In the magical land of Illinois, where skyscrapers touch the clouds and cornfields stretch as far as the eye can see, there lived a group of extraordinary kids. These were not your average, run-of-the-mill, garden variety children. Oh, no! These girls and boys were the Sensory Play Squad, and they knew how to have fun! Led by their fearless leader, Splatter Sparkle Pop, a cool imaginary character who wore rainbow roller skates and had bubble gum for hair, they embarked on wild adventures. Splatter had the most extraordinary superpower - whatever he touched turned into an exciting sensory playground. Cornfields became crunchy popcorn pits, and skyscrapers turned into giant Lego towers! The Sensory Play Squad kids were experts at squishing and squashing, swirling and twirling. They could make a musical symphony from a pile of jelly, create a painting with just their feet, or build a castle out of spaghetti! They loved the feel of cool, squelchy mud between their toes, the tickle of feathers on their cheeks, and the pop of bubble wrap under their fingers. Their laughter filled the air, and their smiles were as wide as the Mississippi River that flowed beside their beautiful state. Every day was filled with new textures, sounds, sights, and smells, all enhancing their learning and spreading uncontainable joy. Squishy sponges, clattering cans, twinkling lights, and fragrant flowers. These sensory superstars knew that there's no better way to learn about the world than to dive in and experience it headfirst - whether it's a pile of leaves or a mountain of whipped cream! And so, in their cool, touching, and tasty ways, the Sensory Play Squad turned Illinois into the funniest, most giggly place to be. No kid could resist the charm of the Sensory Play Squad!
Read moremore sensory-play programs near Lane Frankfort, 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!
Wendy and DB have joined forces to create an exciting new music experience for kids and families. Through Wendy & DB, children can learn about the fundamentals of music and how to create and play their own tunes. Their program is designed to be engaging and fun, allowing kids to express themselves through music. Wendy Morgan and Darryl Boggs have combined their talents to bring music education to the community. Wendy began her journey with a music program at the Wilmette Park District, teaching and playing music with children. This program eventually developed into a live music show for the whole community to enjoy. Darryl has taught music in both private and public schools, and has a special passion for creating songs for primary school students. The duo now offers a unique musical experience for kids and families. Wendy and DB provide instruction in the fundamentals of music, allowing children to learn and explore music-making. Their engaging and enjoyable program encourages children to express themselves musically. Wendy and DB offer a special opportunity for children to learn and grow through music.
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.
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.
Parents looking for enriching experiences for their family will find plenty to do at the Palos Heights Parks and Recreation Department! Adults can take part in a variety of classes, ranging from art to cooking to fitness. Seniors can join a group to play bingo or bridge. Teens can join a sports team or take part in leisure activities. And preschoolers and young children can get creative with art projects, music classes, and more. The Palos Heights Parks and Recreation Department is the perfect place for families to have fun and learn together. Parents and their children can take part in a variety of activities, such as music classes, sports teams, cooking classes, and more. Seniors can socialize and join groups for bingo or bridge. Teens can explore their interests and develop their skills with leisure activities. And preschoolers can get creative with art projects. At the Palos Heights Parks and Recreation Department, there is something for everyone! Adults, seniors, teens, youth, and preschoolers can all experience the enriching activities offered. Take the opportunity to explore and learn together as a family and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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.
As the weather warms up in Highland Park, Illinois, parents and caregivers are looking for the perfect way for their kids to experience the great outdoors. Tinkergarten has the answer with their unique outdoor, play-based learning classes. Designed by education experts, these classes offer parents and caregivers the opportunity to use purposeful outdoor play to raise healthy, confident, and capable kids. With weekly sessions, a curriculum to extend the play at home, and a rich learning community, Tinkergarten is the perfect way for families to make the most of their kids’ early learning years. Families in Highland Park, Illinois will love the outdoor learning experience offered by Tinkergarten. Their play-based classes are designed to help parents and caregivers raise healthy, confident, and capable kids. Throughout Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter, parents can join their children in weekly sessions and extend the play at home with a curriculum provided by the Tinkergarten team. With this rich learning community, families can get outside and make the most of their kids’ early learning years. Tinkergarten is the perfect way for families in Highland Park, Illinois to experience the great outdoors while learning. With their play-based classes designed by education experts, parents and caregivers can help their children become healthy, confident, and capable. Weekly sessions provide an opportunity to engage in purposeful outdoor play and extend the lessons at home with the help of a curriculum and a rich learning community. With Tinkergarten, parents can get outside and make the most of their kids’ early learning years.
The YMCA provides a safe, supportive atmosphere where everyone is welcome, regardless of their background or ability level. With a mission to strengthen the community, the YMCA offers a variety of activities and programs that promote social, emotional, and physical growth. Whether it’s team sports, swimming, or after-school enrichment programs, the YMCA works to ensure that everyone is able to take part and make the most out of their experience. The YMCA is more than just a gym - it's a movement of people coming together to create positive change. Through quality programming, the YMCA provides a place for people to learn, grow, and develop into better versions of themselves. When you join the YMCA, you join a supportive community that helps you reach your goals and strive for personal excellence.
