Chicago Neighborhood Parents Network

Martin Moran, Head of Program for Middle and Upper School at Bennett Day School, talks with Amy about the current feelings around AI in schools, what has changed in schools because of AI, and what primary concern adults, especially adults in schools, need to have as they engage with AI. They dive into what an 'AI-resilient' assignment looks like today and the skills students need in this age of AI. (Hint: it's probably not what you're thinking.)

In this episode, Amy talks with Amy Liss of Campus Integrity Group about her work in preventing and investigating sexual misconduct. She explains the small, innocuous way that sexual misconduct often begins, and walks us through the warning signs we might see in a child who is being groomed. Amy provides concrete tips that parents can put into practice today to help keep their children safe, and shares one important detail she wishes more parents understood about grooming. Finally, with a personal drive to inform and educate without spreading fear, Amy explains how she keeps her worries at bay as she raises her children.Learn more about Campus Integrity Group: https://www.campusintegritygroup.com/Contact Amy Liss: https://www.campusintegritygroup.com/contact-us

In today's digital age, many parents find themselves struggling to keep up with the technology their children use daily. One pressing question is: How can we guide our kids to form healthy relationships with social media and technology? In this episode, we'll explore the insights from Jane Kim, founder of KindEd, a social media literacy program aimed at empowering children with the skills to navigate the digital world. This matters not only for their immediate social interactions but also for their long-term development and well-being.About Jane KimJane Kim is the founder of KindEd, a social media literacy program designed to help children build healthy digital habits. With a background as a former Chicago public schools teacher and an Obama Foundation scholar, Jane's work is rooted in her extensive experience in education and public policy.Learn more about KindEd here: https://kind-ed.org/

In our latest podcast episode, Sitaara sits down and unpacks the valuable insights shared by Tareema Jean-Baptiste, a seasoned advocate and this year's Developmental Differences Parent Forum keynote speaker, who has dedicated her life to supporting families like yours. You'll learn actionable tips on how to advocate effectively, the importance of research, and how to maintain a positive mindset throughout the journey.About Tareema Jean-Baptiste:Tareema Jean-Baptiste is an Early Childhood Special Education Family Professional Development Resource Specialist and a passionate advocate for children with developmental differences. As a mother of two, one of whom is autistic and epileptic, her personal experience drives her dedication to empowering families in navigating complex systems of care and education. Learn more about the ⁠2026 Developmental Differences Parent Forum⁠.To access all of NPN's resources for families raising children with developmental differences, start here.Learn more about STAR NET Chicago.Learn more about the Child Find Project here.

In this episode of Chicago Style Parenting, Amy, Sitaara, and their guests discuss the challenges of self-care for parents, especially those with children who have developmental differences. They speak with Lydia Thibodeau, a mother of a child with a disability and Founder of Sommet Nannies, and Erica Hornthal, Founder and CEO of Chicago Dance Therapy and author of the award-winning book Body Aware, about the importance of understanding children's moods, the role of movement in emotional regulation, and the benefits of dance movement therapy. This conversation emphasizes the need for parents to fill their own cups and the significance of community support in navigating parenting challenges. To access all of NPN's resources for families raising children with developmental differences, start here.

Mo Buti, advocate and instructional expert for people with autism and other disabilities, discusses important information that parents should know about IEPs and the IEP process. In this discussion, you will learn what an IEP is and who qualifies for one, the new law in Illinois regarding IEP drafts, what an IEP looks like, how to prepare for an IEP meeting, and so much more. Listen for practical, concrete advice on reading through the IEP draft, determining if the IEP is appropriate, and scheduling the IEP meeting. About our guest: Mo Buti is an advocate and instructional expert who is devoted to supporting individuals and families affected by autism and other disabilities. Providing guidance and support to navigate the school district’s complex systems, she assists parents with every stage of the IEP process. Learn more about Mo here: ⁠https://www.aiepautism.com/⁠. Email her at [email protected]. To access all of NPN's resources for families raising children with developmental differences, ⁠start here⁠.

