All Activity

Come together with other parents, educators, and advocates from across Chicago to share and learn about how to better support young children ages birth - 5 with disabilities at the Every Child Ready Chicago Strengthening Inclusion Symposium on Saturday, December 7th at Malcolm X College. This event will feature: ✏️ Remarks from Chicago Mayor’s Office and Chicago Public Schools leadership 🤝 Resources and presentations on services and resources available for children with disabilities ages birth - 5 in Chicago 🎒Presentations for staff, advocates, and systems leaders on the benefits of inclusive special education models 🥪 Lunch 🎈Activities for families and children - Join NPN for an activity at our table! Learn more about the initiative on their website. There will be lunch served and activities for kids! All are welcome to attend! Learn more and register to attend at https://cvent.me/Y9OV2D

Choosing the right Kindergarten for your child can be daunting, especially in Chicago, where there are so many options. Then once you are secure with your school choice, the next step is preparing a smooth transition for your child and your family. Learn how these schools support students and families through this process, and what you can do at home to get the school year started on the right foot. This session includes panelists with expertise in neurodiversity and challenging behaviors. Featuring: Bennett Day School Bubbles Academy City Elementary St. Josaphat School Scuola Italiana Enrico Fermi Tuesday's Child This discussion will occur live over Zoom. Please register on this page to receive the Zoom link. This discussion is open to everyone. Help us keep these discussions free for families across the city by supporting NPN. Become a member today. Questions? Contact Amy at amy@npnparents.org Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, Bennett Day School. School representatives and education experts: Would you like to speak on a panel like this? Email Amy at amy@npnparents.org to inquire.

Over 40 independent schools in the Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana area educate students from age two to 12th grade. Hear from some of Chicago's most sought-after independent schools to learn about an independent school education and what makes each independent school unique.

This is a commentary article from Crain's Chicago Business written by NPN's Executive Director, Amy Johnson. --------------- The recent resignation of every member of Chicago’s Board of Education, three weeks after CPS unveiled its new five-year strategic plan, underscores the challenges that many Chicago parents face when navigating their child’s public school education. A strategic plan should provide an agreed-upon path to reach goals that the majority of stakeholders believe in. Such stability has been hard to find in Chicago schools, and parents are concerned. In conversations I have with parents across the city, whose children attend all types of schools, they are concerned about the instability of the district. Among other concerns, the new five-year plan has ramped up parents’ conversations about selective enrollment schools, magnet schools and charters. Although parents agree with providing greater support to neighborhood schools, particularly those in underserved communities, many wonder if that priority will result in disinvestment of schools that are currently thriving. Fears over the future of selective enrollment, magnet and charter schools may be unfounded. After all, the CPS five-year strategic plan doesn’t explicitly call for eliminating them. However, in a system that is filled with surprises, parents look for clues about what comes next, and they see warning signs. They point to the ongoing lack of busing for magnet schools, the new funding formula tied to CPS' Opportunity Index and Mayor Brandon Johnson’s strong focus on bolstering neighborhood schools. To some parents navigating the current erratic environment, these signals suggest that selective enrollment and magnet schools may indeed be at risk. Overall, the five-year plan has been overshadowed by other troubles. Unfortunately, it may seem pointless to worry about the strategic plan when the people who approved it have all resigned. Parents are baffled by this development and embarrassed to see it in the national news. They wonder how it will impact the city and their children’s education. Adding to parents' unease is Mayor Johnson’s proposal for a massive loan. Parents are worried about CPS' ability to repay it, leaving the future of their kids' education in even more uncertainty. Parents understand that disruptions happen occasionally. Many say that their frustrations with the district are small compared to the quality of their child’s education. That has been my experience as well. Still, I wonder, do parents have the stamina to keep hanging on amid so much uncertainty? I’ve gritted my teeth through dozens of smaller unknowns over the years. I’ve waited for preschool offers, entertained my kids during two teacher strikes, plodded through dire budget scenarios at Local School Council meetings, fretted over the cleanliness of schools when those services were contracted out, watched my kids languish during online learning and listened to mayors make promises about public education that they would not keep. I’ve talked with parents who were prepping for IEP meetings, adjusting 504 plans and waiting for services, all hoping for the best, never knowing what was next. It’s possible to have a great experience in CPS, but it’s filled with quandaries big and small. The new five-year strategic plan lays out CPS’ priorities clearly, although parents are concerned about exactly how CPS will implement them. Unfortunately, the plan is overshadowed by the lack of funds to execute it and the upheaval of the Board of Education. Mayor Johnson seems to feel that he needs to shake up CPS by creating chaos. I want Mayor Johnson to know that many parents voted for him because they thought that along with positive change, he would bring stability to the district. Unfortunately, right now we have chaos. Mayor Johnson needs to find a way to implement his vision without embracing so much disarray. To truly support families, he needs to calm this storm.

