The great state of Illinois, affectionately known as the "Land of Lincoln," is like a giant playground filled with cornfields, skyscrapers, and a grand river that winks under the sun. It's a place where the wind whizzes around like a happy hummingbird, whispering tales in your ear as you run through fields chasing fireflies. Now, let's talk about an exceptional group of kids from Illinois. These aren't your regular kids. Oh no, they're something really special. They're the Storytelling Squad! They're like superheroes but instead of capes, they wear imaginations brighter than the Chicago skyline at night. Their superpower? Telling stories so gripping, the cornfields sway in excitement, the Mississippi River slows down to listen, and even the winds hush to hear the tales. Leading the pack is Tommy Twister, a boy with a wild mop of hair and a twinkle in his eye that just screams mischief. Tommy doesn’t just tell stories; he spins them, twists them and turns them into magical yarns of adventure and laughter. With a wave of his hand and a flash of his grin, monsters turn into fluffy pink bunnies, and grumpy old trolls burst out in giggles. Every day, the Storytelling Squad meets under the grand old Willow tree in Lincoln Park. As they take turns weaving tales that make the sunflowers dance and the squirrels chuckle, the whole of Illinois seem to hold its breath, waiting for the next thrilling tale. So, if you're ever in the Land of Lincoln and hear a whisper in the wind, know it's just Tommy and the Storytelling Squad, filling the air with magic and laughter.
Read morebest story-telling programs in Crystal Lake, IL
The Happy Hive is an inclusive play space designed to spark joy and connection for every child. With a special focus on comfort and accessibility for neurodivergent kids, our environment welcomes children of all abilities to explore, move, and create at their own pace. From climbing walls, swings, and zip lines to dedicated zones for pretend play and art, The Happy Hive offers both high-energy fun and creative outlets. While we cater to children ages 1-13 for neurotypical kids, we have no age limit when it comes to kids with special needs—because play should have no boundaries. At The Happy Hive, we believe every child deserves a space where they can feel safe, included, and free to be themselves.
At the Y, we believe that all children have the ability to reach their full potential. We are deeply committed to giving our next generations the tools and guidance they need to thrive in life. Through our various programs and activities, we are helping children build the skills they need to be successful now and in the future. The Sage YMCA is determined to make a lasting, meaningful impact on the communities of Chicagoland. By investing in children, we are creating a brighter future for everyone. We are dedicated to providing our members with a safe and nurturing environment that fosters personal growth, healthy living, and social responsibility. With your support, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of the children and families we serve.
DEBUT Creative Center & Theater-Studio is a dual-language (English–Russian) program where kids explore creativity, confidence, and self-expression. From theater and dance to fencing and stage performance, children can try new activities and discover their unique talents. Small class sizes let instructors give each child personalized attention, helping them feel comfortable, supported, and confident as they learn. Kids build artistic skills while also developing social confidence, teamwork, and poise on stage and in everyday life. Our programs celebrate each child’s individuality, combining fun, hands-on experiences with a focus on personal growth—all while keeping Russian language and culture an important part of the curriculum.