5 Fall getaways within driving distance of Chicago

Jill Halpin of LittleChicagoGuide.com joined Good Day Chicago to share five Midwest getaways—ranging from Indiana Dunes to Michigan’s M-22 Scenic Drive—that are perfect for a fall weekend escape.

Northwestern Medicine unveils National Institute of Health Baby Toolbox | ChicagoNOW

Developmental scientists and medical social science experts at Northwestern University have spearheaded the creation of the most recent National Institute of Health Toolbox. This provides the newest nationally standardized assessment of cognitive, language, motor and social-emotional skill development in infants aged 16 days to 42 months. Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine's Richard Gershon discusses what led to the toolbox's creation.

Back-to-school costs up 5%: Expert shares tips to help save | ChicagoNOW

Back-to-school season is officially here, and parents are facing a different kind of homework: managing the rising costs. Prices for supplies, tech, and activities are up about 5% compared to last year. Financial expert Pattie Ehsaei discusses smart and practical strategies to help families stretch their dollar while still setting kids up for a successful school year.

Naming your baby? Speech pathologist shares toddler-friendly name tips | ChicagoNOW

If you're expecting a baby, you've probably already considered the usual factors: family ties, popularity, and maybe avoiding an ex's name. Have you ever thought about how easily your child will be able to pronounce their name? Chloe Conrad, a licensed speech-language pathologist, went viral for naming a few baby names she'd personally skip because they can be tough for toddlers to say.

'Queen of Kids Music' Laurie Berkner talks upcoming Ravinia show | ChicagoNOW

While this guest began her career playing in rock bands, she's now known as the "Queen of Kids music," credited with launching a brand new genre with award-winning albums and over a billion streams. Laurie from the Laurie Berkner Band shares how she connects with families and what fans can look forward to at her performance at Ravinia this weekend.

'Being Middle': New book gives middle children their moment to shine | ChicagoNOW

Middle children, often stuck between the overachieving oldest and the youngest, don't always get the spotlight. But that's about to change. National Middle Child Day is on August 12, and a new children's book called Being Middle is shining a light on the lovable middle kid. Here to talk about it are author Lori Orlinsky and the real-life inspiration behind the story, her daughter Ellie.