best dance programs in Chicago, IL

Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.

Finding the right day camp for your child can be daunting. You want them to have fun and make friends, but you also want them to be safe and supervised. Kids Playing Camp Inc. offers the perfect solution. At Kids Playing Camp Inc., they take supervision seriously. They employ adults, not high school kids, meaning your child is in the capable hands of experienced coaches, teachers, and college students. What’s more, they have a 1 to 6 ratio, meaning one adult for every six kids. This ensures that your child is getting the one-on-one attention they need to thrive. Safety is paramount at Kids Playing Camp Inc., and they wouldn’t have it any other way. Your child will be able to have fun and make friends in a safe and supervised environment – the perfect combination for a fun and enjoyable day camp experience.

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.

Eckhart Park is a great resource for the West Town community! It boasts 8.85 acres of indoor and outdoor fun. With an indoor swimming pool, two gymnasiums, a fitness center, and a boxing center, the park offers something for everyone. What's more, the outdoors of Eckhart Park provides plenty of fun for families. Enjoy baseball diamonds, an athletic field for football and soccer, and a playground with a water spray feature. Plus, the playground was recently renovated in Summer 2014 as part of Mayor Emanuel's Chicago Plays! Program. Finally, Eckhart Park is home to a community garden. Residents can come together to learn about gardening techniques and cultivate their own plants. With all the amenities Eckhart Park has to offer, it's a great resource for the West Town community!

Hamlin Park is an oasis for families in the North Center community. With 9.08 acres of outdoor and indoor fun, it's easy to see why. The fieldhouse and pool provide plenty of exercise options, such as Qi Gong, yoga, Kids Fitness, Olympic weightlifting, walking club, baseball, basketball, boxing, dodgeball, floor hockey, Junior Bears Youth football, kickball, seasonal sports, soccer, softball, track & field, and volleyball. Plus, the playground, assembly area, and dog-friendly area make the park a perfect place for families to come together. Preschoolers can socialize and build their self-confidence through Tot Spot, Tiny Tot Tumbling, Fun & Games, Arts & Crafts, and Music & Movement. And for teens, there’s the Teen Club and a variety of summer camps. With plenty of activities for all ages, Hamlin Park is a great place to spend time together.

The Little Gym has been helping children develop motor skills, build confidence, and set them up for a lifetime of success for over 25 years. Adam and Ileana Stone have been passionate about children since the start, and have made The Little Gym a part of their family. Since its opening in April 2003, the 5-star rated staff has provided training to thousands of children between the ages of 4 months and 12 years old. The staff loves helping children increase their self-esteem and reach their highest level of physical, mental, and emotional growth. Adam and Ileana have used their business experience and knowledge of lacrosse and law, respectively, to make The Little Gym of Chicago one of the best in the nation. Gym Director Tammy Shuk Phillips has been part of The Little Gym family since 1997, when she first joined as an instructor in South Bend, Indiana. With over 20 years of experience in gymnastic competitive and non-competitive programs, Tammy has been the Gym Director of The Little Gym of Chicago since its opening. As a mother of two, Tammy is dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment in which children can grow skills. The Little Gym of Chicago invites you to explore the program offerings and find the one that is right for your child. Come experience the Serious Fun that The Little Gym can bring and see the difference it can make in your child’s life and yours. Happy Handstands!

Named for the English statesman Edward Hyde, the Clarendon Community Center has been providing quality recreational and educational activities to Chicago residents since its transformation from a municipal beach in the late 1930s. The facility, once home to 9,000 swimmers, now boasts two gymnasiums, clubrooms, a playground, and an athletic field. It continues to bring Chicago families together with its wide range of activities, from swimming lessons to after-school programs. An important part of the city's history, the Clarendon Community Center is a shining example of the Chicago Park District's commitment to providing quality recreational opportunities for all city residents.

For the sports-minded, there's a fitness center, indoor swimming pool, and gymnasium at Gill Park. Plus, the park is equipped with a t-ball field and playground, offering plenty of outdoor fun. Families can also take advantage of the park's assembly hall, which has a portable stage, as well as its kitchen and several clubrooms for rental.

