Families looking for a fun, lively, learning excursion this summer don’t have to look far. Central Illinois is home to several family friendly museums that offer engaging permanent installations and special events for all ages. Here is a look at four great destinations within 90 miles of home, including one right here in Springfield. Illinois […]
DiAnne Crown
DiAnne Crown is a longtime freelance writer based in Springfield and former editor of Springfield Parent Magazine.
Posted inArts & Culture
Everybody plays
With the end of summer come the beginning of a new school year, the harvest and the start of an area tradition that draws thousands of children away from their video games and outside onto the mown grass lawns of parks and schools across Springfield. It is the fall soccer season. “Did you have fun?” […]
Posted inNews
School band blues
In Springfield’s rich band music history, instruction began in elementary school. By middle school, concert bands performed intermediate literature and pep bands played at sporting events. By high school, committed players were winning top honors in state music contests. But the past seven years have seen district budget cuts, federal mandates and an overall lack […]
Posted inNews
Rent or buy, new or used?
It will soon be time for fifth graders’ families to sign up for middle school band, and families who have arranged for their own instruments, whether by renting or purchasing, will have first choice when it comes to section assignments. In making an instrument selection, musicians, instructors and retailers all agree: let the child choose, […]
