best cooking programs in Crystal Lake, IL

Swift Nature Camp is the perfect place for your child to spend their summer! Our overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 is located in beautiful Wisconsin. We offer a unique blend of traditional summer camp activities and environmental education to help kids increase their appreciation for nature, science, and the environment. We’ve got it all – fun, friendships, adventure trips, and nature! Spend your summer with us – you’ll never forget it!

Illinois Extension is committed to providing practical, real-world solutions to some of today's most pressing issues. Our staff of experts are dedicated to translating cutting-edge research into meaningful changes that can help people, businesses, and communities. We have identified a select group of issues, which we refer to as grand challenges, to focus our efforts on and strive to make progress towards addressing them. At Illinois Extension, we are passionate about developing solutions to the grand challenges of today. Our team of experts works hard to translate cutting-edge research into practical applications that can benefit individuals, businesses, and communities. We are committed to making meaningful strides towards tackling the grand challenges and are driven by the desire to create positive change in our world.

One of the things that the Channahon Park District prides itself on is its commitment to providing a fun and safe environment for children to play in. The Park District has designed a variety of programs where children are encouraged to learn, grow, and interact with other children their own age. Parents have the opportunity to meet other parents and build relationships with people in the community. At the Channahon Park District, we are dedicated to providing a high quality experience for your family. We focus on creating a safe and fun environment for your children to learn, grow and make friends. Our programs are designed to help children build relationships with their peers and parents have the chance to meet other parents. We invite you to join us and take part in the activities offered at the Channahon Park District!

Are you expecting a baby or recently become a mom? FIT4MOM offers a variety of fitness classes and services to help ensure that moms stay physically and mentally strong during every stage of motherhood. FIT4MOM is the nation’s leading prenatal and postnatal fitness program. Our classes and activities provide a supportive environment for moms during their pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Our fitness and wellness programs help keep moms strong in body, mind, and spirit. FIT4MOM provides a comprehensive network of support for moms at any stage of motherhood. Our classes and activities offer a nurturing and positive environment for moms to stay fit and healthy during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. We provide the resources and support to help moms build strength and resilience in body, mind, and spirit.

Are you an expecting parent or do you have a child aged 0-3 living in Will, Grundy, Kendall, Kankakee, Iroquois, or Ford counties? If so, you’re in luck! Easterseals Joliet Region offers a free, home visiting program called Jumpstart to help you on your parenting journey. Jumpstart offers developmental screenings and activities, parenting enrichment, and support – all in the comfort of your own home and on your own schedule. No matter how hectic life with young children can get, Jumpstart makes it easy to give your child the nurturing and attention they need. Jumpstart from Easterseals Joliet Region is here to help families with expecting parents or those with children aged 0-3 in Will, Grundy, Kendall, Kankakee, Iroquois, and Ford counties. This free home visiting program provides a variety of services to make parenting easier, including developmental screenings, activities, support, and more. Visits are tailored to your schedule and conducted in the comfort of your own home – because we know that’s where children feel the most secure. With Jumpstart, you can give your child the attention and nurturing they need, no matter how busy life gets.

At the Crystal Lake Park District Nature Center, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the wonders of nature and the environment. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for the community by offering a variety of high-quality nature-based recreation opportunities. We provide formal and informal education programs, as well as the preservation and restoration of native ecosystems. We are constantly striving to upgrade our facilities and offer a wide array of activities, including hands-on activities, seasonal exhibits, and volunteer opportunities. Our location in Veteran Acres Park is the perfect spot to begin a journey into the nearby woods and prairie. Come join us and explore the wonders of nature.

For more than ninety years, the Forest Preserve District of Kane County has been dedicated to preserving and restoring the natural areas of the county. This has resulted in improved wildlife habitat and an overall higher quality of life for all county residents. The forest preserves of Kane County offer a wide variety of activities and sights, whatever the season. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk, camp out for the weekend, or have a picnic with friends and family. Nature enthusiasts can take advantage of the opportunity to learn about the local environment, watch birds, or even fish. Those looking for more active experiences can golf, ride horses, or even volunteer. All of this is set in a stunning backdrop of over 23,000 acres of woodland, wetlands, and prairies. Kane County is the perfect place to get out and enjoy the beauty of nature. With so much to explore and experience, the Forest Preserve District of Kane County invites you to come and explore.

