How to Choose Summer Camps in Chicago - Ultimate Guide

Ultimate Parent Guide for Summer Camps in Chicago

As a parent, selecting the right summer camps in Chicago for your child is a big decision. It’s not just about keeping them busy for a few weeks; it’s about providing them with a memorable, enriching experience that will help them grow, learn, and develop new skills. But, with so many options, how do you know where to start? Whether your child is 4 or 12, choosing the right camp can be hard initially, but it gets easier over the years. In this ultimate parent guide, we’ll break down what to consider when selecting camps, questions to ask, and provide helpful insights to ensure your child has a fantastic summer.

What to Consider When Selecting Summer Camps in Chicago to Avoid Problems

Finding the perfect summer camps in Chicago is about more than just checking off a few boxes. It’s about ensuring the camp is safe, fun, and a good fit for your child’s personality and needs.

1. Age Appropriate Activities

Make sure the camp caters to your child's age group. Summer Camps that work well for older kids might not have the same activities or safety protocols suited for younger ones, so it’s critical to pick a camp that tailors its offerings to the right age group. As a parent, you should always be thinking about the developmental stage of your child, and find things to do in Chicago that expand your child’s universe or perspective

2. Camp Schedule

Some camps run half-day, others full-day. Some even go into the evening. Depending on your family’s routine and work schedule, it’s important to choose a summer camp in Chicago that aligns with your needs. If you need extended hours or flexible pickup times, check if the camp provides this.

3. Safety and Supervision

Parents should always ask “What’s the staff-to-child ratio? Camps should be transparent about protecting children and the necessary protocols and procedures that help provide safe environments. Most camps can provide you with basic information about their policies, whether it’s for field trips, outdoor activities, or allergy management. Always trust your gut here.

4. Location and Transportation

Convenience matters. If you’re commuting across the city each day, it can quickly turn into a time-consuming stress. Consider how far the camp is from home or work and whether transportation is available. Many summer camps in Chicago offer bus services or carpool options. While it may stretch or even bust your budget, such convenience does offer some benefits for dual income households or parents who must work full shifts.

What Questions to Ask Prior to Registration for Summer Camps in Chicago

Before signing your child up for any summer camp in Chicago, you should have a checklist of questions ready. This is especially important for first-time campers or if you’re unsure about what a camp offers.

1. Do you have any Friends that would recommend a camp?

For summer camps in chicago, we all know people with older kids, so that means they can recommend the best summer camps that may work for your child. Ask other adults and if you are new to Chicago,

2. What is the Camper-to-Staff Ratio?

A high camper-to-staff ratio can impact your child’s experience. If there are too many kids per counselor, your child may not receive the attention or guidance they need. Ask how many staff members are assigned to each group and if there’s a specialized staff member for specific activities.

3. What Activities Are Included in the Program?

Make sure the camp offers a variety of activities that suit your child's interests. Some camps specialize in arts, while others focus on sports or STEM. Ensure that the camp’s schedule aligns with your child’s passions—whether that’s a day full of soccer, swimming, or hands-on science experiments.

4. What is the Camp's Approach to Communication?

How will the camp communicate with you? Will you be informed about any changes, activities, or issues that arise during the camp? Many camps now provide apps or emails to keep parents in the loop. Ask about their communication style and frequency to avoid feeling out of the loop.

What Questions to Ask Your Child to Understand What Types of Summer Camps Are Best Suited for Them

While you might have your own ideas about what would be good for your child, it’s important to involve them in the decision-making process. Ask them the following questions to get a better idea of what kind of summer camp in Chicago would suit them best:

1. What Do You Want to Try This Summer?

This question can help you identify new interests your child might want to explore. Would they like to try cooking, learn to swim, or work on a creative project? A summer camp in Chicago may offer a specifc program to introduce your child to something exciting or provide the best environment for your child to learn. If you don’t know what your child wants, or they are still pretty young, we recommend choosing 2-3 different summer camps in Chicago and you will quickly find out what works.

2. Do You Want to Be Outdoors or Indoors More?

Some kids thrive on the field, while others prefer indoor activities. Whether it’s hiking, soccer, arts, or STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) projects that spark your interest, make sure the camp you choose provides enough of what excites them, while offering alterantives both indoors and outdoors that expand your child’s perspectives.

3. What Makes You Happy at School or After School?

Think about what your child enjoys outside of school hours. Do they enjoy group activities, games, and teamwork? Or are they more drawn to quiet, individual pursuits like art or reading? This will give you clues about the camp environment they’d enjoy most.

