Chicago Summer Camps That Build Confidence and Boost Learning

Chicago Summer Camps Provide Fuel to Avoid the Summer Learning Gap

As the school year comes to a close, many parents start to feel a little anxious about how to keep their kids engaged and learning throughout the summer. After all, those three months away from school can lead to what’s commonly referred to as the summer learning gap. This phenomenon occurs when kids forget some of what they’ve learned over the school year, which can make it harder for them to catch up when school resumes.

Luckily, Chicago is home to a wide range of summer camps that can help prevent this gap while also keeping kids entertained and active. The key to a successful summer is finding camps that not only engage your child in learning but also inspire creativity, foster friendships, and keep them active. In this blog, we’ll explore some amazing Chicago summer camps that can fuel your child's development and keep them thriving during the break.

Kids Science Labs is One of the Chicago Summer Camps That Parents Love for Its Outstanding Teaching, Fun Activities for Kids, and Focus on Unlocking Kids' Curiosity

If your child is naturally curious and loves to ask “how” and “why,” then Kids Science Labs is an excellent choice. This camp offers a dynamic environment where kids can dive into hands-on science experiments, test real engineering challenges that are age-appropriate, and explore the mysteries of science in a fun filled camp. The camp’s approach is both educational and fun, allowing kids to experiment with real science that facilitates deep understanding of concepts in an interactive and safe way.

One concern that parents often have is whether their child will be able to transition into a camp setting smoothly, especially if they haven’t been away from home much. Kids Science Labs has a fantastic track record for creating welcoming, supportive environments where children feel comfortable exploring new ideas without the pressure of traditional classroom settings. Their dedicated staff helps kids learn at their own pace, fostering both confidence and curiosity. By the end of each session, your child won’t just have had a blast—they’ll have gained new knowledge, found new friends, and and enhanced skills that will help them stay on track with their learning.

Easel Art Studio is a Wonderfully Engaging Art Camp to Expand Artistic Skills

For parents seeking a more creative and artistic experience for their child, Easel Art Studio is a great fit. This art camp encourages kids to explore different mediums, from drawing and painting to clay and sculpture. The camp is designed to inspire creativity, while also helping children build critical thinking and fine motor skills.

A common fear parents have when considering an art camp is whether their child will be able to keep up with more experienced campers or whether their creative abilities will be stifled. Easel Art Studio’s inclusive approach makes sure that kids of all skill levels feel confident in their artistic journey. The instructors are skilled at providing individualized attention, helping kids refine their techniques while also celebrating each child’s unique style. It’s a nurturing space where kids can build not only their artistic abilities but also their self-esteem.

The Adler Planetarium Chicago Summer Camps Are Always a Hit for Our Young Astrophysicists

For children fascinated by space, stars, and the mysteries of the universe, the Adler Planetarium offers a summer camp experience that is truly out of this world. This camp allows kids to immerse themselves in the exciting fields of astronomy and space science. With expert educators and interactive exhibits, kids explore planets, stars, galaxies, and even learn about space missions.

As with any specialized camp, parents might be concerned about whether their child will truly enjoy the experience, especially if their interest in space is still budding. The Adler’s approach is designed to captivate all levels of interest—whether your child is a budding astrophysicist or simply loves watching the stars. With engaging activities and hands-on exploration, the Adler Planetarium ensures that kids stay excited and curious, while learning valuable science concepts that will help them succeed academically.

Consider Chicago Park District for Affordable Summer Camps That Build Gross Motor and Teamwork Skills

If you're looking for an affordable yet high-quality option, the Chicago Park District offers a wide array of summer camps that help children develop essential physical and social skills. From sports and games to nature walks and outdoor adventures, these camps provide opportunities for kids to stay active and work on teamwork, leadership, and socialization.

