First Time Shoplifting Charge, But Previously Stole from the Same Store

[helpwanted303]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Illinois

I am 19 years old, and today I made the very stupid mistake of stealing from Target. My total came out to $50.44. I got caught, they saw me on camera, and followed me around. I got stopped in the vestibule and taken back to the office. They took the stuff (obviously) and the police came. I admitted to taking the stuff and that it was very stupid of me. The manager said that he would not call my current employer to tell them, and he appreciated my honesty. When the police came she gave me a ticket with a court date on it for about 2 months from now. I'm not sure what I should do from here, I have to go to court, but what should I plead? I thought I would just plead guilty and be done with it. I'm terrified to tell my parents, but I really think I should, if I plead not guilty cause I would need legal help, correct?I had stolen a few times form there and I think they new that and said they were going to go back through their tapes. If they find anything else, can I get in more trouble? I'm moving out this summer and am so afraid that this will effect my chances of finding an apartment and screw over not only me, but my roommates.
Also, if I find a job before the court date- will this show up on my background check/do I have to tell them?

I am so worried I just screwed myself over. Please please please help me.

[DeputyDog]

Since you actually did steal, they saw you steal, and you admitted your guilt, you have almost no chance whatsoever of not being found guilty of this.

As for pleas, etc. read my response to this other poster on this current thread: http://www.expertlaw.com/forums/showthread.php?t=186347

My response to you would be the same.