A Few STEM Summer Camps in Chicago That Boost Confidence Like Kids Science Labs and Summer Lab @ University of Chicago Laboratory Schools

If you have a budding scientist, engineer, or tech enthusiast at home, there are several summer camps in Chicago that specialize in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education—perfect for building confidence and skills in these critical fields.

1. Kids Science Labs

For younger kids (ages 4-10), Kids Science Labs is a top-notch option. This camp offers hands-on activities that introduce kids to concepts like chemistry, engineering, and physics in a fun, interactive way. Children can create projects that demonstrate scientific principles, sparking curiosity and boosting self-confidence as they accomplish each challenge.

2. Summer Lab @ University of Chicago Laboratory Schools

For older kids, Summer Lab at the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools offers a more academic focus, diving into topics such as robotics, coding, and even sustainable engineering. This camp is perfect for children who want to explore STEM in a more structured and in-depth environment.

Both camps help foster curiosity and provide children with valuable skills that last well beyond the summer break.

Advice on Packing Allergy-Friendly Snacks for Summer Camp

If your child has food allergies, it’s important to pack safe, allergy-friendly snacks for summer camps in Chicago. Many camps are great about accommodating allergies, but it’s always a good idea to pack your own food just in case. Here are a few tips:

1. Check with the camp beforehand about their food policy and whether they provide snacks or meals. While your child may not be allergic, most camps do request parents to provide peanut-free or tree-nut free snacks out of respect for the safety of a child who may have a severe allergy.

2. Label everything clearly, especially if your child has multiple food allergies. This is also true to ensure the camp knows the that you have sent Sunflower Butter as opposed to Peanut Butter. Really any information and communication makes it better for your child.

3. Pack a variety of snacks—granola bars, fruit, and allergy-friendly crackers are easy and portable.

4. Include a note for the staff about your child’s specific needs, just to be on the safe side.

This proactive approach ensures your child can enjoy their camp experience without worrying about their allergies.

What to Expect at Drop-off and Pick-up at Many Summer Camps in Chicago

Every camp has its own routines for drop-off and pick-up, but here are a few general things to expect when dealing with summer camps in Chicago:

• Drop-off: Depending on the camp, you may need to walk your child into the camp area, sign them in, and sometimes speak with a counselor to discuss any specific instructions. Be very concerned if a camp does not greet you and your child in a warm way. Some camps may offer a drive-thru drop-off, which can make the morning routine much quicker, but it may not work for PreK/K students who need a transition.

• Pick-up: Most camps will have specific procedures for pick-up, including showing ID, signing your child out, and confirming that someone on the approved pick-up list is taking them home. For camps with older children, it’s important to clarify whether they’re allowed to leave on their own or need a parent to sign them out.

Being prepared and knowing the routine will help the drop-off and pick-up process go smoothly.

Alternative Advice on How to Engage Your Child After Camp is Over Without Bombarding Them with "How Was Camp Today?"

Sometimes, kids need time to unwind after a busy day at camp, and they might not be eager to jump into a long conversation about their experience. Instead of asking, "How was camp today?" try these strategies:

1. Let them lead the conversation: Ask open-ended questions like, “What was the best part of your day?” or “Tell me something fun you did today.”

2. Create a "camp journal": Encourage your child to draw or write about their day in a journal. This gives them space to express themselves without feeling pressured to talk.

3. Focus on activities: If your child isn’t ready to talk about camp, engage them in activities like playing outside, drawing, or reading—things they might have learned or done at camp.

We recommend that parents provide a relaxed space for your child to unwind, you'll help them process their day without feeling overwhelmed by questions.

As we close out this blog, selecting the right summer camps in Chicago can transform your child’s summer into a fun, educational, and rewarding experience. By considering factors like child curiosity, areas of growth, safety, and your child’s interests, you can ensure that your child is set up for a summer that fosters growth, confidence, and happiness.

STEM vs. STEAM vs. STREAM - A Parents Guide

STEM vs. STEAM

In today’s rapidly evolving world, equipping children with the tools to think critically and creatively is more important than ever. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) are two educational approaches that foster these essential skills. While both emphasize interdisciplinary learning, STEAM incorporates the arts, promoting creativity and innovation alongside technical skills. But how do these approaches translate into toys, classes, and activities for kids? Let’s dive in.

What is the difference between STEM, STEAM, and STREAM?

Let’s start with some basic facts:

• The acronym STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) was introduced in 2001, by the National Science Foundation (Judith Ramelley) out of concern that some students may not be prepared for careers in technology fields.

• STEAM was added in 2012 by the National Research Council as a new framework for teaching science in K-12 classrooms, such that ART was a component to help foster more creativity as a skill in science education.

