Patch Picks: Summer Camp Guide 2011

Hey parents! Already wondering how you're going to keep the kids occupied this summer? Two months is a long time to hear "Mom! Mom! Mom!" and "Dad, are we there yet?" all day, everyday. While you might be tempted to put in some ear plugs and pour yourself an afternoon cocktail, you know that's not realistic. Unless you like the police coming by. So why not sign your kids up for one of the many summer camp programs the Des Plaines Park District has to offer? Sign up before May 15 and save a few bucks. With more than 15 programs, you're bound to find one to suit your child best. Here are five to help you get started!

Adventure Camp at Lake Park (Ages 8–14)

If your kids likes to do activities that make you nervous, this might be the right camp for them! Your child will enjoy rock climbing, going to water parks, baseball games, playing laser tag, canoeing and more. There is also an overnight trip to gain the true camping experience. Each session is two weeks long. Lunch is not provided. Lake Park, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. R: $312/NR: $390 After May 15, R: $324/NR: $405

Camp Chickagami at Lake Park  (Ages 6–14)

At what the Park District calls their "most popular camp," your child will enjoy playing sports, swimming, fishing, paddle boats and two weekly field trips. Each session is one week long. Lunch is not provided. Lake Park, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. R: $113/NR: $141 After May 15, R: $118/NR: $147

Nature Camp at Cumberland Terrace  (Ages 6–11)

Does your child love to scare you by bringing bugs in the house? Then this might be the camp for them. This two week camp experience includes activities such as identifying birds and insects, conducting science experiments and making crafts. Cumberland Terrace is at 426 S. Warrington Road, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. R: $144/NR: $174 After May 15 R: $150/NR: $180

Dance & Arts CampAges 6–10)

This camp provides your child with the opportunity to learn stage presence through dance, such as jazz, tap, hip hop and more. They'll also have an opportunity to build sets and design costumes. There is another session for older children as well. This is a two week session. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. R: $211/NR: $264 After May 15 R: $219/NR: $274

Chicago Bulls Basketball Camp (Ages 6-8 and 9-14)

Is your kid dreaming of a career in the NBA? Then send them over to the Prairie Lakes Community Center so they can be trained by professionals in a positive environment. This week long camp is taught by certified instructors from the Bulls Training Academy. Each child receives a basketball, Bulls team bag, Bulls T–shirt, Bulls Player Evaluation Form, Bulls Graduation Certificate and participation in the Bulls Basketball Schools Skills Competition. Prairie Lakes, 8:30 a.m.–11:30am, $199 per person.

Read about all of the Park District's programs, registration and rules here.