Favorite Non-Library Story Times for Chicago Kids

Lisa R said:  This story telling trio and jazz chamber ensemble delivers one of the most unique and engaging story times in Chicago that will have both parents and toddlers at the edge of their seats. Each themed story times consists of original works and favorite books rhythmically recited with musical accompaniment. This "storytelling chamber band" performs at locations throughout Chicagoland.

Verify dates & times with host venue before attending.

Lisa R said:  Where better to instill a love of reading than at one of the first museums in the country entirely devoted to books and their authors? Each month, preschool aged visitors gather in the Children's Literature Gallery to socialize and hear a story read by a museum volunteer. Afterwards, cuddle up with another book or explore the many interactive displays devoted to 300 years of American children's literature.

Saturdays, 10:30 am

Shila said:   Dedicated to the art of poetry, the Poetry Foundation houses a 30,000-volume poetry library, an exhibition gallery, hosts public events, supports field trips, and more! Poemtime is an event for young children that promotes literacy through fun, interactive readings and themed crafts.

Wednesdays, 10 am

Lisa R said:  Get a little more out of your visit to the Nature museum with this daily half hour program in the Hands-On Habitat exhibit. Each session mixes story time with a bit of socialization. Museum staff first read a nature-themed story and then guide children through games and activities. Kids can continue to enjoy the rest of the museum to see numerous exhibits, butterfly haven, indoor playground, and water play stations.

Daily 11 am -11:30 am

Kristy Pepping said:  Big City Readers will share a story each week. Please note there will be no stroller parking inside. If you have a small one that folds up, those will be allowed. Otherwise, strollers can be left on the side of the building or in the staff parking lot.

Mondays at 10:30 am

Molly Weber said:  Drop in for story time at The Paintbrush followed by an art project themed off of that day's story! This is a great chance to help you children draw connections to the actual story and relate their art project to what they heard. The Paintbrush is a popular art studio for kids that offers drop-in art classes, workshops, birthday parties and more. Reregistration required.

Fridays, 3:30 pm - 4:15 pm

Lisa R said:  If you're an avid Pottery Barn browser, then this story time is a great way to entertain both you and the kids. Stop in during their weekly story time to treat your kids to free readings, crafts, and activities. Drop in five times, and you'll get a special surprise present from the store.

Tuesdays, 11 am

Phillip Gross said:  Fun interactive story times. They host a few combined with art classes.

Multiple times, see website for details

Kristy Pepping said:  Volumes Bookcafe in Wicker Park is an independent bookstore cafe. They offer books, baked goods, espresso drinks and wine. It was started by two Chicago sisters for their love of reading. Join them every Wednesday and Saturday for story time with one of the co-owners, Miss Kimberly. Two to three books will be read by Miss Kimberly followed by a singalong and a craft.

Wednesdays and Saturdays, 10 am

Lisa R said:  Scuola Italiana Enrico Fermi, Chicago's first Italian American International School, hosts special dual language story times throughout the year. Classes are taught by the animated Maestro Francesca and held at various locations in Chicago like The Red Balloon (Bucktown flagship location) and Little Adventures Play Place. See Facebook page for details.

Little Adventures: one Tuesday/month

The Red Balloon Co: one Thursday/month

10:30 am - 11 am

Lisa R said:  If you've been meaning to check out this unique kid's clothing boutique, be sure to stop in on the first Thursday of the month when they host story time with Bubbles Academy. Check out their Facebook to stay up to date with all their events.

Kristy Pepping said:  Women and Children First is one of the largest feminist bookstores in the country with more than 30,000 books by and about women, children's books and more. One of the events they hold is a storytime. They suggest kids aged from 2 to 5 because they are generally ready "to sit, listen, and participate," but they do welcome children of any age who are willing to do so as well. Five or more stories are read by former co-owner Linda Bubon.

Wednesdays, 10:30 am - 11 am

Alexandra F. said:  Join Oak Park native, Miss Rachel, for weekly story time at your neighborhood kids' store in Roscoe Village, and stay to browse their thoughtfully curated collection of baby and children's clothing, books and toys afterward!

Mondays 11 am - 11:30 am

Lisa R said:  This teaching museum at Northwestern University is full of thought provoking pieces that are full of stories. Story times here encourage to look more deeply at pieces housed in the museum by introducing new concepts through stories and interactive family activities. Registration required.

10:30 am

Brigitte Nohra Miller said:  Spend an afternoon with your child out in nature and listening to stories at Lake Katherine Nature Center's story time! Be sure to come early so you can explore the nature center with your little one.

First Thursday of every month 4 pm - 5 pm