you get a cup of coffee, chat with parents and learn more about BISC-SL. British International School of Chicago, South Loop students aged 3 through 18 experience the kind of extraordinary educational opportunity that gets children excited to come to school each day. The personalized, holistic approach to learning ensures that every child's learning needs are met. BISC-SL emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills to prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world. BISC-SL is located at 161 W. 9 th Street. You are welcome to park in the Roosevelt Collection parking garage for 2 hours of free validate parking. We look forward to seeing you on February 11th ! Visit bischcagosl.org for more information on our school.
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    THIS EVENT IS FULL: WE ARE NO LONGER ACCEPTING RSVP'S. PLEASE JOIN US FOR OUR NEXT PLAYDATE ON 1/28! Sign up here! NPN Playdates are back! Join us for Sunday play at Kids' Work Chicago Riverview! Their large indoor play spaces will be open, crafts will be available, plus goodie bags with snacks for the kids! Parents come and relax and enjoy as your kids experience some fun activities! This event is for kids aged 2 - 5 years old. Spots are limited so register today! Kids' Work Chicago Riverview is located at 3429 N. California Ave, near I-94 on California between Addison and Belmont. The parking lot in front of the building has plenty of spaces and there is also ample street parking in the neighborhood! All families in attendance will be entered into a raffle to win a gift certificate to Goldfish Swim School Roscoe Village.
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    NPN Playdates are back! Join us for Sunday Family Day at Park West Cooperative for a FREE playdate. "Bring the Outdoors In" at the Sunday Family Day with Park West Co-Op Preschool & NPN on Sunday, November 12th, from 9:00-11:00 am. Come with your child to explore outdoor materials inside our award-winning preschool classrooms and indoor gym! Let your child's imagination be your guide and follow them as they investigate a variety of outdoor materials creatively used indoors. Play in our sand and water tables, investigate sticks, leaves, fruits and vegetables. Try painting, build with blocks, complete puzzles, read books, and more. Enjoy the adventure- we hope you will join us! This event is for kids aged 2 - 5 years old, and allergy-friendly snacks provided A goal at Park West Co-op is to infuse our school environment and activities with opportunities for children to further their understanding of literacy, numbers, arts and science in ways that make sense to them and are developmentally appropriate- all in a play-based curriculum. Learn more about Park West Co-op preschool here Park West Cooperative Park West Cooperative is located at 2214 N Bissell St, Chicago, IL 60614. We are accessible just two blocks South of the Fullerton L stop (Red, Brown, Purple lines) and easily accesible from both the Fullerton and Armitage bus. Metered Parking is available on Webster and Street parking is available but please allow some extra time as we are located in the beautiful and busy Lincoln Park Neighborhood.
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    NPN Playdates are back! Join us for Sunday play at Bennett Day School! Calling all explorers ages 2-5! Join us for a STEAM Sunday playdate on Sunday, Oct. 15 from 9:00 - 11:00 am. Bennett Day School is so excited to be partnering with Neighborhood Parents Network of Chicago (NPN) again to bring Chicago-area families this FREE playdate. There will be fun STEAM activities for kids and light snacks. Parents – grab a cup of coffee and enjoy as your kids have fun and engage with peers! Bennett Day School is located at 955 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60642 Parking/Public Transportation Info: If you are planning to drive, there is limited parking available in the gravel lot on the NW corner at Morgan and Hubbard (across the street from Bennett's campus). There is also free parking available on the west side of Morgan and south side of Hubbard, or metered parking on Grand Ave. Bennett Day School is two blocks west of the Grand Blue Line stop and the Halsted 8 bus, and 2 blocks north of the Pink/Green Line Stop at Morgan if those options are convenient to you.
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    NPN Playdates are a perfect start to the day. Join us for Sunday play at the British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park in their indoor/outdoor play space! Children will enjoy unstructured gross motor activities, sensory play, crafts, and light refreshments. Parents, grab a cup of coffee, chat with other parents, and enjoy an easy morning. This event is best for kids aged 2 - 5 years old but children of all ages are welcome. Spots are limited so register today! Parking Information: There is limited street parking both free and metered around the school. There is a pay-to-park garage directly behind the school and you can bring the ticket into the school to validate for a reduced price. There is also a pay-to-park garage in the New City complex across Halsted. British International School of Chicago is located at 814 W Eastman St, Chicago, IL 60642
  25. Zero to $25 Garfield Park Conservatory’s Spring Flower Show is here! Send your favorite flower lover off to the Conservatory with a cash donation ready to go. The spring flower show will give children and families the gift of warmth (truly! It’s balmy in there). Add on a disposable camera for fun and see what develops… you may be impressed with what captures the eyes of your nature lover. Bubbles Academy- For the younger child, look no further than Bubbles Academy for everything from drop-in art classes to outdoor classes and a nature playground. Coming this spring for families and children aged up to 7, check out their Silly Space Soiree or a gift card for one of their many fun and developmentally smart activities at any location. Chalk it Up - Chalk is an underestimated resource. Whether traditional or “spray chalk,” create sidewalk games like Hopscotch, Four Square, or more. Check out “Shape Hopscotch” for a fun twist. Birthday message artistry is also a fun treat to wake up to! Spray chalk works on grass and washes out after rain. Bee’s Knees (and butterflies, too!) – For kids or families abuzz to help our favorite little honey-makers, we suggest the gift of a native plant garden. For quickest impact, plant natives from a