• Most recently, the terms have expanded again to include STREAM, where the “R” was added for “reading”, to incorporate literacy as a component in K-12 Education

As parents, what you should know is that your child absolutely NEEDS frequent and regular hands-on science education, as a part of their curriculum from the time they can walk. Every research paper for the last fifty years, has found the same result, that the neuroplacity of a child’s brain is enhanced when they make as many possible connections between information when they are young. That is exacty what happens when kids test a variable with a real science experiment.

STEM Toys for Kids

STEM toys are designed to make learning fun by engaging kids in hands-on activities that teach critical concepts in science, technology, engineering, and math. These toys encourage problem-solving, logical thinking, and creativity while giving kids a head start in understanding STEM principles.

For instance, building kits that teach basic engineering concepts or coding games that introduce computer programming are excellent examples of STEM toys.

STEM Toys for 5-Year-Olds

Using 5 year olds as an example, look for toys that are simple yet engaging, such as magnetic building blocks, beginner coding robots, or science experiment kits. These toys spark curiosity and provide an age-appropriate introduction to STEM concepts.

STEAM Toys for Kids

STEAM toys go beyond the core STEM concepts by incorporating the arts, fostering creativity alongside problem-solving and technical skills. These toys inspire kids to think critically, explore creatively, and develop a deeper understanding of how science and art intersect.

From painting robots to architecture kits that blend engineering with design, STEAM toys are perfect for kids who love to imagine and create while learning essential skills.

STEAM Toys for 5-Year-Olds

Once again for 5-year-olds, look for toys that combine simple artistic elements with basic science or engineering principles. Examples include:

• Craft-based STEM kits, like build-and-paint birdhouses.

• Music and coding toys, such as beginner synthesizer kits.

• Design-focused building blocks, which let kids create colorful, functional structures.

These toys nurture early problem-solving skills and ignite a passion for learning through play.

STEM Classes for Kids

STEM classes allow children to explore STEM topics more deeply through guided instruction and interactive learning experiences. These classes are ideal for kids who enjoy experimenting, building, and asking questions about the world around them.

At Kids Science Labs, which offers programs in Chicago, Seattle, and across the United States, STEM classes for kids are tailored to inspire curiosity and critical thinking. Their programs are designed for children as young as four and are structured to grow with your child’s interests and abilities.

STEM Classes for 6-Year-Olds at Kids Science Labs

For 6-year-olds, we offer engaging classes that combine hands-on experiments with real-world problem-solving. Whether they’re learning about the forces of physics or experimenting with chemical reactions, kids leave our classes with a deeper understanding of science and a big smile on their faces.

The Importance of Enrichment Activities and Science Learning for Kids

Enrichment activities like STEM and STEAM programs play a critical role in childhood development. They do more than just fill time—they foster essential life skills that benefit kids throughout their lives.

Why Are Enrichment Activities Important?

1. Promote Critical Thinking: These activities challenge kids to think outside the box and solve problems creatively.

2. Build Confidence: Completing projects and experiments boosts self-esteem and encourages a "can-do" attitude.

3. Encourage Curiosity: STEM and STEAM programs help kids develop a love for learning by answering their natural "why" questions about the world.

4. Prepare for the Future: With technology playing a bigger role in our lives, early exposure to STEM and STEAM gives kids a head start in tomorrow’s careers.

At Kids Science Labs, they take a hands-on approach to learning that ensures that children not only understand science concepts but also have fun while doing so. From engaging STEM classes to kids birthday parties and science camps, they know how to create an environment where science is exciting and accessible.

Choosing between STEM and STEAM depends on your child’s interests, but both approaches provide valuable skills that help kids thrive. Whether through toys, classes, or enrichment activities, giving your child opportunities to explore STEM or STEAM is an investment in their future. At Kids Science Labs, we’re here to help your child unlock their potential and discover the joys of science.

4 Black Scientists That Changed Our Future - Honoring the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday

4 Black Scientists, Inventors, and Researchers that changed America

On this Dr. Martin Luther King Jr National Holiday, we want to spend the time providing some perspective for kids, who might be at home tinkering, asking, and expressing their brilliant curiosity, just like these famous scientists, who happened to also be African-American. Those questions that kids are asking, and just the act of Wondering Why, can change the future of the country.

As a company, Kids Science Labs was founded on the belief that Science is a refinement of everyday thinking, and we want to briefly share each of their stories, so kids can learn more about each of their contributions. So let’s take a moment and learn a bit of Black History and Culture in Honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Holiday, with a real experiments that you can do at home that relate to the work of these great Americans.

