For Early Childhood Parents
The Alliance offers free programming that support parents on their unique parenting journeys.
Building Community: Parent & Family Programs
Parents are a child’s first and most important relationship and a powerful influence on their development. Our free, public programs are designed to support parents and caregivers along their unique parenting journeys.
Upcoming Parent and Family Events
Find out more about Willow House’s free monthly Family Peer Grief Support Group for youth ages 3 -28 years experiencing the loss of a family member.
Join the Chicago Botanic Garden to virtually meet some of their teaching staff, explore the indoor and outdoor classroom spaces, and learn about daily activities at their Nature Preschool.
Join Saints JFX School for a tour and learn more about our admissions process. We hope to see you soon at Saints JFX!
Curious if in-person Advanced Enrichment programming is right for your young learner?
Interested in seeing what dynamic, hands-on, talent development looks like in action?
Join us for CTD Program Preview Day!
Come join us for a fun-filled Family Open Gym event at Park West Cooperative Nursery School!
WT's Childcare Matinee Series makes seeing theatre easier to attend for parents and caregivers. Drop your young ones off at on onsite theatre class for ages 5-11 and enjoy a Sunday matinee performance.
What did we do before we carried mobile phones everywhere? Drop in to Wilmette Public Library for a hands-on exploration of analog technology from the not-so-distant past.
Have a baby born since Spring 2026? Join Wilmette Public Library to build community and confidence as you navigate life with your new little one.
Spark the Firefly and her friends in Firefly Grove discover the wonders of the fall season at this cozy show that includes puppets, original music, and interactive movement.
Spark the Firefly and her friends in Firefly Grove discover the wonders of the fall season at this cozy show that includes puppets, original music, and interactive movement.
Bring the whole family together to celebrate reading and art through creative play! Stories come to life on select Sunday mornings at Writers Theatre.
Come join us for a fun-filled Family Open Gym event at Park West Cooperative Nursery School!
Join Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum of the Chicago Academy of Sciences for a family-friendly New Year’s Eve countdown!
Lets Play! Family Program
Let’s Play! is The Alliance’s free community program inviting families to experience the joy of child-directed play—from fort building and nature adventures to farm explorations and more.
Browse our upcoming Let’s Play! events below and register to join the fun.
Mindful Beginnings
Mindful Beginnings is a free monthly meet-up for new and expecting parents to connect, share, and find community.
Led by certified doula and childbirth educator Kassie Leachman, gatherings include a gentle walk on local trails—or cozy coffee shop meet-ups in winter—and time for conversation. Babies welcome; carriers encouraged.
Parent Programs
Parenting was never meant to be done alone. That is the core idea behind our collection of free programs for parents, caregivers, and families.
View our parent guide below and register for upcoming virtual parenting sessions.