On, Dasher! Andalé, Donner! Gun it, Blitzen!

There are kiddos in need of extra sparkle this season. And you can take the reins — if you act fast.

Lollipop Theater Network (the nonprofit that brings first-run movies to hospitalized kids) is joining with Children’s Memorial Hospital for the charity event Give and Glitter. This afternoon (yes, today!), they will be collecting unwrapped toys for ill children not fortunate enough to celebrate the holidays at home. On the wish list? Hand-held games, music boxes, pop-up books, puzzles, and more.

For a real pick-me-up, stick around and create holiday cards for the young patients.

They’ll be jolly glad you did.

Give and Glitter, Monday, 3-5 p.m., at Children’s Memorial Hospital’s Bigler Auditorium, 707 West Fullerton Avenue, at Lincoln Avenue. To see the complete wish list, go to childrensmemorial.org. For more information on Lollipop Theater Network, go to lollipoptheater.org.

TEAM UP
Chicago Sports Fest
What: Play at the annual event featuring football, baseball, tennis, soccer, and boxing.
Why: There’s a chess tourney for the brains in attendance.
When: Sun.-Dec. 28, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: McCormick Place, 2301 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., halls a & b (312-744-3370).

ATTEND
Crown Family PlayLab Storytelling Festival
What: Spend winter break re-enacting scenes from Where the Wild Things Are, learning Highland dance moves, and watching a play about a changing butterfly.
Why: The weather outside may be frightful.
When: Sat.-Dec. 31. Events schedule online at fieldmuseum.org.
Where: The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr., at McFetridge Dr. (312-665-7529).

BUY
Lollie Holiday Sale
What: Score 30-50 percent off select kids’ apparel at the adorable Evanston boutique.
Why: Paulina Quintana shirts, Neige pants, Tea Collection sweaters, and more.
When: Thru Dec. 31.
Where: 1312 Chicago Ave., at Dempster Ave., Evanston (847-328-7303). Sale also online at lollieshop.com.

Photo: Courtesy of Lollipop Theater Network