Macaroni Kid
Naperville
Macaroni Kid  

Letter from the Editor


Mary Anne Plauda

Here's a SNEAK PEEK at this week's issue:

I hope everyone is enjoying this beautiful weather we are experiencing! Also, I hope everyone had a fantastic Mother's Day and that those lucky winners enjoyed the generous gifts from our sponsors!

As we enjoy this lovely weather we are reminded of some of the issues that summer brings. It's bug season and we can learn about some products that may help us avoid those nasty bites. Check out the article about some new products. We also have ...


Armed Forces Day is May 19, 2012


A new way to honor our military men and women and their families

What are some of your favorite family vacation memories? I bet they had something to do with packing up the car and hitting the road. And, I bet they involved visiting some of our majestic national parks.
And that’s exactly what Interior Secretary Ken Salazar had in mind when he announced that the $80 annual pass for all the national parks and public lands will be waived for active-duty military members and their dependents, starting May 19, Armed Forces Day.

Salazar said he hopes military members and their families ...


The National Kids to Parks Day


 

Just what is National Kids to Parks Day, anyway?  Simply put, every family in America is invited to attend a local park, state park, or national park and play the day away!  Many areas are hosting special events and, in fact, all 35 Virginia State Parks are hosting special events!  You can also go to www.kidstoparks.org and pledge to go to a park with your family on May 19th.  Pretty cool!

This is the perfect opportunity to "unplug" and enjoy the great outdoors.  You'll be amazed at ...

Summer Playground Safety


Staying Safe In Summer

Summer is nearly upon us and that means a lot more of the kids and a lot less for them to do! Playgrounds are a go-to place for moms and kids alike so it's important to remember "safety first" when it comes to playing at your local playground. Moms are safety experts when it comes to their kids yet it's easy to accidentally become complacent and overlook the little things when in familiar surroundings like a playground. Take this refresher course and be sure your kids are extra ...


Macaroni Cares


It's Bug Season

 According to the National Pest Management Association, an unseasonably warm winter is expected to bring bugs and pests out of hibernation early this year, meaning we’re in store for prolonged mosquito season. Rather than turning to toxic bug sprays to fight against mosquito-borne viruses like West Nile and Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), Mom’s everywhere can count on PIC® to help protect their families from dangerous mosquito bites with two unique products that provide maximum protection with all-natural ingredients that don’t need to be applied to skin.
TWIST-IT ...

Summer is Here and It Is Time To Think Sunscreen


We all know how important sunscreen is, but thought I’d share a few tips and facts with you all!

While sunscreen is important to use year round, we tend to spend a lot more time outdoors in the sunshine during the summertime, so be prepared!

Create a morning routine for yourself AND your kids that includes a first coat of sunscreen. For my kids, I use a non-oily moisturizer with a 30 SPF on them after they brush their teeth each morning. Then before they go outside, I apply ...


DAWN


Junior Wildlife Champion

Join the movement! Macaroni Kid is helping Dawn educate more than 2 million kids this spring about the issues affecting wildlife, from oil spills to backyard ecosystems. Check out the FREE, downloadable lesson plans and experiments for teachers and parents. The fun doesn't end in the classroom – you'll also find FREE "Wildlife Weekend" family activities that you can do in your own backyard.

To continue Dawn's 30+ year commitment to preserving wildlife, Dawn worked with their partners at The Marine Mammal Center and International Bird Rescue to ...

Naperville Public Library


Summer Reading Program

Mark your calendars for Monday, June 4 and join more than 9,000 children, teens and adults!  Yes, June 4 is the beginning of the Naperville Public Library’s Summer Reading Program, an 8 week, all ages activity. 

“We have an especially fun theme this year,” explains Aynne Reist, SRP Committee Co-Chair and Naper Boulevard Library Children’s Services Supervisor.  “Reading is So Delicious is the theme and we’re planning many food based programs and activities.  And be sure to stop in and see our decorations. They’re great ...


