Starting Early Economic

Starting Early: Creating Child-Friendly Downtowns

Is Your Main Street Child-Friendly?

Economic Opportunity: An often overlooked market

In today’s challenging economy Main Streets should not overlook the economic power of the parent and child. Creating parent-friendly retail encourages longer more relaxed shopping trips. Child-friendly restaurants and coffee shops can bring families to your downtown. Child-Friendly promotions bring the whole family to enjoy Main Street. Encourage busy parents to patronize your downtown rather than the neighboring mall or online. Meanwhile, you are developing the Main Street supporters of tomorrow by welcoming them today.

For more information, please contact: Carol J. Dyson, AIA, Illinois State Historic Preservation Office, DNR. Carol.Dyson@Illinois.gov