At Riverside Health Fitness Center, we recognize the importance of providing personalized care and support to each of our members. We strive to create an environment that encourages and celebrates healthy living, and we take pride in our ability to offer a wide range of services that meet each of our members’ individual needs. Whether you’re looking for a place to work out, get health and wellness advice, or access health services, Riverside Health Fitness Center is here for you. At Riverside Health Fitness Center, our goal is to provide our members with the tools they need to achieve and maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. We offer a variety of fitness classes, including yoga, Pilates, and Zumba, as well as state-of-the-art equipment and knowledgeable trainers. Our members also have access to health care services, such as nutrition counseling and preventive screenings. We are committed to providing our members with the best possible experience and helping them reach their health and fitness goals.
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.
Plus, the Rec Center is located at the beautiful new Preserve of Highland Park. This 100-acre park is a great spot to connect with family and friends, and take your fitness goals to the next level. At the Rec Center, we offer a variety of fitness classes that can help you reach your health and wellness goals. From cardio and strength classes to yoga and Zumba, our expert trainers will help you get the most out of your workout. And when the weather permits, our classes are held outside in the park, so you can enjoy the fresh air and the beauty of the outdoors while you get in shape. The Rec Center has been a cornerstone of the community for almost 20 years. Our mission is to provide a safe, welcoming environment for everyone to reach their health and fitness goals. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, we’re here to help you take your fitness journey to the next level. Come visit us at the Rec Center at the Preserve of Highland Park – we’re ready to help you become the best version of YOU!
At our facility, your little one can get involved in a range of exciting activities! We offer classes and open gym for ages walking all the way to adulthood. Our programs include USAG Levels for boys and girls, as well as Xcel boys and girls recreational gymnastics, competition dance, team and recreational parkour, and tumbling from All Star, Middle School, and High School Cheer. Is your little one looking for a fun activity? At our facility, we provide a full range of exciting classes and open gym options for all ages, from toddlers to adults! Our programs cover USAG Levels for boys and girls, as well as Xcel boys and girls recreational gymnastics, competition dance, team and recreational parkour, and tumbling from All Star, Middle School, and High School Cheer. Bring your child to our facility to explore a variety of activities and stay active! Our classes and open gym are designed for all ages, from walking toddlers to adults. We offer USAG Levels for boys and girls, as well as Xcel boys and girls recreational gymnastics, competition dance, team and recreational parkour, and tumbling from All Star, Middle School, and High School Cheer.
At My Gym, we’re passionate about inspiring children to reach their full potential. From the moment we opened our doors in 1983, we’ve been dedicated to helping children excel in a fun, physically engaging atmosphere. We cherish each milestone, from those wobbly first steps to tumbling down soft mats. Seeing parents’ faces light up with joy as their kids master new skills gives us great satisfaction. We believe that by creating a safe and loving environment, children of all abilities can succeed. That’s why, after 35 years, My Gym has expanded to over 700 locations worldwide, where children can grow and develop into happy and confident adults. Our mission is to give kids the tools they need to build strong self-esteem, and we’re proud to have all of our members join the My Gym family. As we continue to strive to help children reach their full potential, we’re excited to watch them grow and thrive.
At Bartlett Gymnastics Center, children of all ages are welcome. Parents can trust that their kids are in good hands with the highly dedicated staff. Children will learn the basics of gymnastics, build strength, and have lots of fun. It’s the ideal environment to help kids get off the couch and become more active. For parents looking for a great way to get their kids moving, Bartlett Gymnastics Center is the perfect place. With its dedicated staff and fun, active environment, kids are sure to have a great time. Join in the fun and get your kids off the couch today.
Full Life Karate for Kids is the perfect way for parents to help their children grow into confident leaders. ATA Martial Arts has been providing its members with a comprehensive road map to success since 1969. By teaching self-defense, confidence, and goal-setting skills, ATA Martial Arts has set kids up for a successful future. Not only is Full Life Karate for Kids a great way to raise confident leaders, but it also helps adults reach their true potential. Through ATA Martial Arts’s programs, adults have the tools they need to achieve their goals. With self-defense, confidence, and goal-setting skills, adults can reach their full potential. ATA Martial Arts has been helping its members reach their goals since 1969. Full Life Karate for Kids is the perfect way for parents to prepare their children to become confident leaders and for adults to reach their true potential. With self-defense, confidence, and goal-setting skills, ATA Martial Arts can help individuals of all ages reach their goals.
KH Kim Taekwondo - Plainfield Academy in Northbrook is the perfect place to enroll your child for martial arts training. Our school puts a strong emphasis on physical fitness, along with developing strong character traits such as self-esteem, resilience, focus, and respect. Our goal is to create a group of young people who are well-rounded and prepared to face the challenges of our global society. We provide an environment that encourages students to work together to build their physical strength and stamina, improve their focus and concentration, and gain self-discipline and self-defense skills. With our program, your child will gain a sense of self-confidence and a feeling of accomplishment that will stay with them for years to come.
