In case you haven't heard, Chicago Public School teachers are going on strike. Again. Nearly 250 contingency sites have been set up by Chicago Public Schools to help families, but with approximately 350,000 students out of school, it's unlikely that this will accommodate everyone. So, if you're looking to keep your sanity while keeping your kids busy, here are some options to make everyone happy on Friday.
1. The Paintbrush Strike Day Art Camp
Get your kid's creativity flowing with paper mosaics, collage, watercolor and paint projects at The Paintbrush. For some art projects children learn about an artist like Jackson Pollock or Andy Warhol and create a piece inspired by the artist. (The Paintbrush, 2646 N Halsted St, noon–3pm, $55 per child, ages 4–11)
Have your kids spend the day investigating science and art while they play games organized by the NeuroKitchen Arts Collective. They'll get to burn off energy with team-building activities, group story projects and even yoga. (The Prop Theater, 3502 N Elston, 9am–3pm, $45)
3. Super Strike Camp at Beauty and Brawn Gallery
Introduce your young artist to mixed media art, photography, bookmaking, claywork and more. Past camps have included field trips to the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum and a tour of The Logan Theatre. (Beauty and Brawn Gallery, 3501 W Fullerton, 9:30am–3:30pm, $65 full day, $35 half-day)
This day camp is for future architects, designers, programmers and engineers. Kids get a crash course on all the drills, laser cutters, 3D printers and even software like Oculus so they can spend the day creating whatever comes from their imaginations. (Bit Space, 2541 W Lawrence Ave, 9am–4pm, $100)
5. Film Criticism Camp at Facets
If your kids are interested in movie magic, send them over to Facets, where they can learn about writing, acting and storytelling. Children will also get to see screenings from the Chicago International Children's Film Festival, but act quickly because registration is bound to fill up for this deal. (Facets, 1517 W Fullerton Ave, 8am–4pm, Free)
Block, kick and chop while learning Tang Soo Do, a traditional Korean martial art. Kids will get to practice karate moves, grab lunch and head outside for play time. (606 Karate & Self-Defense, 1500 N Hoyne Ave, 11am–5:30pm)