Founded in 1992, Chicago Kids Company (CKC) is a non-profit theater company that produces original musicals based on fairy tales and children’s stories. Paige Coffman and Jesus Perez, CKC's co-founders, are still running the show today! They write, direct, compose, design, and create the colorful productions that have become a signature of CKC. This award-winning duo has written and produced every single CKC show for the past 29 years. CKC performances are designed to be enjoyed by the whole family. Professional actors, sing-along songs, brightly colored costumes and sets, and up-to-date references make the shows fun for children ages 2 to 10. Now in its 29th season, Chicago Kids Company is thrilled to continue to share the joy of theater with young audiences.

If you’re looking for an exciting and enriching activity for your family, look no further than Forevermore Dance & Theatre Arts in the Northwest side of Chicago. They offer a wide range of classes for all ages, including dance, acting, and music lessons, as well as performance opportunities to let their students show off their skills. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced performer, there’s something for everyone! If you need more information or would like to discuss the best classes for your family, don’t hesitate to give Forevermore a call or email. The staff would be happy to talk with you and set up a tour of the school, so you can experience the classes for yourself. You’ll be able to get a feel for the atmosphere and watch as your kids make friends and build confidence. Forevermore Dance & Theatre Arts is the perfect way to give your family a creative outlet and a chance to explore the arts. With an array of classes and performance opportunities, your family can find the perfect fit for them. Don’t wait – contact Forevermore today and start your journey together!

Today, the Old Town School of Folk Music is a thriving institution which offers more than 700 accredited classes, workshops, and private lessons to students of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. From guitar and banjo classes to folk dancing and family sing-alongs, the school has something for everyone. Professional instructors teach a range of musical genres, from American folk music to international styles. The Old Town School of Folk Music also offers concerts featuring nationally renowned artists. It is a place where students can celebrate music and cultural expressions rooted in the traditions of diverse American and global communities. The Old Town School of Folk Music is dedicated to providing broad access to the arts. Its five-year strategic plan focuses on improving and expanding artistic opportunities for its students. To ensure its programs remain accessible, the school provides tuition assistance to qualified families. Through its commitment to quality education and its dedication to providing broad access to the arts, the Old Town School of Folk Music has become a pillar of the Chicago community.

The Ruth Page Center for the Arts is a 501(c)3 non-profit charitable organization that has been serving the Chicago dance community for 50 years. Located in the heart of the Gold Coast, just steps away from Michigan Avenue's Magnificent Mile, The Center provides a unique platform for the development of great artists and connecting them with audiences and community. With a primary focus on dance as a critical art form, its programming ensures that children and dance artists have the opportunity to train, work and perform at the highest level of excellence. The Center's mission extends beyond artistic development, as it also serves to enhance community development. It is the only organization in Chicago that offers this type of programming within a single entity, and its impact is felt by over 40,000 people every year.

Since its founding in 2005, Chicago Children’s Theatre has committed to creating world-class theatre for children and families. The company has earned critical acclaim for its innovative writing, directing, and performing, as well as its high-quality design and production expertise. In 2017, the theatre received the National Theatre Award from the American Theatre Wing, creators of the Tony Awards, making it the first theater for young audiences in the nation to receive such an honor. The theatre also produces The Red Kite Project, a multi-sensory interactive theatre program tailored to the needs of children on the autism spectrum.

Founded in 2001, CircEsteem has been helping youth around the City of Chicago build self-esteem and create safe and diverse communities for the past 20 years. During the first half of 2017, CircEsteem worked with more than 750 diverse youth from 21 different neighborhoods. Through academic enrichment, mentoring, and in-school arts enrichment programming, youth are given the opportunity to build personal development and leadership skills such as self-esteem and teamwork. CircEsteem utilizes social circus methodology to teach circus arts, inspiring youth to reach their full potential. At CircEsteem, we strive to provide a safe and supportive environment for all our youth. Our mission is to help these young individuals develop confidence, self-esteem and teamwork through the learning of circus arts. CircEsteem is committed to creating an atmosphere where our youth can feel safe and accepted, regardless of their backgrounds. We are proud to be able to offer our unique social circus programming to thousands of youth in the City of Chicago.