In this episode of Chicago Style Parenting, hosts Amy and Sitaara discuss the various summer camp options available for children in Chicago. They are joined by a panel of experts who share insights on the benefits of summer camp, how to choose the right camp, and the importance of early registration. The conversation also touches on the unique needs of neurodiverse children and the types of camps available, including therapeutic and arts-focused programs. The panelists provide valuable advice for parents on ensuring a positive camp experience for their children.Our panel in this episode includes: Dana Hutchins, Executive Director of Leep Forward/Quantum Leep Academy, Jay Hannah, Admissions Director at Intercultural Montessori Language School, Sarah Grant, Middle School Program Manager at Chicago Academy for the Arts, And Shinyi Ding, Co-director of Northwestern’s Chapter of Camp Kesem 

Amy speaks with Cortney Stark Cope of Chicago Jewish Day School, Joy Campbell of St. James Lutheran School, and Amy Cascarano of St. Josaphat School about the value of a religious school education. Beyond religious education, Cortney, Joy, and Amy describe how well-organized schools help students thrive. Every parent who is in school-search mode will benefit from this conversation.

Amy, Sitaara, and Lydia Thibodeau, founder of ⁠Sommet Nannies⁠, discuss how parents can conduct an independent nanny search, and how to identify and address red and yellow flags that might come up during the search process. About our guest: Lydia Thibodeau is a highly regarded expert in the childcare industry. She has presented at the International Nanny Association conference and has been a contributor in Forbes, the Boston Globe, WBG radio, and the Chicago Tribune. Lydia holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Lydia started ⁠Sommet Nannies⁠ in Chicago in 2015. She expanded to Boston shortly thereafter and now has additional locations in New York, Boston, and Washington, DC, and she connects families and nannies nationwide. Lydia resides with her family in Boston, MA.

Amy and Sitaara talk with Sara Phou, LCSW, about how parents can talk with other kids about their child's disability. In this episode, you'll learn how to prepare yourself for the conversation, and you'll walk away with at least one concrete step you can take to make the conversation easier. About our guestSara is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working with children and families in a variety of settings since 2008. She holds expertise in infant and early childhood development, infant assessment, and parent-child therapy. Sara was formerly a therapist and the director of the Erikson Institute Center for Children and Families which served children under 8 years old and their families through relational and play therapy. She’s an adjunct professor in the Erikson Institute's Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Certificate Program.  Sara earned her master’s degree in clinical social work from the University of Chicago. She holds a certificate in infant and early childhood mental health from the Erikson Institute and is a member of the Illinois Association of Infant Mental Health. Sara has her own therapy practice located in Lincoln Square. Learn more here.

Laura Baginski, of Earlybirds Club, joins Amy and Sitaara to dive deep into NPN's popular email, the NPN Weekly. We talk about the amazing vibes of Earlybirds Club and relocating for incentives. We touch on the 450% increase in birth rate for women over the age 45 and the ups and downs of parenting at any age. We also discuss the mindboggling statistic that nearly 20% of recent college graduates are bringing their parents to job interviews with them and talk through a post on the NPN forum that asks whether it is ok or not for a parent to make the initial inquiry about a job for their teen. Finally, we find time to discuss the goose in Wrigley Field. Listen to find out which one of us thought geese had teeth. Do you want to receive the popular email, NPN Weekly, every Friday? Sign up here or email us at [email protected]. What should we discuss next month? Please tell us.

Join Amy as she talks with four Chicago teenagers about their summer jobs. These teens share where they worked, how they got their jobs, their work schedules, and what they liked and didn't like about working. Listen in for the practical advice they have for Chicago teenagers looking for their first summer job, such as when to start looking, how to apply, and more. Finally, hear what these panelists think parents should know when their teen starts working.What should we discuss next month? Please tell us.

Join Sitaara as she talks with Natasha Croff and Julie Molina, Parent Support Specialists for Chicago Public Schools, about the CPS application and admissions process for students with disabilities. Natasha and Julie provide expert insights on navigating the system, things to take into consideration when applying to selective enrollment elementary and high schools, available resources and what resources to look for when considering which school may be the best fit. Tune in for practical advice, key steps families should take to ensure their children receive the support they need, and essential information to help make the admissions journey smoother.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Chicago Style Parenting03:09 Meet the Parent Support Specialists06:31 Understanding the Office for Students with Disabilities09:29 Navigating the IEP Process12:31 Application and Admissions Process for Students with Disabilities15:30 Individualized Education Plans and School Placement18:23 Addressing Parental Concerns and School Support18:35 Navigating School Assignments and IEPs21:34 Understanding Selective Enrollment for Special Education 23:28 Application Process Insights for Parents24:16 Advice for Parents on School Selection27:22 Empowering Parents in the IEP Process29:48 Choosing the Right School for Your Child30:56 Final Tips and Resources for Parents Important Links:Learn More and Contact a CPS Parent Support SpecialistsOffice for Students with Disabilities (OSD)Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD) Hotline: 773-553-1800Parents of Students with DisabilitiesGoCPSAccommodations for Students with DisabilitiesOffice of Access and EnrollmentSelective Enrollment Programs: K-8Selective Enrollment Programs: High School