plug rather than seeds. Because the helpful native plants are hard to find at most big box stores or nurseries, we specifically like Possibility Place Nursery in Monee, (which also offers suggestions for plants to attract butterflies!). Prairie Nursery in Wisconsin also has native plant seeds with the option to ship. For a tree bee lover, we suggest making a donation in name to Southport Corridor Bees, or adding in a jar of local organic honey to the gift. Camping - If your child has their heart set on a camping adventure, we like the idea of sharing a weekend (or just an evening) away. With many camping areas within driving distance, you can make their dream come true easily. Check out Chicago Park District’s Coleman Gear Library, where you can rent everything from tents and sleeping bags to flashlights and much more for free. If your family is new to camping, you can attend a camping experience with Chicago Parks for around $50. Learn basic camping principles, take a nature hike and enjoy an evening around the campfire led by our expert camping staff. At night campers will enjoy hot dogs and s’mores over the fire, and a light breakfast in the morning. Art lovers - While the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Art Institute have daily admission or membership options, we find that children and adults alike enjoy spending time and money at the gift shops and surrounding restaurants. Check out specifically MCA’s Family Days and The Art Exchange at The Art Institute of Chicago. Send them with a calendar of upcoming events, and maybe some art supplies and snacks to supplement their fun. $25-50 Movie Theater- Many families have not been to the theater since 2019/early 2020, which means that some young kids have never seen a movie on the big screen at all. Make their day with a gift card to their nearest movie theater or IMAX location. Bonus points if you throw in cash for snacks! Chicago Children’s Theatre - offers drop-in day camps for performers and performance-curious. We also love their unique Red Kite Program, which has special offerings for children on the autism spectrum. They even offer financial aid options for those who need it. Indoor Play - Fit City Kids offers something from everything from crawlers to big kids. Parents can relax while children run, jump, slide, and dive around the massive play zone. Daily visit passes are available online. Personal and small-group training is also available for the more serious athlete. They even have pickleball classes for kids! You can also check out Climb Zone or Brooklyn Boulders; Trampoline parks like Altitude or Urban Air. And if you’re gifting for a grown-up 21+, check out Altitude’s Adult Nights, where tickets include a drink. $50-$100 Date Night - Who wouldn’t love to be gifted a date night with childcare covered? Send parents the gift of child care: whether by covering their babysitting costs, or gifting a “Parent Survival Night” at The Little Gym. If you’re feeling generous, send them with a gift card to a nearby restaurant for grownup conversation. Near The Little Gym in Lakeview, we suggest: El Tapatio, Volo, Coda Di Volpe, or Ella Elli. Over $100 Private food experience – For the foodie families in your life, consider giving a private or small-group class or dining experience. Who wouldn’t want to experience a cooking class with French Chef Vincent at Cook Au Vin? Cooking classes are BYOB, so feel free to package your gift certificate with a bottle of their favorite wine. We hear that private catering options are also available, which may be the perfect gift for small dinner parties or romantic special occasions. Sleep - Can you really gift sleep? We sure think so. Kelly Murray Sleep Consulting offers services for new and not-so-new parents. Professional sleep consultants offer free consultations and packages range from from program guides with online support to private in-home coaching. Bulls and Bears and Blackhawks, oh my - Tickets to a Chicago Bears, Bulls, or Blackhawks game are wonderful starting points. Chicago’s WNBA team, Chicago Sky, is also a fantastic idea. And for anyone who caught the soccer bug with last years’ World Cup, check out a match for the Chicago Fire (at Soldier Field) or Chicago Stars (Bridgeview). Family Photos – For families who are so busy making memories that they may forget to capture them, consider a family photo package. Various mini-shoots are available online around holidays. Little Bear Photography and TK Photography are both well-known for their high quality and ease to work with. Next-Level Sleepovers - The Shedd Aquarium offers many specialty events for families, including add-on events such as encounters with Sea Otter, Beluga, or even a shark feeding tour! The Aquarium offers impressive overnight events, from sleeping around the Caribbean Reef to Oceanarium, where you can wake up next to penguins, whales and even dolphins. The Field Museum has regular “Dozin’ with the Dinos,” where families with children ages 6 to 12 can spend the night in the museum. Even better, you can prepay for overnight parking! Museum of Science and Industry has the unique overnight “Snoozeum” The Getaway – The getaway gift is staple for a reason. Whether it’s your family or another, most enjoy the gift of a hotel overnight. For those with older children, consider offering a small party or sleepover for them at a cool rental property. While this gift may be reserved for very special occasions, it can be the memory of a lifetime. Imagine hosting a sixteenth birthday party at a rental property with a pool table and a hot tub. Families with younger children may appreciate being sent to an indoor water park or even to the spa for mani-pedis together. Priceless: The Gift of Cereal The best gift you can possibly give someone may not be one you could predict. A recommendation shared with me recently was this: Give the child something that they ask for often but usually don’t get. Maybe it’s something you would never think of. Maybe they want to wear mismatched socks one day, or have a parent say yes to their request for a popsicle at the beach or donut at the store. Ask the child’s parent for ideas of what the child is constantly asking for, and find out if you can give the child that. Perhaps it takes the shape of cash for the parent to keep on hand at the beach. In the case of one friend I know, it was cereal. The best gifts come from the heart, creative and even wacky gift ideas can be the most memorable.

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