Chicago Gifted Community Center upcoming events

Stanford Neurodiversity Summit 2026 (September 19, 2026)

Sat, 19 Sep 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Stanford Neurodiversity Summit 2026

Building Strengths through Neurodiversity Innovation

General registration is at a low cost ($25, Virtual Only) to ensure accessibility.

House Tour: Back to School in the 1890s (September 20, 2026)

Sun, 20 Sep 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Step into an 1890s farmhouse and learn what school days looked like over a century ago. Hourly tours. $5 suggested donation, ages 3+. Presented by Forest Preserve District of DuPage County.

Stars and Stripes: Our American Flag (September 20, 2026)

Sun, 20 Sep 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Drop-in program exploring the history and traditions of the American flag. Presented by Forest Preserve District of DuPage County.

Tractor-Drawn Wagon Ride (September 20, 2026)

Sun, 20 Sep 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Enjoy a tractor-drawn wagon ride around the equestrian center grounds. $5 per person ages 5+, under 5 free. Presented by Forest Preserve District of DuPage County.

Insects of Autumn (September 20, 2026)

Sun, 20 Sep 2026 18:30:00 GMT

Explore the nature center grounds to discover insects preparing for fall. Presented by Forest Preserves of Cook County.

What's On The Menu? (September 20, 2026)

Sun, 20 Sep 2026 20:00:00 GMT

Learn what local wildlife eats to prepare for the changing seasons. Presented by Forest Preserves of Cook County.

Tuesday Mornings are for the Birds! (September 22, 2026)

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Join a naturalist for an early-morning bird walk around the nature center. Presented by Forest Preserves of Cook County.

Native American Fall Equinox (September 22, 2026)

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Learn how Native American communities marked the fall equinox. Presented by Forest Preserves of Cook County.

Wildlife Connections (September 22, 2026)

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 15:30:00 GMT

Discover how local wildlife species depend on one another. Presented by Forest Preserves of Cook County.

Guided Hike: Night Walk at Fort Sheridan (September 22, 2026)

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Guided evening hike through Fort Sheridan as the sun sets. Registration required. Presented by Lake County Forest Preserves.

Hidden Brilliance: Understanding the Lived Experiences of Gifted Adoptees and Foster Youth (September 22, 2026)

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

NAGC webinar - free for NAGC members

Children who are adopted or in foster care face unique psychosocial challenges which may be amplified by the shared challenges and intensities of their giftedness. These same Issues and challenges may mask their giftedness which can further fuel the misunderstandings and preconceived ideas of how an adoptee or foster child should look or behave.

This webinar will explore these challenges and ways they may impact these children’s education. Stories collected during a qualitative study of this population will be shared to highlight lived experiences. Topics discussed will include trauma, loss, grief, perfectionism, imposter syndrome, relationships, transitions, and school assignments. These topics are not often discussed in the education community, therefore attendees will learn about how to spot and address the above challenges, while also encouraging students’ strengths, developing their talents and interests, and advocating for the gifted adoptees and gifted foster children in an educational environment.

GPS Parent Series: When Kids Say “I Hate Myself”: How to Respond (September 23, 2026)

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Wed, Sep 23, 2026 @ Noon and 7pm CST
More information here

When a child expresses severe self-criticism or despair, caregivers and educators can find themselves at a loss. In this presentation, Aguirre will help adults distinguish between typical adolescent angst and deeper psychological distress.

Participants will learn how to offer radical validation and when to seek professional intervention. Aguirre will share evidence-based strategies for responding with compassion and clarity and fostering resilience when a child needs it most.

Teen Writers Workshop (September 23, 2026)

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 21:00:00 GMT

A dedicated space for middle and high school students to write short stories, poetry, and other creative pieces, followed by a peer-sharing circle. Presented by Gail Borden Public Library.

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (September 23, 2026)

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

While conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees, we will begin with an update about recent legislation impacting twice exceptional learners in Illinois and what that means for advocacy with your local school district.

Monarchs & Milkweed (September 24, 2026)

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Learn about the monarch butterfly's connection to milkweed and its migration to Mexico. Presented by Forest Preserves of Cook County.

