By Megan Murray Elsener Special Parent -8/12  As a special education teacher at Oak Park-River Forest High School, Michael Carmody was all too familiar with the Illinois statute that deems individuals with developmental disabilities ineligible for support programs through the public school system the day they turn 22. Yet as his own brother John, who has... Continue Reading →

How to get your kids doing chores By Megan Murray Elsener Chicago Parent- 7/16 Running a household is no easy feat. The to-do list can feel endless, from laundry to dishes to yard work. And often, it’s only the adult hands carrying the load. According to a survey by Braun Research in 2014, 82 percent of... Continue Reading →

How Chicago moms envision the perfect Mother's Day By Megan Murray Elsener Chicago Parent - 5/14  Often it seems what moms may want the most on Mother’s Day is the last thing they actually receive. Whether it’s some alone time, a break from the household chores, or to be pampered for the day, Mother’s Day can... Continue Reading →

10 Ways to celebrate the Rio 2016 Summer Olympics By Megan Murray Elsener Chicago Parent- 8/16  Break out your American flag and get your USA chants ready. The Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, have finally arrived. With 42 sports, 306 events and 206 countries represented, the Rio 2016 games ignite an excitement that only... Continue Reading →

Real moms share tips to kick off the school year By Megan Murray Elsener Chicago Parent - 8/16  Get the early morning alarms set!  The new school year means on-time schedules, after-school activities and often chaotic days. Instead of starting this year feeling overwhelmed, make a concerted effort to get it all together this year. We... Continue Reading →