A common fear parents often express when considering more affordable options is that the quality of the experience may not match that of pricier camps. However, the Chicago Park District’s camps are known for their fun staff, great variety of activities, and focus on creating inclusive environments for children of all backgrounds. These camps help kids develop important gross motor skills, such as coordination and balance, while also teaching teamwork and communication. Your child will leave the camp feeling physically stronger and more socially confident.

Chicago Summer Camps Offer a Variety of Choices, and We Recommend Offering Your Child a Balanced Approach to Build Confidence, Increase Imagination, and Meet Friends

With so many fantastic Chicago summer camps to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which is the best fit for your child. To ensure a well-rounded summer experience, consider a balanced approach that incorporates both educational and recreational activities. Combining camps like Kids Science Labs, Easel Art Studio, and the Chicago Park District can help foster creativity, improve physical fitness, and expand your child’s horizons.

By offering your child a variety of experiences, you help them develop key life skills, from problem-solving and creative thinking to social interaction and teamwork. These camps provide a safe space for children to grow, make new friends, and build confidence that will last long after the summer ends.

In the end, the goal is to create a summer experience that helps your child continue to grow, learn, and explore. With so many amazing camps in Chicago, you can rest easy knowing that your child will be engaged in meaningful, fun, and educational activities all summer long!

Best Science Camp in Northbrook blows the roof off Summer Camp with Unforgettable Northbrook Activities

Best Science Camp in Northbrook is at Kids Science Labs

If you're looking for North Shore Summer Camp that sparks curiosity, fosters innovation, and offers a hands-on learning experience, look no further than Kids Science Labs and their award-winning STEM Programs for Kids! Whether it's a summer camp, a break camp, or any of our science camps in Northbrook, IL, Kids Science Labs is your go-to destination for all things science-related. Here’s why North Shore Summer Camps in Chicago offer unique benefits for your child.

Northbrook Science Camp That Teaches Innovation and Design Helps Kids

At Kids Science Labs, we don’t just teach science; we inspire it! Our science camp is designed to ignite curiosity, encourage experimentation, and foster critical thinking. By focusing on innovation and design, kids don’t just passively absorb information—they actively engage with the content, learning to solve real-world problems in creative ways.

Our Northbrook Activities for Summer Camp include new themes each week, such as:

  1. Our World According to Physics (OWAP)

  2. Design Time Live (DTL)

  3. Gadgets & Inventions (GI)

  4. ChemBusters (CHB)

What Sets Us Apart with our Northbrook Summer Camp:

  • Hands-on Experiments: Children get to conduct real experiments, like building innovative catapults, redesigning slime to solve real world problems, and building structures.

  • Innovation Challenges: Kids work on fun projects that involve designing, testing, and improving prototypes, giving them a taste of what it’s like to be an inventor or engineer.

  • Collaboration: Our science camp encourages teamwork, helping kids learn how to work together to solve problems and communicate their ideas effectively.

Through these in class STEM experiences, campers gain confidence in their problem-solving abilities and creativity, setting the foundation for future success in both academics and life.

Where Are the Best Summer Camps in Northbrook, IL?

Northbrook offers a variety of summer science camp options, but none are quite like Kids Science Labs. Whether your child is an artist, imaginative writer, budding scientist, or simply curious about the world around them, our STEM-based camp activities will captivate their imagination and make this summer unforgettable.

Other Great Options to Balance Science Camp:

  • The Village of Northbrook Summer Camps: These camps offer outdoor activities like sports, arts and crafts, and general recreation. It's a great way for kids to stay active and social during the summer months.

  • Northbrook Park District Camps: With options like nature camps, theater camps, and tennis camps, Northbrook Park District provides diverse programs that suit a variety of interests.


However, if you want a camp that challenges your child intellectually while keeping them engaged and excited, Kids Science Labs is the best choice in Northbrook for hands-on science and innovation!

Parents Seeking Northbrook Activities Love How Hands-On Science Engages Kids' Brains

At Kids Science Labs, we understand that kids learn best when they are actively engaged. That's why our hands-on science activities are designed to be both fun and educational. Our programs go beyond just following instructions—they empower children to explore, experiment, and discover.

