Lovely teachers. Lovely program but here is our experience; Elston location lacks common sense when it's about child safety. We went there for free play time and their walls are all bricks. Even though it is a big and open space the little ones can trip and hit their heads pretty bad against the walls. Usually a place like this will have padded walls to prevent injury, additionally we were concerned about the wooden columns /pillars, they aren't sand and they have lots of splinters coming out. Our baby tried several times to touch it and we decided to just leave because he was not stopping. We also found screws on the floor from their play house. The music classes are very good but not always, I think they should have a base ground for how to do the classes. One teacher is very passive while another is too hyperactive and loud. This convo causes kids to be either very bored or get very overstimulated. We also noticed the teachers cancel quite a lot their classes so there's no consistency for the children in both locations, Elston and Gold Coast. read more

I have only been to Bubbles Academy for a short class, and I'm not sure if it was a typical situation or not. I felt welcome when I was there. It was actually pretty quiet at the time I was there, during the noon hour; I assume there are busier times but I was glad it wasn't to wild. There are various rooms to hold different classes, open play, and so on. They also have a really extensive class schedule, so there is a great deal to choose from, particularly if your children are older than one I think. Be mindful of where your course is--there are two buildings in which they hold various classes, across the street from one another. I will keep an eye on the classes and play that Bubbles offers because I may want to enroll my kiddo in something fun later. Parking is really good. There's a lot that's shared between Bubbles and the bank next door, and there's also some street parking on the dead-end street on which Bubbles is located. I never had a problem with parking but I'm not sure if I was there at an atypically slow time of day. read more

My son has been going to the Gold Coast 900 Michigan location for two years. we started with drop in art parents and baby classes and now we do a drop off class. It's one hour long. Bubbles has been just a saving grace. The people that work here are so nice and professional. The young teachers are so sweet and kind. I ended up meeting some of my best Mom friends here and our children became such good friends. The Gold Coast location is great because there's not a lot for babies and toddlers to go to that are in walking distance, it's at the Bloomingdale's building which is great because we can grab a coffee while the kids are in their one hour class he has grown up here and just absolutely adores the teachers. They have a drop in art from 12 to 5 , 7 a week. How great to be able to go somewhere on a Saturday or Sunday and even when they don't have classes during holiday breaks they're still open for drop off art during Christmas time. It was so great just to bring him somewhere. Someplace familiar and happy my son starts lighting up when we, go into the Bloomingdale's building. Every time I meet a new mom with a baby, I immediately recommend the Bubbles classes. You can bring your infant and under six-year-old here for all the stuff that they have open play is great too. During the brutal cold winter, even when the kids don't have class, our friends, bring them to the open play which is included if you are enrolled in a session they play or we pay extra for them to do art which is only $10 completely reasonable and then we eat in the mall with them such a great place to kill three or four hours when it's freezing cold outside read more

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My daughter and I went to the location at 900 N Michigan and we loved it. We did the drop on art time! I love that there is a play space in the front, my Daughter played there first to get acclimated to the new space and while I paid for the craft time. They let her play as long as she wanted. There is a little kitchen and sensory bin too! We then went into the arts room and they set up the paint and vase for her. I believe his name is Jesus, he was super nice and helped my daughter with painting. He was so patient and encouraging to her. She's almost two and I wasn't sure how she'd fare with painting. After the craft time, my daughter went back to playing in the lobby area and Jesus showed her the kitchen and play bin. We will definitely be back. It was so fun. The staff is incredibly nice and the facility seemed super clean. read more

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My son has been at home with a nanny and myself since birth and when he was about to start private school, I knew we'd need some help with the transition. Enter Bubbles Academy and their amazing Separation track classes. We started with Independence, in which caregivers are in the classroom but sit at the edge of the room and don't interact with the kids and then we graduated to Gentle Separation where caregivers stay in the hallway. Independence was amazing at fostering independent play skills for my son and we see the dividends this class has paid, daily. We no longer need to put on the TV for those 10-15 minutes while we're getting dinner ready at night - he's able to entertain himself. The Gentle Separation class has also been incredible. My son is able to verbalize that he doesn't like his caregiver sitting in the hallway and will often be upset for a minute or two, but then Bubbles' curriculum does a great job holding his attention so that he ends up having fun. I cannot imagine how much more profoundly he would have struggle with separation at school this fall without the practice that gentle separation is giving him. I honestly wish we'd found Bubbles sooner, their programming truly is excellent. read more

