Kids, teens and family
Events specifically for children or teens as well as those for families, including classes, park and library programs, music, dances, family fitness events, battles of the bands. Send items to nbrcalendar@dailyherald.com two weeks before event date.
Before and After School club: The Hanover Park Park District sponsors this fun and safe program for children before and/or after school. Games, snacks, crafts, more for children attending Horizon, Ontarioville, Laurel Hill, Hanover Highlands, Parkwood and Greenbrook schools. For information, (630) 837-2468 or hpparks.org.
Read to Succeed with the Chicago Wolves: Through Feb. 14; Rolling Meadows Library, 3110 Martin Lane. Open to kids kindergarten through eighth grade. Program features prizes and chances to win tickets to Chicago Wolves games. Sign up at the Ask Me Desk in Youth Service. (847) 259-6050
Youth open gym: 4-6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, Bartlett Community Center, 700 S. Bartlett Road, Bartlett. To participate you must have an Open Gym Photo ID. Limited to the first 40 participants in grades three-12. $5 per visit. (630) 540-4834.
Kingswood Preschool: Nondenominational preschool at 401 W. Dundee Road, Buffalo Grove, open to children of all backgrounds and religions now accepting registrations for the fall 2009/2010 school year. For schedule and prices, call (847) 398-0770, ext. .24 or visit kingswoodpreschool.com.
Tales with Tails: Thursdays, Feb. 19-March 19, Mount Prospect Public Library, 10 S. Emerson St. Children in grades two through five read to a specially trained dog from Rainbow Animal-Assisted Therapy during five weekly, 15-minute sessions held Program is reserved for Mount Prospect Library cardholders. Register in person at the library's Youth Services Desk. Call (847) 253-5675.
Jan. 19
No school sports time: Noon-1:30 p.m. for grades three-six; 1:30-3 p.m. for grades seven and eight, Monday, Jan. 19, Clauss Recreation Center, 555 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Roselle. Basketball fun under the direction of a supervisor. $3. (630) 894-4200.
School day out trip to Medieval Times: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday, Jan. 19, meet at Clauss Recreation Center, 555 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Roselle. For children ages 6-14. $22. (630) 894-4200.
Anime Club: 4-5:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 19, Indian Trails Public Library, 355 S. Schoenbeck Road, Wheeling. Read manga, eat pocky and watch a new Anime movie or series on the first and third Mondays of the month. Registration is required. For information or to register, call (847) 459-4100 or visit www.indiantrailslibrary.org.
Olympic Splash Bash: 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday, Jan. 19; Olympic Indoor Swim Center, 660 N. Ridge Ave., Arlington Heights. Open to grades one through five; swimming, arts & crafts, board games, and other team and individual events. Lunch will be provided. Fees: Residents, $30; nonresidents, $45.50. Visit ahpd.org or call (847) 577-3000.
Chat & Chew: 1 p.m., Monday, Jan. 19; Mount Prospect Public Library, 10 S. Emerson St. Chatting about the book "Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Greg Heffley's Journal," by Jeff Kinney. Greg Heffley, an undersized weakling is forced to share the middle school hallways with kids who are taller, meaner, and already shaving. Register at mppl.org or call (847) 253-5675.
Twilight series discussions: 2 p.m., Monday, Jan. 19; Mount Prospect Public Library, 10 S. Emerson St. Open to grades 6-12. Participants will tackle the questions: Who are shape-shifters? What happened to Leah? Is Billy actually Ephraim? If "Breaking Dawn" were made into a movie, could it be done in one movie or should it be two? To register, visit mppl.org/events or call (847) 253-5675.
Manga Madness: 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 19, Arlington Heights Memorial Library, 500 N. Dunton Ave. Kids in grades 6-12 can learn cutting-edge manga techniques from Vince Bertolami, a media arts and animation major at the Illinois Institute of Art. Register at ahml.info or call 847-392-0100.
Miniature golf at the Palatine Library: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday, Jan. 19, 700 N. North Court, Palatine. Kids enjoy your day off school by playing a round of indoor miniature golf at the library. (847) 358-5881 ext. 132 or palatinelibrary.org.
