Deep in the heartland of America, nestled between the mighty Mississippi and the shimmering shores of Lake Michigan, lies the enchanting state of Illinois. It's a place where towering skyscrapers dance with the clouds in Chicago, and endless fields of corn sway in a symphony of green in the countryside. But Illinois isn't just about towering buildings and tickling cornstalks. Oh no, sirree! It's also home to a special group of kids brimming with imagination, ready to embark on a journey of magical words and whimsical tales. These are the Illinois Wordsmith Whizz-kids, known for their extraordinary writing abilities. They can spin stories that would make even the sleepiest of sloths jump up in amazement and the grumpiest of grizzly bears chuckle with delight! Leading this band of young, creative geniuses is the eccentric, hilarious Professor Pencilvester. With his rainbow-tinted glasses, a hat full of magic erasers, and a seemingly ordinary pencil tucked behind his ear, he encourages the Whizz-kids to scribble their dreams and doodle their wildest fantasies onto paper. Every day, these bright-eyed and bushy-tailed young authors gather around Professor Pencilvester, their faces glowing with excitement. They'd huddle in their cozy writing corner, with the Professor's pet, Inkspot the inky iguana, snoozing nearby. With a twinkle in his eye and a grin stretched ear-to-ear, Professor Pencilvester would announce, "Alright Whizz-kids, let's power up our pencils and dive into the world of words!" And just like that, the room would fill with the sound of stories and the magic of imagination, as these Illinois kids embarked on another exciting writing adventure!
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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.
The Ribbons of Resilience, Trust, and Strategy are designed to build and reinforce the lifelong skills that our military kids will need to meet future challenges. We could not be more proud of our military kids and the work they do to earn these Ribbons. Kids Rank Pride was founded in 2011 with the goal of supporting the social and emotional growth of military children through structured skill-building activities and providing recognition for their achievements. We are so proud of our military kids and the work they put in to earn the Ribbons of Resilience, Trust, and Strategy through Kids Rank Pride. These Ribbons are designed to help build and reinforce the lifelong skills that our military kids will need to meet future challenges. Kids Rank Pride was founded in 2011 with the mission of supporting the social and emotional growth of military children through structured skill-building activities and recognizing their achievements. Our Pride members work hard every week to build Youth Leadership through Pride Officer Positions, give back to their communities through Volunteer Service Projects, and connect to other military kids through games and activities.
Are you looking for the perfect instrument to help you make beautiful music? The Instrument Barn is the company you want to work with for all your music needs. All of our products go through a strict inspection process to ensure that you are getting exactly what you paid for. Plus, our instruments come with upgraded equipment to help you sound your best. At The Instrument Barn, we understand how important it is to make sure you get the instrument that is right for you. We encourage all of our customers to reach out to us via email or phone and talk to us about the instrument they are looking for. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to help you find the perfect instrument that will help you become the musician you want to be. At The Instrument Barn, our top priority is to make sure that our customers are satisfied with their purchase. We take great pride in providing you with the highest quality instruments and upgraded equipment that will help you reach your musical goals. So, if you’re looking for the perfect instrument for your music journey, look no further than The Instrument Barn.
For over four decades, Joe Ornelas has been at the helm of The Player’s Bench Music Store. After a few years spent working at the store, two dentists realized that their expertise was better suited to the dental field, and in 1976, Joe took the reins. Since then, The Player’s Bench has grown exponentially. With remodeling done both inside and out, the store has added teaching studios, a sound room, a guitar repair shop, and a rental department. Joe’s leadership has seen the store through two recessions and eight presidents, and The Player’s Bench is now a thriving business.
Tom Peters Guitar School offers guitar and music lessons for students of all ages and levels of experience in the beautiful town of Lockport, Illinois. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an advanced player, Tom Peters Guitar School has the perfect lesson plan for you. With experienced instructors and a fun learning environment, you’ll quickly become proficient in guitar playing and music theory. At Tom Peters Guitar School, we believe that learning music should be a fun and enriching experience. Our experienced instructors will help you develop the skills you need to reach your goals, and our relaxed atmosphere will make sure that you enjoy the process. We offer classes for all levels, ranging from beginner to advanced, and our classes are tailored to your individual needs. At Tom Peters Guitar School, we’re committed to helping you reach your musical goals. We think you’ll find our classes to be a great way to improve your guitar playing and music theory knowledge. With our experienced instructors, fun learning environment, and tailored classes, you’ll be playing like a pro in no time!