Historic Wagner Farm is one of the North Shore's most beloved gems. The site of the highly popular Glenview Farmers Market, and Historic Wagner Farm Heritage Center, the farm is a wonderful educational destination for scout troops, schools, and visitors. Children of all ages can enjoy a unique learning experience with birthday parties and daily visits. The staff at the Wagner Farm is dedicated to providing a taste of local farm life from the past and the important role that farming plays in modern culture. They strive to create fascinating programs and events to educate and entertain. If you're looking for a unique and educational experience, Historic Wagner Farm is the perfect destination. Whether you're visiting with a scout troop, school, or just for a day, you'll gain an appreciation for the role of farming in today's culture. The staff creates fun programs and events to bring the past to life, ensuring a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. The farm also hosts the highly popular Glenview Farmers Market, bringing the community together to appreciate fresh, local produce. Historic Wagner Farm is truly a historic jewel of the North Shore.

At the Randall Oaks Zoo, families can explore the wonders of wildlife up close. Kids can come and meet the zoo's four-legged, furry, and feathered friends, with plenty of opportunities to brush, pet, and even feed them. This is a great way for children to gain a respect and appreciation for the natural world. The Randall Oaks Zoo is dedicated to connecting our community with wildlife and nature. Through these unique experiences, children can gain a sense of discovery and wonder in the world around them. With the chance to interact directly with the animals, kids will come away with a newfound appreciation for the natural world. For an unforgettable adventure, come to the Randall Oaks Zoo and explore with your family the wonders of nature and wildlife. Our mission is to provide unique experiences that create a sense of wonder, discovery, respect, and appreciation for the natural world. Come and meet all our four-legged, furry, and feathered friends up close with opportunities for brushing, petting, and feeding.

The Talking Farm is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2006 with a goal of connecting communities to the benefits of a healthy local food system. Today, they are achieving this goal in a variety of ways, from producing, distributing, and selling locally grown, nutritious food to teaching communities about sustainability, urban agriculture, horticulture, and biodiversity. The Howard Street Farm in Skokie, Illinois is the site for their 2.5-acre urban farm project. In the past decade, The Talking Farm has provided over 12 comprehensive, hands-on educational programs and over 3,000 learning hours at the Howard Street Farm. In addition, they have distributed over 21,000 pounds of locally grown produce to the community and have plans to distribute over 60,000 pounds by 2022. With the help of generous donations, The Talking Farm hopes to continue to expand the Howard Street Farm to include 2.5-acres of growing fields, edible woodlands, fruit and nut trees, a Greenhouse, and a Welcome Center that doubles as an indoor learning space.

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.

The Center is dedicated to helping people of all ages, backgrounds, and faiths explore their potential. We provide an environment for people to dream and grow into their fullest selves, both mentally and spiritually. Our focus is helping individuals become physically, emotionally, and spiritually alive. At the Center, we recognize that each person's journey to reach their full potential is unique. We are committed to providing a safe and nurturing space for people of all backgrounds and faiths to explore and discover their inner strength. We strive to help individuals become physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually vibrant.

Bring the whole family to discover how to love and care for trees at the Morton Arboretum! With 16 miles of hiking trails and nine miles of driving and biking roads, there's something for everyone. Kids can learn about the diverse collection of trees from around the world while enjoying the beautiful natural landscapes. And you can be sure to find plenty of educational activities to keep them entertained. Open 365 days a year from 7 a.m. to sunset, the Arboretum is the perfect place to spend a day or more outdoors. The Arboretum is also committed to protecting and preserving our environment. They conduct leading scientific research on tree health and improvement and collaborate with organizations throughout the region and around the world to ensure trees thrive. By visiting the Arboretum, you can be part of a greater effort to plant and conserve trees for a greener, healthier, and more beautiful world. Make sure to check out the Arboretum’s website for more information about their mission and upcoming events.

