10 Great places to take your preschooler this summer

June 27, 9:17 AMChicago Preschool ExaminerValerie Carver

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           Summer fun has just begun!

We're entering the dog days of summer and many parents may be thinking "what do I do now?"  With tighter budgets and demanding schedules, finding things for the family to do over the summer is only half the battle.

If your preschooler is already enrolled in a summer preschool program, then he or she is probably getting the opportunity for some water play, arts and crafts, and socialization.  But afternoons and weekends may need a little boost with some educational, yet affordable options.

Here are some great family-friendly places that you should take your preschooler to this summer!

1.  Water Park.  With only a few months to enjoy them, water parks are great summer fun!  Get some sun and head over to a water park, such as Raging Waves in Yorkville, IL.  Look for discounted rates for families, where you only pay $31.25 per person - which includes meals and a whole day of fun! 

2.  Library.  There's more than just books to look at at your local library!  For example, the Joliet Public Library in Joliet offers storytime hours to preschoolers, a petting zoo, and crafts classes.  Most activities are free and don't require registration.  Check with your local library for a calendar of events.

3.  Museum.  Of course there are the big museums down in the city, but if you want to take your preschooler to a museum without the hassle of parking and large crowds, there's plenty more in the suburbs to choose from.  The Kohl's Children's Museum in Glenview offers low rates and is free to members.  Preschoolers will have a blast playing in the hands-on centers, where there is a pretend Dominick's, Potbelly's, day care, vet, and more!  Or check out the DuPage Children's Museum in Naperville where there are programs to fit every child's needs.  Members are free, rates are low, and parking is free!

4.  Train Ride.  A great way to save on gas, a train ride is the perfect way to get to a Chicago destination or visit a relative.  Your preschooler will love the opportunity to ride on a train, and it gives you the chance to engage him or her in learning about transportation.  Even better - right now Metra is offering a summer sale where up to 3 children under the age of 11 ride for free with the purchase of one adult train ticket!

5.  Baseball Game.  Most Chicago preschoolers will know the answer to this question, "are you a Sox or Cubs fan?"  But baseball reaches out into the suburbs as well, like with the Kane County Cougars in Geneva.  For only $8.00 a ticket, families will have a great time in this family-friendly atmosphere where preschoolers have an easier view of the field and a closer trip to the potty!

6.  Fishing.  Fishing is a great way to enjoy the sun and spend some time with the family!  Perhaps at a local pond or off a boat at a lakehouse, your preschooler will welcome the opportunity to learn about fish and how to catch them.  Just make sure to follow proper safety precautions when near the water and have a fishing license when fishing at public ponds!

7.  Beaches.  That's right - just because you live in Chicago doesn't mean you have to grow up without beaches!  From now until September 7, take advantage of Chicago's lakefront and pretend for a day that you live off the coast!  Another great free activity, your preschooler will love playing in the sand, riding bikes, or having a picnic.  The water may be a little cold - but if not - jump right in!

8.  Millenium Park.  A landmark known to many, Millenium Park offers so many things to your preschooler.  The Family Fun Festival runs from now until September 4 and is free.  There's hands-on activities, family performances, dancing, crafts, science experiments and more.  Also check into special events through the Family Fun Festival where there will be a bubble machine and tribute to Shel Silverstein.  More perks include free concerts at noon!

9.  Farmer's Market.  There's no better place to pick out the freshest fruits, veggies and flowers during the summer than at a farmer's market!  Preschoolers will love the chance to pick out a few of their favorite things to take home with them. Check out the various locations across Chicagoland where over 70 vendors are selling a wide array of fruits, veggies, plants, and flowers. 

10.  Boat Rides.  Perhaps you or a family member has a lakehouse where your preschooler has the opportunity to ride on boats in the summer.  But if not, think about taking a boat tour off Lake Michigan!  Wendella Boats offers low ticket prices for kids at $12.00 a ticket.  Choose from a sunset tour and more, your preschooler will love the safe atmosphere and chance to see the city from a different view.

For more great ideas to do with your preschooler this summer, visit this Chicago site.  There's an overwhelming amount of events that are free and open to the public.  And don't forget - there are many of these same events located throughout the suburbs, and are usually less expensive, with free parking and a smaller crowd.  Happy Summer!