Summer College For Kids

Grades 1-3

How Does Your Garden Grow?

Campers will learn how to plant flowers, veggies and herbs, with hands-on activities like building their own mini garden plots, crafting fun garden decorations and pots. They’ll get to explore the life cycle of a plant from seed to sprout and watch their hard work come to life in the garden. Make sure to dress for mess! We’ll be getting down and dirty.

Mon.-Thu., June 9-12
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-001

Fairy Flips and Fancy Twists

Join us for an exciting week focused on Fractured Fairy Tales! Campers will reimagine classic stories with creative twists while engaging in hands-on STEM and art activities. From designing engineering solutions for fairy tale problems to creating artwork inspired by their own storytelling, this camp blends imagination and fun. Perfect for young adventurers ready to explore new versions of beloved tales.

Mon.-Thu., June 9-12
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-003

Yoga and Mindfulness

Kids yoga is all about movement, mindfulness and most importantly having fun while learning how to focus, building emotional regulation and calmness. Yoga encourages cooperation, confidence and respect. Students should bring a yoga mat each day.

Mon.-Thu., June 9-12
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-008

Dino Diggers

Enter the world of fossils and dinosaurs! Become an amateur paleontologist while studying the past and examining the physical remains of what was left behind over 11,000 years ago! Studying fossils opens a prehistoric world where dinosaurs, along with many other extinct animals, lived and died. We will have an opportunity to excavate and put together dinosaur “bones” as well as excavate real fossils!

Mon.-Thu., June 16-19
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-013

Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestra Camp (Grades 2-5)

The Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestra introduces you to different string instruments including violin, viola, cello, and bass. Take the opportunity to begin learning to play violin with a skilled instructor! Hear and handle different string instruments throughout the week, learn about various music concepts such as rhythm through fun activities, and be visited by professional musicians! Instruments will be provided, and no previous experience with music or playing an instrument is required.

Mon.-Thu., June 16-19
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-014
Grades 2-5

Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestra Camp (Grades 2-5)

The Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestra introduces you to different string instruments including violin, viola, cello, and bass. Take the opportunity to begin learning to play violin with a skilled instructor! Hear and handle different string instruments throughout the week, learn about various music concepts such as rhythm through fun activities, and be visited by professional musicians! Instruments will be provided, and no previous experience with music or playing an instrument is required.

Mon.-Thu., June 16-19
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-023
Grades 2-5

Lights, Laughter, Action: Theater

Welcome to a magical world where imagination takes center stage! This theater camp is designed to introduce kids to the joy of acting, storytelling and creative expression in a playful, supportive environment, no experience needed, just a love of make-believe and a dash of dramatic flair.

Mon.-Thu., June 16-19
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-021

Roots of Calm and Strength: Martial Arts

Embark on a journey of discipline, strength, and self-discovery where young minds and bodies are trained in the art of martial discipline. This camp teaches more than just physical technique, it’s about cultivating respect, focus and perseverance. Through engaging activities like skill-building drills, mindfulness practices and team challenges, campers will develop confidence while learning various martial arts techniques, all in an environment that encourages respect for oneself and others.

Mon.-Thu., July 7-10
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-040

American Sign Language

Communication has no boundaries! Campers can learn and practice American Sign Language (ASL) through fun, engaging activities including learning basic signs and phrases to signing songs and storytelling in ASL. Build the skills of communication and connection.

Mon.-Thu., July 21-24
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-053

Grades 4-6

Honey Bees: The Superhero of the World’s Food Supply

The western honeybee and other pollinators are responsible for one third of the world’s food. Join other environmental thinkers in learning more about the honeybee’s role in preserving our food supply and how they structure their colony to guarantee success. Learn how they set up their house so every bee has a job. Do a hive inspection with experienced beekeepers. Build an insect cage to study the diversity of bugs in our neighborhood. Pour beeswax candles. Make seed bombs to provide more pollination opportunities for bees.

Mon.-Thu., June 9-12
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-004

Roots of Calm and Strength: Martial Arts

Embark on a journey of discipline, strength and self-discovery where young minds and bodies are trained in the art of martial discipline. This camp teaches more than physical techniques, it’s about cultivating respect, focus and perseverance. Through engaging activities like skill-building drills, mindfulness practices and team challenges, campers will develop confidence while learning various martial arts techniques, all in an environment that encourages respect for oneself and others.