, relaxation, and time with friends and family is all part of what makes our club such a special place to be. At Valley Lo Club, we provide a family-friendly retreat for the whole family. Our beach, golf course, and full-service clubhouse make the perfect backdrop for a memorable day. From fine dining to social clubs, our club offers something for everyone. Enjoy a round of golf or a game of tennis, or take advantage of our waterfront activities. Whether you’re looking to relax or be active, Valley Lo Club has something for you. We strive to make our club a year-round vacation spot in your own backyard. Our wedding venues provide the perfect setting for special occasions, and plenty of activities ensure that all members of the family will find something to enjoy. Spend a day with friends or family, or cozy up for a romantic evening. With a variety of sports, relaxation, and fun, Valley Lo Club is the perfect getaway for any occasion.

The Glenview Park District is a unique governing body, separate from the Village of Glenview. For nearly a century, the Park District has met the recreational and open space needs of the community through collaboration and cooperation with various governmental entities and community organizations. The Park District is dedicated to creating a harmonious and healthy community in which everyone can appreciate the environment and experience happiness and good health each day. The Glenview Park District has a long history of serving the local community. Its independence from the Village of Glenview makes it a unique governing body. Through its relationships with other governmental bodies and community organizations, it has been able to meet the recreation and open space needs of the community for almost a hundred years. The Park District is devoted to maintaining a supportive and healthy community in which all residents can find joy and well-being, and have a deep admiration for the environment. This mission is at the heart of its purpose and drives its activities each day. The Glenview Park District is an integral part of the community, providing recreational opportunities and access to open spaces for the last hundred years. Its independence and collaborations with other governing bodies and organizations have enabled it to meet the needs of the community. Above all else, it seeks to create an environment of health, happiness, and respect for the environment for everyone.

At Ivy League Kids, we believe that out of school hours are a pivotal time for children to experience growth and development that will set them up for success in school and in life. Our before and after school program focuses on fitness, recreational activities, and academic enrichment in a healthy, safe environment. Our passionate and experienced staff are committed to providing a fun-filled, rewarding program that supports the physical, mental and emotional growth of students from Kindergarten through 8th grade. We strive to provide an enriching and supportive atmosphere to help children reach their full potential.

The Park District and Park Foundation are collaborating to ensure that all park district residents have access to the recreational programs. To this end, assistance is provided to those facing financial hardship. This program is available to all who live in the park district boundaries and are in need of assistance. Individuals who have special medical, physical, psychological, and/or emotional needs or receive special services from the school district are also encouraged to reach out to the Park District. The staff at Lincolnway Special Recreation Association will work with the Park District to provide reasonable accommodations to participants with disabilities. Participants who would like to request inclusion services are asked to complete the appropriate forms provided by the Park District.

We provide year-round recreation experiences tailored to meet the needs of individuals with all types of disabilities. At NISRA, our mission is to enrich the lives of people with disabilities through meaningful recreation experiences. We strive to provide a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. Our certified staff and volunteers work closely with each individual to ensure that their interests and abilities are taken into consideration. We offer a variety of recreational activities, from bowling and adaptive sports to educational classes and leisure trips. NISRA is committed to providing accessible and engaging programming for people with disabilities. We strive to create a safe and inclusive atmosphere for all who participate in our programming. Our highly trained staff and volunteers are dedicated to creating meaningful experiences for each person that visit us. We are proud to be an extension of 13 park districts and municipal recreation departments, providing year-round recreation for the local community.