Join Neighborhood Parents Network for the unique opportunity to hear from private school admissions directors representing some great preschool & elementary school options. You’ll hear about different educational philosophies, get tips on the application process, and much more. Featuring: Saint Clement School Near North Montessori School St. Josaphat School Intercultural Montessori Language School Bennett Day School > This discussion will occur live over Zoom. Register to receive the Zoom link via email. > This discussion is open to everyone. Help us keep these discussions free. Become a member today. > Questions? Contact Amy at amy@npnparents.org Thank you to our presenting sponsor, Saint Clement School School representatives and education experts: Would you like to speak on a panel like this? Email Amy at amy@npnparents.org to inquire.

Preschool represents a big milestone in a child's life, and often in a parent's life too. In this discussion, our panelists address how they support both students and parents through this momentous time. You will walk away with an understanding of how schools care for families entering preschool, tips on activities you can do at home to prepare your child for preschool, insight into potty training, and a list of children's book recommendations that you can read with your child to help prepare them for their first day of preschool. Thank you to our Supporting Sponsor, Saint Clement School.

Over 40 independent schools in the Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana area educate students from age two to 12th grade. What makes an independent school different from other private schools and public schools? What are the advantages of an independent school education? Come and hear from some of Chicago's most sought-after independent schools to learn about an independent school education, and what makes each independent school unique. Featuring: Catherine Cook School Latin School of Chicago Francis W Parker School Sacred Heart Near North Montessori School Bennett Day School This discussion will occur live over Zoom. Register to receive the Zoom link via email. This discussion is open to everyone. Help us keep these discussions free for families across the city by supporting NPN. Become a member today. Questions? Contact Amy at amy@npnparents.org School representatives and education experts: Would you like to speak on a panel like this? Email Amy at amy@npnparents.org to inquire.

Are you thinking about preschool for your child but don't know where to start? Listen to this insightful discussion about various preschool philosophies available in Chicago. Featuring expert educators from highly regarded preschools that families love, in this session you will hear from preschools specializing in or drawing inspiration from educational philosophies including, arts integration, Montessori, Cooperative, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, language immersion, and religion.

Sonny Acres Farm hosts their “Big & Bright Trail of Lights Festival”, open November 22 - December 30. A complete holiday haven, the experience features everything from an enchanted mile-long walking trail with dazzling sites and sounds to fresh trees, handmade wreaths and photos with the Big Man by reservation in Santa’s Workshop. Enjoy delicious treats and eats including adult beverages and s’mores kits to roast over the fire pit.

The highly anticipated Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Medical District UIC, has opened within the rapidly expanding Illinois Medical District on Chicago’s west side. The property features 135 modern guestrooms and 46 spacious studio suites, designed with comfort in mind to support the incredible changemakers visiting the District daily. The property offers guests an on-site indoor swimming pool, along with amenities including WiFi, complimentary hot breakfast daily, & on-site parking.