Mon.-Thu., June 9-12
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-009

Build, Paint, Create

This DIY camp gets creative with small building projects including assembling a birdhouse. Campers learn the basics of art and design through hands-on building and daily sketching and art activities. Explore your creative side through small painting projects including painting the birdhouse you build.

Mon.-Thu., June 9-12
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-010

Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestra Camp (Grades 2-5)

The Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestra introduces you to different string instruments including violin, viola, cello, and bass. Take the opportunity to begin learning to play violin with a skilled instructor! Hear and handle different string instruments throughout the week, learn about various music concepts such as rhythm through fun activities, and be visited by professional musicians! Instruments will be provided, and no previous experience with music or playing an instrument is required.

Mon.-Thu., June 16-19
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-014
Grades 2-5

Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestra Camp (Grades 2-5)

The Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestra introduces you to different string instruments including violin, viola, cello, and bass. Take the opportunity to begin learning to play violin with a skilled instructor! Hear and handle different string instruments throughout the week, learn about various music concepts such as rhythm through fun activities, and be visited by professional musicians! Instruments will be provided, and no previous experience with music or playing an instrument is required.

Mon.-Thu., June 16-19
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-023
Grades 2-5

Seeds and Sprouts

Seeds and Sprouts is a hands-on, immersive experience where kids dig into the wonders of nature while learning valuable skills in planting, growing and caring for a garden. This camp is a blend of science, creativity and outdoor adventure. Campers get their hands dirty planting seeds and plants. Learn about the small creatures who pollinate the garden, test the soil and create garden art.

Mon.-Thu., June 16-19
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-016

Drumtastic

Experience the power of music, rhythm, movement and drumming. This high-energy class combines traditional aerobic movement with the powerful beat and rhythms of the drums. Use stability balls on stands and drumsticks to create rhythm and movement. Designed for enthusiastic students of all skill levels, the camp is full of performance, learning and listening.

Mon.-Thu., June 16-19
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-017

Jurassic Journeys

Enter the world of fossils and dinosaurs. Become an amateur paleontologist while you study the past through the physical remains of what was left behind over 11,000 years ago! Examine fossils to open a prehistoric world where dinosaurs, along with many other extinct animals lived and died. We will have an opportunity to excavate and put together dinosaur “bones” as well as excavate real fossils!

Mon.-Thu., June 16-19
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-024

Roots and Rhythm: African American Culture & Art

African American culture and arts come together in a creative celebration! Discover the beauty of African American history and heritage through hands-on art. Create artwork inspired by African American artists and cultural movements and collaborate as a group to create visual art projects. Discover the work of renowned African American artists and learn about the impact of African American culture on modern art and culture.

Mon.-Thu., June 23-26
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-027

Falling Up: The Poetry of Shel Silverstein

Make sure to “Race Your Shadow” to register for this camp. Delve into the whimsical, humorous and thought-provoking poetry of Shel Silverstein. Explore five of Shel’s most popular works, and discuss how they relate to navigating today’s world and how poetry can be used to inspire and comfort us. Write your own poems, and engage in fun exercises and discussion!

Mon.-Thu., June 23-26
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-032

Magician’s Workshop

Taught by a professional magician, in this class there’s lots of great magic you can learn and take home to perform for family and friends. Included is a wide variety of magic with common items, playing cards, money, rope, mind reading and special magic props made in class. All supplies and an instructional book are provided.

Mon.-Thu., June 23-26
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-033

Xylos and Drums and More Oh My!

Be an active music maker! Become a part of music ensembles as you learn and perform instrumental pieces using Orff xylophones, tubano drums and other instruments. Explore and expand your own musical talent by creating short melodies and rhythms.

Mon.-Thu., July 7-10
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-039

Mr. Lincoln’s Springfield

Do you ever wonder what life was like in Springfield as a child during the years that Abraham Lincoln lived in Springfield? Expolre the games children played, the clothes they wore and the food they ate. Let’s see what it would be like if you were born in this area long ago! This camp includes a field trip to the Lincoln Home Historical Site and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum!

Mon.-Thu., July 7-10
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-041

Yoga and Mindfulness

Kids yoga is all about movement, mindfulness and most importantly having fun while learning how to focus, building emotional regulation and calmness. Yoga encourages cooperation, confidence and respect. Students should bring a yoga mat each day.