we enrolled our son to Bubbles in Bucktown during the spring session this year and I'm glad we did. I was nervous at first, being full time stay at home mom, and wasn't sure how either of us would handle being apart- Ms. Brittny and her gentle separation class was the best thing we've done; she's absolutely great with each child, gives notes and has the patience of a saint. First 2 classes was rough but after that he never looked back at me ! Ms. Kristin is also such a great assistant to Ms. Brittny and I feel comfortable having my son here. If you ever need a tour, Natalie is always on site to give you one ! we are now in the summer session and looking to keep him for more classes moving forward to help my child thrive ! read more

We have been with bubbles since my twins were young. Going to events then classes and preK prep. During this pandemic they have been our lifeline to getting my kids involved and growing as little men in a safe and responsible manner! I feel so comfortable sending them to bubbles for preK. The teaching artists are simply amazing! When their birthday came up I looked to bubbles for guidance and they put together an amazing party and on short notice! Look no further than bubbles for all of your littles needs socially, developmentally, and for just plain fun with learning at every step of the way! Thank you Bubbles Academy for all that you do!! read more

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Took our toddler to a once-a-week music class taught my Ms. Amelia at Bubbles Academy on Elston. Wasn't sure what to expect - we'd gotten a gift certificate for Bubbles from a friend, so figured we'd try it out. I was wildly impressed. Classes had something like ~8 kids, plus adults (give or take, depending on the day). Ms. Amelia had this ability to keep the energy in the room up and all the kids engaged as a group, while at the same time giving attention to each kid individually. It was fun to watch and be a part of. Was totally worth the money; I really enjoyed it, and so did my little one. read more

Great place for toddlers and young ones to have a party! The place was clean, the staff attentive and the great thing is they help clean up after the party. read more

Bubbles Academy - End of party bubbles treat nicely handled by staff. - Preschools Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Bubbles Academy was fantastic for our daughter's birthday. The staff was engaged and attentive. They helped out with all of the logistics, and even cleaned up when we were finished. I can't recommend them enough - their play area was fantastic for all ages! read more

The best thing we've ever done for our son is enroll him at Bubbles Academy. He started in the older 2's room this year and Ms. Brittny and Ms.Anna are hands down the best teachers I've ever witnessed. When we moved to the 3 year old classroom, we were just as impressed. All staff, including front desk and Ms. Natalie, are the most patient, kind humans. To always show up to work with a smiling face for our kids is a very rare thing to find. Sadly, we are moving away from Chicago, but I'm 100% sure this would have been our long time preschool home if we were staying. read more

Imagine your fairy godmother wanted to show off in front of her friends and create the best preschool possible. She'd come up with something a lot like Bubbles Academy. Our daughter loved everything about this. The teachers are great. The kids get a lot of space to move around in, they do a lot of art, they learn about nature. Our daughter still asks about her Bubbles teachers and she's made some friends we still keep in touch with. read more

When I first told my hubby that I signed up our 8 week old daughter for a music class at Bubbles he said "Whaaatt? She can't do anything yet!" I then explained it wasn't really for the baby, but for me. It can get exhausting staying home with a baby all day so any activities that get me and baby out of the house these days are much appreciated. I was running about 10 minutes late for class, which is basically on time for me these days with a baby in tow. We parked in their free (hooray) parking lot across the street and joined about 8 other lil ones. Our instructor, Kimberly, was very smiley and energetic. She immediately came over to introduce herself and did a fabulous job of remembering everyone's names. We sang, we danced and we even played the drums. And Baby R slept thru the ENTIRE class! My little piggy did open her eyes at the very end of class when they were blowing bubbles and tried to eat them. She sure missed out on a lot of fun because I had a blast learning new songs and playing. I had so much fun that I signed up for an 8 week session. They also have open play time, which is complimentary for anyone who's signed up for a class. Hopefully Baby R will be able to stay awake next time, but if not at least I"ll have fun. read more

