Aerial Arts

Aerobics

Aikido

Archery

Art & Crafts

Baseball

Basketball

Biking

Bilingual

Board Games

Boating/canoeing

Bowling

Boxing

Capoeira

Ceramics

Cheerleading

Chess

Coding/Programming

Cooking

Cricket

Dance

Drawing/Sketching

Drones

Embroidery

Entrepreneurship

Experiment

Exploration

Farming

Fencing

Field Hockey

Field Trips

Filmmaking

Fishing

Flag Football

Football

Futsal

Gaga Ball

Gardening

Glass work

Go-Karting

Gymnastics

Hapkido

Hiking

Hockey

Horse back

Ice Skating

Jewelry Making

Jiu jitsu

Judo

Karate

Kayaking

Kickboxing

Knitting

Kobudo

Krav Maga

Kung Fu

Lacrosse

Lazer Tag

Marathon

Math

Mini golf

Modeling

Muay Thai

Music

Music Therapy

Nature

Ninja

Occupational Therapy

Painting

Photography

Physical Therapy

Ping-Pong

Playing Instrument

Podcasting

Pottery

Printmaking

Reading

Religious service

Riflery

Robotics

Rock Climbing

Rope Course

Sailing

Scuba Diving

Sensory Play

Sewing

Skating

Sky Diving

Snorkelling

Soccer

Softball

Song Writing

Speech Therapy

Sportsfield activities

STEM/STEAM

Story Telling

Surfing

Swimming

Table Tennis

In the jovial heartland of America, nestled between the mighty Mississippi River and the sparkling shores of Lake Michigan, lies a bustling beehive of melody and harmony known as Illinois. This vibrant state, known for its towering skyscrapers, bountiful cornfields, and delicious deep-dish pizzas, is also home to a unique tribe of music-loving minstrels who weave their own kind of magic with notes and rhythms. 

Imagine, if you will, a ragtag band of kids, united by their love for music and their eagerness to explore its therapeutic qualities. They gather in harmonious huddles, their fingers dancing nimbly over piano keys, plucking guitar strings, or beating drums with uninhibited joy. Now, leading this jubilant jamboree is a cool and quirky character named Harmonica Hank. 

Harmonica Hank is not your ordinary therapy guide. He has a head shaped like a tuba, eyebrows that wiggle like guitar strings, and a voice that can range from the soft whisper of a flute to the booming roar of a bass drum. Hank’s laughter echoes like a xylophone and his feet tap out beats as he walks. Hank guides these Illinois kids through their musical journey, using the power of music to help them express their emotions and overcome their challenges. 

So, if you ever find yourself meandering through Illinois, follow the sound of joyous laughter, the strumming of guitars, and the tinkling of piano keys. You just might stumble upon a robust session of Music Therapy, with Harmonica Hank and his irrepressibly joyful crew of young melody-makers, creating a symphony of therapeutic tunes.

Inexpensive

Affordable

Moderate

Luxury

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.

Water activites

Swift Nature Camp

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.

Writing

Visual Arts

Lemont Park District

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.

Yoga

Lockport Township Park District

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!

Mornings with Mommy - Frankfort

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.

Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association

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.

Trampoline

Track and Field

Northfield Park District

Do you ever feel like you don't belong? At Lubavitch Chabad of Skokie, all the Jewish residents of the town have a place to fit in. People who come to Chabad are just like you - they shop where you shop, dine where you dine, and come from a variety of different Jewish backgrounds. The synagogue provides educational and recreational programs for people of all ages, from Hebrew school to Camp Gan Israel, Jewish Learning Institute, Women's Classes, CTeen, and the Community Shul. Come and join us for a spectacular Jewish experience. We are always striving to improve and upgrade our programs and activities to create a welcoming environment for everyone. And no matter what, we are here to help every Jewish person in any way we can.

Lubavitch Chabad of Skokie

At Mary Sears Children's Academy, we strive to provide a warm, loving environment to instill a lifelong Love for Learning in each of our children. We understand that young children need more than just an education - they need emotional, physical, social, and intellectual development to reach their fullest potential. Through our curriculum, activities, and environment, we will work to provide the best possible experience for your child.

Mary Sears Children's Academy

Are you expecting a baby or recently become a mom? FIT4MOM offers a variety of fitness classes and services to help ensure that moms stay physically and mentally strong during every stage of motherhood.

FIT4MOM is the nation’s leading prenatal and postnatal fitness program. Our classes and activities provide a supportive environment for moms during their pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Our fitness and wellness programs help keep moms strong in body, mind, and spirit.

FIT4MOM provides a comprehensive network of support for moms at any stage of motherhood. Our classes and activities offer a nurturing and positive environment for moms to stay fit and healthy during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. We provide the resources and support to help moms build strength and resilience in body, mind, and spirit.

Zumba

FIT4MOM Bartlett-Barrington

The Chicago Center for Music Education (ChiME) was founded in 1981 as the Suzuki-Orff School for Young Musicians. Our goal was to make music education available to children in Chicago and provide a unique curriculum that integrated the Suzuki and Orff methodologies. Since then, we have grown exponentially and now serve nearly 3,000 children across twenty partner organizations, thirteen of which are Chicago Public Elementary schools. 

We strive to create an inclusive environment for our students and prioritize the development of important life skills such as communication, cooperation, creativity, and self-expression. As a result, we have seen a significant increase in our student’s self-esteem and confidence, as well as improved academic performance. We are committed to providing a safe and inspiring environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.

Chicago Center for Music Education

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.

Manhattan Park District

joliet

Welcome, craft enthusiasts, to the Crafts Zone! This is your gateway to a world where creativity meets learning. With our specially designed crafting sessions, we aim to cater to not just your artistic side, but also your intellectual curiosity. We dedicate 20% of our sessions to learning, so you can always stay updated with the latest crafting techniques.

Get ready to create and network as these form the bulk of our sessions, a whopping 70%! You'll have plenty of opportunities to bring your imaginative ideas to life and also meet fellow craft lovers. Enjoy the shared experience of creating something beautiful while making friends who share your passion. 

And let's not forget about relaxation! At Crafts Zone, 10% of our time is devoted to unwinding. Crafting can be therapeutic, and we believe in the power of creativity to relieve stress. So, come and enjoy the tranquil, artistic atmosphere. Don't forget to take a look at our upcoming workshops. With Crafts Zone, let the creative journey begin!

Crafts Zone

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.

best music-therapy programs in Joliet, IL

Crafts Zone

Joliet Park District