Hyde Park Holly-Day is back for 2024 and better than ever with FREE holiday family activities throughout Hyde Park on Saturday, December 7 at select times between 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Don’t miss the ice carving demo & self-guided sculpture stroll, pictures with your favorite Santas, live reindeer & sleigh, ice skating, free screening of “Moana 2”, Buddy the Elf, costumed characters, dance performances, and holiday crafts. See you in Hyde Park! This is a free event, and no RSVP is required. But you can go here for more details. Paid parking is available at the following locations: Harper Court Public Garage - 5222 S. Lake Park Avenue, entrance just south of McDonald's. Harper Court Surface Lot - 5210 S. Harper Avenue. The Promontory Lot - 5311 S. Lake Park Avenue West. Metered and free street parking where available. This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: acsrodon@uchicago.edu.

Help I am The Way Truth Life Outreach Ministries spread Holiday Joy with Rosella Bynum's Holiday Toy & Coat Drive! The drive takes place until Sunday, December 8th. Please drop off new unwrapped toys, new coats/jackets, mittens/gloves, hats (for all ages), hygiene kits and new socks. Poverty makes it arduous for struggling families to access their most basic of needs like food and water, let alone gifts for the holidays. So, as the holidays arrive, some parents are faced with some disconcerting choices from paying the rent, food on the table, new winter clothes or presents for their children. Your support during these most challenging of circumstances can help us provide parents with hope and joy for their families this holiday season. Drop Off Location: Take Flight Spirits 8038 Lincoln Ave. Skokie, IL 60077 https://www.takeflightspirits.com/ Drop Off Times/Tasting Times: Tuesday & Wednesday: 4pm-10pm/Thursday: 4pm-11pm/Friday & Saturday: 3pm-11pm/Sunday: 4pm-10pm. Don't have time to attend or drop off, go here for Rosella Bynum's Holiday Toy & Coat Drive Social-Mixer Digital Donation link. Sunday, December 8th, 1P-4P: Open Mic/2P-3P, POETRY PEACE & A PRESENT featuring kweisi, THE POET @kweisithebrand All family friendly artists (singers, hip-hop, country, folk, painters/sculptures & tap dancers) are welcome to share your gifts. Featuring complimentary appetizers by International Chef, Chef Jeff --- Follow on Instagram @fashion_lights_camera_action @takeflightspirits @islandtingschicago @kweisithebrand Our mixer is a free event, but RSVP is required. Please go here to register. Street and lot parking available. Perhaps you time does not avail to attend or drop off a present, you can make your digital contribution. SPONSOR: Rockwell Jones Single Mothers Car Layaway Assistant Program. For more information about Rockwell Jones Single Mothers Car Layaway Assistant Program call: 414-578-7188. Purpose: Your donations to this Holiday Toy & Coat Drive are reserved for providing compassionate relief and meeting critical needs for single parents with children in the most urgent and dyer situations. Our gratitude for your time, love and generosity. This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: kweisigharreau@gmail.com.

Keisha J. Mathew, A.M., LCSW, founder and therapist of radicallyBLended Services, PLLC discusses the joys and challenges of raising a queer child in Chicago. She shares tips on creating a safe environment where children are comfortable sharing personal feelings, advice on how to react if your child comes out to you, how to advocate for queer children, and resources that adults can turn to for help in being an ally. This recording is the fifth episode of NPN's podcast, Chicago Style Parenting. It was published on 11/8/24

Preschool represents a big milestone in a child's life, and often in a parents' life too. We all want our children to have the best start that they can, and we have a panel of local preschool experts here to help you prepare. Our panelists will discuss things you can do to help your family's transition smooth and enjoyable. They will address separation anxiety, what to expect on the first day, how to talk with your child about preschool, and what is most meaningful during these special years. You will walk away with tips on activities you can do at home to prepare your child for preschool, saying good-bye on the first day and beyond, and what to expect on the first day. Featuring: Saint Clement School Bubbles Academy Mary Meyer School Sinai Preschool This discussion will occur live over Zoom. Please register on this page to receive the Zoom link. This discussion is open to everyone. Help us keep these discussions free for families across the city by supporting NPN. Become a member today. Questions? Contact Amy at amy@npnparents.org Thank you to our Supporting Sponsor, Saint Clement School. School representatives and education experts: Would you like to speak on a panel like this? Email Amy at amy@npnparents.org to inquire.

