Sometimes being a parent is like being a cruise director. Always planning the next activity to take your kids to, jam-packing the day to make sure your kids sleep oh-so soundly once they hit the pillow.
That’s why I was so excited to hear about a new initiative called #playdateproject—essentially a progressive playdate through some of Chicago’s coolest kid-friendly venues. Think progressive dinner sans booze, but with an abundance of activities for kids.
The genius idea comes from Candice Blansett-Cummins of Lakeview kids' art studio The Wishcraft Workshop, and she hopes to make the progressive playdates a regular thing with plans to mix up the target ages, businesses and neighborhoods. Subsequent playdates will also include an element of exploration or transportation (perhaps all by the CTA or by bike).
The first playdate on Sunday, June 7, is free and targets kids 3 and up. The goal is to get families to hit as many of the places as possible—an interactive map will be provided. Here's the schedule:
Noon–1pm The Laboratory
1–2pm Bucktown Music
2–3pm Easel Art Studio
3–4pm The Kids' Table
4–5pm Wishcraft Workshop
Families that attend at least three of the five spots will receive a virtual goodie bag filled with deals from other surrounding independent businesses. This also assures parents don’t come home with the dreaded bag of crap, but rather something they can put to good use for future activities (and provide a win-win to the local businesses!). There will also be snacks from fun spots like Amy’s Candy Bar and Black Dog Gelato.
To R.S.V.P. for the inaugural event, visit the event's Facebook page.