At CYT Chicago, we provide students with an opportunity to explore the performing arts in a safe and nurturing environment. Our after-school program is designed to give children and teens the tools to be creative, think critically, and work collaboratively. Students will have the chance to develop their skills in voice, drama, and dance while building self-confidence and making lasting friendships. We also offer a variety of other creative experiences, including 18 mainstage productions and week-long camps each summer. Our instructors are carefully selected professionals who are committed to helping our students reach their full potential. We strive to ensure that our classes and shows reflect our mission statement, values, objectives, and goals, so that our students can have the best experience possible.
The Theatre of Western Springs has grown from its humble beginnings in 1929, when Mary Cattell founded the Little Theatre of Western Springs. After outgrowing borrowed venues, the theatre launched a successful campaign to build its own 400-seat theatre building in 1961. The theatre has continued to thrive, adding a second, 150-seat black-box theatre in 1976. Today, the Theatre of Western Springs is a place for the entire community to come together and experience the joys of live theatre. With over 400 students trained each year, the Children’s Theatre of Western Springs produces 7 adult productions, 4 student productions, and a holiday show, making it an international leader in the creative arts.
Life Time Algonquin is an athletic country club that offers something for everyone. From the expansive fitness floor to the unlimited studio classes, basketball courts, eucalyptus steam rooms, and indoor and outdoor pools, you’ll find everything you need for a total body workout. Take your workouts to the next level with a Signature Membership. With this membership, you’ll receive unlimited group training and individualized attention. Plus, you’ll be able to customize your membership to fit your fitness goals. At Life Time Algonquin, build your membership today and enjoy the luxury of an athletic country club. With world-class amenities and personalized training, you’ll be on your way to a healthier lifestyle.
The Cary Community Pool provides a safe, secure, and nurturing environment for children to grow and learn. Our comprehensive program of developmentally appropriate activities fosters physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth, while also encouraging a lifetime love of learning. Our experienced staff is dedicated to creating a positive, sensitive, and responsive atmosphere to ensure that all children feel valued. The Cary Community Pool is conveniently located at 100 Cary-Algonquin Road in Cary. We are committed to providing a positive and supportive environment where children can learn, grow, and explore. Our team of qualified professionals is focused on helping children develop a love for learning through activities that are tailored to their needs. At the Cary Community Pool, we aim to create a safe and welcoming atmosphere where children feel appreciated. We strive to provide a positive and inclusive learning experience that leads to physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth. Our goal is to help children develop a lifelong passion for learning.
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.
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.
If you're looking for a unique way to get your kids outdoors in Naperville, Illinois this Spring, Summer, Fall, or Winter, Tinkergarten is the perfect choice. Our outdoor, play-based learning classes are designed by education experts and loved by all families. Through live, weekly sessions, a curriculum to extend the play at home, and access to a rich learning community, Tinkergarten makes purposeful outdoor play doable for every family. We provide certified, trained, local leaders to guide the activities and ensure that kids ages 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 get the most out of their experience. Get your kids outdoors today and start building skills like focus, persistence, creativity, problem-solving, empathy, and communication!
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.
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.
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 Montessori Children’s House of North Barrington, we can offer your family an educational experience tailored to meet the needs of today’s children. Our 3-acre campus and experienced staff provide the perfect environment for young minds to explore and develop. Our students learn in a structured but balanced setting, and are exposed to the most progressive methods of teaching in an authentic Montessori classroom. With nature and art activities, music and physical activity, your child can enjoy a unique learning experience. We look forward to welcoming you and your family to our Montessori community.
At Intellect Learning Center, our mission is to empower students to reach their full potential. We strive to provide a safe and supportive learning environment that encourages critical thinking, problem solving, and self-discovery. Our one-to-one and small-group instruction helps students build the skills and confidence to succeed in their studies. At Intellect Learning Center, we understand that every student has unique needs and learning styles. We work to foster an atmosphere of learning that is personalized and tailored to each student. Our goal is to help students find their own path to success by teaching them how to think and learn independently. Through our comprehensive curriculum, we provide the tools to help students reach their academic and personal goals. With our support, students can reach their highest 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.