Storytime There's Always Time to Catch a Good Book


Land of Nod Storytime

Thursdays at 11:00am at the Land of Nod store in OakBrook Center

Barnes & Noble Storytime

Barnes & Noble Naperville, 47 E. Chicago Ave, Naperville

Tuesdays at 10:30am and Fridays at 7:00pm

 Garden Story time at Morton Arboretum

Fridays at 11:00am in the Children's Garden.  Storytime themes.  Storytime is free, but regular admission rates to the Arboretum apply.

Pottery Barn Kids Storytime

Tuesdays, 11:00am at Pottery Barn Kids in Oak Brook Center.  Members receive an official Book Club Passport at their first ...


Naperville Heritage Month


Children's Programs

Check out the displays in Children's and Adult & Teen Services departments at all three libraries to learn more about Naperville. All libraries branches.

This Week's Calendar:


May 11th through May 21st

Friday, May 11 - Family Fun Friday Nights

Gives families with working parents and siblings who attend school
during the week greater opportunity to enjoy time together. Families are welcome to bring
their own dinner and enjoy it in the lower level snack area. Start your weekend right!
Come to a DCM Family Fun Friday Night!
Where: DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington Street, Naperville, IL 60540, (630) 637-8000
When: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just Go!
Cost: Free for Museum members and/or with Museum admission.
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Thursday, May 17 through Friday, May 18 - Sprouts

Young children are invited explore seasonal nature topics through stories, hands-on activities, nature walks and crafts. Each session meets three consecutive Thursdays or Fridays. Classes will be held in the Education Center, with outdoor components. Please dress for the weather. Beautiful Blooms
Flowers are blooming all around! This is the perfect time of year to explore and learn all about flowers! we will keep busy learning about the parts of a flower, bees, and we will even spend time in the Cantigny Greenhouse!
Where: Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton, Illinois 60189
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Age level: 3-5 years, with adult
How: Just Go!
Cost: $18 per child
For more info:  Registration required. No parking fee.
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Thursday, May 17 - "Night" At The Museum (NBL)

Have you ever wondered what happens during a night at the museum? Join us and let's find out! We'll read stories, dance, sing, and visit some of the most popular exhibits! You'll even bring home a souvenir craft from your "night" at the museum.
Where: Naper Boulevard Library, 2035 S. Naper Boulevard, Naperville
When: 1:00 PM - 1:45 PM
Who: For children ages 3 - 5 and their caregivers.
How: NA
Cost: FREE
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Thursday, May 17 through Friday, May 18 - Brunswick Zone AfterSchool Blast

 1 Hour of bowling, shoe rental, $5 in game play, fries and a small soft drink.
Where:
Brunswick Zone XL, 1515 West Aurora Ave, Naperville, IL
When: 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Who:
Anyone
How: Just go!
Cost: $7.99 per person
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Thursday, May 17 - Third Thursday

The Third Thursday is a special time once a month for families of children with autism spectrum disorder to come play at the Museum. The Museum is open to the public at this time and everyone is welcome.
Where: DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington Street, Naperville, IL 60540, (630) 637-8000
When: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Who: Families with children on the autistic spectrum
How: Just Go!
Cost: Members/Free
Non-Members/With Admission
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Friday, May 18 - Sign And Play With Baby -Animals (NIC)

Learn to communicate with your baby using sign language. This 3-week program provides a fun environment for babies and their caregivers to learn the basics of sign language. Each week, a new theme will be introduced using stimulating activities, books, songs and play.
Where: Naperville Nicholas Library, 200 W. Jefferson, Naperville
When: 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Who: For children ages 8 - 23 months.
How: Just Go!
Cost: Free
For more info:  Program requires advanced registration and is limited to 12 babies per program.
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Friday, May 18 - Sculpt an Animal