Online Maverick Money Club: Begins Monday, Jan. 19, through the Schaumburg Township District Library. Teen participants will choose from a list of stocks, using virtual money to invest and compete with other investors. A pizza party will be held at the program's conclusion. Registration required visit teenservices@stdl.org or call (847) 923-3191.
Jan. 20
Matinee Movie: 2 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 20 and 6:30 p.m., Friday, Jan. 23; Rolling Meadows Library, 3110 Martin Lane. An older, wiser Indiana Jones is pitted against agents of the Soviet Union in pursuit of the mystical Crystal Skull. See it free on the big screen. (847) 259-6050
Band and orchestra concert: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, Keller Junior High School, 820 Bode Road, Schaumburg. Fifth and sixth grade band and orchestra students from Keller's feeder schools, along with the District 54 Jazz Ban will perform. Dave or Donna, (847) 357-6500.
Open storytimes: 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20; 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21 and 10:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 23, Mount Prospect Public Library, 10 S. Emerson St., Mount Prospect. For children ages 6 and under and their families. Children must be accompanied by an adult. (847) 253-5675.
Preschool/child care information night: 7:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, Mount Prospect Public Library, 10 S. Emerson St., Mount Prospect. Open house give parents an opportunity to meet face-to-face with representatives of Mount Prospect preschools and child care centers. For information, mppl.org/events or call (847) 253-5675.
Jan. 21
Toddler Storytime: 10-10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21 and Thursday, Jan 22, Indian Trails Public Library District, 355 S. Schoenbeck Road, Wheeling. Storytime for children 18-36 months and their caregivers. Share stories, finger plays and songs to encourage listening and motor skill development. Registration is required. Call (847) 459-4100 or visit www.indiantrailslibrary.org.
St. Hubert Catholic Preschool open house: 7-8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, 255 Flagstaff Lane, Hoffman Estates. Preschool open house for prospective new families. Bring your children to see the classrooms and meet the preschool teachers. (847) 885-7702.
Ice cream social: 5-9 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, Fox School gym, 1035 Parkview Drive, Hanover Park. (630) 736-3500.
Link Variety Show: 6-9:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, Meade Junior High School gym, 900 S. West Glenn Trail, Elk Grove Village. Fabulous Fifties theme. (847) 357-5300.
Fifth grade band concert: 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, Frost Junior High School, 320 W. Wise Road, Schaumburg.
Fifth grade band students from Aldrin, Collins, Dirksen and Hanover-Highlands perform. Mark, (847) 357-2189.
Student enrichment night: 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, Fairview School gym, 375 Arizona Blvd., Hoffman Estates. (847) 357-5700.
Civil War: 10-11 a.m. or 1-2 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 21; Des Plaines History Center, 781 Pearson St. This is the History Center's home-school program. Home-schoolers will examine a reproduction Union soldier's uniform and make a woodcut-style picture similar to those found in newspapers at the time of the War. Open to children ages 5-12. An adult must accompany children to programs. Free, but reservations are required by calling (847) 391-5399 or visit www.desplaineshistory.org.
Chocolate Galore: 5-6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, Rose Park, 530 S. Williams Ave., Palatine. Children ages 5-15 cover marshmallows, pretzels, cookies and more with chocolate. To register, (847) 259-6890. saltcreekpd.com.
Jan. 22
Parent/Tot Winter Adventures: 6:30-7:15 p.m., Thursdays, Jan. 22, Feb. 5, 24; Pioneer Park, 500 S. Fernandez Ave., Arlington Heights. Crafts, snacks, and creative movement around the club theme for the night. Sign up for one or for all the offerings. A parent needs to be present for each class. Open to ages 2-5. Fee is $14 a class. Visit ahpd.org.
Family movie night: 6-10 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 22, Hale School gym, 1300 W. Wise Road, Schaumburg. (847) 357-6200.