Kids Science Labs Co-Founder, Shegan Campbell, brings all of what he learned teaching Engineering at Stanford University to form the basis of one of the most innovative STEM programs for kids. At KSL, we have revolutionized science education since 2010 and our science camps are just a part of it.

Benefits of Hands-On Learning with Science:

  • Critical Thinking: Science encourages kids to ask questions and find answers through experiments. At Kids Science Labs we have been encouraging the development of critical thinking skills, which are essential for success in school and life, since 2010.

  • Creativity: Science camps are essential elements that spark creativity by allowing children to design, build, and test their own projects.

  • Problem Solving: Kids are presented with challenges and given the tools to come up with solutions. This fosters a mindset of resilience and determination when faced with obstacles.

Parents often share how their kids’ brains are actively engaged in problem-solving, experimentation, and collaboration throughout their time at camp. The feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with parents noting that their children are more confident, curious, and enthusiastic about learning after attending our programs.

Science Camp Ideas That Build Confidence in Kids

One of the greatest benefits of attending science camp at places like the Children’s Museum or Kids Science Labs, is the confidence boost kids receive. Hands-on Science, by its nature, involves trial and error, so children quickly learn that failure is just part of the process. With each experiment, they grow more resilient and confident in their abilities.

Strong Science Camp Activities Focus on:

  • Building Confidence: Whether it’s building a tower from marshmallows or PreK students redesigning a paper bridge to support a rock, kids learn about engineering principles while developing problem-solving skills.

  • Creative Design: From creating slime to launching rockets, our science camp encourages kids to design their own experiments and projects, giving them a sense of ownership over their learning.

  • Teamwork: Kids work in teams, learning to collaborate and communicate ideas effectively, which builds both social and emotional skills.

  • Science Facts : Our Northbrook Activities directly build NGSS science facts to first ensure students learn why something works by actually doing the experiment themselves

With each new project, kids see how they can turn their ideas into reality—and they gain the confidence to keep trying, even when things don’t go as planned.

Where Can I Find Thanksgiving Break Camps on NorthShore?

Looking for a fun, engaging activity for your kids during Thanksgiving break? Kids Science Labs offers a fantastic option for families in Northbrook and surrounding areas. Our Thanksgiving Break Camp gives kids the chance to explore the wonders of science through themed experiments, hands-on activities, and exciting challenges.

Whether your child is interested in mixing chemistry, creative design, lego robotics, or chemical reactions, our Thanksgiving Break camp provides a fun and educational experience that will keep them busy and inspired during the holiday break.

Check out Kids Science Labs for upcoming break camp schedules and registration details!

How to Find an Excellent Spring Break Camp in Northbrook

Spring break is just around the corner, and if you're looking for a camp that combines fun and learning, Kids Science Labs offers the perfect solution. Our Spring Break Camp is designed to keep kids engaged with exciting, hands-on activities that explore topics in science, technology, engineering, and math.

What Makes Our Spring Break Camp Stand Out:

  • Hands-On Science: Whether it's building key science facts for PreK to elementary students or experimenting with how things work and what' is inside nearly everything, kids learn through doing, which makes the experience both fun and educational.

  • Themes: We offer different themes each year, from space exploration to robot-building, ensuring that every spring break is a new adventure!

  • Half-Day Options: If you only need a partial day to build science facts, boost creative thinking, and expanding design thinking in kids Prek-5th grade, try our MorningSTEM package

  • Full Day Options: Need a whole-day camp to keep your child busy? Our full-day spring break camps are packed with science activities, games, and breaks for outdoor play.

To find the best spring break camp for your child, simply visit our website to view schedules and sign-up details for our Northbrook spring camp programs. Spots fill up quickly, so make sure to register early!

In conclusion, for the last ten years, Kids Science Labs has consistently been rated the best science camp in Northbrook, offering a unique blend of fun, creativity, and hands-on learning that helps kids build confidence and critical thinking skills. Whether it's for a summer, Thanksgiving, or spring break camp, we provide an unforgettable experience for children who are curious about the world of science and innovation.