Mon.-Thu., July 7-10
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-042

Web Wizards

Learn write and run HTML, CSS and JS files to display and format text, images and hyperlinks onto the webpage. Create an interactive website that takes the reader through interactive adventure stories. Camp is designed for beginner web designers with no coding experience.

Mon.-Thu., July 14-17
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-044

Lights, Laughter, Action: Theater

Welcome to a magical world where imagination takes center stage! Experience the joy of acting, storytelling and creative expression in a playful, supportive environment. No experience needed — just a love of make-believe and a dash of dramatic flair!

Mon.-Thu., July 14-17
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-051

Math Magicians

A mysterious machine sets the scene for this camp. Interact with this mysterious machine to discover the notion of place value with different bases. Learn to use the mysterious machine to perform basic mathematical operations on numbers in different bases including binary numbers. Discuss the history of numbers and how they are applied to computer code. Discover how the machine can be used to gain an advantage when attempting to solve puzzles.

Mon.-Thu., July 14-17
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-052

American Sign Language

Communication has no boundaries! Campers can learn and practice American Sign Language (ASL) through fun, engaging activities including learning basic signs and phrases to signing songs and storytelling in ASL. Build the skills of communication and connection.

Mon.-Thu., July 21-24
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-055

Grades 6-8

Legends and Layers: Archaeology

Step into the shoes of an explorer and uncover the secrets of ancient civilizations! Archaeologists embark on an adventure through time, learning the art of excavation, decoding ancient scripts and piecing together the mysteries of lost worlds. With trowels in hand and curiosity as your guide, you’ll journey through history in a way that’s interactive, engaging and full of adventure. Who knows what treasures the past may reveal?

Mon.-Thu., June 9-12
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-06

Pixel Perfect

Step into the world of creative mobile photography. You’ll learn to capture stunning, professional-looking photos using just your mobile phone. Learn the basics of composition, lighting and editing, and explore creative techniques to transform everyday moments into extraordinary images. With hands-on workshops and fun photo challenges, you’ll gain new skills and a portfolio of amazing photos.

Mon.-Thu., June 9-12
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-005

Rock Hoppers: A Geological Adventure

Get ready to explore the world beneath your feet! Dig deep into the wonders of geology, discovering the incredible stories hidden within rocks, minerals and fossils. Learn about the layers of the earth, and identify precious gems and ancient fossils. Every day is a new opportunity to unearth treasures, test theories and explore the natural world from a rock-solid perspective.

Mon.-Thu., June 9-12
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-012

Dungeons and Dragons

Have you ever wanted to play the world’s most popular tabletop roleplaying game, Dungeons & Dragons? Join our experienced Dungeon Masters as they take you on an adventure over the course of camp. Work with others to explore and quest in a fantasy world! No experience required. All materials provided. Pre-generated characters will be provided.

Mon.-Thu., June 16-19
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-019

Through the Lens

Unlock the world through the lens of a camera. Photographers explore the art of capturing breathtaking images using cameras. Master manual settings and learn the principles of composition, lighting and storytelling. Photo challenges and guided lessons will help you develop your creative vision and create a portfolio of your best shots.

Mon.-Thu., June 16-19
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-018

Dungeons and Dragons

Have you ever wanted to play the world’s most popular tabletop roleplaying game, Dungeons & Dragons? Join our experienced Dungeon Masters as they take you on an adventure over the course of camp. Work with others to explore and quest in a fantasy world! No experience required. All materials provided. Pre-generated characters will be provided.

Mon.-Thu., June 16-19
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-025

Government: A Practical Guide for Young Citizens

Want to know how the U.S. government works? Explore concepts of purpose, constitutional design, lawmaking processes, voting and citizen engagement. This introduction to the U.S. government involves hands-on exercises, games and activities for young citizens.

Mon.-Thu., June 16-19
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-022

Can You Dig It?

Dig into the wonders of nature. Grow your skills in starting and maintaining a garden. A blend of science, creativity, and outdoor adventure awaits. Get your hands dirty planting seeds and sprouts. Learn about the small creatures that pollinate the garden. Test soil, and create art using garden materials. Make sure to dress for a mess! We’ll be getting down and dirty.

Mon.-Thu., June 23-26
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-030

Magician’s Experience

Taught by a professional magician, you’ll learn many aspects of fantastic performing art. In this class, you will learn magic with playing cards, money, rope, sponge balls, cups and bags, special props made in class, mind reading, sleight of hand techniques and more. All supplies and an instructional manual are included.

