Where are you from and how long have you lived in town? What brought you to the area?
My name is Aneta Kulikowska, I am born and raised in Poland and came to Chicago over 20 years ago. I recently moved to Deerfield, 3 years ago for better schools for my children and to expand my company.
Do you have child(ren)? Age(s)
My children are Paula (15) and Patrick (16) both are in Deerfield High School. Paula dances in Latin and Ballroom dance. Patrick plays water polo and is on the COHO Swim Club.
What are your favorite things to do in the area with and without your kids? Family friendly restaurant?
My family and I enjoy going to Bobby’s in Deerfield. I absolutely love the fresh seafood entrees and my children love the steak & pasta. When the weather permits we enjoy riding our bikes to the Botanic Garden or going to catch the newest movie at Northbrook Court AMC.
What do you do in your spare time?
I enjoy cycling at home! I love working out and had many gym memberships, Zumba classes you name it ! Until I finally found my Peloton bike. I am obsessed with it and it keeps me in great shape for these coming cold winter days!
Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, a creative endeavor or in the corporate world? Please share!
In 2008 I was thinking about opening a unique business for kids. I love children and was always hoping to have my own daycare. When looking into what I would hope to pursue I found Yu Kids Island. From there I contacted the Japanese company which has over 150 locations alone in their country. From there I was invited to see how the business works and see it for my own eyes.It is a stimulating children’s playground which helps children brains unfold and broadens the imagination. And I could not wait to be a part of that! From there I brought the company to Chicago and now I have a location is Schaumburg, Woodfield Mall from 2011 and a year later in Vernon Hills Hawthorn Mall.
For those who are not familiar, what exactly is Yu Kids Island?
Yu Kids Island is an indoor playground for children 48 inches and under. We host indoor birthday parties for children from 8 months even up to 6 years old! We do a number of different children activities, we have Holiday Parties with Meet & Greet with the Princess, monthly specials, drop off programs and are always open for open play! We are located inside the mall to bring entertainment to the entire family!
Is Yu Kids Island doing anything special for the holiday season?
Yu Kids Island donates to You Can Be My Angel Foundation which is a non-profit organization and was formed to help families of children with cancer by easing the financial burden. We are currently doing a Toy Drive for Chi Give Back, Inc. Customers can bring in a toy and receive up to $5.00 Off Admission. We are hoping to collect a full box of toys so we can bring it to the children this year.
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I love to travel! I like to experience new culture, new foods and just peoples way of living around the world! My most recent adventure that fulfilled my dreams was in Brazil this past winter. I had the chance to experience carnival in Rio de Janiero, the world’s biggest carnival! It absolutely took my breathe away.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve gotten from another Mom?
To spend as much time as you can with your children because they grow so fast!
What is next for you?
I am hoping to open a business for children that will be for kids of all ages. But for now I am enjoying life as it comes and helping my children grow into the young adults they will become.