In the thrill-filled state of Illinois, where skyscrapers and cornfields share the horizon, a group of spirited kids has taken the plunge into the world of swimming. They're part of the "Illinois Water Wizards", a remarkable swim team, led by none other than the fantastically funny, Freddy the Fish-Finned Frog. Freddy was no ordinary frog; he was born with flippers instead of webbed toes, making him the Michael Phelps of the amphibian world. With his shiny goggles and his sparkling green speedo, Freddy was the perfect swimming coach for these young, determined Illinois kids. Each day, these Water Wizards would gather around the edge of the great Lake Michigan, donning their vibrant and slick swimsuits, chattering and laughing, their spirits as high as the Willis Tower. They'd listen attentively as Freddy, with his hilarious water splashing antics and slippery dive demonstrations, taught them the art of swimming. Whether it was the butterfly, breaststroke, or backstroke, these Illinois kids were ready to dive in. They were as fearless as the mighty Mississippi River that bordered their state, and as adventurous as the explorers who once tread the Illinois prairies. Their laughter echoed across the lake, their splashes sent ripples across the water, their determination warmed the hearts of those watching. The Land of Lincoln transformed into the Land of Swimming, where kids, under the guidance of Freddy, discovered that swimming was not just about propelling through water, but also about building friendship, embracing fun, and diving deep into the pool of life's adventures. The Water Wizards were indeed, the swimming champions of Illinois.

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best swimming programs in Chicago, IL

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Hello, craft aficionados, and welcome to Crafts Zone! This is your portal into a realm where imagination and education intertwine. Our bespoke crafting workshops are designed to engage both your creative flair and your thirst for knowledge. To keep you abreast with the latest trends and techniques in crafting, we've devoted a fifth of our sessions entirely to learning. Prepare yourself for an exciting journey of creating and connecting as these constitute the major portion of our workshops, a staggering 70% to be precise! You'll be offered ample opportunities to convert your innovative concepts into tangible creations and also get to know other art enthusiasts. Embrace the joy of crafting something magnificent along with forging friendships with like-minded individuals. And we certainly can't overlook the aspect of relaxation! Here at Crafts Zone, we set aside 10% of our time to simply unwind and recharge. We fully endorse the therapeutic effects of crafting and are firm believers in the stress-relieving properties of creative expression. So, come and soak in the serene, artistic ambiance. Be sure to keep an eye out for our forthcoming workshops. At Crafts Zone, your creative voyage is just getting started!

Natick, MA 01760
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Every summer, campers and staff from all around the globe, and from a variety of backgrounds, return to their own special home away from home. At our camp in Central Wisconsin, situated on an 80-acre lakefront compound, there’s never a shortage of activities and experiences for everyone to enjoy. From biking around Stratton Lake to water skiing, drama, rock climbing, and arts & crafts, our campers can stay busy for hours on end. At our camp, campers can explore, take on new challenges, and make lifelong friendships. Our campers and staff come from all walks of life, and every year they return to our camp to enjoy new experiences, make memories, and have the time of their lives. The beautiful lakefront facility in Central Wisconsin provides the perfect place for campers to explore, challenge themselves, and make lasting friendships.

Chicago, IL 60640
5(3 reviews)
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Our travelers often come back with a better understanding of the world and the people in it. They are more aware of their global context and the need to make a difference. Through their service and stewardship of the natural world, our travelers learn to appreciate and respect the beauty of the places they visit. We strive to make a lasting impact on our travelers. We believe that the experiences we provide have the power to change young people’s lives. We are passionate about giving our travelers the opportunity to not only explore the world but also to make a meaningful impact on the places they visit. We want them to gain the skills, knowledge, and connections necessary to help make the world a better place.

Chicago, IL 60647
5(5 reviews)
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At Camp One Step, we've been bringing joy, support, strength, and hope to campers and their families since 1978. Our camps and digital programs are designed for kids with cancer, their siblings, and even their parents. We believe that inclusion, accessibility, and connections are the key to creating a meaningful experience. Camp One Step builds lifetime friendships and helps kids reclaim the joy of childhood while allowing families to feel a sense of wholeness. We are passionate about creating a safe and welcoming environment for all campers and their families.

