May 5, 2008

Play Mate

So Silly Clothing

His latest class act? Streaking outside while singing “Jimmy Crack Corn.”

Your toddler puts on quite a show.

Keep the little goofball on his/her toes with So Silly clothing. Made by Chicago art director mom Elaine Melko, the cotton shirts and pants (sizes 3 to 24 months) are perfect for playful tots. Simple, imaginative designs feature everything from rockets to tricycles to birds.

Melko screens everything by hand, and each piece is made to order. And because she loves to sketch, she’ll even do custom designs.

So when it comes to your starlet’s next performance?

You’ll have the bare necessities covered.

Available at The Red Balloon Co., 2060 North Damen Avenue, between Armitage and Webster Avenues (773-489-9800 or theredballoon.com); 5407 North Clark Street, at Balmoral Avenue(773-989-8500); online at sosillystuff.com.

MUNCH
Little Frites at Mon Amí Gabi
What: Parents eat French food while kids (ages 5 and up) make treasure boxes with Art Institute of Chicago staff.
Why: Small fries unite.
When: Sat. & May 17, 11 a.m.
Where: Sat., 2300 N. Lincoln Park W., at Belden Ave. (773-348-8886); May 17, 260 Oakbrook Ctr., b/t 16th & 22nd Sts., Oak Brook (630-472-1900).

ENROLL
The Kids’ Table Summer Camp
What: Cheflets ages 2 to 10 cook food from a different country or region each week.
Why: Bake, rattle, and roll.
When: Book now for camp Jun. 9-Aug. 29.
Where: 2337 W. North Ave., b/t Claremont & Western Aves. (773-235-2665).

SOAR
Home Tweet Home
What: Meet live birds of prey, create bird-themed crafts, and play games in honor of International Migratory Bird Day.
Why: Wing it.
When: Sat., 9 a.m.-noon.
Where: Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, at Lake Shore Dr. & Montrose Ave., Montrose Beach (312-742-7529).