Fun Fair: 5-10 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 22, Einstein School, 1100 Laurie Lane, Hanover Park. (630) 736-2500.
Jan. 23
Teen Scrapbook Night: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23, Bartlett Community Center, 700 S. Bartlett Road, Bartlett. Introductory scrapbooking class for children ages 12-18. Make six scrapbook pages using rubber stamps, cardstock, inks and embellishments. $20-$25, advance registration required. (630) 540-4834.
Friday Tot Lot: 9:30 a.m.-Noon Friday, Jan. 23, Sport Center gymnasium, 1141 W. Irving Park Road, Schaumburg. Parent-supervised open gym for children ages 6 and under. Includes balls, riding toys, climbing mats. $40-$60. (847) 490-7020 or parkfun.com.
Cartooning for Non-Wimpy Kids: 4-5 p.m., Friday, Jan. 23; Rolling Meadows Library, 3110 Martin Lane. Make your own comic journal, eat snacks and you will have a chance to win copies of The Diary of a Wimpy Kid Do-it-Yourself-Book, The Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Roderick Rules and the latest in the series, The Last Straw. (847) 259-6050
Winter Overnight Blast: Friday, Jan. 23-Saturday, Jan. 24, Community Center, 1919 Walnut Ave., Hanover Park. Ages 6-14 can sleepover at the Hanover Park Park District. Includes pizza, games, snacks and more with the staff. Bring gym shoes, pajamas and a sleeping bag and pillow. $36-$51. To register, (630) 837-2468 or hpparks.org.
Family Magic Fun Night: 7-8:45 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23, Pioneer Park, 500 South Fernandez Ave., Arlington Heights. The magician starts at 7:15 p.m. and will be putting on a show for the whole family. After the show, make ice cream sundaes. Every family member attending must register. All ages welcome. The fee is $8 for Arlington Heights residents, $12 for nonresidents. For information or to register, visit ahpd.org or call (847) 577-3000.
Jan. 24
Preschool Saturdays: 9:30-10 a.m. Saturdays, Jan. 24 and 31, Vernon Area Public Library District, 300 Olde Half Day Road, Lincolnshire. Stories just right for preschool children. For information or to register, call (847) 634-3650 or visit vapld.info.
Preschool Open House: from 10 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Jan. 24; RecPlex, Central Community Center and Lions Recreation Center, Mount Prospect. Open to 2-1/2 years through age 4. Offered by the Mount Prospect Park District. Visit mppd.org under What's Hot for details, or call (847) 640-1000.
Artists' Studio Day: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. Young artists can learn about the techniques of famous artists to create their own masterpieces. Materials provided. Sponsored by the Lambs of Faith Ministry. Donation, $5 per child. Register at (847) 253-4839.
Celebrate the year of the Ox: 2-3:15 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, Historical Museum, 110 W. Fremont St. Make crafts, play games, hear stories about the Chinese New Year. Ages 7-10 years old. Fee is $16 for Arlington Heights residents, $20 for nonresidents. For information or to register, visit ahpd.org or call (847) 577-3000.
Jan. 25
"Spamalot" trip: 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Sunday Jan. 25, bus departs from the Palatine Park District Community Center, 250 W. Wood St., Palatine. Lovingly ripped off from the classic film comedy "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," Spamalot is a new musical directed by Mike Nichols. Arrive in downtown Chicago's theater district with plenty of time for lunch on your own before the 2 p.m. performance in the Auditorium Theatre. Seats are in the balcony, no elevator access in this venue. $70, residents; $105, nonresidents. Reservations required, call (847) 991-0333.
St. Hubert Catholic School open house: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25, 255 Flagstaff Lane, Hoffman Estates. (847) 885-7702 or sainthubert.org.
Queen of the Rosary Catholic School open house: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25, 690 Elk Grove Blvd., Elk Grove Village. Guided tours, student demonstrations, book sale, refreshments and registration information for returning and prospective families. (847) 437-3322.
St. James Catholic School open house: After the 11:45 a.m. Mass until 2:30 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 25, 820 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. Administration, teaches, staff, clergy, parents and students will be available to answer question and give school tours.
