Cool Chicago Story Times Worth Bookmarking

Lisa R:  This story telling trio and jazz chamber ensemble delivers one of the most unique and engaging story times in Chicago that will have both parents and toddlers at the edge of their seats. Each themed story times consists of original works and favorite books rhythmically recited with musical accompaniment. This "storytelling chamber band" performs at locations throughout Chicagoland.

Lisa R:  Where better to instill a love of reading than at one of the first museums in the country entirely devoted to books and their authors? Each month, preschool aged visitors gather in the Children's Literature Gallery to socialize and hear a story read by a museum volunteer. Afterwards, cuddle up with another book or explore the many interactive displays devoted to 300 years of American children's literature.

Shila:   Dedicated to the art of poetry, the Poetry Foundation houses a 30,000-volume poetry library, an exhibition gallery, hosts public events, supports field trips, and more! Poemtime is an event for young children that promotes literacy through fun, interactive readings and themed crafts.

Lisa R:  Get a little more out of your visit to the Nature museum with this daily half hour program in the Hands-On Habitat exhibit. Each session mixes story time with a bit of socialization. Museum staff first read a nature-themed story and then guide children through games and activities. Kids can continue to enjoy the rest of the museum to see numerous exhibits, butterfly haven, indoor playground, and water play stations.

Drop in for story time at The Paintbrush followed by an art project themed off of that day's story! This is a great chance to help you children draw connections to the actual story and relate their art project to what they heard. The Paintbrush is a popular art studio for kids that offers drop-in art classes, workshops, birthday parties and more. Pre-registration required.

Phillip Gross:  Fun interactive story times. They host a few combined with art classes.

Kristy Pepping:  Volumes Bookcafe in Wicker Park is an independent bookstore cafe. They offer books, baked goods, espresso drinks and wine. It was started by two Chicago sisters for their love of reading. Join them every Wednesday and Saturday for story time with one of the co-owners, Miss Kimberly. Two to three books will be read by Miss Kimberly followed by a singalong and a craft.

Lisa R:  Scuola Italiana Enrico Fermi, Chicago's first Italian American International School, hosts special dual language story times throughout the year. Classes are taught by the animated Maestro Francesca and held at various locations in Chicago like The Red Balloon (Bucktown flagship location) and Little Adventures Play Place. See Facebook page for details.

Kristy Pepping:  Women and Children First is one of the largest feminist bookstores in the country with more than 30,000 books by and about women, children's books and more. One of the events they hold is a storytime. They suggest kids aged from 2 to 5 because they are generally ready "to sit, listen, and participate," but they do welcome children of any age who are willing to do so as well. Five or more stories are read by former co-owner Linda Bubon.

Brigitte Nohra Miller:  Spend an afternoon with your child out in nature and listening to stories at Lake Katherine Nature Center's story time! Be sure to come early so you can explore the nature center with your little one.

Lisa R:  This teaching museum at Northwestern University is full of thought provoking pieces that are full of stories. Story times here encourage to look more deeply at pieces housed in the museum by introducing new concepts through stories and interactive family activities. Registration required.

Lisa R:  This large indoor play area hosted by the Skokie Parks district has everything you need to entertain little ones for a whole day, including a giant climbing structure, water table, large light bright wall, toddler/crawler friendly area, and pretend play section with a giant book wall. Drop by on Tuesdays of the month to catch story time in the giant book corner.

Erin P.:  M & M Acres is a farm whose mission is provide second chances to animals through rescue and rehabilitation. They aspire to inspire compassion toward animals and educate the community. Bring your kiddos to the farm on Monday mornings to read a story, enjoy a snack and juice and say hello to the animals. They can even brush a pony, donkey, or cow.

Lisa R:  Ongoing programs at the River Trail Nature Center teach kids about the native plants and animals found inside this urban oasis as well as the American Indians and fur traders that once frequented the area. Drop in to the exhibit building with your little one on select Wednesdays for nature themed stories, crafts and activities. Once story time is over, kids can visit with a few native animals housed in the center, climb around in recreations of an eagle's nest and fox den, or put on a puppet show in the Discovery Area.

Molly Weber:  My daughter loves story time but not as much as she loves being outside. This event combines those two things, allowing children to soak up the beautiful summer weather while enjoying an entertaining story! This event is weather permitting.