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.
Have a baby born since Spring 2026? Join us to build community and confidence as you navigate life with your new little one.
Come join us for a fun-filled Family Open Gym event at Park West Cooperative Nursery School!
Join The Alliance for Early Childhood, the Winnetka Park District, and the Chicago Botanic Garden Nature Preschool for a day of building, imagining, and playing together!
Join The Alliance for Early Childhood, the Winnetka Park District, and the Chicago Botanic Garden Nature Preschool for a day of building, imagining, and playing together!
Bring the whole family together to celebrate reading and art through creative play! Stories come to life on select Sunday mornings at Writers Theatre.
Join Wilmette Public Library for fun stories and activities in Russian that the whole family will enjoy.
Join us after school for dramatic stories, rhymes, puppets, and songs, just for children ages 4-7.
Join Saints JFX School for a tour and learn more about our admissions process. We hope to see you soon at Saints JFX!
Using music, movement, stories, and games, this interactive yoga class will engage your child’s imagination while they learn yoga poses, simple breathing techniques, and guided meditation.
Join Saints JFX School for a tour and learn more about our admissions process. We hope to see you soon at Saints JFX!
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.