Chicago Gifted Community Center upcoming events

The Feuerstein Method: Building Thinking Skills, Workshop & Parent Discussion (November 02, 2026)

Tue, 03 Nov 2026 02:00:00 GMT

Join Jeanne M. Zehr, Ph.D., Director of Feuerstein Programs, North America, and the MAGE team for an introduction to Feuerstein mediation. MAGE will share findings from a small informal pilot using the Organization of Dots tool, which focuses on pattern recognition, mental visualization, and filtering out irrelevant information. The evening ends with open discussion and Q&A for parents.

Free and open to everyone. Registration is required. Register to receive the Zoom link by email.

What to Expect

Attendees will:

Get an introduction to Feuerstein mediation and how it builds thinking skills.
Hear findings from MAGE's small informal pilot using the Organization of Dots tool.
Join an open discussion and Q&A for parents.

About the Presenters

Jeanne M. Zehr, Ph.D., Director of Feuerstein Programs, North America, will lead this presentation with the MAGE team. This webinar is co-hosted by MAGE, a CGCC professional member, and the Chicago Gifted Community Center.

CGCC members can watch last year's Feuerstein workshop recording in the members-only area. Not a member yet? Join CGCC.

Want to support free programs like this one? Make an optional donation to CGCC.

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.

Building Belonging: Social-Emotional Learning and Learning Differences (November 04, 2026)

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 01:30:00 GMT

How can parents and educators help children with learning differences feel seen, supported, and connected at school? Read more about this event from Reel 2e

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.

GPS in partnership with College of DuPage -- Purposeful Paths: Connecting College Opportunity and Career Discovery (November 05, 2026)

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Thu, Nov 5, 2026 @ Noon and 7pm CST

More information here

GPS, in partnership with College of DuPage, will present Ana Homayoun along with a panel of regional education leaders.

Today’s high school students have more opportunities than ever to explore careers, earn college credit, and build a meaningful path beyond graduation. However, families need to be aware of the programs and experiences that can open doors and understand that conversations about options should begin earlier than adults might expect.

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/

NAGC26 Parent Day (November 07, 2026)

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 14:00:00 GMT

NAGC26 Parent Day gives families and caregivers the tools, resources, and networking opportunities they need to support their gifted and talented children. After attending this exclusive two-hour program, attendees may select from NAGC26’s Saturday-afternoon sessions across 17 topic areas and visit the Exhibit Hall. All attendees must pre-register; onsite registration is not available

SENGconnect: Gifted, Graduating… Now What? Exploring Life Beyond High School in an Uncertain World (November 07, 2026)

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 16:00:00 GMT

More details and registration here.

High school is ending—what’s next? Join a live-only SENG Connects exchange with board members Lin Lim, parent of two profoundly gifted young adults (20 DD and 18 DS); Melissa Marsh, parent of three grown gifted adults, grandparent of three grandchildren (5-8 yr); and Cherin Escher, parent of five gifted daughters, from ages 21 to their early 30s. Their family experiences span homeschooling, radical acceleration, public and private schools, military college, early college, and dual enrollment. Bring questions, share experiences, and explore possibilities for life beyond graduation.

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

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:

November 8
December 6

More information: MAGE admissions information

GPS Parent Series: How to Be Enough: Social Anxiety, Perfectionism, and How to Quiet Your Inner Critic (November 10, 2026)

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Tue, Nov 10, 2026 @ Noon and 7pm CST

More information here

Caught in a high-stakes race for perfection, today’s youth are facing a quiet crisis fueled by unrelenting academic pressure, the constant barrage of social media comparison, and soaring anxiety.

Renowned author Hendrikson will come to GPS to address the pervasive epidemic of “not-good-enough-ness” that many young people encounter in an era defined by unprecedented self-evaluation and constant connectivity.

When School Gets Hard: Supporting a Child without Losing Yourself (November 10, 2026)

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

How can parents support a child who is struggling in school without taking over or burning out? This Brightmont Academy speaker series webinar covers setting boundaries around school communication and working with the school and care team when more help is needed. Read more and register with Brightmont Academy

College Preparation & College Readiness: Supporting 2e Students from Planning to Independence (November 10, 2026)

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 20:00:00 GMT

Bridges 2e Center Parent Speaker Series

Registration Form: Ashley Whitfield, Dr. Julie Loppacher, & Dr. Eric Endlich

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

Young Scholars Academy Spring Open House (November 11, 2026)

Thu, 12 Nov 2026 01:00:00 GMT

YSA's Spring Open House is your chance to sit down, face to face, with the mentors who teach bright, quirky kids like yours, before you sign up for anything.

GPS Parent Series: Navigating the American Educational System to Help your Child Thrive (November 12, 2026)

Fri, 13 Nov 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Tue, Nov 17, 2026 @ Noon and 7pm CST

More information here

Educational systems in the United States can be very different from systems in Ukraine, Russian, and former countries. The purpose of this presentation is to empower families to navigate United States school systems for the college and career readiness of their children.

This event will be presented in English, Russian, and Ukrainian by educators with experiences supporting multilingual families from elementary to high school to University.

