child enrichment programs near Cicero, IL

For over 50 years, Frontier Camp has been dedicated to making disciples of Jesus by sharing God’s Word amidst the beauty of His creation. Since our founding in 1969, we’ve been licensed by the Texas Department of State Health Services and are proudly accredited by the American Camping Association. We’re also a member of the Christian Camping and Conference Association. Our mission is to use Christian camping and outdoor recreation as a means to support local churches in fulfilling the Great Commission—evangelizing people of all ages and discipling believers toward deeper maturity in Christ. Frontier Camp offers a dual ministry: during the summer, we host a 10-week youth camp, and throughout the rest of the year, we serve as a retreat facility for churches and like-minded religious organizations. Whether through summer camps or retreats, our goal remains the same: to expose people to Christ and encourage their spiritual growth through His Word and by reflecting His character in everything we do. While we provide top-notch recreation and exciting programming, the heart of our camp is the spiritual impact, rooted in the truth of God’s inerrant Word.

Since 1984, Discovery Day Camp has been providing a unique experience for campers. Through a variety of activities, events, and field trips, campers are encouraged to explore, learn, and grow while building a sense of community through skill development, team building, and sportsmanship. Safety and comfort are also top priorities of the camp, and the camp is fully accredited by the American Camping Association. The camp has been a hit since its opening, with many former campers now joining the staff and sending their own children to the camp. The circle of Discovery speaks for itself! With a focus on fun, growth, and appreciation for the outdoors, Discovery Day Camp offers a fantastic opportunity for campers to make long-lasting memories with friends while gaining valuable life skills.

In order to best serve the community, the Tri-Town YMCA has identified three primary areas of focus. Supporting its mission to unite and serve persons of any religious faith or none, the YMCA has identified Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility as essential components for strengthening the community and the individual. Through these areas, the YMCA strives to promote the growth of body, mind and spirit, while living by Christian principles. The Tri-Town YMCA’s commitment to its mission is evident in the wide variety of programs and services available to the community. From youth development through sports and recreational activities, to programs promoting healthy living, and to social responsibility initiatives, the Tri-Town YMCA is dedicated to helping individuals of all ages and backgrounds thrive. Through its three areas of focus, the YMCA is upholding the values and traditions that were set forth by the “founding fathers” more than 50 years ago.

At Camp Tuckabatchee, counselors emphasize the traditional camp activities such as swimming, canoeing, archery and crafts. The highlight of the week is the Friday night campfire with skits and songs. In addition to the traditional camp activities, Camp Tuckabatchee also has a ropes course, a challenge course, an obstacle course, and a zip line. The camp offers something for everyone, with a wide variety of activities and programs. Camp Tuckabatchee is a safe and secure environment where children and adults alike can enjoy the camp experience. The camp is dedicated to providing a break from technology and an opportunity to connect with nature. Campers can participate in traditional camp activities such as swimming, canoeing, archery and crafts. For an extra dose of adventure, there are the ropes course, challenge course, obstacle course, and a zip line. With its rustic cabins and modern amenities, Camp Tuckabatchee is the perfect place for an unforgettable summer adventure.

Camp Widjiwagan, located six miles south of Springfield, is the perfect destination for your family’s next adventure! This 67-acre camp facility features a 40-foot climbing tower and zip line, three main lodges, an in-ground swimming pool, lake access for boating, platform tents, covered wagons, and an arts and crafts shack. Parents, you can rest assured that your kids are in good hands at Camp Widjiwagan. Every activity is carefully supervised and the facility is American Camp Association (ACA) accredited. Swimming, canoeing, creative arts, outdoor living skills, archery, and environmental education are just some of the exciting programming on offer. Make memories that will last a lifetime at Camp Widjiwagan! With its stunning location on Lake Springfield and plethora of activities, there’s something for every family member to enjoy.

At Camp I Am Me, every program is designed to give burn survivors the opportunity to gain physical, psychological, and emotional support. From therapeutic games and activities to educational programs and field trips, Camp I Am Me is dedicated to providing a safe and meaningful experience for all participants. Camp I Am Me provides a unique environment where burn survivors can feel comfortable being themselves and build relationships that will last a lifetime.