Alina Kruk-Velazquez, the owner of ABC Dance Academy, opened the doors in late 2007. With over two decades of dance instruction under her belt, she was well prepared to bring her studio to life. Since then, ABC Dance Academy has grown and expanded in both size and scope. We now offer a variety of dance classes, from traditional styles to more modern and unique offerings. Our convenient location and friendly staff are also available to answer questions in both Polish and Spanish. In August 2013, ABC Dance Academy relocated to Jefferson Park. This allowed us to expand our dance and fitness classes and also upgrade to a two-dance floor storefront. We strive to provide a safe, comfortable and welcoming environment for our students. Our classes are kept small to ensure that each student can receive the help and attention they deserve. Our instructors are experienced and passionate about dance, and are dedicated to helping each and every student grow and improve.

Grupo Axé Capoeira is a renowned Afro-Brazilian performance group that has been bringing the vibrant and unique culture of Brazil to the Greater Chicago Area since 2002. With a repertoire of colorful costumes, beautiful dances, and amazing acrobatics, their performances are sure to bring a smile to any audience. They are also experienced travelers, having performed in states as far north as Michigan and as far south as Indiana. Hoping to make your event one to remember? Look no further than Grupo Axé Capoeira! Every performance is tailored to the event and includes live music. Prices are also adjusted to fit within your budget and take into consideration factors such as duration, distance, and number of performers. With their stunning performances, you're sure to have a one-of-a-kind experience that will stay with you and your guests for years to come.

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.

At Camp One Step, we've been bringing joy, support, strength, and hope to campers and their families since 1978. Our camps and digital programs are designed for kids with cancer, their siblings, and even their parents. We believe that inclusion, accessibility, and connections are the key to creating a meaningful experience. Camp One Step builds lifetime friendships and helps kids reclaim the joy of childhood while allowing families to feel a sense of wholeness. We are passionate about creating a safe and welcoming environment for all campers and their families.

The YMCA is the leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by supporting young people, enriching the health and well-being of all ages, and inspiring action in our communities. The YMCA is an organization like no other. Our mission is to make an impact in our communities – to help empower young people and improve the health and wellbeing of all ages. We believe that by connecting people to their potential, purpose and each other, we can bring about positive change in 10,000 communities across the country. At the YMCA, we are dedicated to making a difference. We create partnerships with local organizations to bring about real change and create a better future for our communities. We are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for young people to grow and become the leaders of tomorrow.

At Hubbard Street Dance, we are always looking for ways to inspire and innovate. This year, we proudly present our first-ever virtual season of dance films. A stellar lineup of acclaimed and emerging choreographers, all of whom are former Hubbard Street dancers, have created contemporary dance that reflects our current moment with incredible power. We invite you to join us in celebrating this season of innovation and inspiration. Our lineup of choreographers have pushed boundaries and embraced the unknown to create pieces that are sure to move and inspire you. Experience this powerful collection of contemporary dance and explore the artistry of these amazing former Hubbard Street dancers.

The Chicago Academy for the Arts is an independent high school for performing and visual arts that has earned national recognition. Designated a National School of Distinction by the John F. Kennedy Center, the Academy provides students with a unique blend of college-prep academics and professional-level arts training. The Academy’s daily schedule features three blocks of academic classes and a flex period, followed by a three-plus hour immersion in the student’s chosen arts department. Dance, Media Arts, Music, Musical Theatre, Theatre, and Visual Arts are all offered, giving students the opportunity to learn the skills necessary for academic success, critical thought, and creative expression.