The Bradley Public Library District is dedicated to providing exceptional service to the members of the community. With a focus on providing access to technology, expanding early childhood education, and encouraging a love of reading, the Library strives to help individuals reach their educational goals. As part of this mission, the Library is supported by the Friends of the Bradley Library, who advocate for the Library’s needs, and raise funds to help fund programs, services, and materials purchases. The Bradley Public Library District is a cornerstone of the community, offering friendly service, state-of-the-art collections, and enriching programs. To make sure the Library is able to support the educational growth of its residents, the Friends of the Bradley Library are committed to advocating for library services, and providing essential monetary support. Through fundraising activities, the Friends of the Library help the Library continue to provide access to technology, early childhood education, and a love of reading.

Parents Magazine is proud to present College of DuPage, the second largest provider of undergraduate education in the state of Illinois, after University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. College of DuPage offers 71 Associate in Applied Science degrees in 41 different career and technical education subject areas, as well as 160 certificates in 46 different career and technical education subject areas. Parents Magazine is also proud to report that College of DuPage has partnered with prominent universities to offer high caliber bachelor’s degree programs at a reduced cost. Parents Magazine is also pleased to report that students of College of DuPage have the option of attending classes on the College’s 273 acre Glen Ellyn campus, at five regional centers, and at area high schools and other community locations. Furthermore, College of DuPage is nearing completion of a 12-year, $600 million building plan that has included the construction and renovation of more than one million square feet of educational space. Parents Magazine is proud to highlight College of DuPage and encourages parents to look into the institution for their children’s higher education. College of DuPage offers a wide range of educational opportunities and provides an excellent learning environment for its students.

The BTPD is dedicated to enriching the quality of life in the community through recreation, education, and preservation. Our mission is to provide families with a variety of recreational opportunities and activities. As a Park District, we are responsible for preserving open space, developing parks, and providing recreational programs for people of all ages. The BTPD offers four facilities to the community, including Recreation Station, Exploration Station, a children’s museum, and Willowhaven Park & Nature Center. We also have four parks, Perry Farm Park, Diamond Point Park, Willowhaven Park & Nature Center, and Turnberry Park. Every park offers a unique and exciting atmosphere where families can come together and enjoy time together. The BTPD is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for people of all ages. We strive to ensure that all of our parks and facilities are well maintained and offer a wide range of recreational activities. Through our recreational programs, educational opportunities, and preservation efforts, we aim to make the BTPD a place where families can come together and make memories that last a lifetime.

As a member of the C.W. Avery Family YMCA, you become part of a movement focused on improving the health of the community and yourself. The YMCA is dedicated to providing programs that help to strengthen the spirit, mind, and body of all its members. Their mission is to promote Christian principles through the various activities and resources offered. The C.W. Avery Family YMCA is committed to helping individuals and families achieve and maintain their health goals. Through a variety of programs, the YMCA works to build a healthier and stronger community. From group fitness classes to youth sports, the YMCA has something to offer everyone. By joining the YMCA, you become part of a movement that is focused on improving the health of the community and yourself.

Camp Commotion has it all! Adventure, fun, and new experiences. We make sure every day is safe and that your kids have an amazing summer! Our staff is dedicated to providing the best camp experience for each and every one of our campers. Whether you're looking for a full-time summer care option or just a few days of fun and excitement, Camp Commotion is the place to be!

At SWSRA, we are committed to providing quality special recreation programs for individuals with disabilities. We strive to meet the changing needs of our participants and our member communities, and consistently set new standards of value. We believe that recreation is necessary for all persons in our member communities to experience and enjoy positive leisure opportunities. SWSRA takes photographs or video of participants for promotional purposes, including brochures, website, and agency social media. Participants or parents/guardians of a minor participant irrevocably agree to the use and distribution of images without inspection or approval and without compensation or rights to royalties. We are proud to be able to provide our participants with this opportunity.