Chicago, IL 60610
5(5 reviews)
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The YMCA is the leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by supporting young people, enriching the health and well-being of all ages, and inspiring action in our communities. The YMCA is an organization like no other. Our mission is to make an impact in our communities – to help empower young people and improve the health and wellbeing of all ages. We believe that by connecting people to their potential, purpose and each other, we can bring about positive change in 10,000 communities across the country. At the YMCA, we are dedicated to making a difference. We create partnerships with local organizations to bring about real change and create a better future for our communities. We are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for young people to grow and become the leaders of tomorrow.

Chicago, IL 60610-3316
4.2(5 reviews)
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At Lakeshore Sport & Fitness at Illinois Center, we understand that family dynamics are changing and that’s why we are here to provide the best services and events for the growing family community. We strive to create an enjoyable atmosphere and to provide the best possible experience for our members and their families. We look forward to welcoming you to the Lakeshore Sport & Fitness at Illinois Center family.

Chicago, IL 60614
4.3(3 reviews)
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Eckhart Park is a great resource for the West Town community! It boasts 8.85 acres of indoor and outdoor fun. With an indoor swimming pool, two gymnasiums, a fitness center, and a boxing center, the park offers something for everyone. What's more, the outdoors of Eckhart Park provides plenty of fun for families. Enjoy baseball diamonds, an athletic field for football and soccer, and a playground with a water spray feature. Plus, the playground was recently renovated in Summer 2014 as part of Mayor Emanuel's Chicago Plays! Program. Finally, Eckhart Park is home to a community garden. Residents can come together to learn about gardening techniques and cultivate their own plants. With all the amenities Eckhart Park has to offer, it's a great resource for the West Town community!

Chicago, IL 60642
4.8(5 reviews)
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Our Jump Start Clinics are perfect for kids ages four months and up, while our Swim Force program offers an opportunity for competitive swimmers to take their skills to the next level. At Goldfish Swim School, we know that swimming is about more than just the physical activity. Our holistic approach, The Science of SwimPlay®, is designed to help children develop important life skills in and out of the water. Through play-based learning, we make swimming fun and safe so that kids can learn the skills they need to succeed in life. Goldfish Swim School offers a variety of swim classes and programs for children, starting from four months old. We are dedicated to helping your child learn with our cutting-edge facilities and our Jump Start Clinics and Swim Force program. With our holistic philosophy, The Science of SwimPlay®, your child can learn important life skills in a safe and enjoyable environment. With Goldfish Swim School, your child can make waves in life.

Chicago, IL 60618
4.9(5 reviews)
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Midtown offers an entirely new way to experience health and wellness! With personal attention, active communities, and a wide range of boutique fitness classes, Midtown is the perfect place to get fit. With over 100 classes each week, from yoga to cycling to boxing and more, you can find something to suit your fitness level. Professional instructors are on-hand to guide and motivate you, and top of the line athletic equipment is provided to help you get the most out of your workout. Enjoy a resort-like atmosphere while you get fit and healthy! At Midtown, health and wellness have been taken to the next level. With personal attention, access to active communities, and an unlimited selection of boutique fitness classes, you can redefine your fitness and wellness routine. With over 100 classes each week, ranging from yoga to boxing, led by knowledgeable instructors, you’ll be able to reach your goals in no time. Enjoy the use of top of the line athletic equipment and a resort-like atmosphere as you take charge of your health and wellness. Midtown is the perfect place to elevate your health and wellness! Enjoy the supportive community, personalized attention, and access to the best athletic equipment and boutique fitness classes available. With over 100 classes each week, from yoga to boxing, you can find something to suit your fitness level. All classes are taught by experienced instructors, and the resort-like atmosphere makes it easy to relax and unwind after your workout. Come experience health and wellness like never before at Midtown!

Chicago, IL 60618
4.9(5 reviews)
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Named for the English statesman Edward Hyde, the Clarendon Community Center has been providing quality recreational and educational activities to Chicago residents since its transformation from a municipal beach in the late 1930s. The facility, once home to 9,000 swimmers, now boasts two gymnasiums, clubrooms, a playground, and an athletic field. It continues to bring Chicago families together with its wide range of activities, from swimming lessons to after-school programs. An important part of the city's history, the Clarendon Community Center is a shining example of the Chicago Park District's commitment to providing quality recreational opportunities for all city residents.