At Lakeshore Sport & Fitness at Illinois Center, we understand that family dynamics are changing and that’s why we are here to provide the best services and events for the growing family community. We strive to create an enjoyable atmosphere and to provide the best possible experience for our members and their families. We look forward to welcoming you to the Lakeshore Sport & Fitness at Illinois Center family.

At our school, we understand the importance of fostering a child’s natural curiosity. We believe our responsive curriculum allows children to explore concepts and ideas in ways that are meaningful to them. Our educators observe the interest and enthusiasm of the children and use that to design long-term projects and questions. We carefully balance the individual and collective learning and growth of our students when presenting materials and ideas. Our program is play-based and structured to provide both time and space for exploration. Our classrooms are filled with three, four, and five-year-olds engaged in activities such as exploring shapes and patterns, building with blocks, and drawing. Through this approach, we strive to provide an environment that encourages each child’s natural curiosity.

Based out of JCYS Lincoln Square Ravenswood, campers can spend their days crafting art projects, learning yoga poses, singing songs, and even swimming. Not to mention, special workshops hosted by experts in sports, arts and crafts, and more! Kids will come home each day with stories to tell and new skills to show off. Big City Day Camp gives city kids a chance to find their creative outlets and have fun outdoors. From JCYS Lincoln Square Ravenswood, campers can embark on a summer of exploration, with plenty of activities to keep them busy. Swimming, art projects, yoga classes, and singing – the possibilities are endless. Plus, the opportunity to learn from experts in sports, arts and crafts, and more! When the day is done, your little one will be ready to tell you all about their exciting adventures. Make this summer unforgettable for your city kid at Big City Day Camp. Based out of JCYS Lincoln Square Ravenswood, campers can dive into a world of stories, crafts, music, swimming and more. With special workshops from top-notch experts in sports, arts and crafts, and more, your child will come home full of energy and excitement, eager to share their new experiences. Make this summer the best yet with Big City Day Camp!

Bring out the funny in your family with The Second City Training Center! Our Kids Comedy Classes are perfect for all experience levels and offer a great way to introduce your children to the world of comedy. Our experienced instructors and performers will guide your child in developing their comedic skills, while also allowing them to explore and find their own unique voice. The Second City Training Center is the perfect place for kids and teens to explore their creative potential. Not only is it a great way to make new friends, but it is also an excellent opportunity to learn more about theatre, comedy, and writing. Our classes are led by experienced performers and instructors who can help guide your child as they hone their comedic skills. Take your family’s creativity to the next level with classes at The Second City Training Center! Our Kids Comedy Classes are designed for all experience levels and are the perfect way to introduce your children to the world of comedy. Our instructors and performers will provide top-notch guidance as your kids learn to develop their skills and explore the unique stories that make them who they are.

Bringing literature, geography, history and science to life, Kidworks Touring Theatre Company is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that's been around since 1987. For over 30 years, they've been providing interactive touring productions, drama workshops and artist-in-residency programs to schools, libraries, park districts and museums across the nation. Over one million children have been impacted by their mission of "opening the doors between education and imagination." Parents looking to give their kids an enriching and inspiring experience should look no further than Kidworks Touring Theatre Company.

The Ray Meyer Fitness and Recreation Center at DePaul University is the perfect place to introduce your child to a healthy lifestyle! Spanning 120,000 square feet, the Center offers a wide variety of activities for all ages. With four basketball courts, six lanes of pool, numerous cardio machines, three racquetball courts, and strength training equipment, the Center is equipped to provide hours of exercise and enjoyment. Plus, there's a big-screen TV and cafe for those wanting to socialize. With youth programs that provide a fun approach to physical fitness, you can be sure your child will develop a lifelong love of physical activity at the Ray Meyer Fitness and Recreation Center.

The Kelly Hall YMCA is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for everyone who walks through our doors. Our programs are designed to promote healthy lifestyles and to help children, families, and communities grow and thrive. By investing in the YMCA, you are helping us offer these essential programs and services to the community. At the Kelly Hall YMCA, we are dedicated to providing a safe and inviting environment for everyone who visits us. Your investment helps us provide the resources needed to care for the children, families, and communities we are honored to serve. We offer a variety of fitness programs, sports activities, camps, and youth programs to help keep you and your family healthy and happy. Come and explore our basketball court, open gym, and more! Your contribution to the YMCA helps us to offer essential programs and services that strengthen and support the community.

