Park District of Highland Park | Highland Park, IL

Introducing ParkSchool for 2, 3 and 4-year-olds. Your child’s bright future begins at ParkSchool.

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Variety After School Programs
(grade k-4)

Resident registration begins  7:00a, April 24 
( Fall & Full Year programs)

Programs at West Ridge Center provide children with a unique variety of opportunities to:

• Increase their motor and social skill development
• Learn and practice independence
• Use their creativity and imagination
• Develop an appreciation for learning
• Understand the importance of exercise in everyday life

West Ridge Connection (Busing)
(grade k-4)

Connect your child’s school day with a West Ridge Center after school program. Children are transported from school to West Ridge Center by District 112 school buses. Students are welcomed off their bus by staff and are provided with a snack, activities, and are then escorted to their program.
(grade 1-4)

Invention Convention
(grade 1)

Tuesdays or Wednesdays
4:15-5:45p
Step inside; think outside the box! Do what most doers don’t, think up something new. Then, make the new even newer—because we’re creative doers! Children may handle or consume food products. Instructor: Ginny Schwalbach. Min/Max 8/12.

Clay Shop
(grade 1-4)

Mondays
4:15-5:45p
Build skills and self-confidence while learning hand building techniques with clay. No matter your experience, design & make tiles, pots and figures easily. Creations are glazed and fired after imaginations have run wild! All materials are included. Instructor: Lori Cohen. Min/Max is 6/10.

The Art of Cooking
(grade 2-4)

Thursdays
4:15-5:45p
Mix, stir, chop, create! This class will incorporate cooking combined with an art project. Each week is inspired by a new color. A recipe will be made together as a group and eaten before the class ends. A “Lookbook” is sent home at the end of the session with recipes and coordinating art work. Children handle and consume food products in this program. Instructor: Lori Cohen & Belle Kolman. Min/Max 8/14

Click here for Pre-K summer programs

• Safety Village
• Camp Tot Stop
• Space Camp

Contact
Sara Stanke, Recreation Supervisor
847-579-3123
sstanke@pdhp.org

The HP Studio for Visual Arts offers a variety of visual art classes for children and adults who show interest in exploring their imagination and talents in a creative and supportive setting.  Our philosophy is to offer a variety of classes to encourage learning in a fun and creative way.

Youth Programs

Youth Art programs are offered after school. Click here for more details.

Adult Programs

Our Ceramic studio has a range of firing possibilities including high-fire gas reduction and electric. The studio also offers plenty of electric wheels, a slab roller, extruder, glaze spraying booth, and ample storage space for works in progress. Open studio time allows additional time for project completion.

To view and register for programs, click here.

Contact:
Mariana Henriques, Recreation Manager
Phone: 847.579.3120
mhenriques@pdhp.org

Dance can make a difference in a child’s life!

To register, click here.

The Highland Park Studio for Dance and Performance is centered around a fun and nurturing environment that allows students to grow and advance at their own pace. Introductory classes focus on movement and coordination. Class levels progress to a more disciplined routine of stretching and proper techniques while promoting self-confidence. Our goal is to nurture each and every dancer while offering the highest level and quality of training.

Our professional staff strives for greatness in the areas of attitude, teachable spirit, discipline, selflessness, and integrity. We encourage every dancer to their fullest potential both inside and outside the dance studio.

Mini Camps and Introductory Dance Programs

Progressive Ballet

Progressive Performance and Broadway

Attire:

Ballet classes:
Girls wear pastel pink leotards (without skirt or tutu), pink tights and pink ballet shoes.
Boys wear black pants, white or black shirt, and black ballet shoes.

Hip-Hop and Tap:
Comfortable clothes (no jeans) and clean-soled shoes. No street shoes.