I've been taking my (now) 2 y.o. to Bubbles since he was 6 months old, convinced that as the right time to start him on getting "socialized"...HAHAHAHA...ho..hoho...heeee!!! In retrospect, it was really just something I could take to baby to "do" to get the #*$% out of the house during the winter. He LOVES it there. He has always loved it there. It's fun, stimulating, the classes are divided into appropriate age-ranges. The main classroom space is HUGE with super-cushy green carpet, murals on the walls and fun stuff hanging from the ceiling (it's designed to look like a fantastical, cartoon-meadow). They have tons of great toys that are designed for climbing in/on/under (the sort of stuff you wish you could have at home but are WAY too big for most urban abodes), plus lots of the stand-bys like balls and push/pull toys. Moreover, everything is so CLEAN. They clean/disinfect their stuff everyday and I know they have replaced the main-room carpet at least once in the past year and a half. What a relief it is to be able to bring your child somewhere they can get all handsy without fear that they're gonna contract every rash of stomach flu and croup that has been passed around the playground for the past several weeks. There's another large room in the back where they conduct their version of "pre-school" and offer creative open play. The "common" areas are also spacious, comfortable and inviting with places to park your stroller, put your coats, bags, and stow your shoes (the 2 big classrooms are shoe-free zones). There are even areas for parents and older siblings to play/hang while waiting for...whatever. The staff here is sweet, helpful and very accommodating. They happily prorate the class subscription price if you come in mid-session and your tot is eligible to come in for their scheduled "open play" times for free during the session he is signed up for a class (normally it's $10 for non-members). In the past year I've taken my son to other places and checked out other classes, programs and facilities. But NONE of the other options I've looked at have compared to the quality of the programs, the caliber of the facility, the built-in conveniences (parking!!!) and the overall cleanliness of everything (in case you haven't noticed, kids have a tendency to pass every little bug to anything they come in contact with). I guess, when I was exploring other options, I thought that maybe Bubbles was just a little pricey. This is a classic case of "you get what you pay for"...and I can't really find a way to put a price on my child's health or the avoidance of being up all night attending to a puking and fever-addled child. read more

Amazing bubbles academy! My 30 month old son loves this place! Miss Britnny and Miss Monica are his favorite teachers, they both are amazing.! Arts and music as well as preschool prep are great options for 2-3yr old toddlers. They also offer make up classes, if for some reason your child can't make it to class you can call and reschedule for some other day. As for parking they have discounted valet $4.00dl, or free standard parking which is located a couple of minutes away 'corner of North Avenue and Sheffield' just remember before you leave to ask Bubbles front desk for a parking validation ticket. read more

My girls just love it there and there's always something going on to help pass the time when one of them has a class. It's got a nice open airy and clean feel to it. There's space for art and creativity as well as place to get energy out. Especially good during the winter time where it's harder to find indoor facilities that are convenient. They always have different activities going on even during breaks and holidays. That's really helpful when you need to have something to do that gets out of the house, but it's freezing outside. They have a good variety of classes and excellent caring teachers and administrators. I would love to see an improvement to the website booking engine for classes as I find it hard to navigate and make changes. I only do it once a session though so I've found ways to manage through it. read more

I love this facility, it's so clean and well organized. Staff is great as well. I've only went for a few events my son wanted to go to. Would definitely go for more. read more

While I can't speak to the classes (we haven't registered for any just yet) we had our daughter's 2nd birthday party at Bubbles Academy, and it was an awesome experience. Basically, all the work was done for us- decorations, tables, chairs, balloons- everything was ready to go when we arrived. We had a bunch of dedicated helpers who heated up food, displayed it, and got everything ready (while I got to relax and chitchat with guests). They helped move guests from the play area (we had an open play party) to the other room where food and cake was served. The kids had a blast, the parents got to hang out and chat, and I didn't have to lift a finger. While the parties here aren't cheap it was worth it for the sheer stress-free event they pulled off. All the ladies who helped with the party were friendly and helpful- I got to actually enjoy my daughter's party and take photos, rather than worrying about food, drinks, etc. Overall, a wonderful experience- we wouldn't hesitate to come back or host a party here! I do think that next time we'll go with one of the activity parties, but since my daughter was turning two (and has a limited attention span) the open-play party was great for her age group. Thanks again, Bubbles! read more