St. Zachary Catholic School open house: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25, 567 Algonquin Road, Des Plaines. Take a tour, meet the faculty and staff, learn about programs, view the junior high science fair. (847) 437-4022.
Jan. 26
Monday Morning Tots: Between 10 and 11:30 a.m. Monday, Jan. 26; Vernon Area Public Library District, 300 Olde Half Day Road, Lincolnshire. Stop by to meet with other families and share a variety of toys and books. Designed especially for infants and toddlers. Siblings are welcome. Registration is not required. VAPLD cardholders only. For information, call (847) 634-3650 or visit vapld.info.
Fun with Chinese: 4:30-5:20 p.m. Mondays, Jan. 26-March 16, South Barrington Community Center, 3 Tennis Club Lane, South Barrington. South Barrington Park District and Happy Chinese School present this class to teach Chinese to all beginning learners in a fun and easy way. $120-$128. Register at (847) 381-7515 or sbpd.net. Visit, HappyChineseSchool.com for information.
Radical Rock Climbing trip: 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday, Jan. 26; Travel to the Upper Limits in Bloomington, Ill. for a radical rock climbing experience. Register by Monday, Jan. 12. Fee: $35 plus lunch/dinner money. Open to ages 12-18 years. This is for District 25 students only. Visit ahpd.org or call (847) 577-3000.
Magic class: 5:15-6:10 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26, Rose Park, 530 S. Williams Ave., Palatine. Children ages 5-12 learn tricks from a professional magician. All materials provided and each child will take home a magic kit. To register, (847) 259-6890. saltcreekpd.com.
Crazy Science Concoctions: 9:30 or 10:45 a.m. Monday, Jan. 26, Arlington Heights Memorial Library, 500 N. Dunton Ave., Arlington Heights. For sixth-eighth graders. (847) 392-0100 or ahml.info.
Band concert: 7:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26, Frost Junior High School, 320 W. Wise Road, Schaumburg. Frost seventh grade band and District 54 Jazz Band perform. Roy, (847) 357-6777.
Magicians: 4-4:55 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26, Heritage Park, 506 West Victoria Lane. Hands-on class features card, rope, and sponge ball tricks. Each participant receives all necessary props and illustrated manual to take home. Ages 5-12 years. Fee is $17 for Arlington Heights residents, $34.50 for nonresidents. For information or to register, visit ahpd.org or call (847) 577-3000.
Jan. 27
Orchestra festival: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 27, Hoffman Estates High School 1100 W. Higgins Road, Hoffman Estates. Orchestra students from Addams and Mead junior high schools; Lincoln Prairie, Armstrong, Churchill, Link, MacArthur, Muir, Nerge and Stevenson schools perform with the high school orchestra students. District 54's Strolling Strings will also perform. (847) 357-5483.
Band festival: 7:30 p.m. Schaumburg High School, 1100 W. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. Seventh and eighth grade students from Addams and Frost junior high schools and Lincoln Prairie's middle level band students perform with the Schaumburg High School band students. (847) 357-6777.
Jan. 28
District 54 Open Enrollment Fair: 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28, Addams Junior High School, 700 S. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg. Provides parents with information on eight elementary schools in District 54 and the programs they offer. Formal presentation by superintendent Ed Rafferty followed by opportunities for parents to visit each school's booth to learn about each site in detail. Representatives from each school will discuss open enrollment opportunities and answer questions. For information, call Terri at (847) 357-5028.
Jan. 29
St. Hubert Catholic School new parent information night: 7-8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 29, 255 Flagstaff Lane, Hoffman Estates. (847) 885-7702 or sainthubert.org.
East Leyden open house: 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, 3400 Rose St., Franklin Park. Eighth-graders slated for admission to East Leyden High School in fall 2009, will be given a taste of high school during this open house for prospective students. (847) 351-3023.
Band festival: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, Conant High School, 700 E. Cougar Trail Hoffman Estates. Sixth grade band students from Aldrin collins, Dirksen and Hanover Highlands schools and eighth grade band students from Frost Junior High School perform. Mark, (847) 357-2189.
