Kids live large in Lincoln Park. The pretty streets! The museums! The playgrounds! Hey, you also have maddening parking to contend with — and a nap schedule that hinges on the rumble of the El outside your window. But that’s all part of this crazy parenting game. Here are 10 signs that you’re raising a family in Lincoln Park.
1. You’ve taken a Wiggleworms class with Miss Julie, Mr. Dave or Little Miss Ann … or all three.
photo: Mr. Dave at Wiggleworms / Old Town School of Folk Music
2. Who cares if it’s small — you’re proud to have a backyard (or, at the very least, you’ve made a garden of your fire escape).
photo: Tele Chhe via flickr
3. Lunch comes from the hot bar at Whole Foods at least once a week, and sometimes dinner, and sometimes on the same day.
photo: Tony via flickr
4. You can get in and out of Green City Market in under 20 minutes but definitely not spend less than $20.
photo: Kurman Communications
5. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is your play space.
photo: Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
6. You recognize the chaos of RJ Grunts but continue to bring the kids because it’s awesome and, wow, unlimited salad bar.
photo: R.J. Grunts
7. You hit the Buy Buy Baby at least once a week when your little one was six months and under.
photo: Patrick S. via Yelp
8. Musical story time at Lincoln Park Zoo with Mr. Singer is your weekly go-to … and built-in nap insurance.
photo: Mr. Singer
9. You’ve been to a free NPN play date at The Land of Nod or mingle at Bubbles Academy.
photo: NPN / Land of Nod
10. Playgrounds are your main social hubs. The bars have just too many babies.
photo: Dan4th Nicholas via flickr
What do YOU think is a sign of being a Lincoln Park mom? Let us know in the Comments!
— Story written by the fun folks at NPN, with Kelly Aiglon
Neighborhood Parents Network (NPN) has been connecting a diverse community of families with the resources they need to navigate parenting in the city for 35 years! NPN is essential for all expecting, new and seasoned parents.