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Bubbles Birthday! Threw my son's second birthday party and ended up going with the creative movement theme (2 year old) and it was amazing time!! The staff did and excellent job!! Kids age ranged from 2-7 and everyone had a great time!!! The party flowed effortlessly, and I would recommend to anyone! read more

We worked with Bubbles Academy on a Zoom birthday party (Barnyard Boogie) for our son, and it was great! We were so happy with the whole process, and everything went just as planned. The party was a blast thanks to Teaira and Amelia, and we'd highly recommend Bubbles! read more

A Bubbles Birthday: Bubbles Academy is a beautiful place for a birthday party! The wide, open playspace gives the children the freedom to make their own choices and be as creative as they like. The staff is always amazing and accommodating; they helped the party flow seamlessly. Parents were able to comfortably watch the children play and enjoy everyone's company. I highly recommend hosting a party at Bubbles! We will be back for sure! :) read more

We are definitely big fans of Bubbles (my daughter even named her pet fish Bubbles) and have been involved with them for about a year now. We started with Bubbles at the BCB Mew Mom play date at Little Beans when my daughter was 2 months old. Ms. Kim did Music with that group and we did it until Wren aged out at around 7 months. After that, we started in Music: Crawlers at the actual Bubbles facility with Ms. Kim. Since then we've done Music: Walkers with Ms. Amelia and we are now in Music: Explorers with Ms. Kim. Babies don't come with directions, but Bubbles gets pretty dang close. They give advice in the music classes about development and other things. I implemented pretty much everything in the classes and at home. I've been to several baby classes and playspaces over this past year. I think the thing that sets Bubbles apart is they've created a space of "yes." Sure, there are rules, but pretty much the kids are free to do what they do. Other spaces are no adults on this or that, keep your child within your reach at all times, you have to be exactly the right age to do a class or play in here, etc. I have always felt like Bubbles trusted my judgment as a parent. We moved up to Walkers early, and went back to Crawlers a couple times after she could walk, just because I felt like she should visit the old class a couple times as a transition to a new teacher, class style, etc. I would say Bubbles is on the more expensive side as far as baby classes, but I really think it has been a good investment for our family. The staff and teachers know my daughter and she knows them. We are definitely going to do preschool prep at Bubbles and are considering sending our daughter there for preschool. I love that we would already be familiar with the teachers, staff, building, etc. We also had our daughter's first birthday party at Bubbles and it was a dream. I'm a closet Type A and have to plan everything myself. I totally trusted the Bubbles event and just "showed up" for the first time in my life. I did my hair and makeup for the first time in a year, instead of blowing up balloons or scrambling to find streamers. It was great. I have always found Bubbles to be very clean, and we've never had any issues with illness. The music classes are definitely clean and the teachers make sure you know to not come if you are sick. I usually go to open play before and/or after music class, and I see the teachers cleaning everything. I do think the open play is more relaxed with cleaning. If I see my daughter put anything in her mouth, I put it on a little ledge they have off to the side. I do think they clean everything every night and do spot checks during the day, but they could probably be more forward with their cleaning procedures for open play i.e where to put dirty toys, do a cleaning time during the day, etc. . read more

It's a really beautiful space, and the people who work there are welcoming! My only problem is that I don't feel they clean the open play room adequately, you can feel home grimy the toys are. Of the three or four times I've been there, my child ended up with a nasty cold days later and it's not just me who's experienced this..some other parents have told me the same. I would like to return, but NO amount of playing is worth the entire night I spend awake with a sick kid. read more

