Best Free Storytimes In Chicago
I don't mean to be a downer, but winter in Chicago is really just getting started. It's going to be months before you can put the kiddos in the stroller and head down to your local playground to hang out for a few hours.
If you are going to survive in the snow and frigid temps in the coming days, you need plenty of ideas for entertaining the little people in your life. One of my favorite things to do with my kids is take advantage of one of many free storytimes around town. Here are some good options.
The Book Cellar
4736-38 N Lincoln Ave
Chicago, IL
(773) 293-2665
www.bookcellarinc.com
This independent Lincoln Square bookstore offers weekly storytimes every Friday at 11:00AM.
Pottery Barn Kids
2111 N. Clybourn
Chicago, IL
(773) 525-8349
www.potterybarnkids.com
All Chicago kids are invited to a free storytime every Tuesday from 11:00 until 11:30 at the Market Square location. Members receives a Storytime Passport on their first visit and get a special gift after attending five storytimes.
Barnes and Noble
1441 West Webster Avenue
Chicago, IL
(773) 871-3610
www.store-locator.barnesandnoble.com
The Lincoln Park Barnes and Noble offers free storytimes for a variety of ages and interests. Upcoming events include the opportunity to meet Clifford the Big Red Dog or join up with a Mothers and Daughters Book Club. See the Barnes and Noble website for full details.
Land of Nod
900 West North Avenue
Chicago, IL
(312) 475-9903
www.landofnod.com
Every Thursday at 11:00 a.m., families can enjoy a free storytime at the oh-so-cute Land of Nod store at North and Clybourn. In their own words, "To make a long story short, it's gonna be fun."
Psychobaby
1630 North Damen Avenue
Chicago, IL
(773) 772-2815
www.psychobaby.com
On Wednesday mornings at 10:30, join Nili Yelin, "The Storybook Mom," at Psychobaby for a happening event for the six and under crowd. Each storytime revolves around a particular theme and Nili blends together stories, music, dance, riddles, and even poetry.
Caitlin Murray Giles is a freelance writer and mother of three. She chronicles her adventures with the little people in her life at Wee Windy City and A Hen and Two (now Three) Chicks.