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.

What are the best ways for your child to spend their summer?

Best Ways for Your Child to Spend Their Summer

As the summer months approach, parents everywhere are thinking about how to keep their kids entertained, engaged, and learning while they’re on break. Summer is a time for kids to explore new interests, develop skills, and create lasting memories. The summer is also a time when parents are looking for things to do with kids in Chicago, Seattle, and other major cities in the U.S. But with so many options available, parents are often left wondering how do you choose the best activities for your child?

The answer is simple: Summer camps that combine fun with learning!

Whether you’re in Seattle or Chicago, we have programs tailored to help your child’s curiosity and creativity thrive this summer. Let’s dive into the best ways for your child to spend their summer, starting with our science summer camps.

At Kids Science Labs, we offer exciting summer camps that focus on STEM education—science, technology, engineering, and math—providing your child with the opportunity to discover the wonders of the world while having a blast.

Science Summer Camps

Summer is the perfect time to dive into science! Kids Science Labs is considered to be a top choice, and they are designed to make learning fun through hands-on experiments, engaging challenges, and exciting projects. If you are looking for science summer camp ideas for elementary students, Kids Science Labs is perfect for that too becuase they invite children ages 4 and up and have activities catered to each age range.

Since 2010, Kids Science Lab camps are all about discovery and hands on learning. Kids explore a range of scientific concepts by conducting experiments, building innovative projects, and solving real-world problems. The goal? To inspire the next generation of innovators, thinkers, and problem-solvers. Our teachers make learning exciting, engaging  and accessible, ensuring your child has a fun, interactive experience that they’ll remember long after summer ends.

With a focus on hands-on activities and interactive learning, our science summer camps help kids:

• Explore chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering in ways that feel like play.

• Build real-world projects like bridges, rockets, and circuits.

• Develop critical thinking skills and confidence through teamwork and problem-solving.

Seattle Summer Programs

For families in Seattle, Kids Science Labs offers the perfect way to make your child's summer both fun and educational. Our Seattle summer programs are designed to help kids discover their passions in science while engaging in exciting projects and experiments. Whether they’re interested in robotics, building structures, or learning about the natural world, there’s something for every curious mind.

Our Seattle summer programs cater to kids of all ages, from elementary school through middle school, ensuring that each child receives the right level of challenge and fun. With a range of flexible schedules, including full-day and half-day options, you can easily find a program that fits your family's summer plans. From hands-on science experiments to team-based projects, our Seattle summer camps provide a perfect balance of learning and fun.

Highlights of our Seattle summer programs include:

• Exploring technology and engineering through robotics and coding challenges.

• Learning about physics and chemistry by creating and testing experiments.

• Hands-on activities that nurture problem-solving skills, creativity, and collaboration.

Other Seattle Summer Programs Include: 

1. Seattle Childrens Theater

2. Wilderness Awareness School

3. Camp Tech Revolution

4. Seattle Parks and Recreation Camps 

Chicago Summer Programs

For families in Chicago, Kids Science Labs offers some of the best STEM camps in the area. If you’re looking for Chicago STEM camps that combine hands-on learning with fun activities, our summer programs are a fantastic choice. With a focus on science, technology, engineering, and math, our Chicago summer programs allow kids to dive deep into the world of STEM, building projects and exploring new concepts every day.

Whether your child is an aspiring scientist, engineer, or tech enthusiast, our Chicago summer camps provide a dynamic, engaging environment that nurtures curiosity and fosters a love of learning. Our camps cover a variety of exciting topics, from chemistry and biology to robotics and programming, all while providing plenty of opportunities for kids to socialize, collaborate, and grow.

Key highlights of our Chicago summer programs include:

• Engaging projects that involve building robots, creating circuits, and designing structures.

• Interactive lessons in chemistry, biology, and physics through hands-on experiments.

• Fun, social environments where kids can make new friends while learning.

Whether you’re looking for a Chicago STEM camp focused on technology and innovation or a program that explores the natural sciences, our summer programs are tailored to meet your child’s interests and help them build new skills.

Other Chicago Summer Programs Include:

1. Chicago Park District Camps 

2. Camp Tech Revolution

3. YMCA Summer Camp

4. Pedal Heads Camp 

At Kids Science Labs, we believe that summer is a time for kids to explore, experiment, and grow. Our science summer camps provide the perfect combination of fun and learning, helping children develop a lifelong love for science and discovery. Whether you’re in Seattle or Chicago, our camps offer the best way for your child to spend their summer—engaged, inspired, and excited about the world of science!

Ready to sign your child up for a summer of fun and learning? Explore our summer camp options in Seattle and Chicago today and reserve your spot before space runs out!

Affordable Summer Camps in Chicago for Kids Ages 4-12

Summer Camps in Chicago That Are Affordable and Convenient

Summer is just around the corner, and if you're a parent of a child between the ages of 4-10, you're probably already considering how to make the most of the summer break. For many families, summer camps in Chicago are a great solution. They offer a fun, structured environment for kids to explore new interests, build social skills, and stay active. They also run the kids wild which can help with bedtime in a busy summer. However, when it comes to choosing the right camp for your child, there are three key factors that often come into play: affordability, convenience, and quality of programming.

In this blog, we’ll take a look at some great options for summer camps in Chicago that fit the bill for being both affordable and convenient, no matter which part of the city you live in. Whether you're looking for something close to home or a camp that offers a variety of activities, you’ll find plenty of choices that will keep your child engaged and excited all summer long.