Be a Better Birder: Understanding Migration (September 24, 2026)

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Online program on the science of bird migration. Registration required. Presented by Forest Preserves of Cook County.

REEL 2e: 2e Private School & Educational Options Panel (September 24, 2026)

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 02:00:00 GMT

Hear from our panel of parents and an expert about their experiences weighing school options for their children..

More information from REEL 2e

Beacon Academy Prospective Parent Coffee & School Tour (September 25, 2026)

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Prospective Parent Coffee & School Tours

Join us this fall from 9:00-10:30!

We’re excited to welcome prospective families to visit Beacon Academy this fall. These small-group events offer a warm introduction to our school and community. Each session includes:

A welcome from our Admissions Office
An overview of life at Beacon from faculty and current families, followed by a Q&A session
A student-led tour of Beacon’s campus
An optional tour of Beacon’s Arts Annex

Remaining Dates: 9/25, 10/09, 10/23, 12/04

Owl Prowl (September 25, 2026)

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Evening program and walk to listen and look for local owls. Registration required. Presented by Forest Preserves of Cook County.

Moon Cake Festival (September 25, 2026)

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with stories, activities, and mooncakes. Registration required. Presented by Forest Preserves of Cook County.

Ranger Discovery Hike (September 26, 2026)

Sat, 26 Sep 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Guided hike led by a forest preserve ranger. $5 per person. Registration required. Presented by Forest Preserve District of DuPage County.

Family Drop-In: Nocturnal Animals (September 26, 2026)

Sat, 26 Sep 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Drop in for a casual, family-friendly exploration of nocturnal animals and the ways they've adapted to life after dark. via Lake County Forest Preserves. Register: https://www.lcfpd.org/calendar/family-drop-in/20260926/

Guided Hike: Ethel's Woods (September 26, 2026)

Sat, 26 Sep 2026 20:00:00 GMT

Guided hike exploring the trails and habitats of Ethel's Woods. Registration required. Presented by Lake County Forest Preserves.

Tsukimi: Moon Viewing Festival at Jackson Park (September 26, 2026)

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 02:00:00 GMT

An outdoor evening celebrating Japanese tradition under the harvest moon. Haiku poets from the Haiku Society of America and Chicago's Haiku Festival will share professional works and teach guests how to craft their own traditional haikus. Includes a giant brush calligraphy demonstration and mochi. Free and accessible to all.

CGCC Family Game Night at The Parched Pug (September 27, 2026)

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Come meet with other parents and kids to talk and play games during our monthly Family Game Night! Games are free on Sundays and choose any of the games from 200+ board game library. Join us at The Parched Pug in Libertyville for food, drinks, and games while the parents connect, and the kids enjoy time together playing games.

Please register so that we can reserve adequate space for the group. This event is "free" as everyone will pay their own bill at the end of the evening. There are no drop offs and a parent or guardian must accompany their child during the length of the event. If your plans change after registration, please kindly respond to the confirmation email so we can adjust our arrangements.

Please note that by attending this event, you confirm that you will assume all the risk to yourself and your family related to coronavirus.

The Parched Pug: An Upscale Gastropub & Gamery in Libertyville, IL

Sounds of Summer - The Petty Kings (September 27, 2026)

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Outdoor concert closing out the summer series at Hibbard Park - a fun, low-key family outing. Free. More info: https://kiddochicago.com/events/wilmette/sounds-of-summer-the-petty-kings-2026-09-27

Pokemon Science Quest (September 28, 2026)

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 21:30:00 GMT

Pokemon-themed science program - a classic special interest crossover, great for gifted kids who love both. More info: https://kiddochicago.com/events/glenview/pok-mon-science-quest-grades-3-5-2026-09-28

Pokemon Club (September 28, 2026)

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 21:30:00 GMT

Pokemon-themed club at Northbrook Public Library - same special-interest appeal as the Glenview session on a different night. More info: https://kiddochicago.com/events/northbrook/pokemon-club-grades-3-6-2026-09-28

Family Book Club: Harry Versus the First 100 Days of School (September 28, 2026)