Chicago, IL 60640
5(5 reviews)
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For the sports-minded, there's a fitness center, indoor swimming pool, and gymnasium at Gill Park. Plus, the park is equipped with a t-ball field and playground, offering plenty of outdoor fun. Families can also take advantage of the park's assembly hall, which has a portable stage, as well as its kitchen and several clubrooms for rental.

Chicago, IL 60613
4.3(2 reviews)
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Jon and Susan Foss founded Foss Swim School in 1993 with the purpose of making kids safer in the water and teaching them to love swimming. Over the last 25 years, the Foss team has developed a program to yield the best results for their students. The curriculum is based on a personalized Swim Path® that systematically progresses each swimmer from one level to the next. This technique has been used and proven to be successful for many years. The Foss Swim School team is made up of certified instructors who make learning to swim fun and engaging. Their passion for teaching children to swim and their enthusiasm for the sport can be seen in every swim lesson. They strive to create a safe and supportive environment where swimmers can get the most of their swim experience. The Foss Swim School program focuses on developing skills and instilling a love of swimming in each student. With the help of their Swim Path® curriculum, swimmers are able to move along their journey with confidence and understanding. The combination of the experienced staff, the personalized program, and the enthusiasm for the sport make this an effective and enjoyable program for all ages.

Chicago, IL 60657
5(4 reviews)
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At British Swim School, we understand the importance of teaching children water safety and swimming skills from an early age. We have designed our program to meet the needs of everyone from infants and toddlers to adults of all ages. Our unique approach combines a survival-first philosophy with gentle teaching methods, allowing us to provide the most comprehensive learn-to-swim experience. For more than 40 years, British Swim School has been the preferred choice for parents and students. Our program has been proven to be safe, fun, and effective, helping each participant become a safer, stronger swimmer. We are proud to be the premier learn-to-swim provider for people of all ages and experience levels.

Chicago, IL 60611
5(5 reviews)
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At the Chicago Blue Dolphins, we are passionate about helping people of all ages learn to swim. Our unique swim instruction and training programs have been praised by the Chicago Tribune, the Chicago Tribune Magazine, Chicago Magazine, Chicago Athlete, Windy City Sports, the Chicago Reader, and US Masters Swimmer. Our approach allows people of any age—from 6 months to 78 years—to get into the pool and find a love for the water. At Chicago Blue Dolphins, we believe swimming can be a transformative experience. For those who are new to the sport, we offer the opportunity to learn the basics of swimming and open the door to a lifetime of enjoyment. For veteran swimmers, our instruction can help you refine your technique and find new ways to enjoy the sport. No matter what your age or skill level, we are here to help you make the most of your swimming experience.

Chicago, IL 60614
5(5 reviews)
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At AquaMermaid, we specialize in making mermaid dreams come true! We offer mermaid swimming lessons, mermaid fitness memberships, and entertainment services. Our experienced and talented mermaid swimming coaches provide a fun and safe environment for everyone to learn mermaid swimming and enjoy the joy of being a mermaid. With our help, thousands of people have been able to share our passion for mermaid swimming. At AquaMermaid, we are dedicated to providing our clients with the best possible experience. Whether our clients are looking for discovery lessons, private parties, fitness memberships, or entertainment events, we take pride in delivering outstanding customer service. Our team is committed to making sure all our clients have a magical experience.

Chicago, IL 60612
5(3 reviews)
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Finding the right day camp for your child can be daunting. You want them to have fun and make friends, but you also want them to be safe and supervised. Kids Playing Camp Inc. offers the perfect solution. At Kids Playing Camp Inc., they take supervision seriously. They employ adults, not high school kids, meaning your child is in the capable hands of experienced coaches, teachers, and college students. What’s more, they have a 1 to 6 ratio, meaning one adult for every six kids. This ensures that your child is getting the one-on-one attention they need to thrive. Safety is paramount at Kids Playing Camp Inc., and they wouldn’t have it any other way. Your child will be able to have fun and make friends in a safe and supervised environment – the perfect combination for a fun and enjoyable day camp experience.

