About
The Family Resource Center (FRC) at the University of Chicago is a welcoming drop-in space where families from the university community can access resources, information, and supportive programming and services. Since 2006, the FRC has been a vibrant hub for graduate students and postdoc parents to network and engage with each other. You can join the Student Parent Listserv, a virtual resource for posting questions and sharing advice with other UChicago parents as well as to buy, sell, and donate their items. Note that the FRC is not a licensed childcare facility, and a designated childcare provider is required for all children.
Parent Resource Guide 2022-23
Location and Hours of Operation
The FRC is located at 950 East 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637
Phone: 773-795-KIDS (5437)
The FRC is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m.–4 p.m. during fall, winter, and spring quarters. The FRC is closed during university breaks and holidays. Parking in the lot directly behind the FRC is permissible after 4 p.m. on weekdays and any time on Saturdays. There is a lot at 61st & Drexel (2 blocks from the FRC) which is affordable and convenient.
FRC Classes and Activities
Weekly Activities
Mondays 3:30 p.m. | Messy Mats art class for 18 months and up led by Laura MacGregor. Laura’s art projects require very little in the way of fine motor skills or attention span—she focuses on sensory-related activities doable by even the littlest artists.
Tuesdays 3:30 p.m. |Storytime for all ages led by Laura MacGregor. Your children will learn, laugh, move, sing, and build on their love of books.
Wednesdays 3:30 p.m. | Balls, Balls, Balls for children 2 years and up. This is a great chance to tucker out your high-energy toddlers and encourage motor development while developing a healthy, active lifestyle. We’ll play by kicking, throwing, and rolling while listening to fun music.
Thursdays 3:30 p.m. | Number Fun for children three years of age and up. This activity explores early math concepts in a playful way, with stories, songs, games, and crafts.
Stay in touch with us about additional upcoming FRC activities and parties via the Student Parent Listserv.
Special Activities
Friday, April 7, 3:30–4:30 p.m. | Egg Decorating. For children of all ages. Snack on seasonal treats while doing this fun spring craft. Take your eggs home to display or hide!
Saturday, April 22, 3–4 p.m. | Earth Day Celebration. For children of all ages. Celebrate Earth day with stories, snacks, and a special craft.
Saturday, April 22, 4–6 p.m. | Student Parent Social. Come to Earth Day and stay for the social! Adult beverages and food will be served. FRC staff will keep your little ones amused with activities while you get to know fellow student parents. RSVP to lizannep@uchicago.edu.
Friday, June 2, 2–4 p.m. | Year-end Party. For children of all ages. Say farewell to the school year, with an inside/outside party at the FRC featuring treats, parachute games, and a special performance.
Policies, Procedures, and Required Forms
FRC membership is free for all university-affiliated families. All families must register with the Family Resource Center and submit the mandatory Consent and Release form found here.
At least one UChicago-affiliated family member per family will be required annually to come to the FRC to present a valid university ID card, fill out membership renewal forms, and participate in an orientation session, which will include an overview of FRC policies and procedures (available also in Spanish).