You’re probably used to meeting other moms at the park, at school drop-off, or in toddler music class. While you can’t beat swapping pediatrician and preschool recommendations in person, checking out blogs written by Chicago mothers gives you another way to connect with parents in your area.
Our favorite Chicago mom blogs offer advice on things to do with kids in the city, personal takes on parenting issues, and maybe even a bit of support and solidarity as you navigate the ups and downs of raising kids. The great part about these blogs is that they vary in terms of their topic and tone — some focus on humor, some focus on fashion and home decor, and others focus on creating comprehensive guides on everything that Chicago has to offer.
What I think makes mom blogs so special is that they aren’t just for moms. Since they focus specifically on “child care,” they also make great resources for child care professionals, too! So, no matter whether you’re looking for advice as a babysitter, a nanny, or even a mother’s helper, these mom blogs can help you out.
Here are five of the best Chicago mom blogs that are worth bookmarking.
Second City Mom, by Leyla
Leyla is mom to 5-year-old Luke and a bona fide Chicago explorer. Leyla writes about her family’s outings (her Chicago Guide is a good reference for visiting friends), travel, celebrations, and style, and includes candid discussions about parenting, self-identity, and secondary infertility.
Her blog is worth a visit if only to steal her photo ideas — she has a talent for finding (and posing with) incredible murals around the city. Luckily, she usually includes the location under each picture.
Baby Sideburns, by Karen Alpert
Karen Alpert turned her frank musings on motherhood and her experiences as a parent of two into a hilarious blog — and, later, two books. (The book titles — “I Heart My Little A-Holes” and “I Want My Epidural Back” — should give you a sense of what to expect from her blog.) You’ll probably find yourself nodding along to Alpert’s lighthearted posts on what she really wants for Mother’s Day (a whole day of going to the bathroom alone, for starters) and what perks would make for a truly ideal Target run.
Queen of the Land of Twigs ’N Berries, by Amanda Simkin
Consider Amanda Simkin your new friend who always knows what’s going on around town. This mom of two posts about everything kid-friendly in and around Chicago. (Think: Guides on topics ranging from where to take your kids to see art to the best local indoor water parks.)
Specifically, I recommend that you use Simkin’s blog as a handy reference when you’ve got a nagging question, such as where to plan that birthday party or what to do with your spring break.
Making It Lovely, by Nicole Balch
Nicole Balch is a former web and stationery designer, as well as a longtime blogger. (Readers might remember her announcing her first pregnancy, then her second, then her third, over the years.) Nowadays, she chronicles the transformation of her stunning 1891 Oak Park Victorian and writes about her family life.
Check out Balch’s work on her kids’ bedrooms, as well as the adorable monthly photos she takes to document of each of her children’s first couple years. Her kids’ themed birthday parties could even be good inspiration for the next one you host.
Sequins & Stripes, by Liz Adams
A personal-style blogger and mom of a toddler (with another baby on the way), Liz Adams writes about everything — from clothes and recipes, to home decor and life with her son and husband. Pick up ideas for the best spring dresses, or read about her experiences sleep training and working at home with a 1-year-old around.
Adams also chimes in on kid style; for example, she shared tried-and-true sources for her son Charlie’s clothes.
Did we miss any? Let us know in the comments below!
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