Patch Picks: Where to Send the Kids for Summer Fun

The weather's warming up and the kids are getting antsy. Quell their crazies with summer camp registration. Check out these places to register below, and don't forget to let us know of other places in the comments!

1. Wilmette Park District
   The Scene: Kids of all ages have many options to pick from, that range in length. Some of the arts camp feature gymnastics and swimming in addition to artist lectures, as well as group projects. Children seeking to pursue singing and acting careers can also take a crack at the Broadway Bound Camp. For the more aquatic-inclined child, take advantage of Lake Michigan in the Sailing Camp.
   
   You can register online or at Wilmette Village Hall for summer sessions.
2. Computer Camp at Northwestern
   The Scene: For the nerdier kid at heart who still wants to get the summer camp experience. iD Tech Camps works with 60 universities across the country, including Northwestern University in Evanston. Kids camps and teen camps vary with the opportunity to build skills in video game design, Flash animation, programming, video editing, and more.
3. North Suburban YMCA
   The Scene: This full palate of summer programs in one- and two-week sessions makes you want to be a kid again – and you can, if you sign up for mommy and me camp with your toddler. For more independent campers, there are traditional camps, sports camps, dance, gymnastics, art, and cheerleading camps, and sessions where campers take a field trip every day. There’s also a CIT program for teens, before- and after-camp care, and accommodations for campers with special needs.
   
   If you’re not a member of the YMCA, there are discounted memberships fees when you register for camp.
4. Chicago Botanic Garden
   The Scene: Camp CBG takes campers as young as 2 for parent-assisted days in the garden, and as old as 12 garden-centered days exploring art, chemistry, food and ecology. Older children may apply to be Leaders in Training, assisting in the camps they wish they would have gone to when they were younger.
   
   There are also yoga and dance programs for children. Camp CBG’s week-long programs are divided into half-and full-day programs, June-August.
5. The Art Center of Highland Park
   The Scene: If your child digs the arts more than earthworms, check out the camp offerings at Highland Park’s The Art Center. Camps are scheduled in two, four, six and eight week sessions, with new projects each session. Campers as young as 4 approach art through storytelling and games, while teens hone their skills with figure drawing and painting.
   
   This not-for-profit arts organization has been around for 51 years, and ensures access to the arts for all ages and cultural interests in the surrounding communities. They offer more than 400 art classes annually in every medium imaginable.