June 18, 2020
A number of resources are available to support UChicago faculty who are caring for children over the summer.
Family Resource Center
The Family Resource Center is offering two free classes and a Zoom discussion group:
- Storytime with Laura. Wednesdays, June 24 - August 26, from 11 - 11:30 a.m. These sessions combine thematic stories with songs, props, movement, and the occasional puppet. The target age is children 2 - 5 years old, though all ages are welcome.
- Food from Around the World. Thursdays, June 25 - August 27, 3:30 - 4 p.m. Cook with your children in your own kitchen while imagining you are visiting and sharing food with friends in far away places. The target age is children 3 - 7 years old.
- Parenting in the Pandemic. Dates/times TBD by participants. Quarantine has led to many challenges for UChicago faculty as parents and scholars. Participate in a group discussion with your colleagues to share concerns and ideas and offer support.
For more information and session meeting links, email Laura Macgregor at lmacgregor@uchicago.edu or Lizanne Phalen at lizannep@uchicago.edu.
UC Moms Resource Group
UC Moms is a resource group that advocates for and provides resources to parents across the University. The group currently meets via Zoom on the third Friday of each month from noon - 1 p.m., though the timing is subject to change. The group's upcoming meeting topics include "Keeping Your Kids Safe Through the Summer” and "Speaking with Your Kids About Race." For more information and to join the UC Moms group, email Laura Merkin at Laura.Markin@uchospitals.edu.
Virtual Babysitting Program
The Office of the Provost launched a virtual babysitting and tutoring program during the Spring Quarter to support faculty members working from home and caring for young children. The program will continue through the Summer Quarter. Please complete this request form so we can connect you with a UChicago undergraduate student sitter. For more information, contact Liv Leader at lleader@uchicago.edu.
Finding a Nanny, Daycare, or Summer Camp
As childcare centers begin reopening, many families may feel more comfortable finding a smaller daycare or hiring a nanny than sending their child to daycare. Sarah Diwan at the Hyde Park Neighborhood Club is a great resource for locating a nanny or babysitter in Hyde Park area. The organization also advertises activities on Facebook. Perspectives offers a similar service focused on Chicago's North Side and the suburbs.
Community Events
The Hyde Park Neighborhood Club has moved many of its events online. Get details and Zoom links for Spanish story time, art classes, and music classes on their calendar.
Connect with Other Parents Online
Faculty families can connect with each other and learn more about family-oriented campus programming through the Academics with Young Children Network and the Academics with Young Children Facebook page. The Student Parent Listserv (not just for student parents!) and the Hyde Park Parent Support Network are active lists in the University community.
Childcare for Essential Workers
The Bright Horizons Drexel Center is providing childcare for children of essential workers. Children from birth to age 12 are welcome.