At Fox Valley Youth, our mission is to create an environment where youth in under-resourced communities can experience a life-transforming relationship with Jesus. Through our summer camp programs, we strive to give youth the opportunity to immerse themselves in a Christ-centered environment for a week, allowing them to view themselves and Jesus in a new light. We also offer year-round programs such as Teen Night Together (TNT) and after-school clubs for grade school children, providing ongoing opportunities for spiritual growth and development. We believe that the combination of the summer and school year programs will have the greatest impact on the lives of these youth.

The Royal Melbourne Country Club in Long Grove, IL is the perfect blend of old-fashioned elegance and modern style. Our diverse membership, phenomenal golfing opportunities, recreational activities, and culinary delights make us the ideal choice for a special event. Our picturesque grounds, local wildlife, and welcoming clubhouse make the perfect backdrop for a wedding or special occasion. Our country club is second to none when it comes to providing an unforgettable experience. With the combination of understated elegance and a contemporary attitude, we provide a welcoming atmosphere for our members and guests alike. Our golfing experiences, recreational activities, and social events are sure to please everyone. Our cuisine is sure to delight even the most discerning palate. At the Royal Melbourne Country Club, we put together the best of both worlds. Our picturesque landscape, local wildlife, and welcoming clubhouse make us the perfect venue for any event. We strive to provide our members and guests with the best possible experience, from our phenomenal golfing experiences to our wonderful dining opportunities. Our year-round social events are sure to please even the most discerning guests.

We understand that not all children have the opportunity to visit the zoo, so we’ve created an exciting video series, “Bringing The Play Zoo To You!” This series is a great way for young children to stay connected with the animals at Brookfield Zoo even from home. Each video includes an interactive activity that your child can do with you, and encourages them to explore nature and learn about animals. We hope these videos inspire your family to have fun and create lasting memories together.

Do you want to give your daughter a summer to remember? Send her to Camp Kupugani and watch her grow and learn with kids from all over the world. Located near Chicago, Illinois, Camp Kupugani is an inclusive multicultural camp that will provide your daughter with the opportunity to connect and appreciate children from all kinds of backgrounds. From Hispanic/Latine to White/Caucasian and Black/African American, Camp Kupugani celebrates diversity and encourages an atmosphere of understanding. Make this summer a special one for your daughter and send her to Camp Kupugani. She will be surrounded by kids from all over the world, learning about cultural appreciation and understanding. At Camp Kupugani, we strive to provide an environment where children can learn and grow together, regardless of their race, background, or country. From Hispanic/Latine to White/Caucasian and Black/African American, your daughter will have the opportunity to make new friends and gain new perspectives.

Since 1946, Tamarak Day Camp has been building a tradition of excellence. Our camp has a well-deserved reputation for providing quality programming, with an emphasis on swimming, beautiful grounds, and a team of experienced staff members. We are dedicated to providing a safe, enjoyable experience that allows your kids to develop their skills and build respect for their surroundings. The Tamarak spirit encourages kids to do their best and work together. Join us at Tamarak Day Camp to create a summer of memories!

As they progress through the elementary, middle, and high school programs, Lycée students explore a range of subjects in their native language and in French, while developing their global understanding. At Lycée Français de Chicago, we’re dedicated to helping our students become the people they want to be. Our world-class educators foster each student’s personal and academic growth, so that they can find their future paths with confidence. Whether they choose to pursue higher education, a career, or something else, our students have the cultural understanding, language proficiency, and critical thinking skills they need to succeed. At Lycée Français de Chicago, we believe that school is more than just an education, it’s a journey. We strive to make sure that journey is a positive one for every student, as they learn who they are and who they want to be. Our world-class educators create an environment where students can explore their native language and French, while developing their global understanding and critical thinking skills. We empower our students to pursue their dreams and find their paths with confidence, so that they can become the people they want to be.

