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Articles

Chicago, the vibrant and diverse city nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, offers an abundance of opportunities for families looking to bring up their kids in a stimulating and enriching environment. With its world-class educational institutions, an array of cultural and entertainment options, and family-friendly neighborhoods, Chicago is an ideal place to nurture the minds and talents of children. Chicago boasts an exceptional education system, with top-rated public and private schools catering to a range of educational philosophies and learning styles. From acclaimed magnet schools to specialized programs in arts, science, and technology, parents have a myriad of choices to ensure their children receive a quality education. Additionally, renowned universities and colleges, including the University of Chicago and Northwestern University, provide a pathway to higher education and research opportunities for aspiring young minds. When it comes to entertainment, Chicago offers a rich tapestry of cultural and recreational activities for the whole family. The city is home to world-class museums such as the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum, offering interactive exhibits and educational programs that inspire curiosity and learning. Families can also enjoy the Shedd Aquarium, Lincoln Park Zoo, and the Museum of Science and Industry, where hands-on exhibits awaken young imaginations. For outdoor enthusiasts, Chicago's extensive park system, including the iconic Grant Park and Millennium Park, provides ample green spaces for children to play, bike, and explore. The city also hosts numerous festivals, parades, and neighborhood events throughout the year, showcasing diverse cultures and promoting community engagement. In conclusion, Chicago offers an exceptional environment for bringing up kids, with its excellent educational institutions, enriching cultural experiences, and a wide array of entertainment options. This bustling metropolis provides a solid foundation for children's growth, education, and overall development, making it an ideal destination for families seeking a vibrant and nurturing community.

Local Events

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Ballet - Ages 4 - 5 years old event image
Dec21-2219:00 PM
Scavenger Hunt Elgin event image
Dec2212:00 PM
Sunday Family Funday event image
Dec2212:00 PM
Kids & Family Yoga event image
Dec2213:00 PM
Slime Time: Pudding Slime (Grades 3-5) event image
Dec2213:00 PM
Family Paint Party event image
Dec237:30 AM
Happy dancing parents draw
Dec2318:00 PM
Happy dancing parents draw
Dec23-2419:00 PM
Scavenger Hunt Springfield event image
Dec269:30 AM
Happy dancing parents draw
Dec26-2719:00 PM
Scavenger Hunt Aurora event image
Dec26-2719:00 PM
Scavenger Hunt Chicago event image
Dec2719:00 PM
Family Game Day Hangout event image
Dec27-2819:00 PM
Scavenger Hunt Aurora event image
Dec2720:00 PM
Family Game Day Hangout event image

Local Activities

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At Sew Crafty Studio, we strive to create a warm and welcoming environment for everyone. Our experienced instructors guide students through the creative process and provide the resources and support needed to help them succeed. We believe that sewing is a valuable skill that can be used to bring joy and inspiration to the lives of our students. We look forward to having you join us in the studio and discovering the amazing world of sewing!

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Our pottery studio is the perfect place for kids to express their creativity! We specialize in teaching children how to make ceramic pieces from clay. Our instructors provide the wet clay and clay tools needed to make handbuilt pieces, like molds, coils, slabs, and underglazes. The final product will be ready for pickup after about three weeks. We welcome children ages five and up to join us and create something beautiful. Bringing out the artist in your little one has never been easier! At our pottery studio, children ages five and up can learn how to make ceramic pieces from wet clay and clay tools. With the help of our instructors, kids use molds, coils, slabs, and underglazes to transform clay into fun and unique pieces. After approximately three weeks, their completed works of art will be ready for pickup. Let your child explore their creative side at our pottery studio! We teach children ages five and up how to craft ceramic pieces from wet clay and clay tools. With guidance from our instructors, kids can use molds, coils, slabs, and underglazes to create their own works of art. After about three weeks, they will be able to take home their finished pieces.

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The Chicago Academy for the Arts is an independent high school for performing and visual arts that has earned national recognition. Designated a National School of Distinction by the John F. Kennedy Center, the Academy provides students with a unique blend of college-prep academics and professional-level arts training. The Academy’s daily schedule features three blocks of academic classes and a flex period, followed by a three-plus hour immersion in the student’s chosen arts department. Dance, Media Arts, Music, Musical Theatre, Theatre, and Visual Arts are all offered, giving students the opportunity to learn the skills necessary for academic success, critical thought, and creative expression.