Marc Berkman is the CEO of the Organization for Social Media Safety (OFSMS), the first consumer protection organization focused on social media. In this episode he talks with Amy and Sitaara about how the organization uses a consumer-oriented approach of education, advocacy, and technology in working to make social media safe for children. Learn about children’s drive for “clout”, the lose-lose parenting trade off, and practical safety interventions that parents can implement at home for children from preschool to young adulthood. We discuss the legislation the Organization for Social Media Safety is working on to protect children online and the impact schools can have in keeping students safe. After listening to this episode listeners will walk away with practical advice on safety software options and concrete steps to take to make social media safe for everyone. Important links:Buckling the Social Media Seatbelt Supercourse (free parent course)OFSMS School ProgramsBarkBright CanaryNet NannyDonate to OFSMSOFSMS 2025 Gala (in Chicago!)Buckets Over BullyingSpecial thanks to our episode sponsor: Buckets Over Bullying

Martin Moran, lead designer of Middle and Upper School at Bennett Day School talks with Amy and Sitaara about preparing children for the age of artificial intelligence. We discuss Bennett Day School's educational approach and why Martin and his team aren't particularly worried about AI. Learn some ways teachers and students use AI to increase efficiency and enhance their work, when parents should allow or discourage the use of AI in completing homework, and how parents can help their students learn skills that AI can't replace, like empathy, ingenuity, and critical thinking.

Samantha Alloway, Executive Director of The Arc of Illinois talks with Amy about Medicaid. We discuss what it is, what it provides, and who uses it. Parents might be surprised to learn that Medicaid benefits families at all income levels and it makes disability services possible in Illinois. Hear about what services will be lost and who will be at risk if Medicaid funding is cut. Learn how to advocate for full funding and how you can support your neighbors with intellectual and developmental disabilities in your daily life. Important links:The Arc of IllinoisTake Action and Contact Your LegislatorsShare Your Medicaid StoryPlus, ask specific questions about Medicaid to The Arc of Illinois' Director of Family to Family Health Information Center here: [email protected] See also:NPN's Developmental Differences Resource Fair - coming up April 27, 2025!NPN's Developmental Differences Resource DirectoryNPN's Developmental Differences Parent Support Group

Dr. Camille Franklin, Network 4 Family Engagement Coordinator from the CPS Office of Early Childhood Education talks with Amy and Sitaara about the preschool options in CPS. We discuss CPS PreK, community-based preschool, early learning programs and more. Learn how to determine which type is right for your family, when to apply, how to apply and what to do once the offers come out.

Shambrekia Wise, ⁠author⁠, ⁠entrepreneur⁠, co-creator, mama, and explorer with a Masters Degree in Public Health, talks with Amy and Sitaara about traveling with Multiple Sclerosis, children, and within an environment where nobody looks like you. We talk about her background, writing career, and how travel can impact children and families. She also shares her experience managing a chronic illness while traveling. Finally, we discuss her favorite destinations for family vacations, her favorite neighborhood to explore in Chicago, and the secret gem she recommends to all Chicagoans and tourists!   What should we discuss next month? ⁠Please tell us!⁠

Amy and Sitaara dive deep into NPN's popular email, the NPN Weekly. We talk about holiday theater productions and how NPN members won tickets to Annie and can enter now to win tickets to The Nutcracker. We touch on Building Blocks Toy Store's partnership with NPN and share a sneak peek of NPN's Giving Tuesday campaign. We also discuss parenting dilemmas pulled from the NPN discussion forum like the mom who is going to the Taylor Swift concert and not taking her daughters and the mom who was arrested when her 10-year-old took a walk alone. We find time to debate the value of AI shopping carts and camera-led traffic tickets. Finally, we mull over Thanksgiving plans and share some gratitude, too. Happy Thanksgiving!   Do you want to receive the popular email, NPN Weekly, every Friday? Sign up here or email us at [email protected].   What should we discuss next month? Please tell us.

