In the grand kaleidoscope of states that comprise the United States of America, Illinois sits proudly as a sparkling gem. A symphony of nature, cities, farms, and rivers, she gleams with the charm of the Midwest, a crown set with the gleaming jewel of Chicago. The kids of Illinois, especially those who participate in Nature activities, aren't just ordinary kids - oh, no, they're something far more adventurous! Meet our hero, a dapper raccoon named Racket. Racket, with his bandit-masked eyes and bushy tail, is as spunky as a summer thunderstorm, and just as electrifying. He's a charming rogue, always ready to guide our brave Illinoisan kids on their explorations. From the wild prairies of the south, where nature whispers ancient stories through the tall, swaying grass, to the secret corners of the Shawnee Forest, where trees older than time itself stand tall, Racket and the kids seek adventures. And boy, do they find them! They go bug hunting, canoeing on gleaming rivers, and stargazing in the clear, country nights, giggling at constellations with funny names like "Boötes" (which, by the way, Racket always mispronounces as "Booties" just to make them laugh). Imagine a group of kids, cheeks flushed with excitement, rosy from both the exertion and the cold, as they embark on a winter hike through Starved Rock State Park. There’s Racket, leading the way, slipping and sliding in the snow in a way that makes everyone chuckle. In the state of Illinois, every day is a new adventure, and every child is a brave explorer, and every raccoon? Well, he just might be the coolest guide you've ever met!
Read morebest nature programs in Chicago, 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.
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.
Windy City Fieldhouse (WCF) is Chicago’s premier team building and entertainment complex, providing space for a range of court-based sports activities, leagues, and youth programs. Founded in 1995, WCF has served over 2,000 corporate clients for team building, interactive receptions, summer picnics, and other onsite and offsite corporate events. WCF is the preferred multi-sport and entertainment facility in Chicago, hosting a variety of sports, leagues, field trips, and youth programs. WCF also plans family celebrations such as birthday parties, bar/bat mitzvahs, and more. With their 55,000 square foot facility only minutes from downtown, WCF has become a leading corporate and special event planner in Chicago and the Midwest.
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.
For over 160 years, the Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum has provided Chicago-area children with a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of nature and science. With immersive exhibits, family events, conservation research and educational programs, the museum is guaranteed to spark the curiosity of all ages. The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Camps are the perfect way to immerse children in the wonders of nature and science. Campers will participate in interactive exploration that includes science and art projects, nature play, and animal encounters. The camp encourages campers to take the lead and provides them with the tools they need to explore the nature of Chicago at their own pace. The Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is dedicated to sparking a love of exploration and discovery in the next generation. With a variety of activities, projects, and events, the museum provides a unique and exciting opportunity for children to develop their critical thinking and social skills while learning about the world around them.
JUF Young Families is all about creating a vibrant and connected Jewish community in the greater Chicago area. We bring together families of all backgrounds to explore and celebrate Jewish traditions, holidays, and milestones. We also encourage parents to build a strong community by volunteering together. Our community is diverse and we are proud of it, as it makes us stronger and more inclusive. No matter your level of Jewish knowledge or observance, we are here to help you gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for Jewish life. We believe that Judaism has a lot to offer modern parents in terms of enrichment and support. We also recognize the importance of each family’s unique contribution to the overall Jewish community. We are everywhere – from play spaces and synagogues to grocery stores and preschools. We look to a variety of experts, including rabbis, musicians, educators, and artists, to help us become the best parents and people we can be. We invite you to join us for a cup of coffee, a free Jewish book, and other special programs and events. Let’s build our village together!
Albany Park's story of transformation is truly remarkable. What was once an upper-working class Jewish neighborhood in the early 1960's is now one of the most diverse neighborhoods in the US. The population has changed significantly, with many poverty-level and low-income working class residents coming from a variety of backgrounds. The foreign-born residents come predominantly from Latin America, but also from the Philippines, India, Korea, Cambodia, Somalia, the Former Yugoslavia, Romania, Pakistan and the Middle East. With over 40 different languages being spoken in its public schools, Albany Park is a vibrant and diverse community. The transformation of Albany Park over the last 40 years has been remarkable. From an upper-working class Jewish neighborhood to one of the most diverse in the US, its population has changed significantly. Residents come from a variety of backgrounds, mainly Latin American but also from the Philippines, India, Korea, Cambodia, Somalia, the Former Yugoslavia, Romania, Pakistan and the Middle East. This is a testament to the cultural richness of the community with over 40 different languages being spoken in its public schools.
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.