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Family book club discussion for kids. More info: https://kiddochicago.com/events/arlington-heights/family-book-club-harry-versus-the-first-100-days-of-school-2026-09-28

Budgeting 101 with Project Coin (September 28, 2026)

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Practical money-management workshop for kids with Project Coin. More info: https://kiddochicago.com/events/arlington-heights/budgeting-101-with-project-coin-2026-09-28

ACT/SAT and Smarter College Planning Strategies (September 28, 2026)

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Practical session on ACT/SAT changes and college planning strategies for advanced/accelerated students. More info: https://kiddochicago.com/events/northbrook/act-sat-and-smarter-college-planning-strategies-2026-09-28

Changes to the ACT/SAT (September 28, 2026)

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Session covering recent changes to the ACT/SAT for students and families planning ahead. More info: https://kiddochicago.com/events/deerfield/changes-to-the-act-sat-2026-09-28

Tween Manga Club (September 29, 2026)

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Manga discussion and creative program for tweens. More info: https://kiddochicago.com/events/evanston/tween-manga-club-2026-09-29

Lights, Camera, Community (September 29, 2026)

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Community filmmaking/media program. More info: https://kiddochicago.com/events/oak-park/lights-camera-community-2026-09-29

Air Dry Clay Trinket Tray (September 29, 2026)

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Hands-on air dry clay craft project for teens. More info: https://kiddochicago.com/events/northbrook/air-dry-clay-trinket-tray-age-13-adult-2026-09-29

GPS Parent Series: HYBRID EVENTS - GPS GREAT READ - A Little More Social: How Small Choices Create Unexpected Happiness and Connection (September 30, 2026)

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Wed, Sep 30, 2026 @ Noon and 7pm CST

HYBRID EVENTS - On Zoom at noon and 7 p.m., and in person in room 1020/Auditorium at the Culinary and Hospitality Center at College of DuPage (COD) in Glen Ellyn, IL at noon -- and in person at Glenbard West High School in Glen Ellyn at 7 p.m. with a Health & Resource Fair at 6:00 pm

More information here

Note: Prior to the evening presentation, a Community Wellness Resource Fair will be held at Glenbard West High School Library beginning at 6:00 p.m.

In an era defined by screens, shifting social norms, and rising anxiety among youth, it’s vital that adults help children foster meaningful, real-world connections.

Epley will come to GPS to share data-driven insights on how parents can nurture “social courage” and build strong bonds at home and in the community.

Epley will explain how children, as they mature, naturally become more self-conscious, wary of social engagement, and prone to isolation with an over-reliance on digital communication. He will share a fascinating paradox: while humans are neurologically wired for connection, our brains often deceive us into believing that reaching out to others will be awkward or unwelcome.

However, Epley’s research demonstrates deep conversations, genuine compliments, and small acts of kindness and gratitude are significantly more rewarding — and far less awkward — than our pessimistic instincts suggest.

Whether families are navigating early childhood or guiding adolescents, this presentation will provide a functional toolkit for youth and adults to lead happier, healthier, and more connected lives.

NAGC Community Conversation: Should We Use the Term Gifted? A Practitioner Dialogue (September 30, 2026)

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Join three Gifted Education Coordinators for an informal, practice-centered conversation following the researcher panel on “Should We Use the Term ‘Gifted’?” This session focuses on how the debate around terminology impacts real decisions in schools—from identification and services to communication with families. Participants will reflect on key ideas, share perspectives, and explore how language shapes equity and student access. If you’re considering how this question affects your day-to-day work, this dialogue offers a space to process, connect, and move forward with clarity. Register here

DIY Mosaic Coasters (September 30, 2026)

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Family craft night making mosaic coasters. More info: https://kiddochicago.com/events/glenview/diy-mosaic-coasters-grades-k-w-adult-2026-09-30

Folktales and Fun (October 01, 2026)

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 21:15:00 GMT

Storytelling program exploring folktales. More info: https://kiddochicago.com/events/deerfield/folktales-and-fun-2026-10-01

Miss Jamie Concert (October 01, 2026)

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 22:00:00 GMT

A kids'-music-focused concert at Bonner Heritage Farm -- a fun, family-friendly outing for younger siblings. via Lake County Forest Preserves. Register: https://www.lcfpd.org/calendar/miss-jamie-concert/20261001/

Chess on the Edge (October 01, 2026)

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Open chess play, game analysis and tactical problems for ages 8–80 and all skill levels. Chess boards are provided. Registration required.

