1-on-1 Inspiration Library

Need some Inspiration?

Use this page to find some ideas and resources designed to spark creativity, foster connection, and create lasting memories between you and your Little Sib. Whether you're searching for exciting outings, educational activities, or meaningful ways to engage with your Little Sib, this is your gateway to a world of possibilities in and around Chicago.

Monthly Highlights

Recent Big & Little Adventures

Explore recent activities enjoyed by our Big Sibs and their Little Sibs, showcasing the fun and creativity fostered through mentorship in the HFY community.

"Attended my Little Sib's initiation into National Junior Honor Society"
"Virtual hangout"
"1-on-1 Texting"
"Mini-golf and dinner"
"Cooked dinner together"
"We met at Hyde Park and did the tie dye kit, played volleyball, and did our own variation of the international snack kit!"
"Korean BBQ in Chinatown"
"Bike ride and lunch"
"Facetime"
"Lunch and lawn games"
"Movie at Gallagher way!"
"Basketball, soccer, ate food, chatted, went on a walk."

This Month's Suggested 1-on-1s

Discover events happening this month that Big & Little Sibs might enjoy together. Explore suggested activities designed to spark connection and create lasting memories.

Year-Round Activities

Outdoor Adventures

Whether you're exploring nature, discovering urban parks, or enjoying the shores of Lake Michigan, there are endless opportunities to engage in fun and enriching activities with your Little Sib. Discover iconic landmarks, scenic trails, and vibrant parks that promise unforgettable experiences and opportunities to bond while exploring the great outdoors together.

3rd-5th Grade

Lincoln Park Zoo: Enjoy a day with animals at this free zoo.
Maggie Daley Park: Play in the whimsical playgrounds and enjoy the rock climbing walls.
Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park: Explore the pond, gardens, and wildlife in a natural setting.
Northerly Island: Visit the nature preserve for birdwatching and scenic views of the city skyline.
Chicago Botanic Garden: Explore child-friendly gardens and participate in family programs.

Middle School

Bike the Lakefront Trail: Rent bikes or bring your own to ride along the scenic Lake Michigan shoreline.
Forest Preserves: Hike trails and participate in nature programs at various forest preserve locations.
Skateboarding/Scootering at Grant Park Skate Plaza: Enjoy skateboarding at one of the largest skate parks in the Midwest.
Garfield Park Conservatory: Explore the stunning plant collections and participate in interactive family programs.

High School

Chicago Water Taxi: Use the water taxi to explore the city from a different perspective while traveling between popular destinations along the river.
Rock Climbing at Maggie Daley Park: Challenge yourself at the climbing wall with varying difficulty levels.
Montrose Beach and Bird Sanctuary: Visit this beach for a mix of sun, sand, and birdwatching at the nearby sanctuary.

Educational Experiences

Chicago offers a wealth of educational experiences that are both fun and enlightening. From museums and libraries to conservatories and cultural centers, there are plenty of opportunities to learn and explore. These activities are designed to inspire curiosity, foster learning, and create memorable experiences for you and your Little Sib.

3rd-5th Grade

Museum Free Days: Visit the Museum of Science and Industry, Art Institute of Chicago & more on their free admission days!
Chicago Public Library: Attend free storytelling sessions, craft workshops, and educational programs at your local library.
Garfield Park Conservatory: Learn about plants and nature at this free indoor garden.
Chicago Cultural Center: Attend free exhibitions, performances, and family-friendly events.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum: Discover interactive exhibits about nature and the environment.

Middle School

Museum Free Days: Visit the Museum of Science and Industry, Art Institute of Chicago, and more on their free admission days!
MindWorks Space: Explore interactive exhibits and a museum atmosphere that encourages creative thinking.
Chicago Architecture Center: Discover the city's architectural history and participate in educational programs and tours.
Chicago History Museum: Learn about the city's past through engaging exhibits and hands-on activities on free admission days.
National Museum of Mexican Art: Discover Mexican art and culture through exhibits and programs.

High School

College Tours: Take guided tours of various colleges and universities in Chicago to explore higher education options.
Art Institute of Chicago: Participate in free admission days and explore a wide range of art from different cultures and time periods.
Newberry Library: Explore historical collections and participate in free public lectures and workshops.
American Writers Museum: Discover the works of American writers and participate in interactive exhibits and educational programs.

Creative Activities

Engage in creative activities that spark imagination and foster artistic expression with your Little Sib. Whether it's exploring public art, attending workshops, or participating in interactive programs, these activities provide opportunities to bond and create lasting memories.

3rd-5th Grade

Chicago Children's Museum: Engage in hands-on art and craft activities in the Tinkering Lab.
Craft Workshops at Michaels: Attend free craft workshop at Michael's Crafts.
Home Depot Kids Workshops: Participate in free DIY workshops for kids on select Saturdays.
Hyde Park Art Center: Participate in free art classes and explore exhibitions together.