So, if you’re looking for a camp that encourages your child to think creatively, experiment, and innovate, Kids Science Labs is the place to be!

Best Birthday Party Places Seattle

What Are the Best Birthday Places in Seattle?

Planning a kid’s birthday party can be a lot of fun, but it can also feel overwhelming. You want a birthday party venue that will delight your child and their friends, offer plenty of entertainment, and maybe even teach them something along the way. Seattle offers a variety of birthday party venues that cater to all types of interests—from outdoor adventures to artsy celebrations and, of course, science-themed fun!

If you’re looking for something unique and exciting, consider a venue that provides hands-on activities, engaging learning experiences, and memorable moments. Here’s a guide to the best birthday places in Seattle, with a focus on activities that spark curiosity and creativity.

How Do I Find the Best Birthday Venues in Seattle?

When searching for the best birthday venue in Seattle, there are a few things to consider to ensure the celebration is a hit:

  • Location: Whether you're looking for an indoor or outdoor space, make sure the venue is convenient for you and your guests.

  • Theme: Does your child have a specific interest (such as science, animals, or art? Choosing a venue that aligns with their passions will make the celebration more special.

  • Space and Amenities: Check if the venue has enough space for all the activities you plan. Also, ensure it offers amenities such as party rooms, snacks, or decorations to make your life easier.

  • Engagement: Look for places that provide activities and hands-on experiences to keep kids entertained. The more engaged they are, the more memorable the party will be.

Why Is Hands-On Science Important for Celebrating a Kid's Birthday Party?

If you’re seeking a birthday party venue that offers more than just games and cake, hands-on science is a fantastic choice. KSL allows kids to actively participate in experiments, problem-solving activities, and creative building projects.

Here’s why hands-on science is important for a kid’s birthday party:

  • Educational Fun: Kids love to learn through play, and hands-on science activities are both fun and educational. They get to explore new concepts, discover how things work, and even create their own science experiments!

  • Creativity: Science activities, like making slime, building rockets, or experimenting with fizzy reactions, tap into children’s creativity. They’ll come up with new ideas, try different combinations, and see the results in real-time.

  • Critical Thinking: Science encourages kids to think critically. They’ll ask questions, test hypotheses, and analyze results, all while having a blast!

  • Memories: Doing something unique and hands-on makes the birthday celebration more memorable. Children remember the time they made their own slime or watched a volcano erupt—experiences like these stick with them.

A science-themed birthday party engages children’s minds while offering a fun and creative experience. Plus, it’s an excellent way to introduce kids to the wonders of the world around them!

Which STEM Programs for Kids in Seattle Also Offer Cool Indoor Birthday Party Places?

Seattle is home to several STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) programs that not only provide exciting educational experiences but also offer the perfect setting for an indoor birthday party. These venues help kids engage in hands-on science, technology, and art projects in a way that’s both fun and memorable.

1. Kids Science Labs Seattle

If you're looking for a birthday party that combines creativity, fun, and STEM learning, look no further than Kids Science Labs Seattle! This science-focused venue offers the best kid’s birthday party in Seattle that is as educational as they are exciting. Kids can participate in activities like slime-making, design thinking, chemical reactions, and much more.

At Kids Science Labs, kids will engage in exciting science experiments and activities, guided by professional staff who make the experience fun and easy to follow. You won’t have to worry about setting up or cleaning up—just show up with your guests, and let the lab take care of the rest!

2. Seattle Children’s Museum

Located at the Seattle Center, the Seattle Children’s Museum offers a hands-on and interactive environment where kids can explore a variety of exhibits. They also offer birthday party packages that include access to their exhibits, plus a private party room. From building structures in the construction zone to engaging in art and science exhibits, this museum provides a perfect setting for an enriching birthday experience.