More information and registration: https://chipublib.bibliocommons.com/v2/events?series=675e0826b77ff72800226865

3D Modeled Ball Maze Fidget (October 01, 2026)

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 23:00:00 GMT

3D design and modeling maker program. More info: https://kiddochicago.com/events/glenview/3d-modeled-ball-maze-fidget-grades-3-8-2026-10-01

K9 Reading Buddies of the North Shore (October 01, 2026)

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Therapy-dog reading program - calm, low-pressure format good for anxious or reluctant readers. More info: https://kiddochicago.com/events/wilmette/k9-reading-buddies-of-the-north-shore-2026-10-01

Science Detectives (October 02, 2026)

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 15:00:00 GMT

A short, hands-on science program inviting young learners to observe, investigate and experiment. Free; registration required. More info: https://calendar.vapld.info/events/list?page=4

Foxy's Homeschool Power Hour: Brain Science (October 02, 2026)

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 16:00:00 GMT

A homeschool learning hour focused on the brain and how it works. Free; registration required. More info: https://www.fllib.org/event/foxys-homeschool-power-hour-brain-science-4668

Fall Photography (October 03, 2026)

Sat, 03 Oct 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Nature and art crossover - photography in the field at River Trail Nature Center. More info: https://kiddochicago.com/events/northbrook/fall-photography-2026-10-03

Meet the Schools: Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy Visit (October 03, 2026)

Sat, 03 Oct 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Meet representatives from the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy and learn about this public residential high school for academically advanced Illinois students. Free. More info: https://alsipmerrionette.librarycalendar.com/events/week/2026/09/28

MAGE Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (October 04, 2026)

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Please join us for an information session about our unique full-time gifted junior kindergarten through 12th grade school admissions process and curriculum, our enrichment program, and to meet and network with other gifted families in the area as well as to understand school options and advocacy. RSVP by emailing admissions@mage.education.

In Person Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Sundays at 10AM. There is a virtual info session at 2PM on the same Sundays:

October 4
November 8
December 6

Sulzer Chess Meetup (October 04, 2026)

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 18:30:00 GMT

A welcoming chess meetup for casual games, practice and meeting other players. Free; check the organizer page for current attendance details. More info: https://chipublib.bibliocommons.com/events/6a74a9b486ec588db26f46db

LEGO Science in Motion (October 06, 2026)

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Explore motion, engineering and scientific ideas through a hands-on LEGO building challenge. Free; registration required. More info: https://kiddochicago.com/events/lombard/lego-science-in-motion-2026-10-06

Robot Adventures (October 06, 2026)

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 21:30:00 GMT

A hands-on robotics session where participants explore coding and robot challenges. Free; registration required. More info: https://kiddochicago.com/events/topic/stem

NIU STEAM Café: The Art and Science of Live Special Effects (October 07, 2026)

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 23:30:00 GMT

More information here

Science, technology and art come together when creating special effects for live entertainment events. Every minute of entertainment represents many hours of work behind the scenes by specialists in engineering, materials science and mathematics.

NIU Professor of Theatre Tracy Nunnally has been one of our most popular STEAM Café presenters. At this STEAM Café, he’ll present an updated talk about how engineering and math help to keep people safe while making them feel as if they’ve been part of death-defying feats. Professor Nunnally will delve into the fascinating details of special effects planning and safety analysis as he walks the audience through the process of moving live theatrical effects from idea to reality.

CGCC Parent Support Dinner Naperville/Aurora/Wheaton (October 07, 2026)

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Take a break from the busy pace of parenting and connect with other families who understand the unique joys and challenges of raising gifted, twice-exceptional, and complex learners.