Two-Session Class
Build with various materials to form an animal and cover it with paper-mache. Add a coat of paint during the second session to complete your sculpture. 
Skills Development classes in math, science or art provide a more in-depth exploration of the topic in a fun way through the use of age-appropriate manipulatives and projects.
Children may attend these classes on their own, but must be dropped off and picked up by an adult at the classroom.
PLEASE NOTE: Registration closes 1 week before the start of most classes. Pre-registration and pre-payment are required
Where: DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington Street, Naperville, IL 60540, (630) 637-8000
When: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM (5/11/12 and 5/18/12)
Who: Ages 7-10 years old
How: Just Go!
Cost: Fees: $30 member/child partner and $40 nonmember/child partner 
For more info: REGISTER NOW! CALL 630-637-8000 ext. 0 or register online at www.dupagechildrensmuseum.org
* No portion of the enrollment fee will be refunded as of the day class begins.
* Registrants withdrawing one week prior to the beginning of class will be charged a 50% administrative fee.
* Registrants withdrawing prior to the week before classes begin will be charged a 25% administrative fee.
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Friday, May 18 - Froggin' Under the Stars

Identify local frog species by their calls while learning about spring stars and constellations.
Where: James "Pate" Philip State Park
2050 West Stearns Road  Bartlett, IL 60103, (847) 608-3100
When: 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Who: Ages 5 and up; under 18 with an adult.
How: Just Go!
Cost: $5.00, per person
For more info: To register, call (630) 850-8110.
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Saturday, May 19 - Scout-O-Rama "Daily Good Turn"

The Boy Scouts of America, Three Fires Council will host a day-long community showcase Scout-O-Rama - "Daily Good Turn" at Cantigny Park with over a hundred hands-on family activities that bring the perfect mix of unforgettable fun and import life lessons. Join us to honor the men and women on Armed Forces Day and "do a good turn" by donating a food item to our event partner, Northern Illinois Food Bank.  
Where: Cantigny, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton, IL 60189
When: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Who: Anyone
How: Just go!
Cost: Cost: $5
For more info: Motorcoach Parking: On-site, Free, Off-site, Free Services for equal accessibility: Wheelchair Accessible, Toilets with grab bars, Family RestroomCall: 630-584-9250
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Saturday, May 19 through Sunday, May 20 - Civil War Days

You become part of history when you experience the sweeping pageantry and spectacle of the war that divided a nation during Civil War Days, an annual event at Naper Settlement. More than 300 Civil War re-enactors camp on site, providing a living historical view of the past. When the bugle sounds each day at 2:30 p.m., troops from the North and the South will charge into battle with rifles at the ready and cannons booming. Afterward, you can see the work of the Civil War surgeons as they demonstrate 19th century medical techniques. Interact with famous personages of the past who step from the pages of history books, such as President Abraham Lincoln and his wife Mary Todd Lincoln, the Generals and many more. 
 
Where: Naper Settlement Grounds, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville, IL 60540 630.420.6010
When: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Who: Ages 4-12
How: Just Go!
Cost: $15 adult/senior, $10 youth
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Saturday, May 19 - World Turtle Day (5/23/12)

Come and experience all things turtle (or chelonian). Celebrate turtles and tortoises throughout the world. Learn about the zoo’s efforts to protect the Illinois Endangered Blanding’s Turtle, meet live turtles and tortoises, and take part in other activities. Cozley Zoo, 1356 North Gary Avenue, Wheaton. www.cozleyzoo.org.
Where: Cosley Zoo, 1356 N Gary Ave, Wheaton, IL
When: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just Go!
Cost: FREE
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Saturday, May 19 - Buggy Picnic-Arboretum

