Slots are still available; enrollments are up 18% after four days compared to this time last year
Chicago Park District today announced that in-person registration for its popular summer park programming and camps begins on Saturday, April 28 at 9 a.m., at most park locations. Walk-in registration at all other parks will be held on Monday, April 30.
To date, the Park District has recorded a total of 29,410 enrollments in summer programs and camps; an 18% upswing from this time last year. All park locations will offer walk-in registration if slots are still available at that park. Please check with your local park for registration hours and program availability.
Compared to 2012, park program enrollments increased by 49%. The Chicago Park District experienced record numbers in 2017 for program registration The Park District has also surpassed 100,000 registrations eight times. Last summer, the Park District recorded a 31% increase in enrollments in summer programs, and summer camp sold out for the first time with over 49,000 enrollments.
"The Park District's summer park programs are still the best deal in town," said Chicago Park District Superintendent & CEO. "We strive to provide excellent and affordable recreation for individuals of all ages and abilities that will bring children and families into our parks and give them great reasons to stay and play for a lifetime."
This year, the summer day camp curriculum will celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Special Olympics and the Chicago Park District's commitment to provide recreational opportunities for every individual throughout Chicago regardless of their abilities. The Chicago Park District’s new camp theme Unified: We Choose to Include will enhance the summer day camp experience by engaging campers in inclusive activities and education programs as well as weekly physical fitness routines that encourage campers to interact with one another.
Day camp will provide participants with the opportunity to participate in energetic team building and cooperative games, visual arts and writing activities, outdoor and environmental education, performing arts and imaginative play, and active games and fitness activities.
Standard day camps, for ages 6 to 12 years old, run six weeks, from June 25-August 3, typically from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. or 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Play Camp offers options for children ages 3 to 5 years old, and Teen Camp for participants ages 13 to 15 year olds.
Be aware that summer program registration for McFetridge Sports Center & Morgan Park Sports Center opens Tuesday, May 29.
Fees vary depending on location, offerings and hours. No child will be turned away for inability to pay.
Financial Assistance
The Chicago Park District has limited funds available to provide financial assistance for families who wish to enroll in the 2018 summer day camp program. Financial assistance and family discounts are available. Financial assistance is only available to City of Chicago residents. Eligibility for financial assistance does not guarantee a slot for day camp and cannot be used in conjunction with any other reduced/voucher programs. Applicants that do not qualify for financial assistance may inquire about the payment plan option at their local park.
For more information on how to solicit the scholarship, please visit the day camp page.
The Chicago Park District aims to provide summer camp financial assistance to thousands of children each year, requiring more than $2 million. Tax-deductible gifts of any size may be made to the Summer Day Camp Assistance Fund to help support children and families across the city through this financial assistance program here.
Family Discount
When patrons register for two or more programs for family members less than 18 years of age in one transaction, the order qualifies for a 10% discount on the less expensive program(s).
Discount is available for online and in-person orders, but cannot be combined with the CHA or DCFS discount programs. All family members should be entered into one account on the Chicago Park District’s registration system.
Summer Food Service Program
In accordance with the Illinois State Board of Education’s Summer Food Service Program and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) federal regulations, the Chicago Park District will participate in the Summer Food Service Program in conjunction with summer day camp. Lunches and/or snacks will be provided for enrolled children at most camps.
Meals are made available to all eligible participants without regard to race color, national origin, disability, sex or age. Any person who believes that he or she has been discriminated against in any USDA-related activity should write immediately to: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call 202/720-5964 (voice and TTD).
For more information, contact your local park, visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com or call 312-742-PLAY.