For parents looking to engage their children in fun and educational activities during the school year, the Chicago Botanic Garden offers day camps during winter, spring, and summer school breaks, as well as school days off. These camps are staffed by highly qualified professionals and are accredited through the American Camping Association. Children can explore the Garden and all nature has to offer through a variety of activities including plant and nature investigations, science and art projects, and outdoor explorations. Register your children today to experience the Garden's exciting and educational adventures! Make the most of school breaks and days off with the Chicago Botanic Garden's day camps! Led by a team of highly qualified staff and accredited by the American Camping Association, the Garden offers a range of activities that will keep your children engaged and entertained. From plant investigations and outdoor discoveries to science and art projects, your children can explore the Garden and all it has to offer. Give your children the opportunity to participate in these action packed adventures and register them today! Take advantage of the Chicago Botanic Garden's day camps and keep your children engaged in fun and educational activities throughout the school year. Highly qualified professionals lead the camps, which are accredited by the American Camping Association, and feature a variety of activities including nature and plant investigations, science and art activities, and outdoor explorations. Let your children experience the Garden's exciting and educational adventures and register them today!

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!

The Glenview Park District works tirelessly to create a safe and vibrant community. As an independent organization, separate from the Village of Glenview, the Park District has been able to provide recreational and open space needs for the area for over a century. With the help of other local government organizations and community groups, the Glenview Park District has been able to make sure the area is filled with happiness and health, and that everyone is able to appreciate the environment around them. The Glenview Park District has been a pillar of the community for nearly a hundred years. Their goal is to ensure that everyone in the area has access to recreational activities, open spaces, and a supportive environment. They work in cooperation with other government bodies and community organizations to provide these services and to make sure that everyone is able to lead a happy, healthy life. At the Glenview Park District, they recognize the importance of the environment and strive to foster a deep appreciation for it. Through their efforts, the Park District has been able to create a safe and inviting community for everyone to enjoy. They are dedicated to making sure that the area remains this way, and will continue to meet the needs of the community for many years to come.

Since its inception, Apachi has been the secret sauce of summer for over 5,000 campers throughout the Chicago area. At Apachi, campers have an opportunity to spread their wings and test the waters. From arts & crafts to swimming and outdoor sports, Apachi provides campers with a safe space to explore, discover and learn new skills. Campers are also encouraged to push their envelope and find their bliss while partaking in various team building activities and field trips. Apachi Day Camps provide a unique summertime experience that gives kids a chance to explore, learn and grow. With its special blend of activities, Apachi offers campers a safe environment to have fun, make friends and gain valuable life skills. Over 5,000 children have been able to enjoy the benefits of Apachi every summer since its inception, making it the secret sauce of summer for Chicago-area kids.

At CKC, we strive to create an environment where children can feel safe, comfortable, and accepted. Our program offers kids a chance to explore their interests, express themselves, and develop life-skills that will serve them in the future. We strive to build the confidence and motivation necessary for children to achieve more on their own. Our supportive and inclusive setting allows children to grow creatively and independently, while building social skills and exploring the world around them.

For 50 years, the Chicago Botanic Garden has been a beautiful place to visit. Now, it is one of the world's great living museums and conservation science centers. Spanning 385 acres and including 28 gardens and four natural areas, the Garden offers something for everyone. Its Bonsai Collection is renowned, and its Lenhardt Library contains 150,000 volumes, including an impressive collection of rare botanical books. Each year, more than one million people visit the Garden to take part in programs and classes, stroll the grounds, and explore the nine laboratories of the Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Plant Conservation Science Center. With over 50,000 members, it is one of the largest memberships of any U.S. botanic garden. The Garden is also accredited by the American Association of Museums, showing its commitment to excellence in all areas.

The Hampshire Park District is an important part of the local community, providing an array of recreational opportunities for families. The District is responsible for managing a number of park facilities, including gymnasiums, soccer fields, and basketball courts. All of these facilities are well-maintained and provide a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors. At the Hampshire Park District, families can enjoy a variety of activities, from sports to leisure activities. Gymnasiums are available for basketball, volleyball, and other indoor sports. Soccer fields offer an opportunity to play the world’s most popular game, while basketball courts provide space for pick-up games and friendly competitions. The Hampshire Park District is a great place for families to come together and have fun. With its well-maintained facilities and wide range of recreational activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From sports to leisure activities, the Hampshire Park District offers something for everyone.