One of the many adjustments we make when we become parents is to self-censor.

We retrain our brains to ban the D, S, B and F words, or invent substitutes that make us sound like we live in Mayberry RFD (hence “dangit” or “shoot.”)

Going to a movie can be a frightening experience for a child with autism or other special needs, with ear-splitting noises and pitch-dark theaters.

Goodrich Quality Theaters, which operates the Savoy 16, is starting a new program once a month that could help.

It's a fall festival free-for-all this weekend in Champaign County, from folk music to apples. Animal lovers can ride a pony or see exotic rescued animals at the annual Pet Fair Extravaganza, or take their pets to the drive-in.  And budding scientists will love the dome theater experience at the Champaign Library. Check it out!

CHAMPAIGN — Electricity is not my strength. I use it, I appreciate it, I believe in conserving it, but I really don’t understand how it all works. I don’t even like to change a light fixture without consulting an electrician.

Monticello is where it's at this weekend, with the annual Monticello Celebration and Railroad Days at the Monticello Railroad Museum. And with a near-perfect weekend forecast, it's your last chance to take a boat ride around Crystal Lake in Urbana. Or try out your football skills at Punt, Pass and Kick. Plus a free concert, Savoy Orchard Days and more!

So we’re thinking of adding on a room to our house. A soundproof one. Just for saxophone practice.

My son’s fifth-grade band adventure is the latest in a long line of activities our children have explored, and it’s going to be a noisy one. But so far at least, he likes it. And I’m all for it.

Talk about an eclectic lineup this weekend: football, physics, bubbles, jazz, Latin rhythms, dachshunds, dungeons and dragons. And of course, the Lawn Rangers. Need I say more?

Jazz Walk: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, Meadowbrook Park, Windsor Road and Vine Street, Urbana. Free.

Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan is denouncing the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association for its upcoming “Safe Sleep” campaign, saying some dangerous drop-side cribs still carry the association's certification seal.

It's a three-day weekend, so take the time to enjoy a last blast of summer: a swim at Sholem Aquatic Center, a cheese festival, or a Symphony at Sunset. And who doesn't love a parade -- especially the one with all the candy?