At Emagination STEM Camps, kids and teens have the opportunity to explore their interests and learn new skills in a safe and supportive environment. Our summer camp programs provide kids and teens with a unique combination of tech-learning and summer camp fun. Here, campers join a vibrant community of peers who share similar passions and interests in an inclusive and fun-filled atmosphere. Since 1982, Emagination STEM Camps has been providing kids and teens with an unforgettable summer experience. Our day and overnight programs give campers the chance to explore STEM courses such as coding, game design, robotics & engineering, and computer graphics. Our campers also have the opportunity to develop their social skills and form lasting friendships with peers who share their same interests. With Emagination STEM Camps, your kids and teens can be the best version of themselves this summer!

At LOMC, we are deeply grateful to honor and recognize the Očhéthi Šakówiŋ, Hoocąk (Ho-Chunk), Myaamia, Sauk/Meskwaki, Peoria, Kiikaapoi (Kickapoo) peoples who have been living on the ancestral homelands of the Rock River Valley for generations. We are also thankful to all our Indigenous siblings who have and continue to care for this land and call it their home. LOMC is a ministry of the ELCA congregations in Illinois. Our 600+ acre site in the Rock River Valley of Northwestern Illinois is the focal point for summer camping programs for children and youth, as well as a variety of retreats and conferences throughout the year. At LOMC, we are committed to the long-term stewardship of the Rock River Valley and acknowledge the Indigenous people who have been living here for generations. We are grateful for their ongoing care and reverence of this land and are humbled to honor and recognize them.

Our goal is to provide as many recreational opportunities to our constituency as possible, so that we can meet the needs of all residents of the district, no matter their age, interests or abilities. We continuously strive to expand our selection of classes and events to meet the changing needs of our community. Our team looks for new and creative ways to engage residents of all ages, from youth to seniors, and to offer a variety of events and activities for the whole family to enjoy. The Plainfield Park District is committed to providing high-quality recreational experiences that are safe, enjoyable, and accessible for everyone. Our commitment to our community is unwavering, and we look forward to continuing to provide our residents with a wide range of opportunities to explore, learn, and grow.

Our travelers often come back with a better understanding of the world and the people in it. They are more aware of their global context and the need to make a difference. Through their service and stewardship of the natural world, our travelers learn to appreciate and respect the beauty of the places they visit. We strive to make a lasting impact on our travelers. We believe that the experiences we provide have the power to change young people’s lives. We are passionate about giving our travelers the opportunity to not only explore the world but also to make a meaningful impact on the places they visit. We want them to gain the skills, knowledge, and connections necessary to help make the world a better place.

Every summer, campers and staff from all around the globe, and from a variety of backgrounds, return to their own special home away from home. At our camp in Central Wisconsin, situated on an 80-acre lakefront compound, there’s never a shortage of activities and experiences for everyone to enjoy. From biking around Stratton Lake to water skiing, drama, rock climbing, and arts & crafts, our campers can stay busy for hours on end. At our camp, campers can explore, take on new challenges, and make lifelong friendships. Our campers and staff come from all walks of life, and every year they return to our camp to enjoy new experiences, make memories, and have the time of their lives. The beautiful lakefront facility in Central Wisconsin provides the perfect place for campers to explore, challenge themselves, and make lasting friendships.

The Crystal Lake Park District is an independent agency of local government, representing about 5% of a resident's property tax bill. It provides park and recreation services for approximately 55,000 people, with 42 parks that span over 1,400 acres and over 1,000 program offerings each year. These parks, facilities, and programs include the Nature Center, Main and West Beaches, Colonel Palmer House, Lippold Family Golf Center, Boncosky Softball Complex at Lippold Park, Grand Oaks Recreation/Active Adult Center, the Racket Club, Barlina House Preschool, and many picnic shelters. The Crystal Lake Park District also maintains miles of bike and hiking trails, allowing residents to enjoy the outdoors year-round. To help residents make the most of these parks and programs, the Park District publishes three seasonal brochures filled with programs and special events suited to all ages. From golf courses to preschools, the Crystal Lake Park District has something for everyone. The Crystal Lake Park District is proud to provide a wide variety of options for residents to get outdoors and stay active. With over 42 parks and 1,000 program offerings, the Crystal Lake Park District is a great resource for families to explore and enjoy the outdoors. The Park District also provides seasonal brochures to help residents take advantage of the many activities available. With something for everyone, the Crystal Lake Park District is the perfect way to get outside and have fun!

