Elizabeth Shapiro

We read somewhere that the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum (formerly the Chicago Academy of Sciences) is one of the least visited of the Chicago museums, but it’s one of our favorite places in the city to bring our toddler. Unlike the MSI, the Notebaert’s exhibits are accessible to those under... continue reading on Chicagoist

Valentine’s Day had always been a great excuse to go out to dinner. Unwilling to foist our screaming banshee toddler on fellow romantic diners these days, we’ve created a new luxe tradition to celebrate: after bed time, we’re reheating Charlie Trotter’s take out. Trotters to Go is the pre-made food... continue reading on Chicagoist

We're huge fans of the Sunday kids' concerts at Beat Kitchen. This Sunday, take your toddler to see Little Miss Ann, a former CPS music teacher, fellow mama and one of our favorite local musicians. Her "Pirate Ship" song'll be stuck in your head for the rest of the weekend.... continue reading on Chicagoist

We loved the Museum of Science and Industry even prior to having our kid (the submarine! the Omnimax! Clarence Darrow’s ghost!), but MSI’s "Idea Factory" is, arguably, the best kid-centered exhibit in Chicago. Since the museum has closed this exhibit for repairs until the end of March, we wondered how... continue reading on Chicagoist

It’s that time of year when our kids begin to get stir crazy. With the parks snowed over, and the temps discouraging any neighborhood meandering, these indoor play areas are godsends. The idea is that you pay per visit (or pay less by becoming a member or buying visits in... continue reading on Chicagoist