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

Science and Arts Academy Open House (November 14, 2026)

Sat, 14 Nov 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Discover Science & Arts Academy, where gifted learners thrive. Join us for Open House and experience what makes SAA unique. Tour our classrooms, meet our dedicated teachers, and hear from students and families about how SAA inspires gifted learners, nurtures curiosity and creativity, and fosters a lifelong love of learning.

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/

GPS Parent Series: Selecting and Paying for College: The Nuts, Bolts, and Secrets (November 17, 2026)

Tue, 17 Nov 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Tue, Nov 17, 2026 @ Noon and 7pm CST

More information here

Parents today are navigating a college landscape that differs significantly from their own experience. College is likely one of the largest financial transactions a family will ever make, yet understanding the net price and loan options can be confusing. As college costs rise and the admission process becomes increasingly complex, it’s easy for parents to feel overwhelmed about guiding their children.

To assist, GPS has organized a unique event featuring New York Times “Your Money” columnist Ron Lieber, who will address navigating high costs and strategies for funding higher education and author and journalist Jeff Selingo, who will discuss college selection and finding the right fit. This exclusive program will reveal insights into the higher education industry and offer a transparent, data-driven, and highly actionable roadmap for families.

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

More information: MAGE admissions information

Scientific Modeling Workshop (November 17, 2026)

Tue, 17 Nov 2026 18:30:00 GMT

Free Computational Modeling Workshop for Homeschoolers Hosted by the NetLogo Center at Northwestern University and CGCC
The NetLogo Center at Northwestern University will offer a free workshop introducing computational modeling to homeschooled students. NetLogo is a powerful yet accessible tool that empowers students to build and experiment with computer models of complex systems from forest fires to disease spread to economic patterns. Here is a 7-minute video explaining NetLogo with several examples. NetLogo's founder, Uri Wilensky, recently received the 2025 Yidan Prize, sometimes called the "Nobel Prize of education," for his work making complex systems literacy accessible to all with NetLogo.
In this 2 hour session, students will explore interactive computer models of real scientific phenomena, and begin learning how to modify and build their own models. Unlike pre-built simulations, NetLogo is designed so that students not only experiment with models, but can modify them and create them from scratch. This combines scientific thinking, creativity, and programming all in one. NetLogo is used by researchers worldwide and has appeared in thousands of scientific publications, yet it is accessible enough for young students with no prior experience to dive right in. The workshop will be led by Jacob Kelter, director of the NetLogo Center.
What students will gain:
An introduction to using computational models to understand scientific phenomena and patterns
Hands-on experience with a tool used by both students and professional scientists
Exposure to cross-disciplinary scientific thinking and modeling literacy
Details:
Cost: Free
Who: Open to homeschool students of various ages (around 8 through high school). NetLogo's design means younger and older students can engage at their own level.
Supplies to bring: We'll need a laptop or tablet for every 1-2 students. Indicate in the form below if you can bring one.
In addition to availability, we'll ask a few quick questions about your student's age, experience level, and topic interests so we can tailor the session to the group:
Interest form here — Google Form Link
If you have questions, reach out to Jacob directly at jacobkelter@northwestern.edu

Perennial Math High School Team Virtual Tournament Series (November 18, 2026)

Wed, 18 Nov 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Gather your mathletes, build your team, and get ready for a year of fast-paced challenges, teamwork, and plenty of mathematical fun!

2026–2027 High School Team Tournament Schedule

October 14 – HS Math Battle
November 18 – Math Showdown
December 16 – Math Storm
January 13 – HS Math Numbing
February 17 – HS Math Rendezvous
March 17 – HS March Madness
April 21 – HS Spring Fling
May 5 – Cinco de Matho

More information and registration here

GPS Parent Series: Crucial Years: The Essential Guide to Mental Health and Modern Puberty in Children 6-12 (November 18, 2026)

Wed, 18 Nov 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Wed, Nov 18, 2026 @ Noon and 7pm CST

More information here

The ages of 6–12 represent a critical developmental stage characterized by high neuroplasticity, during which a child’s environment plays a foundational role in their growth.

Caregivers need a clear, empathetic, and practical framework for supporting children in navigating social and academic challenges while helping them realize their full potential.

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/

GPS Parent Series: Understanding School Avoidance: Beyond “Just go to School” (November 23, 2026)

Mon, 23 Nov 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Mon, Nov 23, 2026 @ Noon and 7pm CST

More information here

Inconsistent attendance is often mistaken for simple truancy or behavioral issues, however school refusal is a complex psychological hurdle frequently stemming from deep-seated social stress, depression, or anxiety.

Participants will learn evidence-based solutions for dismantling avoidance loops and reducing stigma. Families and schools will receive actionable strategies for validating a child’s feelings while maintaining the expectation that school attendance is necessary and essential for growth.