Chicago, IL 60625
5(4 reviews)
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Based out of JCYS Lincoln Square Ravenswood, campers can spend their days crafting art projects, learning yoga poses, singing songs, and even swimming. Not to mention, special workshops hosted by experts in sports, arts and crafts, and more! Kids will come home each day with stories to tell and new skills to show off. Big City Day Camp gives city kids a chance to find their creative outlets and have fun outdoors. From JCYS Lincoln Square Ravenswood, campers can embark on a summer of exploration, with plenty of activities to keep them busy. Swimming, art projects, yoga classes, and singing – the possibilities are endless. Plus, the opportunity to learn from experts in sports, arts and crafts, and more! When the day is done, your little one will be ready to tell you all about their exciting adventures. Make this summer unforgettable for your city kid at Big City Day Camp. Based out of JCYS Lincoln Square Ravenswood, campers can dive into a world of stories, crafts, music, swimming and more. With special workshops from top-notch experts in sports, arts and crafts, and more, your child will come home full of energy and excitement, eager to share their new experiences. Make this summer the best yet with Big City Day Camp!

Chicago, IL 60613
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The Ray Meyer Fitness and Recreation Center at DePaul University is the perfect place to introduce your child to a healthy lifestyle! Spanning 120,000 square feet, the Center offers a wide variety of activities for all ages. With four basketball courts, six lanes of pool, numerous cardio machines, three racquetball courts, and strength training equipment, the Center is equipped to provide hours of exercise and enjoyment. Plus, there's a big-screen TV and cafe for those wanting to socialize. With youth programs that provide a fun approach to physical fitness, you can be sure your child will develop a lifelong love of physical activity at the Ray Meyer Fitness and Recreation Center.

Chicago, IL 60614
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At EBC we believe that every child can benefit from participating in fun and engaging activities. That’s why our Family & Kids team offers a range of exciting programs for children of all ages. From fitness clinics to art and dance classes, we have something to suit every child’s interests. Our team of experienced professionals, including fitness, swimming, tennis and golf pros, has built strong relationships with the kids we serve over the years. At EBC, we strive to make sure every child has the opportunity to explore their creative side, build physical strength, and enjoy meaningful experiences. Our comprehensive range of programs are designed to equip children with skills they will carry with them for life. Whether they’re attending our fitness clinics, art classes, or swimming lessons, kids will be surrounded by an encouraging and supportive environment. Our Family & Kids team is dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all children. We understand the importance of providing children with the best possible experience, and our staff of professionals are passionate about helping kids reach their goals. With years of experience, our fitness, swimming, tennis and golf pros are committed to building lasting relationships with the kids we serve. Our team works hard to ensure each child has a positive and rewarding experience.

Chicago, IL 60654
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Through exploration, creativity, and teamwork, kids will be able to have a blast while learning new skills and pushing their boundaries. Our counselors and staff will ensure that all campers are having the best summer ever, as they work together to conquer the toughest of challenges. So come join us for a summer of fun, growth, and discovery!

Chicago, IL 60641
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The Kelly Hall YMCA is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for everyone who walks through our doors. Our programs are designed to promote healthy lifestyles and to help children, families, and communities grow and thrive. By investing in the YMCA, you are helping us offer these essential programs and services to the community. At the Kelly Hall YMCA, we are dedicated to providing a safe and inviting environment for everyone who visits us. Your investment helps us provide the resources needed to care for the children, families, and communities we are honored to serve. We offer a variety of fitness programs, sports activities, camps, and youth programs to help keep you and your family healthy and happy. Come and explore our basketball court, open gym, and more! Your contribution to the YMCA helps us to offer essential programs and services that strengthen and support the community.

Chicago, IL 60651
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At the YMCA, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. That’s why we are committed to developing our next generation of leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers. Our goal is to bring about lasting change to communities across Chicagoland. At the McCormick YMCA, we strive to create a safe, welcoming, and encouraging environment. We want every person who walks in our doors to feel supported and included. Your investment is crucial in providing the necessary resources to help children and families grow and thrive. The YMCA is a powerful force for good in the community, and we are proud to do our part to build a brighter future for all. We invite you to join us in making a positive impact and helping empower the next generation to reach their full potential.