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.
Raising a healthy, confident, and capable child is an important goal for all parents. This Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter, Tinkergarten is helping families in Maywood, Illinois get outside for some meaningful, purposeful outdoor play. Tinkergarten's classes are designed by education experts and are facilitated by certified, local leaders. Kids ages 1 to 8 can participate in activities that help them develop focus, persistence, creativity, problem-solving, empathy, and communication. Join other Maywood families for a free class or enroll for the season - and don't forget to nominate someone you think would make a great leader to start a new class. With Tinkergarten, every family can make the most of their kids' early learning years outdoors.
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!
Tinkergarten is the perfect way for Bloomington, Illinois families to make the most of their kids’ early learning years. Through live, weekly sessions, a curriculum to extend the play at home, and a rich learning community, Tinkergarten makes it easy for kids of all ages to get outside and experience the great outdoors during Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. All classes are developed and led by certified, trained, local leaders and designed to help kids develop focus, persistence, creativity, problem-solving, empathy, and communication. Join the other families in Bloomington, Illinois and start learning and playing outdoors today!
Tinkergarten makes it easy for families in Highland Park, Illinois to get outside and explore the great outdoors during Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Our play-based curriculum was created by education experts and designed to help kids learn important skills like focus, persistence, creativity, problem-solving, empathy, and communication. Each class is led by a certified, local leader and is tailored to kids ages 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8. Give your children the chance to experience outdoor learning and sign up for a free trial class today!
Tinkergarten classes make learning fun and engaging in all seasons! From Spring to Winter, families in the Lake In The Hills, Illinois area can join in with the guided outdoor activities that Tinkergarten provides. The classes are designed by early childhood education experts, and the curriculum helps parents and caregivers nurture healthy, confident, and capable kids. Tinkergarten has something for everyone - free classes, season-long classes, or even the opportunity to become a leader and start a new group. With weekly sessions, a curriculum to extend play at home, and a supportive learning community, Tinkergarten makes purposeful outdoor play doable for any family. Kids will be able to master skills such as focus, persistence, creativity, problem-solving, empathy, and communication - and have fun doing it!
At The Centre of Elgin, there’s something for everyone! Whether you’re a young student, a busy professional, or a retiree, you’ll find something to do at this 174,000 sq. ft. community recreation center. From fitness classes and aquatics centers, to racquetball and three court fieldhouses, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. Plus, there’s a banquet and conference center for special events, a group fitness area, and even a preschool and babysitting service. No matter your age or stage in life, you’ll find something enjoyable to do at The Centre of Elgin. So, why not come and check it out today? With so much to offer, you’re sure to find something to keep you busy and entertained.
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.
The Painted Turtle is CTF Illinois' newest addition to the downtown Tinley Park area. It is an art studio which provides individuals with disabilities the chance to learn new skills, take part in art therapy and create beautiful works of art which are then showcased in the storefront. They also have the opportunity to make money from their artwork by selling it at The Painted Turtle and at various community events. At The Painted Turtle, those with disabilities can discover their full potential through art. Each individual has the chance to explore and develop their abilities and create works of art that will be displayed in the storefront. With the help of art therapy, they can also earn money from their artwork by selling it at The Painted Turtle and at various local events. The Painted Turtle is a wonderful resource for those with disabilities in the Tinley Park area. It gives them the chance to express themselves through art and gain recognition for their work. With the help of art therapy, individuals can learn new techniques, create beautiful art pieces and gain financial independence by selling them in the storefront and at numerous community events.
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.
At SSSRA, we strive to provide individuals with disabilities or special needs with the opportunity to be involved in year-round recreation. Our organization is an extension of seven park districts and three recreation and parks departments, and we are committed to promoting the power of choice and enhancing the quality of life of individuals of all abilities. Our goal is to provide accessible recreation in an environment that promotes dignity, success, and fun. At SSSRA, we understand that recreation can have a powerful impact on the lives of individuals in the community. We are continuously evolving to meet the changing needs of our community and to ensure that we provide quality resources to make a positive difference. We believe in the inherent value of recreation for everyone, no matter their abilities. Our goal is to create a safe and fun environment where individuals can explore and develop at their own pace. We strive to provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere to ensure that everyone can participate and enjoy recreation in its fullest form.
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.
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 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.
At Gymboree Play & Music, we know that play is essential to the development of young children. That’s why we offer unique classes specifically designed to help your child reach their potential. Our play-based learning activities are designed to challenge your child physically, cognitively, and socially. Our experienced teachers provide a safe and supportive environment for you and your child to spend quality, uninterrupted time together. Our curriculum is based on the latest early childhood education ideology and can be tailored to your child’s individual needs, from birth to kindergarten. With Gymboree Play & Music, you can rest assured that your child is receiving the best possible start in life.