Lauren LaRoche

Lauren LaRoche has been a working writer and journalist for more than 12 years. When she’s not writing, she and her husband are chasing after their dog and three children in Chicago. Her career includes work in marketing, in graphic design, and as a lifestyle and events editor for CBS Chicago. To check out more of her writing, visit her website at ldesignchicago.com.

Latest posts by Lauren

How to Plan a Kids' Birthday Party At Home

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Tue, 03/15/2022 - 12:42pm

Plan the perfect at-home kids' birthday party with these ideas and tips. Photo by Kampus Production via Pexels

Planning a kids' birthday party can be as stressful as it is fun. You've got to think about the food, the guest list, the decorations, and so much more. But before you can get to all those details, you have to decide where the party will be. And if you're on a budget—or you just want a more private event—having the birthday party at home can be a great option.

To help you plan the perfect birthday bash, we've rounded up loads of kids' birthday party ideas, from yummy kids' birthday party food and festive decorations to fun party favors and birthday party games for kids. No matter what birthday theme your kiddo is into or how many people you’re inviting, we have ideas for every size party and budget. By following our tips and tricks, your next kids' birthday party is sure to be a stress-free success.

For more kids' birthday party ideas and inspiration, check out our ultimate Birthday Party Ideas Guide. Party on!

St. Patrick's Day 2022: Kid-Friendly Events and Parades in Chicago

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 03/11/2022 - 11:53pm

St. Patrick's Day parade in downtown Chicago, photo courtesy of U.S. Army Reserve Sgt. 1st Class Michel Sauret, (CC BY 2.0)

St. Patrick’s Day parades in Chicago are among some of the best in the country. From the famous Chicago River dyeing to local St. Patrick's Day parades on every side of the city and suburbs, we’ve rounded up some of the best St. Patrick’s Day parades and events for kids. While many of the usual festivities took a break over the past two years, almost all the staple events are back this year, and even some new additions for the wee ones.

For more fun ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with kids check out our Funny Leprechaun Tricks and Trap Ideas for Kids as well as our list of the Best Things to do in March with Kids.

Things to do with Kids in Chicago's West Loop

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Sun, 03/06/2022 - 8:08am

Pancakes served all day long in Chicago's West Loop! Photo courtesy of The Little Goat, Facebook

In Chicago, the West Loop is known for its vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene. It’s also home to the historic Greek Town neighborhood and where the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks call home. So where do you go when you’re venturing into the West Loop of Chicago with kids? We’ve got you covered. From traditional Greek food to amazing facilities for kids to climb, jump, and get their energy out, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite places to go in the West Loop with kids.

Check out our Chicago Visitor's Guide for more things to do with kids in Chicago's neighborhoods.

Black-Owned Businesses to Discover in Chicago

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 02/04/2022 - 8:36am

Semicolon is a Black-owned bookstore in Chicago. Photo courtesy of Semicolon

In celebration of Black History Month, we've rounded up some Black-owned businesses in Chicago, including restaurants, shops, and boutiques. We’ve also included some information on local culture and history museums in Chicago to explore. With a city so rich in Black history, this list is just a sampling of the many great businesses throughout the city.

And to celebrate Black History Month at home, check out this list of 30+ children's books.

5 Best Mini Meatloaf Recipes: Kid-Sized and Kid-Approved

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Thu, 01/06/2022 - 11:50am

Quaker Oats' mini meatloaf recipe uses oatmeal instead of breadcrumbs, making it gluten-free. Photo courtesy of Quaker Oats

Meatloaf is a savory and comforting dinner classic. On a busy weeknight with picky kids, it might not be possible (or necessary) to spend an hour in the kitchen making a full meatloaf when everyone is hungry and tired. This is where the kid-sized mini meatloaf comes to the rescue. Kids eat anything when it’s mini, right?

Here’s our roundup of five kid-sized and kid-approved mini meatloaf recipes. All of these recipes can be prepared ahead of time for a quick dinner you can pull out of the freezer. For even more recipes kids will love, check out our favorite kid-friendly recipes of 2021.

15 Awesome Things that Opened in Chicago for Kids in 2021

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Sun, 12/26/2021 - 8:22am

Chicago's Field Museum came alive with Wild Color in 2021. Photo courtesy of the museum

In 2021, Chicago saw an awesome variety of new kid-friendly exhibits, activities, restaurants, pop-ups, and more for families. Many of these new places in Chicago for kids came as unique options to give people a way to get out and enjoy time together during a trying year. If you didn’t get a chance to visit some of the great spots on this list in 2021, these are all open for business and ready for exploration in 2022.

20 Fun Christmas Games for the Whole Family: Start a New Holiday Tradition

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Tue, 12/14/2021 - 9:55am

First word, sounds like... Photo by Mommy Poppins

Christmas games are a great way to encourage a little fun and family teamwork (or friendly competition) at holiday gatherings. We’ve rounded up some free Christmas games you can make yourself, as well as some fun Christmas games you can buy. These games are great for Christmas at home—or any kid-friendly holiday event. Most of the games on this list are easy for kids and adults of all ages to enjoy, and when you find one your whole family adores, playing it can become a new family annual tradition. Read on below for our favorite Christmas games – family edition. Let the giggles and holiday fun begin!

Don't miss our Guide to Christmas Activities and Holiday Fun for Kids for more holiday-themed family fun from the Best Christmas Movies for the Whole Family to Christmas Cookies To Bake With Kids and more.

All Aboard the Holiday Santa Cruise in Lake Geneva

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Thu, 12/09/2021 - 10:58am

Photograph courtesy of Lake Geneva Cruise Lines.

The Santa Cruise is a festive experience for the entire family. This lake cruise is a fun way to see holiday lights, visit Santa, and experience a family Christmas outing on the beautiful Lake Geneva. Just a quick hour and a half from downtown Chicago, you’ll find the adorable town of Williams Bay, home to Pier 290 and Gage Marina which hosts their annual Santa Cruise from Thanksgiving weekend through December 30th. From how to buy tickets to what to wear, we’ve rounded up everything you need to know about the Santa Cruise Lake Geneva.

For more holiday travel ideas check out our Guide to Holiday and Christmas Activities for Chicago Families.

Lauren LaRoche

Latest posts by Lauren

Pages