Today, Inessa and Irina’s vision lives on in the form of a school that serves its own students and their families. Our teachers, many of whom are our own alumni, are proud to be part of an educational program that has been proven to foster growth and excellence. We take our responsibility to both our students and their families seriously, and strive to provide an environment of support and progress. Inessa and Irina’s legacy continues to be felt in the lives of our current students. As parents and educators, we are honored to be a part of this powerful movement. We strive to ensure that our children have the best learning experience possible, and our commitment to their academic success is our highest priority.
At Sylvan Learning of Forest Park/Oak Park, we understand that every student has different needs and goals. That’s why we customize our instruction to your child’s individual needs and abilities. Our teachers create engaging, hands-on learning activities that make learning fun and effective. Plus, we provide regular progress reports to keep you in the loop. As parents, it's important to give our kids the best tools to succeed in school. That's why Sylvan Learning of Forest Park/Oak Park is here to help. Our teachers are dedicated to providing personalized instruction to boost your child's academic confidence, ignite their intellectual curiosity, and foster a lifelong love for learning. With our guidance and support, your child will be prepared for the challenges of the school year, and will experience more success in the classroom.
At our programs, we strive to help your child do more than earn good grades and test scores. We aim to foster a lifelong passion for learning and to build a positive attitude towards academics. We encourage our students to think critically, solve problems, and learn how to take charge of their own education. We believe that education should go beyond teaching facts and figures. Our programs help kids think for themselves and develop crucial problem-solving skills that will serve them well in the future. We equip our students with the tools to become self-directed learners, while fostering a positive outlook on their educational journey. At our programs, we don’t just focus on the numbers. We strive to promote a life-long enthusiasm for learning and help our students develop a more positive attitude towards academics. We use activities that teach our students how to think critically and solve problems independently, giving them the confidence to take charge of their own education.
The Manteno Public Library District is a vibrant community hub that offers educational and cultural resources for lifelong learning. With a vast selection of materials and services, the library provides the residents of the Library District with the opportunity to reach their personal, educational, and informational goals. From convenient access to information to stimulating an interest in reading and learning, the library is a great resource for the entire community. The Manteno Public Library District is dedicated to helping the community thrive by providing quality resources for lifelong learning. With a wide variety of materials and services, the library makes it easy for residents to access the information they need and to explore their interests. The library also encourages an interest in reading and learning among all ages, making it a great place to go for everyone. The Manteno Public Library District is a vital asset to the community, providing educational and cultural experiences for all ages. From nurturing personal growth to offering a resource center for the entire community, the library provides an extensive selection of materials and services to help residents reach their informational, educational, and personal goals. With its commitment to lifelong learning, the Manteno Public Library District is a great place to explore and grow.
Parents Magazine is proud to announce the opening of Magical Minds Studio in 2008. This studio offers children 18 months and older an opportunity to experience hands-on learning through process-driven art. The studio was designed with an open floor plan to support the growth of the child, and contains a variety of creative spaces that include a maker space, ceramics studio and backyard. Reggio Emilia philosophy guides the studio’s learning activities, emphasizing exploration and collaboration. This unique environment cultivates problem solving skills in children of all ages from toddler to middle-schooler. Magical Minds Studio is a great place to nurture the curious minds of young learners.
With the support of the residents, the Lemont Township Park District was established in 1963. Its mission was and still is to provide the very best parks and recreation experiences to the community while being safe and fiscally responsible. Today, the Lemont Park District continues to carry out this mission, providing the community with safe and enjoyable outdoor experiences.
PrairieArt offers an innovative way to approach art education. The curriculum combines art with academic concepts, mirroring the world-renowned drawing program developed by Mona Brookes. Every week, a new theme is presented to students, giving them an opportunity to learn about the subject they are drawing while honing their techniques. A diversity of media and techniques are available for students to explore. With individualized attention, students are able to progress at their own pace, discovering their creative potential through realistic drawing. Structural guidance is provided to ensure success while allowing enough freedom for students to express themselves.
Parents in the Lockport Township area will be delighted to learn that the Park District recently has made a great effort to renovate and beautify existing parks, as well as create several new parks like Hawthorne Preserve, Sagebrook, and Oak Creek. Every park offers a range of recreational activities, including open play and spaces, playgrounds, sports fields, outdoor fitness trails, and more. There’s even a spray park and complete handicap access at each park. The Park District’s commitment to providing a great outdoor experience is exemplified by the recognition of Canyons, Dellwood Park’s Disc Golf Course. The course was recently rated #1 in Illinois and #5 in the world by UDisc.com. Altogether, the Lockport Township Park District maintains approximately 950 acres across 41 parks.