Join us for a casual evening at Altiro Latin Fusion, where parents can share experiences, exchange ideas, offer encouragement, and build meaningful connections within the CGCC community. Whether you choose to enjoy dinner, appetizers, dessert, or simply a beverage, you'll find a welcoming environment and supportive conversation.

Please register in advance so we can reserve adequate seating for the group. Attendance is free, and each guest is responsible for their own food and beverage purchases. If your plans change after registering, please reply to the confirmation email so we can adjust our reservation accordingly.

We look forward to spending the evening with you and continuing to strengthen our CGCC parent community.

REEL 2e: 2e Parent Support Group October 2026 (October 08, 2026)

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 02:00:00 GMT

REEL's bi-monthly support group for parents of twice-exceptional children. Join us to ask questions and share answers. More information from REEL 2e

Beacon Academy Prospective Parent Coffee & School Tour (October 09, 2026)

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Prospective Parent Coffee & School Tours

Join us this fall from 9:00-10:30!

We’re excited to welcome prospective families to visit Beacon Academy this fall. These small-group events offer a warm introduction to our school and community. Each session includes:

A welcome from our Admissions Office
An overview of life at Beacon from faculty and current families, followed by a Q&A session
A student-led tour of Beacon’s campus
An optional tour of Beacon’s Arts Annex

Remaining Dates: 10/9, 10/23, 12/04

Fall Festival (October 10, 2026)

Sat, 10 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Pumpkin painting, hayrides, food trucks, local vendors. $15 wristband or $1 per ticket. Source: Olympia Fields Park District calendar

Chess on the Edge (October 15, 2026)

Thu, 15 Oct 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Open chess for players of varied experience, with opportunities for game analysis and tactical problems. Free; advance registration is required through Chicago Public Library. More info: https://chipublib.bibliocommons.com/v2/events?series=675e0826b77ff72800226865

REEL 2e: When Capable Readers Struggle: The Hidden Impact of Stealth Dyslexia (October 15, 2026)

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 02:00:00 GMT

Explore how gifted and twice-exceptional learners can mask reading challenges, why traditional screeners may miss them, and what parents need to know to advocate for their children.

More information from REEL 2e

REEL 2e: Understanding Twice-Exceptional (2e) Learners: When Strengths and Challenges Coexist (October 19, 2026)

Mon, 19 Oct 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Learn what it means to be twice-exceptional (2e), why giftedness and challenges can coexist, and how understanding your child’s unique profile can transform the way you support them. More information from REEL 2e

IAGC Annual Conference (October 20, 2026)

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Join fellow educators, parents, and education professionals from across Illinois for the 31st Annual IAGC Conference on October 20 & October 21 at the Northern Illinois University Conference Center in Naperville. Sharpen your skills and fill your resource tool bag with best practices, recent updates, and inspiring student experiences that support learning opportunities for gifted and advanced students in Illinois.

MAGE In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (October 20, 2026)

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 13:45:00 GMT

In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Tuesdays at 8:45AM:

October 20
November 17

CGCC Parent Support Dinner Rosemont (October 21, 2026)

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Connect, share experiences, and build a supportive community with other parents of bright, complex, and gifted children. Join us for a relaxed evening of conversation, encouragement, and connection with parents who understand the unique joys and challenges of raising exceptional kids.

We'll be gathering at Crust Brewing, where you can enjoy dinner, appetizers, dessert, or simply a beverage while spending time with fellow parents in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Please register in advance so we can reserve adequate space for the group. This is a free event, with each attendee responsible for their own food and beverage purchases. If your plans change after registering, we kindly ask that you reply to the confirmation email so we can adjust our reservation accordingly.

We look forward to seeing you and kicking off the school year together!

Beacon Academy Prospective Parent Coffee & School Tour (October 23, 2026)

Fri, 23 Oct 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Prospective Parent Coffee & School Tours

Join us this fall from 9:00-10:30!