I have been bringing my nephew to Bubbles for almost a year now. He love love loves his class and really enjoys all the toys that are there for him to play with. It has been amazing to watch him progress and learn the songs and motions. He started class at one years old and is now 22 months old. We have had Miss Lauren the whole time at Bubbles and my nephew loves her. The time she was out of town and there was a sub he kept looking at the sub as if to say "why are you singing this song? Miss Lauren sings this song. Where's Miss Lauren?" She is very talented as a singer/guitarist and is great with the kids. As a child educator for the past 15 years you know when you are with kid person who truly loves what they do. Miss Lauren is wonderful at what she does and I am happy we get to be in her class. Bubbles has free parking nearby, fully stocked bathrooms for those potty moments, and a child friendly area that has cars and slides to play with while waiting for class. The front desk staff is always friendly and helpful and will hold onto your child if you need to run to the car, etc. My only issue is with the parents. Yeah, you. During open play the parents have to help to put out the toys and put them away. Some parents see this class as their social hour and not about what is best for their child. So while they chat away about their pedicures me and the other parents are hauling toys out for THEIR child to play with. Get up and help will ya?! And don't you think its disrespectful to talk while Miss Lauren is singing and playing guitar? I do. And don't you think you should reprimand your child for taking that toy away from another child? Oh... Your child has learned that the only way to get your attention is by being naughty? Just saying... read more

My daughter had a blast for her 2nd birthday party. The staff was easy to work with, flexible and organized. They decorated the party space beautifully. The kids enjoyed the Blended bash of music, art and open play. Ms. Amelia did a fantastic job keeping the gigs engaged in all the activities. We highly recommend Bubbles Academy for anyone looking for a venue for their toddler's birthday party! read more

We have been taking now 3 year old Josie and Emma to Bubbles since they were 6 mos. old -- we did 'Goo Gaa Bubbles' with about 20 other babies on Saturday mornings and loved it -- music, motion, HUGE studio room with plush carpet and decorations...amazing. And the teachers: all cool hipster 20-somethings -- are energetic and polite and fun and talented. I also did a 'Dads and Tots' class with the girls on Wednesday evenings for awhile -- very fun! Katrina, one of the most talented teachers, led a bunch of post-work Dads and their kids in a great near-workout, and it was terrific bonding for all of us. Best of all -- we just did the girls' birthday party there! Katrina and Anna, the event coordinator, did a great job -- we had the whole complex for 1 1/2 hours, it was a "Where the Wild Things Are" theme! They read the book out loud to all of the kids, and then they did an art project (masks) based on the 'monsters' of the book...sort of demystifying the scary parts of the story...then, they did an open play session in the main playroom while some of the staff cleaned up the rest of the art mess (NOTE: Jacky and I did not have to lift a FINGER during this...worth. every. penny.). Katrina then led the kids on a reenactment of the book...crowns like Max, taking their boat to the island...meeting the monsters (images from the book projected on the wall), and then having a Wild Rumpus with blocks and toys and balls and a great soundtrack. After that -- Sweet Mandy B's cupcakes, snacks and juices (Izzes for the grownups). Just a tremendously run party, and all of the adults -- us included -- commented on how relaxing it was to let the kids have fun without us being stressed about anything. Gregoire and his wife have done a great job with this Academy since day one -- we're going back for a new class (this Thursday, actually!), and encourage all parents to give it a try! You'll love it... read more

I recently moved to Chicago and was looking for a gymboree type place to take my 6 month old daughter. A friend of mine kept saying to me "You MUST take your daughter to Bubbles". I had been to gymboree and mygym ... I just figured it was basically the same thing but more expensive. Since bubbles offers your first class free I decided to give it a try. WOW!!!!!!!!! This place is seriously AMAZING. Seriously. From the time class started I had a HUGE smile on my face and so did my daughter. Bubbles is not like gymboree at all. First of all the main play room is humongous and the floor is a very clean plush green carpet. Our instructor Sarah had a class with about 20 babies and during several different songs she used all the babies names. How she remembered baby after baby I have no idea but I was impressed! Not only did Sarah remember the babies names but she also played guitar and actually had a nice voice! Baby Riley loved class. She loved all the interactive toys (which by the way are super clean and are washed after any baby lays a finger on it)...all the great songs and all the dancing around. As an added bonus bubbles has FREE parking right across the street. When class was over we immediately signed up. There was no way I was going back to gymboree after experiencing bubbles! If you have any doubt if this program is right for you and your baby I suggest giving it a try...after all the first class is free. I guarantee once the first song in class is over you will already know that this place ROCKS. read more

