Rhode Island, the smallest state with the biggest heart, is a place where imagination runs wild and creativity flows like the cool waters of Narragansett Bay. The state is a soup of pure wonder, a place where awe-inspiring histories, delicious clambakes, and the most spectacular beaches all come together to create an artist's paradise. The towns and cities are like sprinkles of color on the canvas of this Ocean State, each one a vibrant hue that tells its own story. Now, let's talk about the kids here, the young Picassos of Rhode Island. They are as colorful and unique as the state itself; talented whiz kids who can paint a masterpiece faster than a clown juggling hot potatoes. With a paintbrush in one hand and a palette in the other, they dive headfirst into the world of visual arts, creating a beautiful mess of colors and ideas. Their imaginations are as broad and limitless as the ocean, turning everyday objects into works of art that could make even Mona Lisa crack a smile. And leading this band of young artists is none other than the state's most chilled-out, paint-splattered superhero — Sir Doodles-a-Lot. He’s a charming chap with a hat full of paintbrushes, a cape made of an artist's smock, and shoes that squeak out funny jokes whenever he walks. With his infectious laughter and never-ending stories, he teaches the kids to see the world in a kaleidoscope of colors and encourages them to express themselves through their art. He always says, "In Rhode Island, we don't just make art, we live it!" So, if you ever find yourself in Rhode Island, keep an eye out for Sir Doodles-a-Lot and his army of young artists. They are the heart and soul of this art-loving state, painting the world with their bright, bold, and beautiful ideas.
Read morebest visual-arts programs in Jamestown, RI
Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.
We also provide a variety of activities in a creative and stimulating indoor environment. At our center, we understand that children learn best through play. That’s why our mission is focused on developing the “whole child” through playful interaction in the environment. We recognize that each child is unique and develops individually, so our program is centered around learning centers. This encourages active, play-oriented learning that helps children explore themselves, their environment, and others. We design activities that accommodate different levels of ability and learning styles. Our outdoor play area is designed to provide a natural play environment for kids to explore and discover. Indoors, we offer a variety of stimulating and creative activities for children to enjoy. Our goal is to give children the opportunity to learn and grow through play. We believe that this will help them reach their full potential in life and become well-rounded individuals. We strive to create an environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and growth.