Study insects up close as a family. Use nets to catch bugs and enjoy a picnic lunch together as a family. No need to scare the ants away from this picnic! Discover the differences between insects and spiders, use nets to catch bugs, and take a close-up look at some of the tiny critters we find. Then pretend to eat like a bug during a picnic lunch.
Where: Morton Arboretum      4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle
When: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Who: All Ages
How: Just Go!
Cost: $18 Member ($25 Non-member) per person
For more info: REGISTER NOW to reserve your spot or sign up day of the event.
CALL 630-719-2468, Monday-Friday; 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
VISIT The Visitor Center, daily during regular hours
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Sunday, May 20 - Tiny Great Performances

Opera for the whole family! Chicago Opera Play House performs Cinderhood, a mix of the classic stories Cinderella and Little Red Riding Hood. 
Where: DuPage Children’s Museum 301 N. Washington Street, Naperville, IL 60540, (630) 637-8000
When: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Who: Everyone
How: NA
Cost: Free for DCM members or free with admission
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Monday, May 21 - Doodlebugs

Drop off your child for a fun hour of art exploration! Each week’s activities will be based around a theme. Little artists will experiment with a variety of art mediums while developing a love for art. Each session meets four consecutive Mondays. Classes will be held in the Education Center. This session we will learn about art from many different cultures. We will create our own pieces similar to the ones we learn about.  
Where: Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton, Illinois 60189
When: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Who: Age level: 5-6 years
How: Just Go!
Cost: $24 per child
For more info: Registration required. No parking fee.
Questions? Please call 630 260 8162
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Monday, May 21 through Wednesday, May 23 - Brunswick Zone AfterSchool Blast

1 Hour of bowling, shoe rental, $5 in game play, fries, and small soft drink.
Where: Brunswick Zone XL, 1515 West Aurora Ave, Naperville, IL
When: 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Who: Everyone
How: NA
Cost: $7.99, per person
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Teen Scene:


May 18th through June 1st

Friday, May 18 - Whose Line?" Improv at The Comedy Shrine

Whose Line?" Improv at The Comedy Shrine
Our Main Stage presents “Whose Line?” improv comedy similar to ABC’s “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” TV show. This show features our professional improvisers with audience interaction.
Where: 4034 Fox Valley Center Dr, Aurora, IL
When: 8:00 PM (8:00 & 10:00 pm)
Who: Teens
No one under 14 admitted!
How: Just Go!
Cost: $15.00, per person
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Saturday, May 19 - Running with Scissors-Teen Improv Show

Running With Scissors, our teen improv troupe will be performing “Whose Line?” by teens for teens! Due to popular demand, this fun and funny show was recently expanded to 90 minutes! Bring your friends and come out for a great time!
Where: 4034 Fox Valley Center Dr, Aurora, IL
When: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM (5/12/12 and 5/19/12)
Who: Ages 10 and up
How: NA
Cost: $3.00
For more info: One drink/snack minimum per person
No one under 10 admitted into this show primary
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Monday, May 21 - Exam Cram (NIC)

On Monday, May 21, the Dziedzic Community Room will be reserved for teens in grades 6-12 only. You can study, do research, or write your paper. Reference help will be available. We have Wi-Fi for your laptops and big tables for group study. If you wish to take a break, we will have snacks and board games.
Where: Naperville Nicholas Library, 200 W. Jefferson, Naperville
When: 4:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Who: Teens in grades 6-12 only
How: Just Go!
Cost: FREE
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Friday, May 25 - Napoleon Dynamite (PG) (NBL)

Is your favorite animal a Liger? Do you have mad num-chuck skills? Do you own moon boots? Are you utterly confused by all of this? Then you should join us for a showing of this sweet cult movie classic. Snacks will be provided (sorry, no quesadillas).
Where: Naper Boulevard Library, 2035 S. Naper Boulevard, Naperville
When: 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Who: Teens
How: Just Go!
Cost: FREE
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Friday, June 1 - TagTeam Meeting (NBL)