Middle School

Public Art Walking Tour: Discover murals and sculptures across the city- check out these self-guided art tours
Chicago Public Library Maker Lab: Use 3D printers, vinyl cutters, and other tools to create projects.
Chicago Park District Arts & Culture Programs: Join free or low-cost art, theatre, dance, etc. classes and workshops in local parks.

High School

Poetry Foundation: Visit the Poetry Foundation library for free poetry readings and events.
Art Institute of Chicago Teen Programs: Join free programs and workshops designed for teens.
Gallery 400 at UIC: Attend free exhibitions and art events.
Open Studio Projects: Engage in free open studio sessions for art-making and creativity.

Cultural Exploration

Discover the rich tapestry of cultures that make up Chicago through engaging and educational experiences. From exploring vibrant neighborhoods to attending cultural events and museums, these activities provide an opportunity to learn about diverse traditions and histories.

3rd-5th Grade

Explore Chinatown: Walk around Chinatown, visit the Chinatown Square, and try affordable food.
National Museum of Mexican Art: Enjoy free admission and learn about Mexican art and culture.
DuSable Museum of African American History: Attend free days and special events to learn about African American history.
Japanese Garden in Jackson Park: Explore the serene garden and learn about Japanese culture and traditions.

Middle School

.Visit Little Italy: Stroll down Taylor Street, visit Mario's Italian Lemonade, and explore the neighborhood.
Pilsen Murals Tour: Walk through Pilsen to see vibrant murals and learn about the community's history and culture.
Uptown and Argyle Street: Discover Vietnamese and Southeast Asian culture through the shops and eateries.
Greektown: Explore Greektown, visit the National Hellenic Museum on free admission days, and enjoy authentic Greek food.

High School

International Film Screenings: Attend free or low-cost international film screenings at cultural centers or libraries.
Maxwell Street Market: Explore this historic market with a diverse array of vendors and street performers.
Chicago Chinese Cultural Institute: Participate in free cultural workshops and events to learn about Chinese traditions.
Puerto Rican Cultural Center: Visit the center to learn about Puerto Rican culture and history through exhibits, events, and community programs.

Community Engagement

Spending time giving back and volunteering is not only a meaningful way to bond with your Little Sib but also contributes positively to the community. Whether your Little Sib needs to collect service hours or you both simply want to make a difference, here are a few places to search for a Big/Little Sib volunteer project:

The Honeycomb Project: Participate in family-friendly volunteer projects that benefit various community organizations.
The Greater Chicago Food Depository: Volunteer to sort and pack food donations for distribution to local food pantries.
Anti-Cruelty Society: Help care for animals or assist with adoption events at the Anti-Cruelty Society.
Forest Preserve Litter Clean Up: Join self-led clean-up events to help maintain the beauty of local forest preserves.
Shedd Aquarium Action Days: Participate in conservation activities and shoreline clean-ups to protect aquatic environments.
Common Pantry: Volunteer to organize and distribute food to individuals and families in need.
Cradles to Crayons: Help prepare and distribute essential items for children in low-income families.

Horizons for Youth: We are happy to offer service opportunities to our own Big & Little Sibs. Check out what offerings we have available here (passcode is Horizons).

Resources

Here's a list of go-to resources you could use to explore low to no-cost events happening in across the city:

Chicago Park District: Check their website for free or low-cost programs, events, and activities happening in neighborhood parks throughout the city.

Chicago Public Library: Visit their website for schedules of free events such as storytimes, craft sessions, and educational workshops.

Choose Chicago: Their website often lists free events, festivals, and cultural activities happening across the city.

Time Out Chicago: They regularly feature lists of free events, concerts, and exhibitions happening in Chicago.

Chicago Parent Website: Chicago Parent’s online calendar, is a guide for the family events in Chicagoland. Search for kid-friendly events by area, age, date range and category.

Chicago Kids Website: Find fun Chicago kids' events and activities for today, this weekend, or plan a future outing!

Secret Chicago: A digital platform that uncovers hidden gems, unique events, and insider tips about the best activities and attractions in Chicago.

YourChicagoGuide: Your Chicago Guide's Chicago Events Calendar is a comprehensive resource for discovering the latest events, festivals, and activities happening throughout the city.

Neighborhood Chamber of Commerce Websites: Many neighborhoods in Chicago have their own websites or chambers of commerce that list local events and activities, often including free or low-cost options.

Eventbrite: Search for "free events in Chicago" on Eventbrite to find various free workshops, talks, and community gatherings.

Meetup: Look for free meetup groups in Chicago focused on activities like hiking, book clubs, or arts and crafts.

Chicago Cultural Center: Check their website for free exhibitions, performances, and events throughout the year.

Millennium Park Website: They often host free concerts, film screenings, and family-friendly events during the summer.

Chicago Tribune Events Calendar: They often list free or low-cost events happening around the city.

Chicago Reader: Check their website for listings of free concerts, art shows, and community events.

Social Media: Follow local organizations, community centers, and event venues on platforms like Facebook and Instagram for event announcements.

Forest Preserves of Cook County: Explore events hosted at the forest preserves, walking trails, and parks.

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