Where else can your child spend their summer learning to skateboard, build a book from scratch, design their own jewelry and master basketball fundamentals — plus dozens of other fun activities? At Bennett Day Camp, kids explore interests they won’t find anywhere else, all while being part of the welcoming, joyful Bennett Day School community in Chicago’s West Loop.
A unique Chicago camp experience
Located on the campus of Bennett Day School near Fulton Market, Bennett Day Camp blends hands-on enrichment with classic summer camp fun. Its mix of structured learning and free play keeps kids engaged while allowing them to explore new interests at their own pace.
Enrichment for ages 4-10
Each morning, campers choose from a variety of engaging enrichment classes led by Bennett teachers and top Chicago-area instructors. These classes encourage creativity, curiosity, and hands-on learning.
A few exciting options include:
- STEAM Fun with Color – Hands-on experiments explore color mixing and science concepts.
- Skateboarding – In partnership with Little Rippers, campers learn balance, technique and safety while navigating ramps.
- Jewelry Making – Young designers craft unique beaded and woven jewelry.
- Big Games – A favorite for active campers, featuring dodgeball, capture the flag and high-energy classics.
Afternoons shift into a traditional day camp experience, filled with music, crafts, outdoor play and classic camp games. It’s the best of both worlds—focused learning in the morning, carefree summer fun in the afternoon.
“We want kids to feel like they’re discovering something new every day, whether it’s a hobby, a talent or just a new way to have fun,” says Bobby Starks, Bennett Day School’s Director of Athletics and Co-Curriculars.
Middle schoolers get more
Bennett Day Camp offers rising 5th-9th graders opportunities to lead, compete, and create through specialty programs designed just for them.
Counselor in Training (CIT) Program
Middle schoolers eager to mentor younger campers and develop leadership skills will thrive in the CIT program. CITs assist counselors in leading activities, facilitating games and gaining hands-on experience.
Participants can choose full-day or half-day participation, allowing flexibility to pair leadership training with a specialty camp.
Sports and specialty camps
Older campers can dive into their passions with specialized programs, including:
- 1000 Watts Sports Camp – A high-energy, multi-sport experience featuring flag football, basketball and more.
- Hi-Five Sports Camp for Boys – Focuses on teamwork, skill-building and leadership.
- Game On! Sports 4 Girls Leadership Camp – A confidence-building camp designed to develop female leaders through sports.
- Middle schoolers can also explore creative and academic fields like debate, improv, creative writing and STEM.
Who will love Bennett Day Camp?
- Curious, creative kids ages 4-10 who love hands-on activities, from bookbinding to basketball.
- Budding leaders in grades 5-9 who want to mentor younger kids and gain real-world leadership experience.
- Active kids who love sports and want to build skills with expert coaches in a fun, non-competitive environment.
What parents need to know
- Location: Bennett Day School in Chicago’s West Loop, near Fulton Market
- Dates: June 23-Aug. 8, plus an extra sports camp week Aug. 11-15
- Hours: 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. (before & after care available)
- Lunch included for ages 4-10; middle schoolers bring their own
- Flexible scheduling: Sign up for one week or multiple weeks
Parent tip: Download the Bennett Day Camp Guide before registering to review enrichment class descriptions and help your child choose their favorites.
Why Bennett Day Camp stands out
Bennett Day Camp is designed for exploration, creativity, and hands-on learning, all while ensuring kids have plenty of carefree fun. Expert instructors, unique enrichment classes and flexible scheduling allow campers to build confidence while trying something new in a supportive, high-quality environment.
Spots fill quickly! Give your child a summer of adventure and discovery — register today!
This content is sponsored by Bennett Day Camp. Learn more at bennettday.org/summer-camp.