The TAG(Teen Advisory Group) is a group of teens in grades 6-12 who work together with Teen Librarians to make Naperville Public Library a better place for Teens. Meeting times differ at each location, so please contact the location you are interested in attending at to get specific meeting times. If you are not a member of TAG but are interested in joining, please print the application form, and turn in the completed form to any of the Adult Services Desks. Please note that TAG Team members must have valid Naperville Public Library cards.
Where: Naper Boulevard Library, 2035 S. Naper Boulevard, Naperville
When: 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Who: Tens
How: Just Go!
Cost: FREE
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Plan Ahead:


May 24th through May 29th

Thursday, May 24 - Sprouts

Young children are invited explore seasonal nature topics through stories, hands-on activities, nature walks and crafts. Each session meets three consecutive Thursdays or Fridays. Classes will be held in the Education Center, with outdoor components. Please dress for the weather. Beautiful Blooms
Flowers are blooming all around! This is the perfect time of year to explore and learn all about flowers! we will keep busy learning about the parts of a flower, bees, and we will even spend time in the Cantigny Greenhouse!  
Where: Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton, Illinois 60189
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Parent/Child program
Age level: 3-5 years, with adult
How: Just Go!
Cost: $18 per child
For more info: Registration required. No parking fee.
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Thursday, May 24 - "Night" At The Museum (95th)

Have you ever wondered what happens during a night at the museum? Join us and let's find out! We'll read stories, dance, sing, and visit some of the most popular exhibits! You'll even bring home a souvenir craft from your "night" at the museum.
Where: Naperville 95th Street Library, 3015 Cedar Glade, Naperville
When: 1:00 PM - 1:45 PM
Who: For children ages 3 - 5 and their caregivers.
How: NA
Cost: FREE
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Thursday, May 24 through Friday, May 25 - Brunswick Zone After School Blast

1 Hour of bowling, shoe rental, $5 in game play, fries, and small soft drink.
Where: 1 Hour of bowling, shoe rental, $5 in game play, fries, and small soft drink.
When: 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Who: Teens
How: Go!
Cost: $7.99, per person
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Friday, May 25 - Sprouts

Young children are invited explore seasonal nature topics through stories, hands-on activities, nature walks and crafts. Each session meets three consecutive Thursdays or Fridays. Classes will be held in the Education Center, with outdoor components. Please dress for the weather.

Beautiful Blooms
Flowers are blooming all around! This is the perfect time of year to explore and learn all about flowers! we will keep busy learning about the parts of a flower, bees, and we will even spend time in the Cantigny Greenhouse!
Where: Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton, Illinois 60189
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Age level: 3-5 years, with adult
How: Just Go!
Cost: $18 per child
For more info: registration required. No parking fee.
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Friday, May 25 - Fun Days at Fox Valley Mall

Books 
Is There Really a Human Race? by Jamie Lee Curtis and Laura Cornell
Duck on a Bike by David Shannon

Craft
Decorate a mini backpack

Snack
Graham crackers and milk  
Where: Westfield Fox Valley 195 Fox Valley Center, Aurora, IL 60504
Phone: (630) 851 7200
When: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Who:
  • Ages 2-5
How: Just Go
Cost: Free
For more info:  Please RSVP there, or feel free to drop in!
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Friday, May 25 - Little Sprouts-Kids Planting and Snacking Class

Bring your kids to learn how to start their own garden. Kids will plant the seeds of two different plants. Then, we will make a couple summer snacks using the veggies the kids will grow! Kids will take home small containers with their plants and recipes.
Where: Whole Foods, 2607 W. 75th Street, Naperville, IL 60540
When: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Who: Ages 3-6
How: Just Go!
Cost: FREE
For more info: Sign up in advance at Customer Service.
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Friday, May 25 - Fun Day for Big Kids

Make a special craft for mom.
Where: Westfield Fox Valley 195 Fox Valley Center, Aurora, IL 60504 Phone: (630) 851 7200
When: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Who: Ages 6-12
How: Just Go
Cost: FREE
For more info: RSVP or just stop by.
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Friday, May 25 - Family Fun Friday Nights