Keisha J. Mathew, A.M., LCSW, founder and therapist of radicallyBLended Services, PLLC  discusses the joys and challenges of raising a queer child in Chicago. She shares tips on creating a safe environment where children are comfortable sharing personal feelings, advice on how to react if your child comes out to you, how to advocate for queer children at school and beyond, and resources that adults can turn to for help in being an ally. Here are links to the resources that we discussed: Resources within Chicago Public Schools The Trevor Project Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) Howard Brown Health Center on Halsted Good Kids Mad City   About our guest: Keisha J. Mathew, A.M., LCSW, has been in social work since 2002. Her focus is primarily on BIPOC youth and their families. She has trained in several therapeutic approaches and modalities and has worked as a youth specialist, program manager, crisis intervention clinician, high school counselor, and group therapist within Chicago Public Schools. She collaborates extensively with school and community members around the city within communities of color. Her work with youth and their families extends to American-born, first-generation refugees, and those who Immigrated by choice. She is grateful to be considered a culturally competent clinician and activist; her work and passion for serving extends to all walks of life. 

Amy and Sitaara take a deep dive into NPN's popular email, the NPN Weekly along with special guest Natalie Monterastelli of Bubbles Academy. We talk about being a homebody, parenting homebody kids, parenting pressures, and Amy's op-ed in Crain's Chicago Business about Chicago Public Schools. On the lighter side, we share info on local Halloween attractions, Halloween events, and why we should exercise our social muscles. Then we share a bunch of ways that families of young kids can activate those social muscles at Bubbles Academy this weekend and beyond. Here are links to the events and sights we discuss:  Zombie house at Wilson and Richmond, Chicago Halloween wedding at 140 N. Deleplaine Rd., Riverside Bubbleween Bucktown 10/26 Trick-or-Treat Gold Coast 10/27 Bubbleween in Gold Coast 10/27 Halloween Snapshots in Gold Coast 10/27 Dia de los Muertos 11/1 Chicago Kids Diwali Celebration 11/2

Grace Lee Sawin, founder of Chicago School GPS, discusses elementary school options in Chicago Public Schools with Amy and Sitaara. Resources discussed include the CPS application portal , the GoCPS Elementary Info  and GoCPS Elementary Resources. You can find school tours listed here, here,  and here. About our guest, Grace Lee Sawin: As a self-described “Tiger Mom Lite”, Grace has always felt that the most important role of a parent is to provide the best possible education for her children by putting in all the time and research required to successfully make that happen.  Little did she know HOW MUCH time and research she would have to do in order to get her daughters into a sought-after private Montessori for preschool, then into a well-regarded selective enrollment elementary program followed by a top selective enrollment high school and to an Ivy League university.  Throughout the years, Grace has seen the school choice landscape change in Chicago with more options for all types of students.  She thrives on uncovering these nuggets of wisdom and “hidden” info that others simply don’t have time to discover.  She also is excited to share that info with you as she firmly believes a great education is a right, not a privilege.  It just so happens in Chicago, it’s a “right” that takes an inordinate amount of research.

Amy and Sitaara take a deep dive into NPN's popular email, the NPN Weekly. Hear about the new Chicago-based dance party Earlybirds Club, the Hidden Gems High School Fair, NPN's Preschool and Elementary School Fair & Family Playdate, Chicago school board elections, and more. Resources mentioned include waituntill8th.org and the Dumb Phone app.   Do you want to receive the NPN Weekly? Sign up here or email us at [email protected]. What should we discuss next month? Please tell us.

Dr. Adelman and Amy discuss anxiety in children and teens, and how parents can support their anxious child and teen.   About our guest:  Dr. Adelman completed her PhD in Clinical Psychology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, she completed her pre-doctoral and post-doctoral fellowships at the Child Study Center at Yale University, and she is the founder and clinical director of ⁠Chicago Psychotherapy⁠. Dr. Adelman has published book chapters and journal articles on the topics of anxiety disorders, childhood obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other topics. She has presented her research regularly at national conferences and has conducted multiple clinical trainings on the topic of treating childhood OCD and anxiety disorders. She is also the proud mother of two girls.

Meet the team behind NPN and learn more about what we're all about! ---- Official website: https://www.npnparents.org/ From Neighborhood Parents Network, Chicago Style Parenting spotlights real parent stories and experiences and expert advice on raising children in the city of Chicago. You can expect to hear a variety of topics from applying to preschool to navigating developmental differences, to helping your emerging adult launch after high school - and everything in between! Subscribe today to stay in the loop and we'll see you around the neighborhood!

Official website: https://www.npnparents.org/From Neighborhood Parents Network, Chicago Style Parenting spotlights real parent stories and experiences and expert advice on raising children in the city of Chicago. You can expect to hear a variety of topics from applying to preschool to navigating developmental differences, to helping your emerging adult launch after high school - and everything in between! Subscribe today to stay in the loop and we'll see you around the neighborhood!