I love Bubbles. It's been a wonderful place for both my baby boy (now 16 months) and myself. The classes are pretty good (love Miss Victoria), but the best perk is that when you enroll in a class, you can attend open play as much as you want without paying extra. Open play is such a great resource for those days when I need to fill an hour or two, or when the chicago weather is too hot/cold/rainy to go outside (the majority of days, unfortunately). Since it's designed for very young kiddos, you can relax a bit as a parent since all of the climbers/toys are made from gym mat material and the potential for falls, bruises, etc., are much less than when they're at a playground. It's great for the kids to be around others their age and start to learn about sharing, socializing, etc. Sometimes when we're out running errands, I'll stop in just to do a diaper change/snack/10 minutes of play. Since the facility is so clean and baby-friendly, it's always comfortable. Plus parking is easy and free. I was a bit afraid when I first signed up that it would be snotty, but all of the staff are super friendly, down-to-earth, and I've met lots of great moms there. Bubbles is pricey, but it is totally worth it! read more

Bubbles Academy Stroller Class My children have participated in many Bubbles Academy classes. I have only positive things to say about the academy and our experiences. My son, now age six, has a huge smile on his face whenever he talks about Bubbles. He attended the preschool class and also the summers camps. Personally my favorite class is the Stroller fitness class, which we are currently enrolled in. It meets three days a week at the Lincoln Park Zoo or De Paul University (winter months). It's a friendly group of mothers and children. My two year old daughter comes along with a stroller or some days without one. She plays with other children while watching mommy workout. The group is filled with a nice combination of new moms and toddlers. Watching me get healthy is also a great example for my daughter. Not only has this class made me physically stronger, it has helped me manage my stress level. Before this class I made excuses that I was too tired to exercise, but this class has actually increased my energy level. The instructor's name is Kim and she is very understanding of tired moms and is a great motivator. Overall I am a much happier person when I am taking this class. If I miss a class, I get withdrawal. The class is one hour long and meets three days a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Drop ins are allowed. Come join us! read more

I love Bubbles! Granted, I haven't been to any classes here, but my boss bought a play pass and NPN seems to have events here somewhat regularly, so I've been here a few times. Before I go into a review of Bubbles Academy, if you don't know, someone (or rather, different someones) are at Whole Foods on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10-10:30. Singing and dancing by the coffee bar! Onto why Bubbles is great. First, I have yet to encounter a staff member who was anything but super friendly. I've learned to grab a parking pass ahead of time (valid for the month), but they always ask if I need them to watch little man while I run to the car. I don't, but I can see where some parents would happily take them up on this offer. Now, I've only been in two rooms here, but they're all so cute and inviting! The one on the main floor is my favorite and the later you go (during free play), the more crowded it becomes, but it never actually feels crowded. Of course no matter where you go, there will be a parent who isn't watching their child, but for the most part, parents are watching and intervene quickly when necessary. If you have a really little one (sitting, crawling, walking with help) and are going for open play, go earlier. The older children who are walking tend to come later and then it's disaster-city. I appreciate that the employees come in to get the play areas back in order as well as to blow bubbles!! The kids love it and I love watching little man try to catch them. My only gripe is with the restrooms. Last time I was there it seemed almost every buckle was broken on the changing table. I can still change a diaper, but those buckles definitely help when you have a kid who is practically flipped over before you've even laid him down. Overall, I think Bubbles is great and not badly priced. I've definitely recommended it to my friends who have children. read more

My husband, daughter and I went to the Bubbles Yelp event a few days ago and we loved Bubbles. I am giving it 4 stars as we have not been to an actual class yet, although we signed up for the crawling class which starts next week and will be a necessary winter adventure for our family. The open play we went to was wonderful, the room was large and bright but not overwhelming for a little one. Ours is only 8 months old and she was having the best time with all the big kids. I can't wait to get started in the class and to go for open play in the winter months when there are few escapes for kids during the cold. Thanks for the great play date event, and I hope to see many fellow yelper parents at Bubbles soon! read more

Bubbles Academy is one of the greatest resources for young babies and new mothers as well. They offer engaging classes led by dedicated, knowledgeable, and creative teachers. The front desk staff are also incredibly helpful and kind. Do yourself a favor and go there. Thank you Bubbles Academy! read more

