best drawing-sketching 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.

At The Paintbrush, children from ages 1 to 12 years old can explore their creative side and learn about the works of influential artists from all over the world. Our hands-on art appreciation classes are enhanced with music appreciation to teach our young students. We also offer ART skills classes that include drawing, painting, and cartooning. Plus, our year-round camps, seasonal workshops, and birthday pARTies are sure to bring out the artist in your child! The Paintbrush is an art studio where children of all ages can explore their creative side. Our classes incorporate music appreciation and hands-on art appreciation lessons to teach our students about the lives and works of influential artists from the past and present. ART skills classes such as drawing, painting, and cartooning are also available. For an extra special experience, consider one of our birthday pARTies, year-round camps, or seasonal workshops! At The Paintbrush, we believe that the best way for children to learn is through hands-on, interactive experiences. Our art classes teach students about the works of influential artists from all over the world while incorporating music appreciation. We also offer ART skills classes such as drawing, painting, and cartooning. Plus, we offer birthday pARTies, year-round camps, and seasonal workshops for a truly unique experience!

Lillstreet Art Center is the perfect place for families to create, learn, and appreciate art together. Our Kidstreet program offers classes and summer camps for children and families, including multimedia classes. Whether it’s our First-Time Artist classes or our multimedia classes, we strive to provide a creative and supportive environment where everyone can gain confidence in their artistic practice and reach their artistic goals. We promise good vibes in the studio and a supportive space to explore your practice and learn new skills. Located in the lively “Malt Row” district of Ravenswood, Chicago, Lillstreet Art Center is so much more than just an art school, art gallery, and artist studio space. It is a place of retreat from the noisy world around us, a place to find inspiration, make friends, and create. We foster a community where artists of all backgrounds, ages, and skill levels can learn and grow together. As a collective, we strive to create a nurturing and supportive environment where everyone can reach their creative goals.

Easel Art Studio is the perfect place for your child to explore the world of art. Our studio is dedicated to encouraging creative exploration and curiosity through the use of everyday materials. We believe that the process of creating is more important than the final product, and that each artwork is a masterpiece in its own right. At Easel Art Studio, we teach kids the history of art and the stories of some of the world’s greatest artists. We also provide a safe and supportive environment in which kids can express themselves through their art. We strive to help them find their own unique creative voice and to foster a lifelong appreciation for art. At Easel Art Studio, we want kids to have fun, be creative, and learn about the world of art. Our studio is a place where your child can explore the medium of art and find their own unique style. We believe that art is a journey and that each work of art is a masterpiece.

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 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.

For nearly fifty years, the Beverly Arts Center has been a beacon of culture in the Chicago metro area. From its 400-seat theatre to its art gallery and exhibition spaces, this not-for-profit organization is home to a wide variety of high-quality programs in dance, visual arts, music, film and theatre. Its 40,000 square foot space provides plenty of room to explore, with music and dance studios, art classrooms, and event rental spaces, including a courtyard and sun-filled atrium. Located in Chicago’s historic Beverly/Morgan Park neighborhood, the Beverly Arts Center is more than just a hub of culture. It is also home to an extensive community outreach program, providing education, outreach, and resources to the local community. With a commitment to creating a thriving arts culture, the BAC is dedicated to making the arts accessible to everyone and inspiring positive change in the community.

Haas Park is a great spot for the whole family to spend a day. With 1.69 acres of land, the park offers plenty of room to explore. The recently renovated, ADA accessible playground is sure to provide hours of fun, along with a water spray feature to cool off on hot days. There's also a large open green space, perfect for special events such as movies in the park or a picnic. Soccer fans will be especially excited to know that the park also features a brand new soccer field, made possible through the generous contributions of the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in the United States and the Manchester City Football Club. Built in partnership with the Pritzker Traubert Family Foundation's "Take the Field Initiative" and the Chicago Park District, the field is sure to provide hours of entertainment for the entire Logan Square community.

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.

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.