Who are we ? Kids know some of the basic answers to the question. They can tell you flesh and bones, the heart and the brain, but now they can dig even deeper for an explanation by exploring genes, DNA and chromosomes at a new permanent exhibit called “Genetics: Decoding Life” at the Museum of Science and Industry. They can examine a strand of their hair to learn how to analyze DNA and pretend to be a forensic scientist by seeing if a sample of DNA matches one from a crime scene. They can try to make a virtual clone by taking a nucleus from one cell and putting it into another and even see mice that have been cloned. They can see how frogs were genetically engineered to make their eyes glow. While visitors will learn a lot from their scientific explorations, they will also have numerous opportunities to think about the pros and cons of putting cutting-edge science into practice. “Genetics: Decoding Life,” Museum of Science and Industry, 57th Street and Lake Shore Drive, $9 adults, $5 children; 773-684-1414.
— Nancy Maes
Winter survivors
A nature center family program is called “Survivor,” but it has nothing to do with the TV show. Instead visitors will take a walk outdoors with a naturalist who will explain the techniques that allow plants and animals to stay alive when the weather turns cold. Some plants manage to attach their seeds to the thick coats of animals so the seeds will be dispersed in spring when the fur is shed. Chipmunks go dormant and spend a lot of time at home, although they do go out occasionally to forage for food. Groundhogs hibernate, and we all await their reappearance in February so we can find out if spring will be early or late. “Survivor,” 1:30 p.m. Sunday, River Trail Nature Center, 3120 Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook, free; 847-824-8360.
— Nancy Maes
Circus legacy
You’ll be seeing stars at a colorful show performed by The New Shanghai Circus. It’s a beautifully orchestrated, highly choreographed presentation of Chinese circus acts that date back 2,500 years. Contortionists, acrobats and comedians will perform. “Stars of the Shanghai Acrobatic Theatre,” 3 p.m. Sunday, The Hemmens, 150 Dexter Ct., Elgin, $24-$50; 847-931-5900.
— Stephanie Price
Outdoor bingo
Learning can be a game. Enjoy the beauty of winter while you sharpen your observational skills. You’ll hike through a nature preserve to see how many clues you can find to fill a bingo card. “Winter Wildlife Bingo,” 10-11 a.m. Saturday, Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve, 2609 Spring Rd., Oak Brook, free; 630-850-8110.
— Stephanie Price
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Vintage humor
Return to the thrilling days of yesteryear by attending a performance by Lance Brown (his “Tribute to Will Rogers” has impressed audiences of all ages). Brown will sing old songs and tell humorous stories dating back to the early years of the 20th Century. “Vintage Music and Humor,” noon Saturday, Mokena Community Library, 11327 W. 105th St., Mokena, free; 708-479-9663.
— Pat Harper
Red, white, blue
Combine patriotism and entertainment by attending an ice show this weekend. Skillful skating, a red, white and blue color scheme and some all-American music, including Ray Charles’ version of “God Bless America,” are intended to create an emotional experience. “The Magic of Ice,” 8:30 p.m. Friday, 5 and 8:30 p.m. Saturday and 3:30 p.m. Sunday at Drury Lane Theatre, 2500 W. 95th St., Evergreen Park, tickets $21-$26 for the ice show or $34-$46 for dinner and the show; 708-422-0404.
— Pat Harper