We’re excited to welcome prospective families to visit Beacon Academy this fall. These small-group events offer a warm introduction to our school and community. Each session includes:

A welcome from our Admissions Office
An overview of life at Beacon from faculty and current families, followed by a Q&A session
A student-led tour of Beacon’s campus
An optional tour of Beacon’s Arts Annex

Remaining Dates: 10/23, 12/04

Trunk or Treat (October 25, 2026)

Sun, 25 Oct 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (October 28, 2026)

Thu, 29 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

While conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees, we will begin with a discussion about Dr. Ross Greene's book excerpt in Psychology Today, The Kids Who Aren't Okay.

Family Drop-In: Halloween in Nature (October 31, 2026)

Sat, 31 Oct 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Drop in for a Halloween-themed nature program full of seasonal, spooky-fun exploration for the whole family. via Lake County Forest Preserves. Register: https://www.lcfpd.org/calendar/family-drop-in/20261031/

Mammals of Lake County (November 03, 2026)

Wed, 04 Nov 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Join this virtual talk on the mammals of Lake County, from the familiar to the rarely seen, and how they've adapted to life in the region. A great option for families with scheduling constraints. via Lake County Forest Preserves. Register: https://www.lcfpd.org/calendar/mammals-of-lake-county-20261103/

NIU STEAM Café: Responding to Food Systems Challenges (November 04, 2026)

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 00:30:00 GMT

More information here

Illinois has an abundance of farms. Yet, most of the food consumed in the state is not locally produced, and many residents struggle with food insecurity. Grocery store shelves are filled with imported produce, while much of the corn and soy grown in the state is destined for export, animal feed or ethanol production. Extreme weather events, record numbers of family farm foreclosures and changes to SNAP food assistance programs are exposing the fragility of our current food system.

Join us at the next STEAM Café to learn how NIU is responding to current food system challenges through the Edible Campus program. Edible Campus Assistant Director Laura Fehling and Garden Manager Steve Schultz will discuss the vulnerabilities of the current food system, advances in sustainable and regenerative farming, and innovative ways to grow food at home and adapt to current changes.

A Neuro-Affirming Model for Gifted and 2E Students (November 04, 2026)

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Gifted and Twice-exceptional students often need support in school settings that is positive instead of punitive. Ross Greene, the author of "The Explosive Child," developed a method of working with children called Collaborative and Proactive Solutions. In this presentation, Aileen will share how this method can be used with gifted and twice-exceptional children. She will also share what school accommodations can be helpful for common concerns like executive functioning issues.

About the Presenter

Aileen Kelleher, CGCC Board member, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with gifted and twice-exceptional children, adults and families. She was born and raised in Chicago and currently lives on the North side with her daughter. She loves to learn and share information about giftedness and neurodiversity, and is passionate about the power of community for gifted/2E people and families.

NAGC Annual Convention (November 05, 2026)

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 06:00:00 GMT

National Association for Gifted Children's Annual Convention

Join us November 5–8, 2026, at the Baird Center in Milwaukee, WI, for four days of research-driven learning, strategic collaboration, and practical application. As the premier event dedicated to advancing gifted education, you can select from over 200+ sessions and 60+ posters designed to strengthen your practice, elevate your leadership, and expand opportunities for your advanced learners.

En La Edad de Los Dinosaurios / In the Age of Dinosaurs (November 05, 2026)

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 23:30:00 GMT

A bilingual English/Spanish program exploring dinosaurs at the Dunn Museum -- a can't-miss theme for dino-loving kids. via Lake County Forest Preserves (Dunn Museum). Register: https://www.lcfpd.org/calendar/en-la-edad-de-los-dinosauriosin-the-age-of-dinosaurs/20261105/

Beacon Academy Fall Open House (November 07, 2026)

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 19:30:00 GMT

Join us on Saturday, November 7th from 1:30-4:00 pm for Beacon Academy's annual Open House!

Beacon's Open House will follow a flexible format, allowing families to engage with faculty and students across academic departments, as well as in areas such as college counseling, athletics, the arts, and student life. The event will include a welcome address from Beacon’s Head of School at 1:45pm which will be followed by a community panel.