3. Pacific Science Center

The Pacific Science Center is a must-visit for any child interested in science, technology, or space exploration. Their birthday parties are designed to offer a mix of interactive learning and play. Kids can explore hands-on exhibits, enjoy special demonstrations, and even participate in live science shows. It’s the ultimate STEM birthday venue for curious young minds!

4. The Museum of Flight

For kids who dream of flying and exploring space, the Museum of Flight offers a fantastic venue for a birthday party. With exhibits that include real aircraft, spacecraft, and flight simulators, kids will be captivated by the world of aviation and space exploration. The museum also offers birthday party packages with access to hands-on activities and themed experiences.

5. Build-a-Bear Workshop

If your child is interested in creativity and crafting, consider hosting a birthday party at Build-a-Bear Workshop. Kids can design and create their own plush animal friends, making it a memorable and interactive experience.

What Programs Are Offered at the Children’s Science Center Lab @ Kids Science Labs Seattle?

At Kids Science Labs Seattle, we offer a variety of science-themed birthday party programs, science camps, mid-winter break camps, spring break camps, and STEM Labs designed to captivate and engage children’s imaginations. Our unique programs combine STEM learning with fun and hands-on activities, allowing kids to experiment, build, and create.

Here’s a sneak peek at the exciting programs we offer for birthday party Venues in Seattle:

1. Slime-Making Party

Every child loves making their own slime! During this party, kids will mix ingredients to create different types of slime, like fluffy slime, butter slime, and glitter slime. They’ll get to experiment with colors and textures while learning about the science of polymers. It’s a messy, fun, and educational experience!

2. Mysteries of Science Party

Have a budding astronaut on your hands? Our Mysteries of Science (MOS) Party lets kids explore the polymers of slime and color changing fizzing reactions. A private party with all the personal attention your child' deserves for a kid’s birthday party experience that is out of this world!

3. Big Birthday Blowout

In this party, kids will get to participate in engineering challenges, such as building bridges or creating structures that can withstand weight. It’s a great way to introduce young minds to the world of engineering and problem-solving while having fun with friends.

4. Chemical Reactions Party

Let’s make things fizz! This exciting party involves fun chemical reactions that will wow kids with bubbling potions, colorful reactions, and explosive demonstrations. Kids will get to experience science in action and learn about chemistry in the process.

5. Custom-Themed Science Parties

At Kids Science Labs, we love to customize the experience. If your child has a special interest, we can tailor the birthday party to focus on a specific science theme, like dinosaurs, space, or environmental science.

Our birthday parties are designed to encourage kids to think critically, collaborate, and most importantly—have fun while learning!

In conclusion, if you're planning a kids' birthday party in Seattle, there are plenty of amazing venues to choose from, but none offer quite the hands-on science experiences like Kids Science Labs Seattle. Whether it’s slime-making, rocket science, or chemical reactions, our science-themed birthday parties are perfect for sparking curiosity and inspiring young minds. Plus, our hassle-free party packages take the stress out of planning, so you can sit back and enjoy the fun!

If you're ready to book the best birthday party in Seattle, give us a call at Kids Science Labs Seattle and let’s make your child’s birthday unforgettable!

Children's Birthday Party Venues In Chicago That Parents and Kids Get Excited About

Children’s Birthday Party Venues in Chicago

Planning a memorable birthday party for your child in Chicago is an exciting adventure, especially with the diverse venues available. Here’s a guide to some exceptional options for a children’s birthday venue near me (you) in Chicago: Bubbles Academy, Urban Air, Lil’ Kickers, and Kids Science Labs.

Each of these children’s birthday party venues near me offers unique themes, packages, and experiences to make your child's celebration unforgettable.