At Camp Ondessonk, we believe that learning should be exciting and memorable. Our Outdoor and Environmental Education programs provide experiences that are sure to stay with students for a lifetime. Our programs serve as a unique and powerful way to reinforce curricular topics in a fun and engaging way. We provide students with the opportunity to explore the natural environment and to develop an appreciation of the interdependence of the living world. Our programs also emphasize the importance of developing relationships with others and promote personal growth and self-esteem. Camp Ondessonk is committed to providing exceptional outdoor adventures year-round that will have a lasting impact on all who participate.

Camp Shaw has been around for 75 years and we are proud of our rich history. We strive to continue our camp traditions while also introducing new activities and opportunities for our campers. From archery to swimming, from nature hikes to arts and crafts, we have something for everyone. Our campers will gain lifelong skills and have a great time doing it. We are so proud to be part of their summer adventures!

Our experienced and knowledgeable staff strive to make each program and experience meaningful and engaging. From science and art to sports and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone! Whether your child is interested in honing their skills or exploring something new, JCYS offers a wide range of activities and experiences. At Jewish Council for Youth Services (JCYS), we are dedicated to helping parents and families find the right educational, recreational and leadership experiences for their children. We offer a wide range of activities and experiences designed to nurture each child’s individual spirit, imagination, confidence and talents. Our family centers, multiple summer camps and specialty programs provide families with a variety of options throughout the year. Our experienced and knowledgeable staff strive to make each program and experience meaningful and engaging. From science and art to sports and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone! Our commitment and dedication to service – and those we serve – remains constant as our programs and services continue to change and evolve to meet the demands of the community. At JCYS, we are here to help your child make the most of their time with us. Whether they are interested in honing their skills or exploring something new, our staff are dedicated to helping them discover and develop new talents and abilities!

At Camp Ben Frankel, we focus on creating a lifetime of memories for Jewish children of all backgrounds. Our leadership and staff are experienced and highly trained in providing a safe, welcoming camp environment, and we’re proud to be accredited by the American Camp Association. We strive to meet and exceed the expectations of our campers, parents, and staff. During the summer of 2021, we reopened our in-person camp and experienced no cases of Covid. In 2020, we launched CBF Online, our virtual summer camp program. It quickly gained recognition from the Jewish Telegraph Agency, The Forward, The Telegraph (UK), the St. Louis Jewish Light, and eJewishPhilanthropy. We partner with organizations like the Foundation For Jewish Camp, JCamp180, Jewish Camps USA, Life and Legacy, and Jewish Federations across the country to better serve our community. We are proud to have been presented with the JCamp180 Outstanding Board Leadership Award in October 2020. At Camp Ben Frankel, our mission is to provide a lifetime of memories to Jewish children from all backgrounds. We create an inclusive and welcoming environment that invites exploration of identity. Our staff are trained in safety protocols, and we use best-practices, strategic partnerships, and an open-minded approach to develop programs and activities that meet our high standards. We are thrilled to have been able to offer both in-person and virtual camp in 2021 and look forward to continuing to provide high-quality programming for years to come.

WorldWise Tutoring offers a variety of live online courses that can help your child explore personal interests, make new friends, and enjoy learning once again. Whether it's Personal Development, Sociology, Writing, Language, STEM/STEAM, Math, Test Prep, or College Prep, there's a course to help your child excel. With these fun and engaging courses, your child can develop a deeper understanding of the material while also having a great time. At WorldWise Tutoring, we believe that learning should be fun and engaging. That's why our live online courses offer an opportunity for your child to explore their interests, build connections with other students, and find joy in learning. Our courses cover a range of topics, from Personal Development, Sociology, Writing, Language, STEM/STEAM, Math, Test Prep, and College Prep, so your child can find something that fits their needs. With the help of our experienced tutors, your child can develop a deeper understanding of the material while also having fun.