At the YMCA, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. That’s why we are committed to developing our next generation of leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers. Our goal is to bring about lasting change to communities across Chicagoland. At the McCormick YMCA, we strive to create a safe, welcoming, and encouraging environment. We want every person who walks in our doors to feel supported and included. Your investment is crucial in providing the necessary resources to help children and families grow and thrive. The YMCA is a powerful force for good in the community, and we are proud to do our part to build a brighter future for all. We invite you to join us in making a positive impact and helping empower the next generation to reach their full potential.

With your help, the Lake View YMCA can continue to provide a secure and nurturing environment that fosters learning and growth. As a parent, you want the best for your children. When you invest in the YMCA, you are not only providing your children with a safe and inspiring environment, but you are also contributing to a greater cause - improving the lives of all the youth in our communities. Your donation to the Lake View YMCA will ensure that the Y is able to continue to serve the families of Chicagoland and provide a place where children can learn, grow, and thrive.

Parents seeking an engaging summer day camp for their children with social challenges need look no further than the One In A Hundred summer camp. Established in 2009, the camp provides a positive atmosphere for children to gain valuable social language skills. Through the use of Social Thinking® techniques, executive functioning techniques, and role play experiences, campers learn how to interact with their peers in a meaningful way. This summer, provide your kids with the opportunity to make lasting friendships in a supportive camp environment.

At the South Side YMCA, we strive to create a safe and supportive space for everyone who enters. Your contributions help us to maintain the resources needed to support the children, families, and communities we are fortunate to serve. The South Side YMCA is a place of positivity and acceptance for all. Your donation allows us to continue to provide the resources necessary to care for the children, families, and communities in our neighborhood.

At EBC we believe that every child can benefit from participating in fun and engaging activities. That’s why our Family & Kids team offers a range of exciting programs for children of all ages. From fitness clinics to art and dance classes, we have something to suit every child’s interests. Our team of experienced professionals, including fitness, swimming, tennis and golf pros, has built strong relationships with the kids we serve over the years. At EBC, we strive to make sure every child has the opportunity to explore their creative side, build physical strength, and enjoy meaningful experiences. Our comprehensive range of programs are designed to equip children with skills they will carry with them for life. Whether they’re attending our fitness clinics, art classes, or swimming lessons, kids will be surrounded by an encouraging and supportive environment. Our Family & Kids team is dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all children. We understand the importance of providing children with the best possible experience, and our staff of professionals are passionate about helping kids reach their goals. With years of experience, our fitness, swimming, tennis and golf pros are committed to building lasting relationships with the kids we serve. Our team works hard to ensure each child has a positive and rewarding experience.

At our early childhood arts, enrichment and parent resource center, located in the Bucktown and Gold Coast neighborhoods of Chicago, we are dedicated to igniting wonder and compassion in the classroom and beyond. We provide a unique combination of art, play and child development best practices that will help your child explore new heights of creativity and development. Our center is the perfect place for your child to develop and explore. We offer an environment that encourages creativity, exploration and learning. Our goal is to provide children with an opportunity to express themselves artistically and to build an understanding of the world around them. Our staff is highly trained in child development best practices and can provide resources to help parents and caregivers ensure their child is getting the best possible start in life.

At JUDA, we strive to provide a warm and welcoming environment for our students to explore Jewish culture and develop a strong connection to their heritage. Our dedicated educators provide an enriching and enjoyable learning experience for our students. Through engaging and relevant lessons, our students are encouraged to think critically about their Jewish identity and develop a positive and meaningful relationship with their faith. Our goal is that by the end of the year, our students will have a deep love and appreciation for their Jewish heritage, and will be empowered to carry their faith into their everyday lives.