1. Kids Science Labs (Chicago, Northbrook, Seattle)

Kids Science Labs offers hands-on, science-themed birthday parties that inspire creativity and curiosity through the most engaging experiments that have been hand picked to give kids joy and excitement. Beyond being a great children’s birthday party venue in Chicago, parents also love Kids Science Labs Summer Camps and Schools have always enjoyed their Field Trips

Locations of Kids Science Labs

○  Roscoe Village: 3324 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

○  South Loop: 1801 S. Indiana Ave, Chicago, IL 60616

○  Northbrook, IL: 840 A. Willow Road, Northbrook, IL

● PartyThemes&Packages:

  • ○  Standard Package: Includes a 90-minute private party with interactive science

    experiments led by experienced instructors.

  • ○  Pricing: Additional kids can be added $30/child for weekend science party class or party packages starting at $575 for its popular Mysteries of Science Party for members who also have attend Kids Science Labs other programs (Use Code: MEMBER50 for $50 discount)

    ● BookingInformation:

○ A Kids Birthday Party can be booked online here: or via phone at 773-798-2012

● Contact: Support@kidssciencelabs.com

○ Website: Kids Science Labs (kidssciencelabs.com)

● AdditionalPrograms:

○  Weekly science classes for various age groups.

○  Summer Camps

○  STEM Field Trips for Elementary School Students

2. Bubble’s Academy

Bubbles Academy is a vibrant arts and play center catering to children aged 0–6, offering imaginative and developmentally-focused classes and events.

● Locations:

  • ○  Bucktown: 2184 N. Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

  • ○  Gold Coast: 900 N. Michigan Ave, Level 6, Chicago, IL 60611

  • ○  Highland Park: 799 Central Ave, Highland Park, IL 60035

    ● PartyThemes&Packages:

  • ○  Standard Party: $600 for 2 hours of private access to the play space and party

    room, including a dedicated party coordinator for setup and cleanup.

  • ○  Add-Ons:

    • 45-minute teacher-led activity (music/movement, imagination adventure, or custom art project) for an additional $200.

    • Families enrolled in Bubbles Academy classes or preschool receive a $100 discount on their party.

      ● BookingInformation:

  • ○  A $300 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your date; the remainder is due on the day of the party.

  • ○  Cancellation Policy: You may choose an alternative date, pending availability, or apply your deposit to classes.

    ● Contact:

  • ○  Phone: 312-944-7677

  • ○  Website: Bubbles Academy

    ● AdditionalPrograms:

  • ○  Child development classes in art, music, movement, and preschool preparation.

3. Urban Air Indoor Adventure Park

Urban Air is an indoor adventure park offering a variety of attractions suitable for all ages, making it a thrilling venue for active birthday celebrations.

● Location: North Riverside: 7401 W 25th St, North Riverside, IL 60546

● PartyPackages:

  • ○  Classic Party Packages: Available 7 days a week, including a reserved table

    with tablecloth, table runner, plates, forks, napkins, balloons, and a bottle of

    water for each jumper.

  • ○  Specific pricing and package details are not provided on the website; contact the

    venue directly for more information.

    ● BookingInformation:

○ Parties can be booked online or by contacting the park directly.

● Contact:

  • ○  Phone: 708-505-2980

  • ○  Website: Urban Air North Riverside

    ● AdditionalPrograms:

  • ○  Open play sessions with access to all attractions.

  • ○  Special events and group outings.

  • ○  Memberships for regular visitors.

4. Lil’ Kickers

Lil’ Kickers is a child development program centered around soccer, offering fun and age-appropriate activities for children.

● Locations: Multiple locations across Chicago; visit their website for the nearest facility.

● PartyPackages:

  • ○  Standard Package: Includes field time with coaches leading soccer activities

    and games, followed by time in a party room.

  • ○  Specific pricing and package details vary by location; contact the venue directly

    for more information.

    ● BookingInformation:

○ Parties can be booked by contacting the desired location directly.

● Contact:

○ Website: Lil’ Kickers ● AdditionalPrograms:

  • ○  Weekly soccer classes for various age groups.

If you are looking for other Birthday Party Ideas, you can always find Cool Birthday Party Ideas here or reach Kids Science Labs at 773-798-2012.