Chicago, IL 60610
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With your help, the Lake View YMCA can continue to provide a secure and nurturing environment that fosters learning and growth. As a parent, you want the best for your children. When you invest in the YMCA, you are not only providing your children with a safe and inspiring environment, but you are also contributing to a greater cause - improving the lives of all the youth in our communities. Your donation to the Lake View YMCA will ensure that the Y is able to continue to serve the families of Chicagoland and provide a place where children can learn, grow, and thrive.

Chicago, IL 60657
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That’s why the Rauner Family YMCA is dedicated to providing a safe, welcoming, and encouraging environment to everyone who walks through our doors. Your support makes it possible for the Y to enhance the lives of children and families in the Chicagoland area. When you invest in the Y, you’re helping to create a brighter future for our communities. We’re committed to providing the resources and opportunities that allow children to reach their fullest potential and build a better tomorrow. At the Rauner Family YMCA, we believe that everyone should have the chance to grow and thrive in a safe, encouraging environment. Your investment helps us to provide this important service to our communities and the children and families we serve. Thank you for your continued support.

Chicago, IL 60610
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At the South Side YMCA, we strive to create a safe and supportive space for everyone who enters. Your contributions help us to maintain the resources needed to support the children, families, and communities we are fortunate to serve. The South Side YMCA is a place of positivity and acceptance for all. Your donation allows us to continue to provide the resources necessary to care for the children, families, and communities in our neighborhood.

Chicago, IL 60637
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Our daily operations are guided by the goals and dreams we have for our organization. We are inspired and energized by our mission and vision, which serve as our “North Star”. This provides our passionate staff and volunteers with the clarity and direction to commit their time and efforts to the Y. At the YMCA of Metro Chicago, we firmly believe in the power of community. We strive to empower individuals to reach their potential and to come together as a collective to transform lives. Each and every day, our team is driven by our mission and vision to make this mission a reality. Our “North Star” provides us with the direction we need to remain focused on our goals and dreams for the YMCA of Metro Chicago. We are dedicated to creating a culture of purpose, inclusivity, and belonging. We are dedicated to creating a sense of hope and optimism for the future. We are dedicated to creating positive change in our community. The YMCA of Metro Chicago is focused on making a difference, and our mission and vision serve as the shining beacon to guide us along the way.

Chicago, IL 60610
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British Swim School is the premier learn-to-swim provider for people of all ages. For over 40 years, parents and students have made us their preferred choice due to our safe, fun, and effective instructional program. Our gentle teaching methods and survival-first approach ensure that swimmers of all experience levels become safer and stronger. Our instructors are highly trained in how to teach swimmers of all ages, making learning fun and comfortable. We use a personalized learning approach which allows the instructor to spend one-on-one time with each student. Our maximum student-to-instructor ratio is 6:1, so each student can get the individual attention they need. We offer programs for children ages 3-months through adults. Our tailored approach is designed to help people of all experience levels become safer, stronger swimmers. With British Swim School, you can be confident that you or your child will enjoy classes and look forward to the next lesson.

Chicago, IL 60611
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At Chicago Athletic Clubs, we understand that you want to feel confident and connected. We’ve all felt uninspired and discouraged after trying different fitness options that just didn’t click. That’s why we strive to create an inviting and motivating community that inspires you to keep going. Our seven neighborhood locations offer state of the art equipment, a variety of classes, and renowned trainers and instructors to help you achieve your goals. And, with our diverse membership base, we are sure to have the right fit for you. So, come join us for the best fitness experience in Chicago and be part of something special.

Chicago, IL 60607
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Take the hassle out of your fitness routine with unlimited group fitness classes, like Zumba, Pilates, cycling, and more. Our 5 boutique studios offer an array of classes for all levels and ages, so you can find the perfect fit for your needs. At Midtown Athletic Club Chicago, you don’t have to sacrifice luxury for the sake of getting fit. Enjoy all the amenities of a resort, like 16 world-class tennis courts, 5 boutique studios, and unlimited group fitness classes. Take advantage of instructional and competitive programs for adults and kids alike, and track your game with PlaySight, the ultimate visual training tool. Find the perfect fit with our variety of classes for all levels and ages. Get fit and have fun at Midtown Athletic Club Chicago.

Chicago, IL 60647