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Easel Art Studio is the perfect place for your child to explore the world of art. Our studio is dedicated to encouraging creative exploration and curiosity through the use of everyday materials. We believe that the process of creating is more important than the final product, and that each artwork is a masterpiece in its own right. At Easel Art Studio, we teach kids the history of art and the stories of some of the world’s greatest artists. We also provide a safe and supportive environment in which kids can express themselves through their art. We strive to help them find their own unique creative voice and to foster a lifelong appreciation for art. At Easel Art Studio, we want kids to have fun, be creative, and learn about the world of art. Our studio is a place where your child can explore the medium of art and find their own unique style. We believe that art is a journey and that each work of art is a masterpiece.

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At Hubbard Street Dance, we are always looking for ways to inspire and innovate. This year, we proudly present our first-ever virtual season of dance films. A stellar lineup of acclaimed and emerging choreographers, all of whom are former Hubbard Street dancers, have created contemporary dance that reflects our current moment with incredible power. We invite you to join us in celebrating this season of innovation and inspiration. Our lineup of choreographers have pushed boundaries and embraced the unknown to create pieces that are sure to move and inspire you. Experience this powerful collection of contemporary dance and explore the artistry of these amazing former Hubbard Street dancers.

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WorldWise Tutoring offers a variety of live online courses that can help your child explore personal interests, make new friends, and enjoy learning once again. Whether it's Personal Development, Sociology, Writing, Language, STEM/STEAM, Math, Test Prep, or College Prep, there's a course to help your child excel. With these fun and engaging courses, your child can develop a deeper understanding of the material while also having a great time. At WorldWise Tutoring, we believe that learning should be fun and engaging. That's why our live online courses offer an opportunity for your child to explore their interests, build connections with other students, and find joy in learning. Our courses cover a range of topics, from Personal Development, Sociology, Writing, Language, STEM/STEAM, Math, Test Prep, and College Prep, so your child can find something that fits their needs. With the help of our experienced tutors, your child can develop a deeper understanding of the material while also having fun.

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Chicago Filmmakers is a long-standing, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to serve the Chicago filmmaking community. Established in 1973, the organization provides an array of services to local filmmakers, including low-cost film classes and youth camps, production funding and fiscal sponsorship, equipment and space rentals, and professional development and networking opportunities. In addition to supporting the local filmmaking community, Chicago Filmmakers also serves Chicago audiences with weekly screenings of independent films, as well as two annual film festivals. Reeling: The Chicago LGBTQ+ International Film Festival and The Onion City Experimental Film + Video Festival both offer viewers a unique opportunity to experience independent films from around the world. Chicago Filmmakers is dedicated to supporting the local filmmaking community and providing educational and entertainment resources to Chicago audiences. Through their array of services and annual events, the organization is a valuable resource for those looking to get involved in the local film industry or simply enjoy independent films.

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At our organization, we understand the importance of providing a learning environment that is both fun and inclusive. We have a range of youth programs that are designed to help kids and teens grow their appreciation for animals and nature. Our classes are collaborative, so that everyone can connect and learn regardless of their background or financial situation. We are proud to offer scholarships for most of our programs so that everyone has the opportunity to participate. Our commitment to learning and education is demonstrated by our diverse range of youth programs. These programs prioritize fun and collaboration as a way for kids and teens to learn more about the animals and nature around them. We understand that not everyone has the same financial means to participate, which is why we are proud to offer scholarships. This way, everyone has the chance to benefit from our programs, regardless of their financial standing. We are proud of our commitment to learning and education, and our range of youth programs. We strive to create an environment that is both fun and inclusive, so that everyone can benefit from our classes. Scholarships are available for most of our programs, as part of our commitment to providing an opportunity for everyone to participate and learn.