Summer Camps in Chicago That Are North of Downtown

If you're a parent living on the north side of Chicago, you're in luck! There are many fantastic summer camps in Chicago located in the neighborhoods north of downtown, offering a range of activities for children ages 4-10. Areas like Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and Wrigleyville are home to several camps that combine convenience with a variety of experiences.

For example, Lincoln Park Zoo’s Summer Camps provide an immersive nature experience where kids can learn about animals, conservation, and the environment. It’s a great way to get your child outdoors, engage their curiosity, and introduce them to the wonders of the animal kingdom. These camps are also very affordable, with options that cater to younger children and offer full-day or half-day schedules.

Another option in this area is The Second City’s Youth Comedy Camp. If your child has a knack for making people laugh, this camp helps kids develop creative writing, improv, and acting skills. Not only is it fun, but it also enhances public speaking, critical thinking, and collaboration—all important skills for school and beyond.

Summer Camps in Chicago That Are Near the South Loop

For families who live near the South Loop or other nearby neighborhoods, there are summer camps in Chicago that are both easily accessible and packed with activities. Whether you’re looking for arts camps, sports camps, or academic enrichment, there are options that cater to every child’s interests.

Kids Science Labs is always a favorite for parents with their award-winning STEM Programs for Kids and outstanding reputation that parents trust. Offering over 60+ hands-on science camps for kids entering Pre-K, as well as CIT Program for Junior Camp Counselors that awards scholarships to kids, it is clear why Kids Science Labs are always rated as one of the best summer camps in Chicago.

The Shedd Aquarium’s Summer Camps are a great option for families living in or near the South Loop. With a focus on marine biology, conservation, and animal care, these camps allow kids to dive into hands-on experiences with marine life. Your child will learn while having a blast exploring the aquarium and participating in activities like building habitats or interacting with sea creatures.

Additionally, Chicago Park District’s Summer Camps are easily accessible from the South Loop and offer a variety of activities from sports and fitness to arts and crafts. Many of these camps are also designed to be budget-friendly, making them an ideal option for parents who want to keep costs down while providing their kids with a summer full of fun and enrichment.

Summer Camps in Chicago That Are on the West Side

If you're based on the west side of Chicago, you still have plenty of fantastic summer camps in Chicago to choose from. The west side offers a range of camp options, from arts to sports to academic enrichment, that make it easy to find something that’s just right for your child.

The West Side YMCA’s Summer Camps offer both day camps and specialty camps, including swimming, arts, and sports. With locations across the west side of the city, these camps are highly convenient for families in neighborhoods like Austin, Garfield Park, and Logan Square. The YMCA is also known for being affordable and inclusive, making it a solid choice for families on a budget.

Additionally, The Garfield Park Conservatory’s Summer Camps are a hidden gem for families in this area. These camps immerse kids in nature, gardening, and environmental education. Kids can explore the outdoors and learn about plants, ecology, and sustainability—all while having fun and making new friends.

Summer Camps in Chicago That Offer a Variety of Sports

For many parents, keeping kids active and engaged in physical activities is a top priority during the summer months. Fortunately, summer camps in Chicago offer a wide variety of sports camps that cater to children between the ages of 4-10.

The Chicago Park District is a standout in this category, offering sports camps across the city that focus on everything from soccer and basketball to swimming and tennis. These camps are designed for beginners and provide a great way for children to build physical fitness, improve motor skills, and learn the basics of teamwork.

If your child is particularly interested in soccer, Chicago Fire Soccer Club’s Summer Camps are another fantastic option. These camps are run by professional soccer coaches and offer kids the chance to improve their skills in a supportive and structured environment. Whether your child is a beginner or has been playing for a few seasons, these camps will help them grow both as athletes and as individuals.

Summer Camps in Chicago That Offer STEM Programs for Kids

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education is more important than ever, and summer camps in Chicago offer plenty of opportunities for children to explore these subjects in fun and interactive ways. For children between the ages of 4-10, STEM camps can provide hands-on experiences that foster curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Kids Science Labs is a great option for parents looking for a STEM-focused summer camp in Chicago. This camp allows children to explore engineering, robotics, and chemistry through exciting experiments and activities. The hands-on learning environment encourages kids to engage their imagination while developing important cognitive and technical skills.

Another great option is STEAM Camps at the Museum of Science and Industry. These camps offer a variety of interactive workshops on topics like robotics, coding, and engineering. The museum’s immersive exhibits and expert educators create an ideal setting for kids to dive deep into STEM fields, all while having fun and making new friends.

A Few Factors for Parents to Consider When Using Summer Camps in Chicago

When choosing the best summer camps in Chicago for your child, there are a few important factors to keep in mind:

1. Affordability: Summer camps can vary widely in price, so it’s important to find a camp that fits within your family’s budget. Fortunately, many Chicago camps offer sliding scales, scholarships, or discounts for early registration.

2. Location: Convenience matters, especially for busy parents. Whether you prefer camps close to home or are willing to travel a bit, make sure to consider the distance and time it will take to get your child to and from camp each day.

3. Program Variety: Kids thrive when they have a range of experiences. Look for camps that offer a variety of activities, such as sports, arts, STEM, and outdoor exploration. A well-rounded camp experience can help your child discover new interests and develop important skills.

In conclusion, summer camps in Chicago offer a wide range of options that cater to children’s interests and your family’s needs. Whether you’re looking for something nearby, budget-friendly, or packed with exciting activities, there’s a camp out there that’s a great fit for your child. By considering factors like location, affordability, and the types of programs available, you can make an informed decision that ensures a fun and enriching summer for your little one.

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.