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/

Scientific Modeling Workshop (December 01, 2026)

Tue, 01 Dec 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Free Computational Modeling Workshop for Homeschoolers Hosted by the NetLogo Center at Northwestern University and CGCC
The NetLogo Center at Northwestern University will offer a free workshop introducing computational modeling to homeschooled students. NetLogo is a powerful yet accessible tool that empowers students to build and experiment with computer models of complex systems from forest fires to disease spread to economic patterns. Here is a 7-minute video explaining NetLogo with several examples. NetLogo's founder, Uri Wilensky, recently received the 2025 Yidan Prize, sometimes called the "Nobel Prize of education," for his work making complex systems literacy accessible to all with NetLogo.
In this 2 hour session, students will explore interactive computer models of real scientific phenomena, and begin learning how to modify and build their own models. Unlike pre-built simulations, NetLogo is designed so that students not only experiment with models, but can modify them and create them from scratch. This combines scientific thinking, creativity, and programming all in one. NetLogo is used by researchers worldwide and has appeared in thousands of scientific publications, yet it is accessible enough for young students with no prior experience to dive right in. The workshop will be led by Jacob Kelter, director of the NetLogo Center.
What students will gain:
An introduction to using computational models to understand scientific phenomena and patterns
Hands-on experience with a tool used by both students and professional scientists
Exposure to cross-disciplinary scientific thinking and modeling literacy
Details:
Cost: Free
Who: Open to homeschool students of various ages (around 8 through high school). NetLogo's design means younger and older students can engage at their own level.
Supplies to bring: We'll need a laptop or tablet for every 1-2 students. Indicate in the form below if you can bring one.
In addition to availability, we'll ask a few quick questions about your student's age, experience level, and topic interests so we can tailor the session to the group:
Interest form here — Google Form Link
If you have questions, reach out to Jacob directly at jacobkelter@northwestern.edu

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

More information: MAGE admissions information

Perennial Math High School Team Virtual Tournament Series (December 16, 2026)

Wed, 16 Dec 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Gather your mathletes, build your team, and get ready for a year of fast-paced challenges, teamwork, and plenty of mathematical fun!

2026–2027 High School Team Tournament Schedule

October 14 – HS Math Battle
November 18 – Math Showdown
December 16 – Math Storm
January 13 – HS Math Numbing
February 17 – HS Math Rendezvous
March 17 – HS March Madness
April 21 – HS Spring Fling
May 5 – Cinco de Matho

More information and registration here

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.

Perennial Math High School Team Virtual Tournament Series (January 13, 2027)

Wed, 13 Jan 2027 06:00:00 GMT

Gather your mathletes, build your team, and get ready for a year of fast-paced challenges, teamwork, and plenty of mathematical fun!

2026–2027 High School Team Tournament Schedule

October 14 – HS Math Battle
November 18 – Math Showdown
December 16 – Math Storm
January 13 – HS Math Numbing
February 17 – HS Math Rendezvous
March 17 – HS March Madness
April 21 – HS Spring Fling
May 5 – Cinco de Matho

More information and registration here

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.

Perennial Math High School Team Virtual Tournament Series (February 17, 2027)

Wed, 17 Feb 2027 06:00:00 GMT

Gather your mathletes, build your team, and get ready for a year of fast-paced challenges, teamwork, and plenty of mathematical fun!

2026–2027 High School Team Tournament Schedule

October 14 – HS Math Battle
November 18 – Math Showdown
December 16 – Math Storm
January 13 – HS Math Numbing
February 17 – HS Math Rendezvous
March 17 – HS March Madness
April 21 – HS Spring Fling
May 5 – Cinco de Matho

More information and registration here

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.

Perennial Math High School Team Virtual Tournament Series (March 17, 2027)

Wed, 17 Mar 2027 05:00:00 GMT

Gather your mathletes, build your team, and get ready for a year of fast-paced challenges, teamwork, and plenty of mathematical fun!

2026–2027 High School Team Tournament Schedule

October 14 – HS Math Battle
November 18 – Math Showdown
December 16 – Math Storm
January 13 – HS Math Numbing
February 17 – HS Math Rendezvous
March 17 – HS March Madness
April 21 – HS Spring Fling
May 5 – Cinco de Matho

More information and registration here

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.

Perennial Math High School Team Virtual Tournament Series (April 21, 2027)

Wed, 21 Apr 2027 05:00:00 GMT

Gather your mathletes, build your team, and get ready for a year of fast-paced challenges, teamwork, and plenty of mathematical fun!

2026–2027 High School Team Tournament Schedule

October 14 – HS Math Battle
November 18 – Math Showdown
December 16 – Math Storm
January 13 – HS Math Numbing
February 17 – HS Math Rendezvous
March 17 – HS March Madness
April 21 – HS Spring Fling
May 5 – Cinco de Matho

More information and registration here

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.

Perennial Math High School Team Virtual Tournament Series (May 05, 2027)

Wed, 05 May 2027 05:00:00 GMT

Gather your mathletes, build your team, and get ready for a year of fast-paced challenges, teamwork, and plenty of mathematical fun!

2026–2027 High School Team Tournament Schedule

October 14 – HS Math Battle
November 18 – Math Showdown
December 16 – Math Storm
January 13 – HS Math Numbing
February 17 – HS Math Rendezvous
March 17 – HS March Madness
April 21 – HS Spring Fling
May 5 – Cinco de Matho

More information and registration here

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.