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Our travelers often come back with a better understanding of the world and the people in it. They are more aware of their global context and the need to make a difference. Through their service and stewardship of the natural world, our travelers learn to appreciate and respect the beauty of the places they visit. We strive to make a lasting impact on our travelers. We believe that the experiences we provide have the power to change young people’s lives. We are passionate about giving our travelers the opportunity to not only explore the world but also to make a meaningful impact on the places they visit. We want them to gain the skills, knowledge, and connections necessary to help make the world a better place.

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Our teachers foster a playful and creative atmosphere that encourages children to think critically, solve problems, and explore their world. Kids Science Labs offers the world’s best hands-on science programs to build your child’s creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Our unique and engaging science parties, camps, STEM activities, school field trips, and fun science classes for kids provide a wonderful learning experience in beautiful learning environments. Kids Science Labs offers fun, hands-on science and innovation all year long.

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Every summer, campers and staff from all around the globe, and from a variety of backgrounds, return to their own special home away from home. At our camp in Central Wisconsin, situated on an 80-acre lakefront compound, there’s never a shortage of activities and experiences for everyone to enjoy. From biking around Stratton Lake to water skiing, drama, rock climbing, and arts & crafts, our campers can stay busy for hours on end. At our camp, campers can explore, take on new challenges, and make lifelong friendships. Our campers and staff come from all walks of life, and every year they return to our camp to enjoy new experiences, make memories, and have the time of their lives. The beautiful lakefront facility in Central Wisconsin provides the perfect place for campers to explore, challenge themselves, and make lasting friendships.

a group of boys in a classroom

As they progress through the elementary, middle, and high school programs, Lycée students explore a range of subjects in their native language and in French, while developing their global understanding. At Lycée Français de Chicago, we’re dedicated to helping our students become the people they want to be. Our world-class educators foster each student’s personal and academic growth, so that they can find their future paths with confidence. Whether they choose to pursue higher education, a career, or something else, our students have the cultural understanding, language proficiency, and critical thinking skills they need to succeed. At Lycée Français de Chicago, we believe that school is more than just an education, it’s a journey. We strive to make sure that journey is a positive one for every student, as they learn who they are and who they want to be. Our world-class educators create an environment where students can explore their native language and French, while developing their global understanding and critical thinking skills. We empower our students to pursue their dreams and find their paths with confidence, so that they can become the people they want to be.

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At Camp One Step, we've been bringing joy, support, strength, and hope to campers and their families since 1978. Our camps and digital programs are designed for kids with cancer, their siblings, and even their parents. We believe that inclusion, accessibility, and connections are the key to creating a meaningful experience. Camp One Step builds lifetime friendships and helps kids reclaim the joy of childhood while allowing families to feel a sense of wholeness. We are passionate about creating a safe and welcoming environment for all campers and their families.

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The YMCA is the leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by supporting young people, enriching the health and well-being of all ages, and inspiring action in our communities. The YMCA is an organization like no other. Our mission is to make an impact in our communities – to help empower young people and improve the health and wellbeing of all ages. We believe that by connecting people to their potential, purpose and each other, we can bring about positive change in 10,000 communities across the country. At the YMCA, we are dedicated to making a difference. We create partnerships with local organizations to bring about real change and create a better future for our communities. We are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for young people to grow and become the leaders of tomorrow.

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At The Paintbrush, children from ages 1 to 12 years old can explore their creative side and learn about the works of influential artists from all over the world. Our hands-on art appreciation classes are enhanced with music appreciation to teach our young students. We also offer ART skills classes that include drawing, painting, and cartooning. Plus, our year-round camps, seasonal workshops, and birthday pARTies are sure to bring out the artist in your child! The Paintbrush is an art studio where children of all ages can explore their creative side. Our classes incorporate music appreciation and hands-on art appreciation lessons to teach our students about the lives and works of influential artists from the past and present. ART skills classes such as drawing, painting, and cartooning are also available. For an extra special experience, consider one of our birthday pARTies, year-round camps, or seasonal workshops! At The Paintbrush, we believe that the best way for children to learn is through hands-on, interactive experiences. Our art classes teach students about the works of influential artists from all over the world while incorporating music appreciation. We also offer ART skills classes such as drawing, painting, and cartooning. Plus, we offer birthday pARTies, year-round camps, and seasonal workshops for a truly unique experience!