These 4 Black Scientists are sometimes forgotten, but their research changed America

1. Norbert Rilliuex

https://www.acs.org/education/whatischemistry/landmarks/norbertrillieux.html

Born in 1806 in Louisiana, Norbert Rilliuex was a black inventor and engineer, who is widely credited with one of the most significant inventions in the processing of sugar. His invention set the stage for the processing of sugar as candy, which relies heavily on processes that he invented 200 years ago to improve the efficiency of sugar manufacturing. There are many experiments that we can do with candy at home, from looking at its solubility, comparing sugar content, and even extracting artificial food coloring to help kids have a better conceptual understanding of why they can’t eat candy all day.

—> Science Demo at Home or Experiment at Kids Science Labs -  “Skittles Rainbow” - Students will explore the sugar chemistry with skittles, by creating a rainbow infused sugar palette, using water and everyday skittles to create colorful shapes.  

1. 1. Buy or acquire 1 small packet of skittles and 1 packet of m & m’s or similar colorful flavored candy.

2. Try spreading the skittles into a circle on the exterior of a six-inch plate (traditional) or in the shape of your initials. For older students 8+, instead of a plate, place 4 skittles into a glass and fill it with 4oz of water. Ask the kids if the water will change color (it won’t!). Observe and count to 27. Hint: the food coloring is a solid material that is more dense than water and as a result, it drops to the bottom of the cup, just like a rock. It doesn’t color the upper layers of the water in the glass, for the reason that red rocks dont’ change a swimming pool red…but it looks red from the sky!

3. Compare what happens when you add 2oz of water to the plate, ensuring that it touches all of the skittles, like in the video below. Compare what you see to what happens with a bag of M&M’s.

   • Candy science is cool and Norbert Rilliuex made it possible 200 years ago.

2. Dr. Walter Lincoln Hawkins

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walter_Lincoln_Hawkins 

Born in 1911 in Washington DC as the child of a science teacher and lawyer, Dr. Hawkins is regarded as one of the fathers of polymer chemistry, a field he perfected during his 34 years at Bell Laboratories. He received his masters degree in Chemistry from the prestigious Howard University and his PhD in 1938 from McGill University. He was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2010. 

For the basic science, a “polymer” is just a large molecule that can be used in plastics, balloons, silly putty, manufacturing, and of course the making of all kinds of slimes. We need polymers today, which are just like a long chain of material that gives it wonderful function, such as stretchy protectants. The best example of a polymer is Elmer’s Glue.

—> Fun Things to Do with Kids at Home with polymers for science -  “Instant Snow Polymer” - 

Students will investigate what happens when you add water to expansive polymers, namely sodium polyacrylate, which is the absorbent polymer that is used inside babies diapers, jelly marbles, and other hyper absorbent consumer products. 

1. Grab a baby diaper

2. Open it up with a pair of scissors and pour the contents on a plate. You will see some small flakes that look a bit like granular salt, often mixed it with some paper

3. Compare the sodium polyacrylate (granules) to salt and ask your child how they are similar and different. Focus on the observation.

4. Pour some of the sodium polyacrylate into a small 6 inch or 4 inch plate.

5. Add a few drops of water and watch them absorb 80-200 times their weight in water.

3. Dr. Marie Maynard Daly

https://www.sciencehistory.org/education/scientific-biographies/marie-maynard-daly/

Born in Queens, NY in 1921, Dr. Daly was the first African-American to receive a PhD in Chemistry in the United States, earning her doctorate from Columbia in 1947, after just 3 years. A brilliant chemist, she studied cellular biology and physical chemistry, including chemical reactions like those with acids and corn starch. Dr. Daly taught for two years at the prestigious Howard University in addition to becoming a professor at Queens College and Columbia. 

—> Fun Activities with Kids at Home or Cool STEM at Kids Science Labs -  “Volcano in a Cup” 

Students love seeing chemical reactions so in this basic physical science investigation, kids 3-6yrs old will see what happens when mixing citric acid, baking soda, and water. 

4. Emmett Chappelle 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emmett_Chappelle 

Born in 1925 in Phoenix, Mr. Chappelle worked for Stanford University and NASA for fifty years, where he became interested in Bioluminescence as a method of detecting life on other planets. In addition to their benefits to space, his inventions are commonly used in the creation of glow in the dark slimes 

—> At Home, You can experiment with Polymer Science, often referred to as Poly Vinyl Alcohol Slime, which can easily be purchased on amazon or other services. Just be sure its a safe combination and if you don’t know, email the experts at stem@kidssciencelabs.com or here

In Chicago, there are so many great activities that offer enriching experiences for families to grow, build, and give something back to our communities. We encourage every family to do what is best for their community on their block, especially in honor of the service of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. When you are done, or if you can’t make it outside to commemorate this holiday, and you just need a fun activity to do with kids ages 4-10, check out one of these two fun things to do with kids in chicago, compliments of Kids Science Labs.