Design Your Own Brownie or Junior Doll: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, Recreation Park, 500 E. Miner St. Girls ages 3-12 can create their own brownie or junior doll. Ages 3-5 must be accompanied by a parent. Fee is $37. For information or to register, visit ahpd.org or call (847) 577-3000.
Jan. 30
Friday Tot Lot: 9:30 a.m.-Noon Friday, Jan. 30, Sport Center gymnasium, 1141 W. Irving Park Road, Schaumburg. Parent-supervised open gym for children ages 6 and under. Includes balls, riding toys, climbing mats. $40-$60. (847) 490-7020 or parkfun.com.
Family Tropical Escape Night: 6-9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30, Meineke Recreation Center, 220 E. Weathersfield Way, Schaumburg. Event for families features a DJ, games, crafts and more. Dress is tropical-themed, with prizes given for best-dressed family. Concessions available. $10 per family. (847) 490-7020 or parkfun.com.
Super Bowl party: 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, Community Recreation Center, 505 N. Springinsguth Road. Football fest for fifth- and sixth-graders includes games, contests, DJ, dancing, and tailgate-style concessions available for purchase. $12. Register before Friday, Jan. 30 at (847) 985-2143 or parkfun.com.
Winter Carnival: 5-9 p.m. Aldrin School gym, 617 Boxwood Drive, Schaumburg. Food, games, face painting, hair spraying and more. (847) 357-5400.
Fun Fair at Link School: 6-9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30, 900 S> West Glenn Trail, Elk Grove Village. (847) 357-5300.
Fun Fair at MacArthur School: 6:30-8:30 p.m. 1800 Chippendale Road, Hoffman Estates. (847) 357-6650.
Jan. 31
Preschool Saturdays: 9:30-10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, Vernon Area Public Library District, 300 Olde Half Day Road, Lincolnshire. Stories just right for preschool children. For information or to register, call (847) 634-3650 or visit vapld.info.
Kingswood Preschool open house: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Jan. 31, 401 W. Dundee Road, Buffalo Grove. Crafts, snacks, tour the facilities, meet teachers, check out classrooms, register for fall 2009. Laura, (847) 398-0700. ext. 24 or kingswoodpreschool.com.
Spaghetti Supper: 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, Community Presbyterian Church, 407 N. Main St., Mount Prospect. Pasta, salad, garlic bread, brownie sundae, soft drinks, coffee. $7 adults; $4 children ages 4-12; free under age 4. Reservations suggested. Entertainment includes magician and raffles. (847) 465-1003.
Feb. 1
Bad Breakups writing contest: Feb. 1-28 through the Schaumburg Township District Library. Teens in grades 7-12 can enter for an opportunity to win a gift certificate to Borders. Submit a short essay on the worst way to break up with someone or end a friendship. Length may be up to two pages and must be double-spaced. E-mail entries to teenservices@stdl.org. before Feb. 28. Winners will be announced March 15. (847) 923-3191.
Superbowl Party for teens: 4:30-9:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 1, Des Plaines Park District Teen Center. For grades 6-12. $5 per person includes pizza, drink, games, prizes. (847) 391-5711 or desplainesparks.org.
Feb. 2
Gamers Group: 7:30-8:30 p.m. Mondays Feb. 2 and March 2; Schaumburg Township District Library Youth Services Classroom, 130 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. Teens in grades 6-12 can enjoys many types of video gaming, including Rock Band, Wii. PS3 and more. No registration required. (847) 923-3191.
Feb. 4
Abraham Lincoln: 7-8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4, Indian Trails Public Library District, 355 S. Schoenbeck Road, Wheeling. Abraham Lincoln will be on hand to discuss the importance of reading as the library celebrates his 200th birthday. For details or to register, call (847) 459-4100 or visit www.indiantrailslibrary.org.
