Update: Randall Oaks Zoo unable to open under Phase 3 guidelines

The Zoo will no longer be opening as previously announced.

5 Ways Families Can Avoid Overspending This Summer — And Beyond

Summer spending doesn't have to break the bank! Here are a few ways to cut back while still having some big fun all year.

Helpful Pregnancy Advice That Moms-To-Be Should Embrace

If you're pregnant, don't stress— a new book explains just what to do while making your baby, from healthy diets to the checklist you need.

Tidying Up: How To Declutter Our Lives As Parents

It's common to feel suffocated by all of our material objects. Luckily, there are some ways to simplify our lives as parents and people.

7 Expert Tips On Managing Your Picky Little Eaters

Every parent wants to crack the code on their picky eaters — without having to force-feed them. Here are some techniques that will help.

Traveling With A Toddler: Pro Tips And Avoidable Fails

Planning a getaway with a toddler? It might not be as sunny as you hoped, if you're not prepared. Here are some tips to remember!

7 Signs You Might Be Over-Parenting

A recent book suggests that over-parenting your child could be doing more harm than good — but how do you know when you're guilty of it?

What Is A Lawnmower Parent — And Are You One?

You've heard of the helicopter parent, but there’s a new term sweeping the playgrounds. Are you guilty of it?

6 Ways To Balance Parenthood And A Successful Career

With a little creative thinking, courage, and planning, you can find a modern-day workflow that actually works for you and your family.

Teaching Character Development

Characters of Character

Cary Park District Character Development Classes

Character Development, Art

Top Towns to Raise a Family in Illinois

A total of 73 Illinois cities were ranked by Niche as the best places to start a family.

Do You Live in One of the 50 Safest Cities in Illinois?

Here are the top 50 safest cities in Illinois, according to ValuePenguin.

Beat the Heat and Try Something Sweet at One of These 59 Ice Cream Shops in Illinois

A list of 59 must-try ice cream shops throughout the state.

Take a dip with the family at these 43 water parks and pools in Illinois

Cool off at these 43 water parks and pools this summer.

FBI Looks for Young Victims in International Sexual Exploitation Case

VIDEO: A young woman shares her story of "sextortion" as a teen victim of Lucas Chansler. The FBI has released the screen names he used.

25 Trips to Make with the Family this Summer

Sure, Chicago has a lot of fun things to do, but let us introduce you to what the rest of Illinois has to offer this summer.

The Best Brunch Spots Around Illinois

Warning: Do not read when hungry.

Abraham Lincoln's love for cats and other little-known facts about the 16th president

Honest Abe’s 206th birthday is Feb. 12. Celebrate by learning 20 new facts about the president from Illinois.

There are a lot of things for Illinoisans to be proud of, and here's the proof!

Lest we forget just how wonderful our state is, take a look at the Illinois Wall of Fame.

First Ailing Illinoisan Learns He'll Get a Medical Marijuana License

Army vet Jim Champion has multiple sclerosis.

11 Years After 'Heaven,' What Life is Like for the Burpo Family

The movie, in stores July 22, is about a real-life boy who says he went to Heaven and met Jesus during surgery. We spoke with the family behind the film about how it can help start a discussion in your town.

24 Amazing Ways Residents Inspire Their Communities

Patch readers told us who the "Everyday Inspirations" in their communities are, and we're sharing their stories and the work they've done locally.

Everyday Inspirations: Incredible Ways People Give Back Locally

Patch readers told us who the "Everyday Inspirations" in their communities are, and we're sharing their stories and the work they've done locally.

'Coupon Queen' Gets $800 Grocery Bill Down to $7, Gives Savings Away

A New York woman is so good at bargain shopping that she's used her skills to donate groceries and other goods to charity. Learn how you can follow her lead locally.

Charitable Children: 'No Matter What Age You May Be, You Can Change the Life of Another'

As a part of our "Everyday Inspirations" series, we look at how children across the country are making big impacts locally.

Harp Healing: Woman Uses Music Therapy to Help Hospital Patients

After losing three people close to her in eight months, Edie Elkan picked up a harp for the first time in 28 years. Now she runs a program training others to play the instrument for patients in hospitals.

Nominate 'Everyday Inspirations' in Your Town

Patch wants to share stories about people who work every day to change others' lives for the better.

5 Must-Reads to Inspire You Today

Five inspiring stories from Patch.

Win Tickets to See Disney On Ice

Patch and Disney on Ice will give away five family packs of four tickets each to the show of your choice. Enter to win through Jan. 20.

First Baby Born in McHenry County Finally Arrives, Despite Snow Storm

First baby born in McHenry County has finally arrived!

2014 Resolution: Love Your Imperfections

These animals have it all figured out.

Cardinal Francis George Marks 50 Years as a Catholic Priest

Leader of the Chicago Archdiocese reflects on his life and his service to the church.

District 158 Honored for AP Coursework Success

High School Student Teams Up with Harlem Globetrotters for Anti-Bullying Efforts

When the Harlem Globetrotters organization learned about Camille Paddock's anti-bullying crusade via a Patch article, they invited her to join them to encourage kids.

Baby Born at 15 Ounces Survives; Discharged from Area Hospital

Meghan Hope Pacyna was born on July 9 and was discharged from Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove on Tuesday.

Friends Holding Fundraiser for Algonquin Girl, 3, Fighting Cancer

Friends of Autumn Novielli, 3, are holding a fundraiser this Saturday at Huntley Park District Recreation Center.

Man Steals from Coffee Shop—and You’ll Never Guess What Happened Next

Who says the punishment always has to fit the crime?

Second Grader’s “Buddy Bench” Goes Viral

Christian Bucks’ idea to foster friendship spreads to 32 states—and counting.

Most Popular Baby Names for Girls, Boys of 2013

The Week's Best Good News: A Winning Wedding, 26 Days of Kindness and More

Here's our roundup of the most uplifting and feel-good stories from Patch towns across the country.

Sheriff’s Office Receives 100 Teddy Bears for Shop with a Cop Program

Comedian to Couples Without Kids: YOU HAVE NO IDEA

Community Rallies Around 3-Year-Old with Rare Liver Cancer

Payton Ryann Felde was diagnosed with Hepatoblastoma shortly after she turned 3 in October. A fundraising campaign, Payton 4 Pennies, is accepting donations to help the Felde family cover medical expenses.

Already 500 Registered for 2nd Annual Santa Run in Crystal Lake

This year's Kiwanis Santa Run for Kids is at 9 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 1, in downtown Crystal Lake.

The Week's Best Good News: Man Finds $98K in Desk, Holocaust Survivor Reunited with Soldier

Here's our roundup of the most uplifting and feel-good stories from Patch towns across the country.

Local Students to Perform in Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

Aquatic Experience Comes to Schaumburg This Weekend