4chances2parent

Sparks fly off the steel of broad swords, the sound of splintered wood during a joust and half a baby “dragon” for dinner?   Where else but Medieval Times could all of my teenager’s birthday dreams come true.   Medieval Times is a show featuring knights in shining armor on horseback competing to be the Champion of the Realm, defending the honor of her royal highness the Queen and performing feats of athleticism all while guests are fed a filling and delicious meal… no utensils needed.   With 10 locations in the US and Canada, a trip to medieval Spain is not far away.   The Show Be prepared for serious stage combat, with fast moving horses and exquisitely choreographed fight scenes.   Pageantry abounds with fog, lights, trumpeters and music setting the tone.   Royalty dress in realistic medieval clothing, beautiful horses gallop around the arena, and flags depicting the knights’ coats of armor are displayed and paraded.    A master falconer releases a falcon t

It is that time of year again.  I love the number of uniquely Chicago and family (and budget) friendly ways to celebrate the holidays!   Updated for 2019! Here are my... 2019 Additions... Not to be missed are the many rooftop and hotel based warming huts, skating rinks and hot cocoa cafes that are popping up everywhere.  The key is to search Wrigleyville and the Magnificent Mile for these unique - enjoy while you can - experiences.... Add in a special holiday tea and you have a recipe for holiday magic with your kids! TOP 10 Chicago Christmas for Kids 1.  CTA Holiday Train For the price of a regular public transportation ticket, your children get to enjoy a decked out "L" train complete with open air Santa car featuring Santa.  CTA employees dressed as Elves act as Holiday Ambassadors, handing out candy canes and fun.  Don't forget to look for the Rudolph Bus... taking public transportation was never so festive! Check the CTA Holiday Train website for dates

By the time I finish surviving Summer or Christmas break, the idea of planning and going on Thanksgiving or Spring Break seems daunting.   Staycation has been my motto.   Today a friend asked me - begged me - to share ideas on what to do over the next break.   Adding to the quick text I sent her, here are a few of my favorite staycation ideas.   Note: most of these ideas work well for families with & without kids. The Start and Finish line:   Libraries Ok, so Thanksgiving or spring break are not races, but my recommendation is to start and finish (by returning items before school/work start up again) at the Library.   Libraries are amazing places… you don’t even need to leave your home to check out e-books and audio books.   Talk about the ultimate in entertainment delivery.   Everyone in the family should take out a book and read it.   Yes, of course.   But what about libraries that let you borrow museum passes, use Free WIFI, offer conference rooms to study in, semin

Packing List: Baby, Toddler, Little Kids Please share what you always pack   @4chances2parent Baby Diapers Burpcloth Baby towel & wash cloths pajamas Onesies SPF lotion Sunhat Socks Outfits/sleep n play One photo ready outfit Blanket Breast pump medicines/medical equipment/extra batteries Hats mittens Birth certificate car seat Desitin Shoes Painters tape/black trash bags for messes and blocking out light Decongestant Baby tylenol Pacifiers Pacifier keepers Rattle and chewable toys Toddlers/Little Kids Diaper bag Stroller Car seat Books & toys Birth certificate Hat Baby lotion Baby wash Sippy cup Bibs Spoons Snacks food water vitamins Medication/medical equipment/batteries Swimsuit Swim diapers Ziploc Bags Coat boots hat gloves Shorts/pants/skirts/dresses/socks/underwear Tshirts/long sleeve Post-It notes & washable markers Dolls or action figures Hot Wheels cars SPF lotion/

As a mom of 4 kids who yearly subjects her family to multiple road trips, I have learned a few tips & tricks to make the experience less painful for all involved.  Hopefully, one of these inspires you to make your next road trip just a little bit more pleasant. Babies/Toddlers Cute, loud, easily distracted.   Note the easily distracted part.   Helping children under the age of 3 is all about distraction .   Shot at the doctor office… distraction .   Dropped an ice cream cone… distraction .   Bored… distraction .   Food not quite ready yet… distraction .   Still 25 miles to the next diaper changing location & a large smelly diaper has invaded the minivan… distraction .   You get the idea. Best practices… if possible have you or another adult (or kind older sibling) sit next to the baby.    Yes, it means sometimes leaving the driving adult to feel like a underpaid chauffeur, but really the important thing is keeping a calm, safe and quiet car for as long as p