East Bay Camp & Retreat is the perfect destination to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Located in Central Illinois, only 12 miles north of Bloomington-Normal and a few minutes from Interstate 39, this beautiful retreat is situated on Lake Bloomington. With its attractive and functional facilities, East Bay provides the perfect setting for a range of activities such as team-building, fellowship, conferencing, and business. Adding to the enchanting atmosphere are the abundant wildlife sightings, including deer, wild turkeys, herons, and turtles. The 160-acre property is also home to a variety of hardwoods and evergreens, making it an ideal spot to relax and unwind.

DuBois Center, a United Church of Christ camp in rural Illinois, is the perfect place for your group to experience nature and create memories that will last a lifetime. Our facilities are available to serve a variety of needs, whether your group is looking for a more rustic experience, something that feels like home, or something in between. We believe in the value of all of God's people, and do not discriminate on the basis of race, ability, national origin, religious background, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We strive to accommodate those with a variety of physical, mental, emotional, medical, or dietary needs to the best of our ability. With our wide range of offerings, DuBois Center is the ideal spot for your next group adventure!

Since 1981, WSRA has been providing recreational programs for individuals of all ages with special needs. Our experienced staff is professionally trained in therapeutic recreation to provide the best services possible. Each year, WSRA serves more than 100 individuals of all ages with disabilities through 75 recreation programs, special events, and trips. We provide transportation for our program registrants and network with local schools, nonprofits, and government agencies to ensure that everyone has access to the recreational activities they need. We are proud to be a part of the partnership of Gurnee, Grandwood Park, Wildwood Park Districts, and Warren Township and look forward to continuing to offer our services in the years to come.

The American Camp Association (ACA) is a community of passionate camp professionals with over 100 years of collective experience. Our 10,000+ members come from all sorts of backgrounds, providing a wealth of knowledge and expertise. With our exceptional programs, we provide children and adults with invaluable opportunities to learn valuable life lessons. These lessons, which teach positive values like community, character-building, skill development, and healthy living, cannot be found anywhere else. At the American Camp Association, we believe in the power of community. We have been connecting camp professionals for over a century, sharing our knowledge and experience to ensure the quality of camp programs. Our diverse 10,000+ membership is a testament to our commitment to helping each other, and our programs are designed to help children and adults develop vital skills and values. The American Camp Association is proud to offer lessons in community, character-building, skill development, and healthy living - lessons that can only be found at camp. With our exceptional programs, we have been providing children and adults with the opportunity to grow for over 100 years. We are committed to helping others learn and share powerful life lessons.

Chicago Filmmakers is a long-standing, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to serve the Chicago filmmaking community. Established in 1973, the organization provides an array of services to local filmmakers, including low-cost film classes and youth camps, production funding and fiscal sponsorship, equipment and space rentals, and professional development and networking opportunities. In addition to supporting the local filmmaking community, Chicago Filmmakers also serves Chicago audiences with weekly screenings of independent films, as well as two annual film festivals. Reeling: The Chicago LGBTQ+ International Film Festival and The Onion City Experimental Film + Video Festival both offer viewers a unique opportunity to experience independent films from around the world. Chicago Filmmakers is dedicated to supporting the local filmmaking community and providing educational and entertainment resources to Chicago audiences. Through their array of services and annual events, the organization is a valuable resource for those looking to get involved in the local film industry or simply enjoy independent films.

At our organization, we understand the importance of providing a learning environment that is both fun and inclusive. We have a range of youth programs that are designed to help kids and teens grow their appreciation for animals and nature. Our classes are collaborative, so that everyone can connect and learn regardless of their background or financial situation. We are proud to offer scholarships for most of our programs so that everyone has the opportunity to participate. Our commitment to learning and education is demonstrated by our diverse range of youth programs. These programs prioritize fun and collaboration as a way for kids and teens to learn more about the animals and nature around them. We understand that not everyone has the same financial means to participate, which is why we are proud to offer scholarships. This way, everyone has the chance to benefit from our programs, regardless of their financial standing. We are proud of our commitment to learning and education, and our range of youth programs. We strive to create an environment that is both fun and inclusive, so that everyone can benefit from our classes. Scholarships are available for most of our programs, as part of our commitment to providing an opportunity for everyone to participate and learn.