Mon.-Thu., June 23-26
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-029

Newsroom Navigators

Grab your notebooks and press badges, it’s time to chase the story! Become a roving reporter in the exciting world of journalism, uncover facts, conduct interviews and write headlines that make an impact. Whether you’re covering breaking news, writing feature articles or creating a mini newspaper, every day brings a new assignment. Whether you dream of being a journalist, podcaste, or future editor-in-chief, you’ll gain sharper writing skills, a reporter’s keen eye and maybe even your first byline!

Mon.-Thu., June 23-26
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-028

Mysteries of the Museum

Step behind the velvet ropes and into the world of museums! Explore the wonders of art, history and science through the lens of museum curation. Watch behind-the-scenes tours, Get to know the curators, and learn how to preserve and display artifacts. Whether it’s ancient fossils, dazzling paintings or mysterious relics, every object has a story to tell! Who knows what hidden treasures you’ll discover?

Mon.-Thu., June 23-26
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-034

Curtain Call

Calling all young storytellers! Ignite your imagination and bring your original ideas to life. Join a creative space where you can become a playwright! Over the course of this fun and inspiring camp, aspiring writers will learn the art of crafting characters, building dialogue, and shaping their own short plays.

Mon.-Thu., July 7-10
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-037

Junior Investors

What is stock? What is a stock exchange — NYSE, NASDAQ? Why do companies sell shares? Learn how buying and selling works, and gain an understanding of stock prices through supply and demand. Explore risk and reward as you pretend to buy and sell stocks with play money. You’ll be ready to assume the role of investor with the financial literacy and critical thinking skills gained as a junior investor.

Mon.-Thu., July 7-10
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-043

Center Stage: Audition

Build the skills and confidence needed to excel in auditions for theater. Determine how to choose a monologue or song. Master cold readings, and develop strategies to make a memorable impression on casting directors. Refine your audition skills as a performer, and increase your chance to secure your role in future productions.

Mon.-Thu., July 14-17
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-045

Element Explorers

Explore chemistry concepts from capillary action to chemical reaction. Learn about the chemistry of food with edible experiments. Encounter acid and base chemistry. Test chemical reactions. Form salt crystals. Determine density and buoyancy. Explore all the fun to be had with elements!

Mon.-Thu., July 14-17
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-049

Hometown Heroes

Get ready to discover the hidden magic of your hometown! Hear the stories, meet the characters and discover the places that make your community unique. Every corner of town holds a tale, whether it’s a quirky local legend, a fun tradition or a mystery waiting to be uncovered. Meet local characters, and explore the things that make your town the special place it is!

Mon.-Thu., July 14-17
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-050

Future Cast

Want to learn more about podcasting? Creativity meets technology when you brainstorm ideas and perfect the sound through editing and effects. Whether you’re interested in interviewing, storytelling or producing your own show, this camp offers a hands-on experience to foster your skills.

Mon.-Thu., July 21-24
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-054

Cosmic Camp

Do you wonder what’s out there? Learn about various space objects including the solar system, planets, constellations and phases of the moon. Construct cosmic crafts and edible treats.

Mon.-Thu., July 21-24
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-056

Culinary (Grades 5-8)

Workforce Career Exploration (Grades 7-10)

69��-Jacksonville Camps (Grades 1-8)

Camp Namaste (Grades 1-3)

Embark on a journey of calm, connection and creativity. Through gentle yoga and mindful breathing, you’ll learn how to quiet your mind, listen to your heart and move with intention. Each day, we’ll explore fun and simple ways to be present — from stretching like the sun in morning yoga to practicing gratitude under the shade of a tree. You’ll discover how to find stillness, express emotions through movement and cultivate kindness.

Mon.-Thu., June 9-12
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-002

American Sign Language (Grades 1-3)

Communication has no boundaries! Campers can learn and practice American Sign Language (ASL) through fun, engaging activities including learning basic signs and phrases to signing songs and storytelling in ASL. Build the skills of communication and connection.

Mon.-Thu., July 14-17
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-046

Camp Namaste (Grades 4-6)

Embark on a journey of calm, connection and creativity. Through gentle yoga and mindful breathing, you’ll learn how to quiet your mind, listen to your heart, and move with intention. Each day, we’ll explore fun and simple ways to be present — from stretching like the sun in morning yoga to practicing gratitude under the shade of a tree. You’ll discover how to find stillness, express emotions through movement and cultivate kindness.

