When her daughter was born six years ago, Caitlin traded her days as a lawyer in Cook County courtrooms for play dates on the Chicago park scene. Now a full-time mother of three, she writes a monthly kid's crafts and activities column and contributes regular features to Chicago Parent. She also explores the family-friendly side of the Chicago on her blog Wee Windy City. From time to time, you can even catch her chatting about raising kids in the city on local Chicago radio and television stations. Learn more about her writing at her website, caitlingiles.com.

Past articles

Showing 1 - 10 of 37

 

Unconventional Valentine's Day Treats
January 24, 2012
We all usually think of Valentine's Day as a time to shower our loved ones with sweet or chocolate treats. But there are plenty of ways to make Valentine's Day special for your kids that don't involve a sugar rush (and of course the subsequent crash from that short-but-sweet high). If you invest in a heart-shaped cookie cutter, you can create a variety of healthy treats for your kids that show the love. Following are some age-appropriate ideas for unconventional (but still tasty) Valentine's Day treats for your kids. Just click the arrows and get cooking. 

Doable New Year's resolutions for your family
December 28, 2011
Have trouble keeping New Year's resolutions? Caitlin Murray Giles has some advice to make simpler - and doable - goals. 

5 family-friendly Friday nights
December 19, 2011
Creative ideas for quality family time at home. 

Get crafty with cranberries
December 19, 2011
Cranberries aren't just for eating. And if you bought too many, here are some great ways to get rid of them. 

Celebrate the winter solstice
December 7, 2011
Sure it's dark outside, but here are a few ways to celebrate the longest day of winter. 

5 fun uses for leftover candy canes
December 7, 2011
Sick of holiday treats? We've got some great ideas for using up leftover candy canes. 

Holiday break on a budget
November 16, 2011
Most of us are not headed to a sunny island retreat or scenic snow-covered slopes for our holiday break (bummer). However, the good news is that there is plenty to do right here in Chicago. Save some cash (without scrimping on fun) by taking advantage of the many free or inexpensive family events and activities happening during the holiday season. And don't forget that you can always get creative and make your own fun at home, too! 

Cooking squash 101
October 31, 2011
 

What kind of squash should you buy?
October 31, 2011
 

How to protect your child from lice at school
July 22, 2011
It's an unpleasant topic, but you've got to face the facts when it comes to these creepy crawlers.