With so many things to do in Chicago, it’s no surprise that amongst our well-intentioned New Year’s resolutions we find a bucket list of activities yet to be fulfilled.
As a Chicago parent, my main goal this season is to survive cabin fever and cross out said bucket list of resolutions … which I know will take me approximately the whole year. Included in this list are things to help complete our family mission in the New Year. We pledge to be more generous to others and ourselves, care for the planet, learn something new and, of course, have more fun than the year prior!
So if you, too, are in search of resolutions aimed at exploring our city more, enjoying new places with the kids and fitting some quality time together, here is a list of resolutions for you.
Do something good for the community
Whether it’s volunteering with the kids or donating gently used toys, clothes and books, there are many ways to spread good. Family volunteering opportunities are available Chicago Cares, The Honeycomb Project and More than Milk.
Enjoy the outdoors and nature more
This year we visited these great places for little green thumbs. However, another year has gone by without visiting the marvelous Northerly Island for winter fun during Polar Adventure Days. I have been eyeing Sagawau Environmental Learning Center for skiing during winter days and Starved Rock for our first ever family hike during spring. And as the season gets warmer, you can’t miss visiting one of these delightful fruit orchards. Strawberry picking anyone?
Stay healthy with kids in tow
How about shopping around for locally-grown ingredients for your next meal? Green City Market is the place to visit! If your idea of getting healthy is exercising, try the stroller and babe-friendly workouts offered by Fit4Mom, mom and kiddo yoga at Tula Yoga Studio, baby bonding plus exercising at Prenatal Fit or family karat at Itka Karate.
Invest in full-year fun
I have yet to decide which full-year membership will keep us happy during the four seasons of Chicago. I’m thinking the Chicago Botanic Garden, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum or Wonder Works Children’s Museum. For other amazing options check out 6 memberships that me the perfect holiday gift.
Find a family spot while learning, enjoying the arts and making memories
There is a wide array of kid-friendly restaurants, book stores with family storytimes, art studios and theaters to choose from. I hope this year we find a new venue to call our designated stop and build mental photographs along the way.
May this New Year blossom into something worth remembering!