Math Discovery in the Art Studio
The Museum’s open until 8:00 p.m.!
Different activities every Friday night!
Where: DuPage Children’s Museum 301 N. Washington Street, Naperville, IL 60540, (630) 637-8000
When: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just Go!
Cost: Free for Museum members and/or with Museum admission
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Friday, May 25 - Froggin' Under the Stars

Identify local frog species by their calls while learning about spring stars and constellations.  $5 per person. To register, call (630) 850-8110.
Apr 27, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. at James "Pate" Philip State Park
May 18, 8:00 - 10:00 p.m. at James "Pate" Philip State Park
May 25, 8:00 - 10:00 p.m. at James "Pate" Philip State Park
Where: James "Pate" Philip State Park
2050 West Stearns Road  Bartlett, IL 60103, (847) 608-3100
When: 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Who: Ages 5 and up; under 18 with an adult.
How: Just Go!
Cost:  $5 per person.
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Saturday, May 26 - Walking with Soldiers: The Civil War Tour

Mark the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. Discover Naperville in a whole new way as a knowledgeable museum guide leads you on an engaging walk through some of the community’s most historic and picturesque neighborhoods.

Walking tours are at a comfortable pace. Be sure to dress for the weather and bring water. Fees for tickets purchased are non-refundable.
Where: 523 S. Webster St., Naperville, IL 60540   •   630.420.6010   •   Fax: 630.305.4044
When: n/a
Who: For ages teen to adult. (Some historical material may be too graphic for younger audiences.)
How: Go
Cost: Tickets for all walking tours must be purchased at the Naper Settlement Visitor Center at least one hour prior to tour, with advance reservations strongly recommended.
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Saturday, May 26 - My Country, "Tis of Thee

Join Naper Settlement during the month of May as we take a look back at the role of Americans before, during and after wartime. A variety of weekend activities will be offered throughout the month focusing on the theme, “My Country,’Tis of Thee,” including flag trivia, rolling bandages, learning about the Pledge of Allegiance, visiting the Murray House interpreted for the Civil War era, taking a Victory Garden tour and more. Celebrate our community’s heritage with special community programs, events and heritage-themed activities. Shop downtown Naperville merchants from May 15–30 and 10 percent of the proceeds will be donated to the Naperville Heritage Society.
Where: 523 S. Webster St., Naperville, IL 60540, 630.420.6010
When: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (5/27/12 1:00-4:00pm)
Who: Everyone
How: Just Go!
Cost: $12 adult, $10 senior (62+), $8 youth (4-12)
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Sunday, May 27 - Meet the Beekeepers

Learn about the important role that bees serve in our food supply, and see how beekeeping equipment is used. Beekeepers will be on hand to talk about caring for bees.
Where: KLINE CREEK FARM 1N600 County Farm Road West Chicago, IL 60185 (630) 876-5900
When: 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just Go!
Cost: Free, no registration required. Call (630) 876-¬5900.
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Monday, May 28 - The 2012 Memorial Day Parade

Naperville will once again honor the sacrifice made by its veterans with a traditional Memorial Day parade. Organized by the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion, Naperville’s annual Memorial Day parade will take place in downtown Naperville starting at 10:30 a.m. May 28. This is one of the largest parades in the upper Midwest, organizers said, with more than 100 units honoring veterans for their service to the country. A ceremony and concert will take place at noon at the Community Concert Center, 104 E. Benton Ave. For more information on the parade, visit www.napervfw.org.