At Fox Valley Youth, our vision is to ensure that all 46,000 youth in the area have access to a local church. We believe that spending time in a Christ-centered environment can be life-transforming. That's why we offer free overnight summer camps for youth to have the opportunity to learn more about Jesus and themselves. During the school year, our Teen Night Together (TNT) program and after-school clubs provide weekly support for teens and grade school children throughout the school year. We believe that the combination of our summer and school year programs will result in the greatest growth for all of our youth. We are committed to our mission of helping local youth in the Fox Valley, and we firmly believe that the best way to do that is to provide them with a life-transforming relationship with Jesus. We look forward to seeing the results of our efforts in the coming years.

Parents in the Prospect Heights Park District are celebrating the award of the Urban & Community Forestry Grant administered by The Morton Arboretum. Graft Tree Care, a qualified contractor, was chosen to complete the inventory and management plan, with the purpose of preserving and protecting existing trees, improving the understanding of the urban forest's composition and structure, and increasing the health and growth of the urban forest. The grant will be beneficial to the entire community, as a healthy ecosystem will improve quality of life for all. The grant will also provide an opportunity for improved management and care of the urban forest both in the short and long term. Parents in the Prospect Heights Park District can be proud that their community was awarded the Urban & Community Forestry Grant. This grant will ensure that the urban forest will be cared for and maintained, providing a healthy ecosystem and improved quality of life for all.

At Gorton Drama Studio, everyone is welcome! We strive to create a culture of inclusivity, where every person is valued and respected for their unique talents and abilities. Our beautiful spaces, located at Gorton Center in Lake Forest, provide the perfect backdrop for our fun and inspirational classes and rehearsals. From our John and Nancy Hughes Theater to our dedicated dance room and intimate black box theater, Gorton Drama Studio offers a variety of enjoyable and creative experiences for all ages, from entertaining theater to artistic film. Join us as we explore the joy of theater and film together!

In 2010, Dan and Andy bought and invested $1 million in construction and renovation of Camp Manitowa Rend Lake. Since then, the 40-acre property has been hosting sleep-away summer camps, retreats, and festivals. It is the newest, freshest camp in the Benton area of Southern Illinois, and is located only 90 minutes from St. Louis, MO and Paducah, KY. At Camp Manitowa, campers entering grades 2nd through 8th can benefit from a tailored 1 or 2 week residential camp program. This program is designed with younger campers’ needs in mind, and encourages the development of independence, self-esteem, cooperation, and problem-solving skills. Campers also have the opportunity to make lifelong friends in a small, nurturing community. The camp also offers structured free play and choice time, allowing campers to feel a sense of belonging and empowerment to learn. In 2013, Camp Manitowa is offering week long specialty camps that focus on water skiing, magic, rock school, science, and the popular sport of Gaga. With its unique program and offerings, Camp Manitowa Rend Lake is a great place for campers to experience all the fun and adventure of a summer camp.

At Camp Nageela Midwest, children from all walks of life come together to create a special environment for Jewish youth to develop meaningful relationships with one another and have fun. Campers will learn what it means to be a leader in the Jewish community while learning important life skills such as communication, problem solving, and teamwork. Camp activities include sports, swimming, music, drama, art, and more. Parents Magazine is proud to feature Camp Nageela Midwest, an organization dedicated to helping young Jews build strong, affiliated, and proud identities. Located just an hour from Chicago and conveniently located near O'Hare and Midway airports, children of all backgrounds come together to create a vibrant and welcoming community. Here, campers learn what it means to be a leader while participating in activities such as sports, swimming, music, drama, art and more. Camp Nageela Midwest helps to empower youth to discover their hidden talents and develop them in the service of others, creating everlasting friendships and community along the way.

Through 4-H, Illinois youth are being prepared to become the leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, stewards and builders of tomorrow that our state needs. 4-H provides a safe and encouraging environment for youth to practice the skills needed to become successful leaders. Youth engage in activities such as public speaking, problem solving, goal setting and decision making that help them develop leadership qualities. 4-H also encourages youth to become engaged in their local communities and take action to make a difference. Through service learning and community service projects, youth learn valuable lessons in civics, citizenship, communication, and collaboration that will help them become successful, responsible citizens.