Feb. 5
Bead workshop: 3:30-4:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, Schaumburg Township District Library, 130 S. Roselle Road; or Feb. 12, at the Hoffman Estates Branch Library, 1550 Hassell Road. Teens in grades 6-12 make gifts for themselves or others in this beading workshop. Registration required, teenservices@stdl.org or call (847) 923-3191.
Feb. 6
Daddy/daughter dance: 7-9 p.m. Friday Feb. 6, North Park, 300 N. Highland Road, Inverness. Dads and daughters dress up for an evening of live entertainment, refreshments, more. $34-$44; $9 for each additional daughter. Reservations required. (847) 934-6300.
Friday Tot Lot: 9:30 a.m.-Noon Friday, Feb. 6, Sport Center gymnasium, 1141 W. Irving Park Road, Schaumburg. Parent-supervised open gym for children ages 6 and under. Includes balls, riding toys, climbing mats. $40-$60. (847) 490-7020 or parkfun.com.
Royal Ball: 6-8:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6, Leisure Center, 2222 Birch St., Des Plaines. For fathers and their daughters ages 4-14. Dinner, dancing, photo. $18-$23. Register at (847) 391-5700 or desplainesparks.org.
Feb. 7
Daddy Daughter Date Night: 6-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, Hanover Park Park District Community Center, 1919 Walnut Ave. Dancing, prizes, dinner, more. $30-$45 per couple; $14 for each additional daughter. To register, call (630) 837-2468 or hpparks.org.
Feb. 8
Discover the Eagles at Starved Rock: 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 8, bus departs from the Palatine Park District, 250 E. Wood St., Palatine. For ages 17 and under with an adult. $52-$78 includes transportation, tour guide, eagle presentation and lunch in the Starved Rock Lode's rustic dining room. For information or to register, call (847) 991-0333 or palatineparks.org.
Feb. 12
Palatine Park District Date Night: 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12, Birchwood Recreation Center, 435 W. Illinois Ave., Palatine. For ages 3-12 with parent. $12-$18 per person. Dress up for a night of dining and dancing. Valentine theme evening included food and photos. Call (847) 991-0333.
Feb. 13
No school sports time: Noon-1:30 p.m. for grades three-six; 1:30-3 p.m. for grades seven and eight, Friday, Feb. 13, Clauss Recreation Center, 555 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Roselle. Basketball fun under the direction of a supervisor. $3. (630) 894-4200.
Friday Tot Lot: 9:30 a.m.-Noon Friday, Feb. 13, Sport Center gymnasium, 1141 W. Irving Park Road, Schaumburg. Parent-supervised open gym for children ages 6 and under. Includes balls, riding toys, climbing mats. $40-$60. (847) 490-7020 or parkfun.com.
Valentine's Day Blast: 6:30-9:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13, Community Recreation Center, 505 N. Springinsguth Road. Games, dancing, door and arts and crafts for ages 10-12. Registration required before Thursday, Feb. 12. $12, concessions available at an additional fee. (847) 985-2143 or parkfun.com
Feb. 14
Dad and Daughter Date Night: 5:30-8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14, Community Recreation Center, 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg. Live entertainment, dinner, dancing and games. Daughters must be between the ages of 4-10. $28 per couple. Registration required before Friday, Feb, 13. (847) 490-7020 or parkfun.com.
Love Stinks Anti-Valentine's Day Chocolate Fest: 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14, Arlington Heights Memorial Library, 500 N. Dunton Ave., Arlington Heights. Find our the worst places to take a date and the most depressing ways to get dumped. Includes morose decorations and a Chocolate Taste-off for kids in grades 7-12. Register at (847) 392-0100 or ahml.info.
Feb. 15
Daddy Daughter Date Night: 6-8 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 15, Clauss Recreation Center, 555 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Roselle. For girls ages 10 and younger. Refreshments, photos, dancing, music and the magic of Jim Jensen Entertainment. (630) 894-4200.
Feb. 16
No school sports time: Noon-1:30 p.m. for grades three-six; 1:30-3 p.m. for grades seven and eight, Monday, Feb. 16, Clauss Recreation Center, 555 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Roselle. Basketball fun under the direction of a supervisor. $3. (630) 894-4200.
