by CCCOC Resources / in Active, Family Relationships / tags: Activities, Chicago, Child, Children, Children's Mental Health, Events, Family Relationships, Kids, Local, Local Activities, Summer, Summer Activities, Summer Transitions
One of the most important ways to help children transition from the school year to the summer is provide structure to their vacation. Planning family outings and activities keep your kids learning while out of school, and give them a memorable summer experience. Listed below are 5 free activity ideas in the city that will help keep your children busy, engaged, and away from the T.V.
- Attend a free museum day
There are numerous local museums that offer free admission to Illinois residents on specific dates. This includes places such as The Art Institute of Chicago, The Chicago Children’s Museum, The Adler Planetarium, and The Shedd Aquarium. This is an inexpensive way to foster learning even when school isn’t in session. To learn more about specific dates and locations click here, or click the link below:
http://www.chicagokids.com/Html/page/chicagomuseumfreedays - Watch a movie in Millennium Park
Every Tuesday night from June 24th to August 26th Millennium Park hosts a free viewing of a variety of films. You can grab some blankets, pack a cooler, and hang out at the Pritzker Pavilion for the evening. This is a good option for parents who work full time, but would like to plan an event with their children. To see the movie schedule click here, or follow the link below:
http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/millennium_park7.html - Register for a Lurie Garden program
Lurie Garden in Millennium Park offers family and early childhood programs during the summer. While you do have to preregister, all of the programs are free. The family programs are for children ages 1-6 and feature workshops to learn about biology and ecology, and the early childhood programs offer nature based activities for your little one. For more information or to register click here, or go to the link provided below:
http://www.luriegarden.org/families-toddlers - Take part in a neighborhood festival
Add cultural value to your summer while getting out of the house by attending a local festival. One of the upcoming events is the Do-Division Street Fest & Sidewalk Sale. Spread out across 10 blocks you can enjoy free live music, shopping, and great food. To see the schedule of all the upcoming events and festivals click here, or click the link below:
http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/neighborhood_festivals.html - Go to a local farmers market
During the summer season in Chicago it is easy to find a farmer’s market near you. The City of Chicago provides a list of locations for downtown and neighborhood areas. Farmers markets provide the opportunity to learn about different foods, agriculture, and how to support local farms. You could even go and buy ingredients to make a meal together. To find a market near you click here, or follow the link below:
http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/farmers_market3.html
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