best music programs in Winnetka, IL

Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.

Welcome to the vibrant Winnetka community! If you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, our performing arts programs are the perfect way to get involved. From dance and theater to music classes, there’s something for everyone. Our education and enrichment activities span from early childhood development to dog obedience. Kids can learn the fundamentals of basketball and other sports in a safe, fun atmosphere through our youth sports programs. For adults, we offer a range of activities from chess and whiskey tasting to lectures, fitness, and special events. Come on down and take a look - we can’t wait to show you around! At Winnetka, we’re all about making a difference in our community. Whether you’re a new resident or have been here for years, our performing arts programs will bring out your creative side. We offer everything from dance and theater to music classes. Plus, our education and enrichment activities cover topics like early childhood development and dog obedience. Kids can learn the basics of basketball and other sports in a non-competitive, fun environment with our youth sports programs. As for adults, there’s plenty to do - from chess and whiskey tasting to lectures, fitness classes, and special events. Stop by and get to know us - we’d love to meet you!

Two passionate Winnetka women had a dream of creating a space for children to engage in performing arts in the same way they would with sports like baseball, football, hockey, and basketball. Then Children's Theatre of Winnetka was born, and it quickly grew in popularity. Auditions and crew signups were limited to students grades 4 through 8 in public and private schools in New Trier Township. One of the greatest successes of the CTW has been its many “alums”. They have gone on to pursue their passions for acting, singing, dancing, and tech at New Trier, college, and even on Broadway and in Hollywood. Many of the graduates come back to CTW during their high school years to teach dance steps and stage musical numbers. This is incredibly gratifying to the staff, as it demonstrates that they have been able to instill a lifelong interest in theatre and the performing arts in the children. Over the years, the CTW has been a great success, with its students and alumni achieving great accomplishments. It has become a place for children to strive to be the best and entertain not only their parents but their friends too—all for a small admission fee.

Kid Motion has been in operation in Winnetka since 1985, providing young children ages 2 - 5 with a developmentally appropriate learning environment. The program is designed to help kids develop physical skills and confidence in a fun and creative atmosphere. It's limited to 12 kids and is staffed with two trained teachers. Through a combination of elementary teaching techniques and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle, Kid Motion has been able to successfully foster an environment that promotes growth in social and intellectual development. At Kid Motion, young children ages 2 - 5 can enjoy a safe and interactive learning environment that will help them maximize their physical development. With two trained teachers and a cap of 12 students, each class is tailored to help kids grow socially and intellectually in a creative and stimulating atmosphere. Kid Motion has been helping kids in Winnetka grow since 1985.

At MIC Musikgarten®, we believe in the power of music to help shape the development of children from birth to age seven. Our classes provide an environment that is both joyful and stimulating, and our curriculum is designed to help children develop their musical skills in a comprehensive, sequential way. We understand that early exposure to music can be beneficial for a child's emotional, intellectual, and social growth, and we strive to give them the best possible start. At MIC Musikgarten®, we are committed to providing children with the best possible introduction to music. Our classes are designed to be engaging and creative, fostering an environment that is both fun and educational. We focus on activities that are developmentally appropriate and can help to foster strong musical skills, which can in turn help children to excel in a variety of musical and school activities. Our mission here at MIC Musikgarten® is to help children unlock the power of music and use it as a tool to develop their skills. We believe in providing a comprehensive, sequential plan for musical development that is specifically tailored to each age group, from birth to age seven. Our classes are designed to be both stimulating and joyful, and our curriculum helps to ensure that each child gets the best possible start on their musical journey.

Pam wanted to create something special for young children and their families. She was inspired by existing outdoor preschool programs and wanted to create an experience that would be a magical morning for parents and children, with an emphasis on unplugging and connecting with the natural world. So, with her passion for nature and her expertise on healthy life styles for children, Pam founded the Tiny Treks program. Tiny Treks is a unique outdoor preschool program that builds on Pam's vision of providing a magical morning for parents and children. With her knowledge and commitment to nature and healthy living, Pam has created a curriculum that is both fun and stimulating for Tiny Treks participants. Pam also provides parents with a flexible make-up policy, the ability to bring babies to class, and on special occasions, school-age siblings with days off.