School day out trip to Legoland: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday, Feb. 16, meet at Clauss Recreation Center, 555 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Roselle. For ages 6-14. $22. (630) 894-4200.
American Girl Place lunch and shopping: 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., American Girl Place, Chicago. Bus departs from the Palatine Park District, 250 E. Wood St., Palatine. For ages 3 and over with parent. $48-$72 fee per person includes transportation and lunch in the American Girl Cafe only. For information or to register, call (847) 991-0333 or palatineparks.org.
Feb. 20
Friday Tot Lot: 9:30 a.m.-Noon Friday, Feb. 20, Sport Center gymnasium, 1141 W. Irving Park Road, Schaumburg. Parent-supervised open gym for children ages 6 and under. Includes balls, riding toys, climbing mats. $40-$60. (847) 490-7020 or parkfun.com.
Friday Night Teen Splash In: 7-9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20, South Barrington Park District pool, 3 Tennis Club Lane, South Barrington. Movie, games, pizza, swim for grades five-eight. $10-$15. Register before Wednesday, Jan. 14, at (847) 381-7515 or sbpd.net.
Feb. 21
Flick and float: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21, Splash Central, 700 S. Bartlett Road, Bartlett. Bring your water noodle, raft or inner tube and float away while watching a movie on a big screen. $5-$7. (630) 540-4800 or bartlettparks.org.
Feb. 22
School day out trip to Gameworks: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday, Feb. 22, meet at Clauss Recreation Center, 555 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Roselle. For children ages 6-14. $22. (630) 894-4200.
Feb. 23
Creative Mondays: Writing club from 6:30-7:30 p.m.; Drawing Teens from 7:30-8:30 p.m., Mondays Feb. 23 and March 23, Schaumburg Township District Library, 130 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. Teens in grades 6-12 are welcome to attend one or both programs. registration required, teenservices@stdl.org or call (847) 923-3191.
Feb. 26
A Taste of Preschool: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, Meineke Recreation Center, 220 E. Weathersfield Way, Schaumburg. Mini-class includes a morning meeting, center exploration and creative art, ending with a musical activity. Parent will have the opportunity to ask questions while the children engage in activities. Free, registration required before Monday, Feb. 23, openings limited. (847) 490-7036 or parkfun.com.
Feb. 27
Friday Tot Lot: 9:30 a.m.-Noon Friday, Feb. 27, Sport Center gymnasium, 1141 W. Irving Park Road, Schaumburg. Parent-supervised open gym for children ages 6 and under. Includes balls, riding toys, climbing mats. $40-$60. (847) 490-7020 or parkfun.com.
Babysitter's training course: 6-9 p.m. Fridays, Feb. 27 and March 6, South Barrington board room, 3 Tennis Club Lane, South Barrington. Fun, fast-paced, hands-on, course for ages 11-15. Earn a Babysitter's Training Certificate from the American Red Cross. $65-$75. Register at (847) 381-7515 or sbpd.net.
Glam-A-Rama Girls Night Out: 6-7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, South Barrington Park District banquet room, 3 Tennis Club Lane, South Barrington. For mothers and their daughters ages 5-12. Mom's learn how to create updos on their daughters. Includes goody bags and refreshments. $40-$45 per couple; additional daughters $15. To register, (847) 381-7515 or sbpd.net.
Magic class: 4-5:55 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, Leisure Center, 2222 Birch St., Des Plaines. Magic class for ages 5-12. Learn tricks with cards, ropes, coins, mind reading, more. $17-$22. (847) 391-5700 or desplainesparks.org.
March 6
Friday Tot Lot: 9:30 a.m.-Noon Friday, March 6, Sport Center gymnasium, 1141 W. Irving Park Road, Schaumburg. Parent-supervised open gym for children ages 6 and under. Includes balls, riding toys, climbing mats. $40-$60. (847) 490-7020 or parkfun.com.