Drawing is an ideal medium for young learners as it engages both sides of the brain. Through the Young Rembrandts Method and curriculum, children are given the opportunity to learn in a way that is compatible with their growing minds. The classes provide the foundation for crucial brain-based learning, helping to foster the development of modern minds. Through these classes, children are able to gain the following skills:
The Bolingbrook Park District offers a wide variety of recreational activities and amenities for families in the community. Located in Bolingbrook, Illinois, the Park District is just a short 25 miles away from the city of Chicago, and serves a population of 76,272. With over 1,106 acres of land, the Bolingbrook Park District provides two community centers, an indoor/outdoor aquatic park, a golf course, a banquet facility and restaurant, a fitness center, two outdoor skate parks, a sports complex, and 50 parks with multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, and more. According to Money Magazine, Bolingbrook is one of the nation’s Top 100 Cities to Live. Residents and visitors of the Bolingbrook Park District can take advantage of the many recreational opportunities available. With all the amenities available in the park district, families can enjoy a variety of activities from picnics and sports to dining and leisurely walks. The Park District is a great place to spend quality time with family and friends.
Spend quality time with your little one and meet other moms in the area with Morning with Mommy. This program offers age-appropriate activities for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, so no matter your child's age, they can benefit from the fun. And it doesn't have to be done with mommy - whether you're a daddy, grandma, or caregiver, your little one will enjoy the time you spend together. Plus, all the planning is done for you - just show up and have fun! Make the most of your time with your little one and take part in the Morning with Mommy program. It's designed for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, so no matter your child's age, they can join in the fun. Plus, you don't have to do it alone - invite a daddy, grandma, or caregiver along too! And all the planning has been taken care of for you - just show up and get ready to have a great time!
The Manhattan-Elwood Public Library is committed to providing the community with the resources to promote enlightened citizenship and enrich personal lives. As a center of reliable information, it offers educational, civic, and cultural activities for groups and organizations, as well as opportunities and encouragement for all ages to educate themselves continuously. Additionally, the library strives to identify community needs and provide programs of service to meet them, including recreational opportunities through literature and other art forms.
The park system in Joliet had its start in 1899 when the City of Joliet purchased West Park (40 acres) and Highland Park (45 acres). These two parks served as the foundation for what is now the Joliet Park District. In 1920, the district was gifted 327 acres from the late Robert Pilcher, which were purchased from Harlow Higginbotham. This land is now known as Pilcher Park and is a great addition to the park district. The Joliet Park District has come a long way from the purchase of West Park and Highland Park in 1899, to the addition of Pilcher Park in 1920. It is now a thriving park system enjoyed by many local families.
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.
Are you looking for an exciting and creative way to spend your time? Join us at our watercolour painting workshop! No experience is necessary; our classes are designed for both beginners and intermediate levels. Over the course of each two to three hour session, you will learn new techniques while creating a masterpiece of your own. All supplies are sanitized and ready for use. On Saturday mornings, we also offer Mandalas for meditation. This is a great opportunity to relax and create an artwork that can help bring a sense of peace and joy into your life. Let our experienced artist guide you through the process and help you discover the beauty of watercolour painting. So come out and join us for a unique and rewarding experience. Let the calming power of art bring out your creative side!
In 1957, Jim Clarkson founded the Northfield Park District with a mission to meet the recreational needs of the community. Mr. Clarkson, who was also teaching Physical Education at Sunset Ridge School, began his park district work as a part-time proposition. Today, the Park District continues to serve the residents of Northfield, supervising the usage and maintenance of park resources and providing a variety of facilities, programs, and activities. Whether it's a game of pickup basketball or a nature walk in the woods, the Park District is dedicated to helping residents of all ages make the most of their leisure time.
Creative Arts, Inc. Fine Arts school is offering an incredible opportunity for your child to explore and express their creativity. Each week, they'll dive into new projects of drawing, painting, sculpting, and mixed media, all with the help of professional artists and quality materials. This art adventure is perfect for every child - whether they're a budding artist or are just starting out. They'll be able to experiment with different mediums and gain valuable insights from experienced professionals. Plus, they'll be able to create unique pieces of art that they can be proud of. Enroll your child in this art adventure today! Creative Arts, Inc. Fine Arts school is the perfect place for them to express their creativity and discover the joy of art. With weekly projects, quality materials, and professional artists, this is an opportunity your child won't want to miss.