Along with the joys of parenting, graduate students and postdocs with children face unique pressures and demands on their time. UChicagoGRAD Parenting Community supports families via enrichment programming and information sharing, but most importantly we strive to foster connections between fellow parents. While some of our programming is designed specifically for student and postdoc parents, most are available to all university-affiliated families. All events are free, and caregivers are also welcome to accompany children. In Summer 2026, we offer two weekly children’s enrichment classes and monthly Family Mixers. To receive sign-up invitations, subscribe to the StudentParent Listserv and sign up for our monthly newsletter! And read on to see details about upcoming events, browse past newsletters, and learn about Resources for Parents and the Student Parent Market.
Summer 2026 Programming Schedule
Stories in the Park
Tuesdays, June 9–September 15, 11:00–11:45 a.m., Nichols Park. Join Laura for stories, songs, fingerplays and snacks for all ages.  We gather in the shade next to the southern playground (around 55th & Kimbark.) Bring a towel to sit on. Our rain location is Follett Campus Bookstore (970 E. 58th St, 2nd Floor). No stories Tuesday, August 10.
Crafternoons
Fridays, June 26–September 18, 3:30–5:00 p.m., UChicagoGRAD HQ (970 E. 58th Street, 3rd Floor). Features a simple craft for little children, a more complicated one for big kids and grown-ups, as well as a coloring corner, toys for pre-crafters, and drinks and snacks for all. A nice way to end the week in air-conditioned comfort. No crafts Friday, July 3 (closed for Independence Day.)
Monthly Family Mixers
Saturday, May 30, 3-5 p.m., UChicagoGRAD HQ
Come and connect with fellow families at this free monthly gathering with snacks and craft; this month we will celebrate graduates! For planning purposed, an RSVP is appreciated but not required. Laura MacGregor. Save-the-dates for our next Mixers: June 27, July 25, August 22 & September 19.
Resources for Parents
- Read the University’s Graduate Student Parent Policy
- Parent Resource Guide 2025
- Fellowship Guide for Students with Children
- The University partners with Dr. Sarah Diwan at the Hyde Park Neighborhood Club to assist postdoctoral researchers and students at the University and UChicago Medicine in identifying childcare resources and programs. Dr. Diwan provides personalized guidance on childcare options for children ages 0–5. To schedule an appointment, please email sdiwan@hpnclub.org. Before meeting with Dr. Diwan, please complete this form, which helps her prepare for your consultation.
Student Parent Market
Join the Student Parent Market listserv for student parents to buy, sell, give and and donate their items. This list is intended to separate such posts from all other family related announcements, and queries.