March 13
Friday Tot Lot: 9:30 a.m.-Noon Friday, March 13, Sport Center gymnasium, 1141 W. Irving Park Road, Schaumburg. Parent-supervised open gym for children ages 6 and under. Includes balls, riding toys, climbing mats. $40-$60. (847) 490-7020 or parkfun.com.
March 14
Family pirate brigade: 7:15-9:15 p.m. Saturday, March 14, Splash Central, 700 S. Bartlett Road, Bartlett. Pirate-themed evening of water fights, water balloons, cannonball contests, relay races and food delights. $5-$8. Register at (630) 540-4800 or bartlettparks.org.
March 18
Mary Poppins trip: 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 18, Cadiliac Palace Theatre. Bus departs from the Palatine Park District, 250 W. Wood St., Palatine. All ages 17 and under with an adult. $50-$75 fee includes transportation and show ticket. Lunch is on your own. For information or to register, (847) 991-0333 or palatineparks.org.
March 20
Friday Tot Lot: 9:30 a.m.-Noon Friday, March 20, Sport Center gymnasium, 1141 W. Irving Park Road, Schaumburg. Parent-supervised open gym for children ages 6 and under. Includes balls, riding toys, climbing mats. $40-$60. (847) 490-7020 or parkfun.com.
March 27
Friday Tot Lot: 9:30 a.m.-Noon Friday, March 27, Sport Center gymnasium, 1141 W. Irving Park Road, Schaumburg. Parent-supervised open gym for children ages 6 and under. Includes balls, riding toys, climbing mats. $40-$60. (847) 490-7020 or parkfun.com.
March 30
Fun with Chinese: 4:30-5:20 p.m. Mondays, March 30-May 18, South Barrington Community Center, 3 Tennis Club Lane, South Barrington. South Barrington Park District and Happy Chinese School present this class to teach Chinese to all beginning learners in a fun and easy way. $120-$128. Register at (847) 381-7515 or sbpd.net. Visit, HappyChineseSchool.com for information.
April 3
Friday Tot Lot: 9:30 a.m.-Noon Friday, April 3, Sport Center gymnasium, 1141 W. Irving Park Road, Schaumburg. Parent-supervised open gym for children ages 6 and under. Includes balls, riding toys, climbing mats. $40-$60. (847) 490-7020 or parkfun.com.
April 10
Friday Tot Lot: 9:30 a.m.-Noon Friday, April 10, Sport Center gymnasium, 1141 W. Irving Park Road, Schaumburg. Parent-supervised open gym for children ages 6 and under. Includes balls, riding toys, climbing mats. $40-$60. (847) 490-7020 or parkfun.com.
April 17
Friday Tot Lot: 9:30 a.m.-Noon Friday, April 17, Sport Center gymnasium, 1141 W. Irving Park Road, Schaumburg. Parent-supervised open gym for children ages 6 and under. Includes balls, riding toys, climbing mats. $40-$60. (847) 490-7020 or parkfun.com.
April 24
Friday Tot Lot: 9:30 a.m.-Noon Friday, April 24, Sport Center gymnasium, 1141 W. Irving Park Road, Schaumburg. Parent-supervised open gym for children ages 6 and under. Includes balls, riding toys, climbing mats. $40-$60. (847) 490-7020 or parkfun.com.
Preschool openings: The Salt Creek Park Preschool has immediate openings for its 3-4 year old program. Call (847) 259-6890.
Tutor. com: Youth Services Department at the Prospect Heights Public Library, 12 N. Elm Street, Prospect Heights will have a new online service. Tutor.com connects to a real-time live tutor in an online classroom to work one-on-one on homework, studying, test prep, etc. Available daily from 2- 9 p. m. via the library's Web site phpl.info
Before and After School Care program: Weekdays, 6-8:30 a.m. and 3:30-6 p.m.; nonschool days (except major holidays), 6 a.m.-6 p.m.; Lutheran Church of the Cross, 2025 S. Goebbert Road, Arlington Heights. Open to children ages 5 through 12. For details, call (847) 437-5176.