Where: Main Parade steps off from Jackson and West St. – East to Washington,
North to Benton, East to SS Peter & Paul parking lot
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Everyone
How: Just Go!
Cost: FREE
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Monday, May 28 - Memorial Day Remembered

Honor America’s soldiers through traditional speeches and activities of the 1890s “Decoration Day,” the precursor to today’s Memorial Day. Held in partnership with the Center for History.
Where: KLINE CREEK FARM 1N600 County Farm Road West Chicago, IL 60185 (630) 876-5900
When: 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Who: All ages!
How: Jusy Go!
Cost: FREE
For more info: Registrationnot required. Call (630) 876-5900.
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Monday, May 28 through Wednesday, May 30 - Brunswick Zone AfterSchool Blast

1 Hour of bowling, shoe rental, $5 in game play, fries, and small soft drink.
Where: Brunswick Zone XL, 1515 West Aurora Ave, Naperville, IL
When: 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Who: Teens
How: NA
Cost: $7.99, per person
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Tuesday, May 29 - Music Together

Music Together® classes are fun, musically rich experiences for the entire family! Children and their parents/caregivers meet to experience new songs, chants, free dances and instrumental jam sessions. The instructional style is informal, fun and family-oriented.

Music Together® classes are unusual in that they freely mix ages so that families can bring all of their children to one class. The activities focus on adult/child interaction rather than child/child, so that homogeneous age groupings are not necessary. Infants blend with any age group. Our experience shows that their musical development benefits from early exposure.
Where: Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton, Illinois 60189
When: 9:30 AM - 10:15 AM (10:30-10:45)
Who: Birth to Kindergarten
How: Just Go!
Cost: First Registered Child: $178
Registered Siblings over 9 months old: $123
Siblings under 9 months old are FREE!
No parking fee.
For more info: Questions? Please call 630 260 8162

Tuition includes an illustrated songbook, parent education materials and 2 professionally recorded CD’s of the music used in class. Each semester, a new and exciting song collection is introduced. Families who attend regularly for three years collect the complete set of nine Music Together® songbooks and recordings.
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Tuesday, May 29 - Picky Preschooler Class with Eleanor from Happy Baby-Whole Food

Join this class where the kids get some hands on experience creating a healthy snack. We will be reading a great book and making a cool craft to take home each session.
Where: Whole Foods, 2607 W. 75th Street, Naperville, IL 60540
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Preschoolers
How: Just Go!
Cost: FREE
For more info: This parent/child class fills up fast so contact Customer Service at (630)579-7700 to sign up. (Class size is limited to 25 parents and children.) For more info about HappyBaby, go to: happybabyfood.com
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Tuesday, May 29 - Lil Chefs at the Melting Pot

Lil Chef's bring mom or dad with you for some summer fondue! Join is on May 29th to learn how to make fondue, a kid friendly cheese fondue and decorate it yourself chocolate fondue as well as kid approved fondue entrees. Lil Chef's get cheese fondue, a fun salad, and Chocolate Fondue.
Where: The Melting Pot, 4931 S. Route 59, Naperville. At the intersection of Route 59 and 111th.
When: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Who: Families who love fondue, or who are looking for a really different way to kick off summer with their children.
How: Just Go!
Cost: Lil Chef's under 12 $10 
Mom's and Dad's and others $19.99. For Cheese, Salad and Chocolate Entree
$9 for extras
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CHICAGO CHILDREN'S THEATRE AND OPEN BOOKS TEAM


FOR A BROWN BEAR, BROWN BEAR BOOK DRIVE

GOVERNOR PAT QUINN, WGN-TV's ANA BELAVAL AND RALPH "RALPH'S WORLD" COVERT SIGN ON AS CELEBRITY READING AMBASSADORS
 
Donate new or used children's books to help Chicago-area children in need when you bring your family to  Treasured Stories by Eric Carle, playing now through May 27 at the Victory Gardens Biograph.

Children's Theatre has a tradition of giving back to the community with each of its productions, and their upcoming presentation, Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia's A Brown Bear, A Moon and A Caterpillar: Treasured Stories ...