Mon.-Thu., June 9-12
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-011

Theater Adventures (Grades 4-6)

Learn acting techniques, character development and the basics of stagecraft. Through theatre games, improv activities, and more, you’ll gain confidence, improve communication skills and unleash your creativity. No prior theatre experience is necessary, just bring your imagination and enthusiasm!

Mon.-Thu., June 16-19
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-015

Web Wizards (Grades 4-6)

Learn write and run HTML, CSS and JS files to display and format text, images and hyperlinks onto the webpage. Create an interactive website that takes the reader through interactive adventure stories. Camp is designed for beginner web designers with no coding experience.

Mon.-Thu., June 23-26
9 a.m.-noon
$149
YES 700-026

American Sign Language (Grades 4-6)

Communication has no boundaries! Campers can learn and practice American Sign Language (ASL) through fun, engaging activities including learning basic signs and phrases to signing songs and storytelling in ASL. Build the skills of communication and connection.

Mon.-Thu., July 14-17
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-048

Math Magicians (Grade 6-8)

A mysterious machine sets the scene for this camp. Interact with this mysterious machine to discover the notion of place value with different bases. Learn to use the mysterious machine to perform basic mathematical operations on numbers in different bases including binary numbers. Discuss the history of numbers and how they are applied to computer code. Discover how the machine can be used to gain an advantage when attempting to solve puzzles.

Mon.-Thu., June 23-26
1-4 p.m.
$149
YES 700-035

Culinary – Brunch Basics (Grades 5-8)

Learn all about the best parts of brunch including how to make the perfect scrambled egg and a sweet pop tart.

Please note: this camp is held at the Illinois School for the Deaf, 25 South Webster Avenue, Jacksonville.

Mon.-Thu., July 21-24
9 a.m.-noon
$195
YES 701-007
Illinois School for the Deaf, 25 South Webster Avenue, Jacksonville

Drop Off/Pick Up

Where do I drop off and pick up my student?

69��-Springfield (main campus) — All students must be signed in and out at the 69�� main campus, Trutter Center Building, 5250 Shepherd Rd. Springfield. View campus map.
69��-Jacksonville Camps — 32 N. Central Park Plaza, Jacksonville, IL 62650

When can I drop off and pick up my student?

Morning camps — Sign in is 8:45-9 a.m. Sign out begins at noon. All students must be picked up by 12:15 p.m.
Afternoon camp — Sign in is 12:45-1 p.m. Sign out begins at 4 p.m. All students must be picked up by 4:15 p.m.

Who can drop off my student?

Anyone that you trust may sign your child in to camp/class.

Who can pick up my student?

We will only release your student to those you have authorized on the registration form.

Someone not on my authorized list needs to pick up my child. How do I notify you?

Email Community.Education@llcc.edu or call 217-786-2432 and provide the first and last name of the student and the first and last name of the authorized adult.

What should my student bring to camp each day?

Please send your student dressed appropriately with a water bottle and small snack.
Culinary students should wear long pants and closed toe shoes and tie back long hair.
Workforce Career Explorers should wear long pants and closed toe shoes.
Gardening and Bee camps will spend time outdoors; dress appropriately.

What should my student not bring to camp/class each day?

Please do not send your student with medication, valuables or lunch.

What should I do if my student takes medication?

All medication should be brought in a labeled and sealed container. A signed permission slip is required before medication can be administered by camp staff.

What should I do if my student has allergies — food or other?

Please indicate if your student has any allergies on the registration form. Instructors will be notified of the allergy.

Where is the lost and found located?

The lost and found is located in the Trutter Center at check in/out.

Registration/Refunds/Cancellations

What is the registration process?

Complete the registration form provided on our webpage. Note: your registration is not complete until payment has been collected.
Staff will call to collect payment within three business days of receiving your form.
You will receive an email confirmation of your registration within 10 days of payment.

Is there an extended day/lunch option?

We do not currently provide an extended day or lunch option. Students registered for morning and afternoon camps must have an authorized adult pick them up or supervise them between camps.

What is the refund policy?

Cancellations seven calendar day prior to the camp start date are eligible for refund. Submit cancellations to Community.Education@llcc.edu, or call 217-786-2432.

Cancellation

69�� reserves the right to cancel, combine or divide offerings and/or change the instructor, time, date or place of offerings as necessary and to do so without incurring obligation.