Are you thinking about preschool for your child but don't know where to start? Join us for a lively, insightful discussion about various preschool philosophies available in Chicago. This discussion will feature expert panelists from highly regarded preschools that families love. You will hear from preschools specializing in or drawing inspiration from educational philosophies such as arts integration, Montessori, Cooperative, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, language immersion, and religion. Featuring: Bubbles Academy Near North Montessori Park West Cooperative Nursery School Chicago Waldorf School Bennett Day School Sinai Preschool Lycée Français de Chicago This discussion will occur live over Zoom. It is open to everyone. Help us keep these discussions free for families across the city by donating to NPN today. Register to receive the Zoom link via email. Questions? Contact Amy at amy@npnparents.org

ANNIE is a celebration of family, optimism and how spirit remains the ultimate cure for all the hard knocks life throws your way. ANNIE has reminded generations of theatergoers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now the best-loved musical is set to return in a new production – just as you remember it and more!

Come and enjoy time with your family and others at this NPN playdate at Chicago Waldorf School. ☕ Enjoy a delicious snack in the Community Room 🐝 Experience a Waldorf classroom with one of our teachers. Explore the materials and enjoy the toys and activities 🪴Enjoy some time together in the beautiful outdoor nature park and garden, weather permitting Chicago Waldorf School is located at 5200 N Ashland Ave. Questions? Email amy@npnparents.org. NPN Playdates are free for NPN members. We ask non-members to contribute $10/adult, which comes with a one-year NPN membership, giving you free access to every playdate! If you are experiencing financial hardship, please feel free to contact us at director@npnparents.org to ask about our fee-waived memberships.

At Bennett, we do not see students as empty vessels waiting to be filled with information, but rather as competent, capable individuals who are co-collaborators in their education. Our students learn by doing through meaningful project-based learning (PBL) experiences and are assessed based on developmental milestones and essential competencies, not the traditional grading scale. Our experienced educators are committed to creating a nurturing and inclusive environment where children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Learn how to interact musically with your child, and Meet The Music Playhouse! Sing, dance, play, and learn! *This is an in-person class offered indoors at Purple Monkey Playroom.* Engaging and interactive songs and activities are designed and modified to benefit little ones. We use play-based and research-based techniques, gamification, and hands-on, interactive activities that keep students engaged and excited to learn. Our primary goals are to foster development, parent/child bonding, and independent music accuracy, and to instill a lifelong love and understanding of music through variety, repetition, and fun! Research shows that exposure to a variety of sounds and rhythms in the first few months of life creates the strongest foundation for developing communication skills and musical aptitude as they grow. Research also shows that singing to and dancing with your baby enriches emotional and social development. This is a free class, but RSVP is required. Please go here to register. Free neighborhood street parking, or metered parking available. This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: erin@themusicplayhouseofchicago.com.

Join us this Fall at Northwestern University for Imagine U: The Wong Kids in the Secret of the Space Chupacabra, Go! (OCT 24. -NOV. 3). Check out this special preview video highlighting this production coming together. The Wong Kids is about Violet and Bruce Wong who just don’t fit in with the other Earth kids. Sure, they have superpowers; they’re just not very good ones. But when an evil beast called the Space Chupacabra appears, intent on universal destruction, the Wong kids must travel to far reaches of outer space to stop it ...if they can only stop bickering. Violet and Bruce ultimately realize that being different isn’t just okay; it might just be the most important thing ever. Using a mix of action-driven storytelling, puppetry, and visual magic, The Wong Kids transports its audience into the galaxy’s far reaches. Suggested Ages 7+ Approximate Run Time 70 minutes, no intermission Learn more about the play Learn more about the costumes and the sets No RSVP is required. Tickets are available, please go here for dates, times, and tickets. This is a repeating event, with shows until November 3, 2024. Special sensory showing, November 2, 2024. Discounted tickets for NPN members. Go here for more information. Lot parking available. This is an external partner event. Please contact the organization directly with any questions or concerns: pete.brace@northwestern.edu.