Kids Chicago - December 03, 2007

That’s a Wrap

2007 Kids Chicago Holiday Gift Guide

The holidays are homework free, but you can still give your tykes gifts with class.

Health
Get tiny limbs flexing with Bobles tumbling animals, hard foam playthings that double as seats. Put nutrition in the mix with a wooden smoothie set from The Red Balloon Co.

Reading
With the photo and vocabulary book ABC in Chicago (Chicago Kids Bookstore and More, 3453 North Southport; 773-472-6657), learning about the Windy City is easy as one, two, three. For an extra touch, offer it with personalized bookplates from The Paper Princess.

Zoology
Kiddos will go wild for Coo Clocks (Galt Toys + Galt Baby, 900 North Michigan Avenue; 312-440-9550), which feature barnyard and jungle animal characters and noises. For a really warm, fuzzy feeling, adopt an animal from the Lincoln Park Zoo. Packages include everything from animal decals to plush toys.

Now everyone’s making the grade.

LEAP
Dance-Along Nutcracker
What: Kids learn classic ballet movements to the Tchaikovsky score.
Why: They’ll be sugar-plum tuckered out.
When: Sun., noon & 3 p.m.; preperformance workshops, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.
Where: Chicago Cultural Center, Preston Bradley Hall, 78 E. Washington St., at Michigan Ave. (312-744-6630).

SNOOP
Frank Lloyd Wright Home Victorian Christmas Tours
What: See the architect’s former house and learn how his children celebrated the season at the turn of the 20th century.
Why: Home for the holidays.
When: Sat. & Dec. 15, 9-11 a.m.
Where: 951 Chicago Ave., at Forest Ave., Oak Park (708-848-1976).

SEND
Periodic Table of Sentiments Greeting Cards
What: The Oak Park designer’s new set of cards for birthdays, anniversaries, and more are stylishly scientific.
Why: You’re late for a very important date.
When: Whenever you want the write of way.
Where: Online at pinklovesbrown.com.