Park — irishmomusa

Chicago is such a baby/child/family friendly city! There is just so much to do here and for free too which makes it even better. I feel so lucky to live here at this time in my life. To be in a multicultural global city full of diversity and things to do! The people are just so friendly and even the bars and restaurants all cater for children, often allowing them to eat for free on certain days. Never have I once been turned away from a restaurant just because I have a baby accompanying me. This happened to me in Ireland once before! I will not mention the names.

Often it has been difficult being so far away from family in Ireland but in a way it has pushed me out of my comfort zone and pushed me to meet some amazing people. Over the past 11 months I have explored the city inside out and have seen all it has to offer. If you are a new mum on maternity leave in a new city, I cannot urge you more to just get up, get dressed and get out of your home and neighborhood! Say yes to as many possible play dates as possible and always try and leave with a new number of a mum that you just met. You never know when you will need to meet them for a coffee to exchange stories or just rant over a glass(bottle) of wine!!

Here are some of my fav things to do with Harry on the days I am not working and all are free!

Although these places are specific to Chicago, you can easily apply them to your own city/town. Well except Zoo as most cities do not offer this free service!

1. Go on a nature walk around the pond at Lincoln Park.

Here we like to stop and observe the Canadian geese and other wildlife around the pond. Harry laughs so much when they do their swoop and smooth landing on the lake surface. It brings him so much joy! I often take him out of the stroller and strap him to me with ergobaby carrier so he can get a better view. We stop as we pass the flowers and he usually wants to touch them. I try never to let him pull them off as I want to teach him to respect nature early on but sometimes he just goes for it! We take it home to display on his nature table in his room where he has some leaves and pine cones.

2. Go to Lincoln Park Zoo!

This is a great spot for kids of all ages and is always buzzing. There is great energy here and always have seasonal activities going on. From the Christmas light show in Winter to the corn-picking in the Fall Harvest Fair.

Just as well that he is not old enough yet to ask questions like 'Mammy, Why is there a long thing hanging from under the Zebra?'

3. Read a book in a book store!

Sometimes I pop into Barnes and Nobles for a look at the children's books. I often read one or two out loud for Harry. I know many of them have reading events from the authors so keep an eye on their website. Sometimes he falls asleep mid story so then I can go look at the books for grown-ups!

4. Visit 'Land of Nod'

Land of Nod have lots of free events such as kiddy music concerts and story times in store so I sometimes walk to the one on North Clybourn to see what they have coming up. Events are also on the website. I just love strolling around the store too for inspiration for Harry's bedroom and for a look at their beautiful selection of Children's toys. It always puts me in a great mood! It's just such a happy place.

5. Discover a new playground that you have never been to before!

This happened as I took a new route home from a usual walk that I do. I ventured off my usual path and stumbled across my new fav playground! Bauler park! It even has a swing for two! Ideal for mommy and baby on babies first time swinging as it can be a bit daunting! I love the fact also that they have some previously owned cars and toys in great condition that the children can play with. Great idea! Also good for teaching the children about patience and sharing! Harry already starting to have mini tantrums if he doesn't get what he wants instantly!

6. Go for a walk in a new neighbourhood that you haven't been to before.

You might just tumble across your new fav coffee shop or discover a new venue that you can try out such as an art or pottery class! I found my new hobby this way. I was strolling up Lincoln Avenue and stumbled upon 'Bottle and Bottega' and now love attending their art classes!

7. Visit one of the many museums such as the Art Institute of Chicago or the Field Museum on one of their free days!

Every month, each of the museums offer a free day for Illinois residence to avail of. I cannot tell you how great these days are! They are usually mid week so the museum is quiet enough if you go during the school year. This is more for you rather than baby but still great for them to be in such a beautiful environment. They are all extremely child friendly and the staff are super helpful! The Field Museum has loads to do for young children. See previous blog post!

8. Pack a picnic and head to the Farmers Market!

This is seasonal obviously but a winter alternative could be hit the farm on a Wednesday or Friday morning and there you will find an abundance of children rocking to the free kiddy concert there inside the barn! Suitable for all ages! Although I do think the older kiddies get more enjoyment out of it! We still take Harry to Monica and Andy music class with Mr Tim that he loves!

9. Play with sand at one of the many beaches along the lake front.

Obviously this is seasonal too but a great way to pass the time. For Harry's age we really need to keep a very close eye on him as often he tries to put the sand in his mouth but it is so great for his gross and fine motor development. From carrying the buckets to pinching the sand between his fingers. Now that he is walking it will be great for him to practice trying to walk in the dry sand!! Extra challenge for his little legs this Spring/Summer! Messy play is so important for young children. Especially when they are confined to an apartment with no garden so I have a feeling I will be spending a lot of time on the beach this Summer!

10. Enjoy a free instrumental recital at the Chicago Public Library

Usually these recitals are half empty and you can just enter and leave easily at any time should there be a meltdown. Harry is often mesmerized and has a nap at this point so I can sit back and enjoy the tranquility of the musical piece which takes me to another place in my mind. I think it is really important to instill a love of or at least an appreciation of music and culture early on.