MAGE Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (November 08, 2026)

Sun, 08 Nov 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In Person Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Sundays at 10AM. There is a virtual info session at 2PM on the same Sundays:

November 8
December 6

REEL 2e: Beyond Social Skills: Helping Neurodivergent Kids Build Authentic Friendships (November 10, 2026)

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 03:00:00 GMT

This neurodiversity-affirming panel explores how to support neurodivergent kids in building meaningful relationships by first understanding what connection means to them. More information from REEL 2e

REEL 2e: 2e Parent Support Group November 2026 (November 12, 2026)

Fri, 13 Nov 2026 03:00:00 GMT

REEL's bi-monthly support group for parents of twice-exceptional children. Join us to ask questions and share answers. More information from REEL 2e

Family Drop-In: Wild Turkeys (November 14, 2026)

Sat, 14 Nov 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Drop in to learn about wild turkeys and their behavior as they gather in the preserves ahead of the holiday season. A casual, family-friendly program. via Lake County Forest Preserves. Register: https://www.lcfpd.org/calendar/family-drop-in/20261114/

MAGE In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (November 17, 2026)

Tue, 17 Nov 2026 14:45:00 GMT

In-Person Midweek Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Tuesdays at 8:45AM:

November 17

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (November 18, 2026)

Thu, 19 Nov 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

While conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees, we will begin with a discussion of the various organizations where you can find more information to help inform your parenting journey.

Thanksgiving for Nature Scavenger Hunt (November 22, 2026)

Sun, 22 Nov 2026 19:00:00 GMT

A Thanksgiving-themed scavenger hunt through the preserve -- a fun, active way for families to spend time outdoors before the holiday. via Lake County Forest Preserves. Register: https://www.lcfpd.org/calendar/thanksgiving-for-nature-scavenger-hunt/20261122/

Give Thanks to Nature (November 25, 2026)

Wed, 25 Nov 2026 16:00:00 GMT

A gratitude-themed nature program for youth, reflecting on the preserves and wildlife we're thankful for ahead of the holiday. via Lake County Forest Preserves. Register: https://www.lcfpd.org/calendar/give-thanks-to-nature-20261125/

Christmas Parade, Tree Lighting and Festival (November 30, 2026)

Mon, 30 Nov 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Annual holiday parade, tree lighting, and festival in Orland Park. Free. Source: village of Orland Park events calendar

NIU STEAM Café: The Science of Play (December 02, 2026)

Thu, 03 Dec 2026 00:30:00 GMT

More information here

Fred Rogers famously said, “Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.”

In this STEAM Café, we delve into the science of play with Kristin Schulz, executive director of the NIU Child Development and Family Center, and Melissa Clucas Walter, NIU assistant professor of human development and family sciences. They’ll explain why playing is so important for children’s brain development, and why adults benefit from preserving a sense of play. Learn about early childhood theories of play, find out why play encourages learning for both children and adults, and get tips for how to incorporate play into your life.

Whether you have children in your daily life or live in an adult-only home, practicing play can help you incorporate joy, learning and growth into everyday life.

Beacon Academy Prospective Parent Coffee & School Tour (December 04, 2026)

Fri, 04 Dec 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Prospective Parent Coffee & School Tours

Join us this fall from 9:00-10:30!

We’re excited to welcome prospective families to visit Beacon Academy this fall. These small-group events offer a warm introduction to our school and community. Each session includes:

A welcome from our Admissions Office
An overview of life at Beacon from faculty and current families, followed by a Q&A session
A student-led tour of Beacon’s campus
An optional tour of Beacon’s Arts Annex

Remaining Dates: 12/04

MAGE Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions (December 06, 2026)

Sun, 06 Dec 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In Person Sunday Admissions Tour and Info Sessions are on select Sundays at 10AM. There is a virtual info session at 2PM on the same Sundays:

December 6

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (December 16, 2026)

Thu, 17 Dec 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

Conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees.

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (January 20, 2027)

Thu, 21 Jan 2027 01:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

Conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees.

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (February 17, 2027)

Thu, 18 Feb 2027 01:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

Conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees.

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (March 17, 2027)

Thu, 18 Mar 2027 00:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

Conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees.

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (April 21, 2027)

Thu, 22 Apr 2027 00:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

Conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees.

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (May 19, 2027)

Thu, 20 May 2027 00:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

Conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees.