Kids grow up fast. One day, they’re cooing in your arms. The next, they’re prepping for prom and arguing curfew.

Time really flies when you’re having fun at North Center’s just-opened Family Grounds Cafe. Husband and wife John and Brady TenBrink transformed an auto body garage into the cheerful, 3,000-square-foot coffee shop and play space.

Chill in the cafe with java, sandwiches, and salads. An adjoining room (accessible for a fee) has a playhouse and market, an infant-only crawl zone, and toys galore. Spontaneous live music and finger-painting sessions ensure Junior gets tuckered out by nap time.

That never gets old.

Family Grounds Cafe, 3652 North Lincoln Avenue, at West Patterson Avenue, North Center (773-281-0785 or familygroundscafe.com).

Photo: Courtesy of Family Grounds Cafe

BUY
Boujie Baby Couture Prima Collection Trunk Show
What: Score 20 percent off the Chicago designer’s stylish and supple leather diaper bags.
Why: The hobo’s great for travel — even if baby’s not on board.
When: Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: Krista K Maternity + Baby, 3530 N. Southport Ave., at W Cornelia Ave. (773-248-4477).

SEE
The Jolly Rogers Halloween
What: A crew of singing pirates stages a rollicking, interactive theater spectacle, followed by ghostly games.
Why: Little landlubbers are welcome to go in costume.
When: Sat.-Oct. 31. Schedule online at emeraldcitytheatre.com.
Where: Emerald City Theatre, at Apollo Theater, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., at W. Wrightwood Ave. Tickets online at ticketmaster.com or call 773-935-6100.

DO
18th Annual Harvest Festival
What: Compete in a scarecrow-building contest and listen to live music and storytelling at the free fall fling.
Why: Leaf your worries behind.
When: Sat. & Sun., 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: North Park Village Nature Center, 5801 N. Pulaski Rd. (312-744-5472).