22 Ste-of-the-Art Xtra-large animatronic BUGS


at Brookfield Zoo

Experience the invasion of XTREME BUGS, presented by Dominick’s, at Brookfield Zoo’s summerlong temporary exhibit of epic proportions that will feature everything from Xtra-large animatronic bugs, including a 16-foot-high by 33-foot-long Japanese hornet displayed at the zoo’s Roosevelt Fountain, to Xtra-small live insects.

Beginning Saturday, May 19, zoogoers will be able to walk along a winding trail and view 22 state-of-the-art gigantic animatronic bugs from a fluttering Monarch butterfly and ladybug to a praying mantis and giant Madagascar hissing cockroach. In addition there will be more than ...


Young Adult Authors


at Anderson Book Shop

Sharon Draper
Multi-Coretta Scott King award winner, introduces the paperback edition of Out of My Mind. It’s the heartache and hope story of eleven-year-old Melody, a capable girl with disabilities. She can’t walk. She can’t write. She can’t talk. But when Melody finds a way to express her voice, not everyone is ready to hear it.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 23 at 7:00 p.m.

MICHAELA MUNTEAN
Stay is the true story of ten dogs who need a home. And a man who believed in them. Meet ...


BOWLING IS FREE!


Get ready for Summer Bowling

Kids Bowl Free Program! Kids Bowl Free is a great program for children and families.
Registered Kids (ages 15 and younger) receive TWO FREE GAMES of bowling, every day, all summer long, valued at over $500, per child! Bowling centers, schools, and other community organizations work work together to launch a super summer activity option for kids and families.

Over 5.2 million kids have participated!

To register: https://www.kidsbowlfree.com/center.php?alley_id=5216

Pioneer Lanes
15610 S Joliet Rd
Plainfield, IL, 60544
(815) 254-2695


Bowling is FREE


Brunswick Bonus Zone- Student Ball Pass 2012

Students 18 and younger get one free game of bowling every day in June, July and August. 
It’s FREE and easy to Join the Bonus Zone and GET FREE GAME coupons right in your inbox:

Parents, add your children 12 and younger to your Bonus Zone profile
Kids, ages 13-18, sign up for the Bonus Zone

Go to http://www.bowlbrunswick.com/bonus-zone/


All the GREAT Ways to Use Macaroni Kid!


1. The calendar feature will allow you to see the whole month at a glance. The white bar on the left side of the page is the table of contents for this week. You can jump to any of the articles or the events listings by clicking on a selected item there and you will be directed to the area in the current issue. 

2. If you would like to look back at previous issues, scroll down a bit until you see "Past Naperville News" in the side bar on ...


FaceBook


"Like" our Facebook to get up to the minutes events!

Please be sure to "like" us on facebook at  Naperville Macaronikid. Keep up-to-date during the week as I post lat minute events on facebook. I appreciate your support!

Kids eat free (or cheap!) deals!


I'm looking for restaurants in our area that have "Kids Eat Free (or cheap!)" meal deals.  So if you know of a restaurant (or you OWN a restaurant) that does a deal like this please send me the scoop at maryannep@macaronikid.com so I can add it to the list!!  Restaurants should be in Naperville, or in the nearby surrounding areas.  THANKS!

Arrowhead Restaurant - 26w151 Butterfield Road, Wheaton
Wednesday: One FREE kids meal per adult entree purchase of $8 or more.

Baja Fresh - 55 East Loop Road, Wheaton ...


Heads Up!: Admissions Tests Dates & Fees


Below is a guide to the test dates for 2011-2012 as well as information on how to register.

ACT
Register online at www.actstudent.org/regist/index.html or through a packet from your high school's college guidance office or school counselor. 
 

Cost: $34 without writing portion; $49.50 with the writing test  (HEY...when did the writing portion become optional??? but I digress...)
Included in the fees is the option of sending the scores to 4 colleges of your choice for free.  You can send scores to additional ...


Remember to Verify Event Dates and Times


It is important to remember to always verify event dates and times. I do my best to keep all events and times current, but, venues can make last minute changes.

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