Disappointed. I nanny a 3 year old and a 8 month old. Parking was non existent ( i was prepared for that as it mentioned it on the site) I choose to valley because of the weather ... It was $4 and the valley was not very kind. I spoke to a mom inside and said that she went to the parking garage that BA mentions on website but it is far away. They charged me for the 3YO and surprisingly for the 8 month old for open play- total of $20. 8 month old slept the whole time we were there in my carrier... The staff was eh. Not super nice but I guess they didn't spit in my face either. Open play toys were decent. But NO BUBBLES?! The 3 YO was SO excited to go especially because of the bubbles... We were there for about 1.5 hrs and no bubbles. We would have stayed longer but there was only one other child ( this was right before thanksgiving so maybe that's why). In my opinion... With the mixture of crappy parking, average toys ( no bubbles?!), and below par employees, and being pretty pricey. It will not be on our list to go again. read more

I've been taking the little boy that I nanny for here at least once a week for almost a year. It is definitely one of the best places I can take him in Chicago. He's not even two yet, but he has learned so many skills there and has created within himself an obvious joy for music and movement. Miss Lauren is his favorite teacher! She is so great with the little kids. Bubbles also teams up with the whole foods that is just around the corner on Wednesdays and Thursdays to provide music for the kids that are shopping with your parents around the store. I've taken the little guy over to these events a couple of times too, and he loves them as well. Bubbles Academy does so much for the kids of Chicago! And the long hours available for open play every afternoon provide a great escape from the house in dreary weather. Bring your kids here. It's worth the money! read more

We took the Brainy Bubbles Baby Signing class here and I rave about it to other parents. Now my daughter can ask for "more" and tell me "all done" without throwing a temper tantrum! They have all sorts of classes for infants, toddlers, preschoolers and even some fitness classes for parents. The facilities are spacious and creatively painted. We just signed up for their "Independence Class" and I'm looking forward to it! Check out their website www.bubblesacademy.com for more info. read more

Best spot in the city for crawlers. This is by far the best place we've found in the city for our babies. They love crawling around on "baby mountain" - a series of hard pillows stacked together for climbing. The staff are friendly and genuine, and the environment is very comfortable - clean bathrooms, large open spaces and plenty of places for adults to sit and be comfortable. read more

*update* I spoke with the owner and let him know my concerns. He was extremely responsive and changed a lot of their practices for the better. I re enrolled my toddlers in the art and music class and it was great. They loved it. They wipe the door handles, and they are fastidious in their approach to cleanliness. The staff is wonderful and helpful. The only caveat is that the staff cannot control the behaviors of irresponsible parents who bring their sick kids. I just don't let my girls play with the sick kids or be near them. There is hand sanitizer everywhere and I just utilize it. I'm really impressed with their attitude and responsiveness. read more

Amazing instructors. Classes are about development and fun. My kids have gotten so much out of bubbles. Would recommend again & again.

Bubbles. The place I wish I had access to when I was younger! It is like a little fairy land. The main room is green with dreamy landscapes painted on the walls and concave corners - so you can't quite tell where the floor ends and the walls begin - and random bubbles floating around, which all add to the dreamy of the place. The new upstairs is similarly cool, a bit more polished, with a projection of a running stream on the wall. Both rooms have tons of big padded blocks for climbing and other assorted toys. The classes are cool, usually a girl with a guitar singing songs and involving the children and parents through the use of props and sing-alongs. The children are usually decently engaged - though my son alternates between standing right in front of the teacher to wandering around ignoring the whole show! We had my son's first birthday party here, and it was, as they say, off the chain. Finally, the staff is great. I really liked Miss something-or-other (her name escapes me but I think she had brown curly hair), as did my son. But they are all friendly and helpful. Great place. read more

My daughter absolutely adores Ms. Kim and her music class for crawlers/ walkers. She is very engaging and clearly cares about children, their development, and supporting their families. She is so positive and wonderful. We have built a relationship with her and have loved her class over the past few months. We're excited to try some other classes at Bubbles in the future. We also appreciate the flexibility to book makeup classes and adjust schedules because babies and naps aren't perfectly predictable! Highly recommend! (All staff we have interacted with have been fabulous, we just know Kim best because of the class we take) read more