Modern and Contemporary classes:
Black pants (no bare knees), black leotard and no shoes

Jazz, Performance and Broadway classes:
Black pants (no bare knees), black leotard and black jazz shoes

We are excited to introduce our professional dance instructors who have trained with world renowned dancers such as… Merce Cunningham, Randy Duncan and Larry Long View their Bios Here

Contact:
Natalie Liang, Recreation Supervisor
Phone: 847.579.3131
nliang@pdhp.org

Dance Progressive Programs

(click here for our Progressive Programs chart to decide which program is right for you)

Variety Programs (Click on program name to register)

Resident registration begins  7:00a, April 24 

Safety Village

(Age 5 Entering grade K in 2019)

Take a fun approach to safety procedures through role-playing, art projects, stories, films and practical experience outside. Join us in our newly designed Safety Village and learn about stranger safety, what to do in an emergency situation, and how the Police and Fire Departments help us. Children will ride tricycles so helmets are a must, please bring them from home. Red, yellow, Go! Instructor: Ginny Schwalbach. Min/Max 10/20.

June 4-14 – June Safety Village Classes

Tu-F 9:30-11am
Tu-F 11:45am-1:15pm
Tu-F 2-3:30pm

August 6-9 – August Safety Village Class

Tu-F 9:30-12:30pm

Space Camp(Grades 1-3)

3, 2, 1…LIFTOFF! Blast off on an amazing adventure into space to learn about the wonders of our Universe. Zoom past planets and soar through our solar system. Explore black holes, the Milky Way, and gaze at nebula and galaxies all while pretending to be an astronaut. We will observe the power of the Sun, study the International Space Station, and make a 3D model of our solar system. Participants should bring a “space approved” lunch. Instructor: Ginny Schwalbach. Min/Max 6/12.

August 13-16

Tu-F 9-1pm

Camp Tot Stop
(Ages 2-3)

A great opportunity for little ones who are not quite old enough for camp! We’ll enjoy camp-themed art projects, games, and songs. We’ll be especially busy exploring the outdoors and getting lots of exercise! Please provide a lunch and drink. Register for one or more sessions!
Instructor: Belle Kolman. Min/Max: 6/12.

June 17-August 1

Mondays 9:30-12:30pm
Tuesdays 9:30-12:30pm
Wednesdays 9:30-12:30pm
Thursdays 9:30-12:30pm

Contact
Sara Stanke, Recreation Supervisor
847-579-3123
sstanke@pdhp.org

Be Inspired By the Magic of Theatre! Join us on the stage. 

Fall 2019 Musical Theatre Tots: Let It Go!

Fall 2019 Performance Program and Young Performers: Frozen Jr.

Fall Theatre Show: Sunday, December 15, 2019

*Mandatory Rehearsal: Friday, December 13

Click Here to register for Spring, Summer and Fall Programs!

Fall Programs

Musical Theatre Tots! | Ages 3-5

Students will delight in performing on stage! Students will make new friends, connect to the musical theatre, and build a community among young artists. Theatre helps young children develop social, language, physical, and cognitive skills. Costumes are provided at the final performance. Children must be potty-trained and ready for a drop-off group experience. Instructor: Margo Proeh. Min/Max 7/20.

Young Performers | Grades K-1

Kids have their first chance to perform on stage. All children attend weekly rehearsals to learn songs, dances, and scenes. The class includes acting, games, singing, and dancing. Each child enrolled receives a part, an audio file, and a script for personal practice. Instructor: Margo Proeh. Min/Max 7/35.

Performance Program | Grades 2-6

All children have the opportunity to perform in a musical theater production on stage. Actors rehearse weekly under the direction of our highly-accredited vocal, dance, and drama instructors. The final performance includes original costumes, sound and set. Each child who auditions receives a part, an audio file and a script for personal practice. First rehearsal is mandatory. Instructor: Margo Proeh. Min/Max 7/20.

*NEW* – The Audition Clinic for Frozen Jr.*

Sat Jan 5 2:25-4:25pm

Prepare for your next audition with this supplemental but optional singing, acting and dancing clinic! We hone in on the essentials that will help improve your theatre skills to use in the Performance  Program audition for Frozen Jr. Instructors: Margo Proeh, Gabrielle Garza and the Children’s Theatre Co.

Musical Imagination and Movement Adventures | Ages 2 1/2-4

(Great class for siblings!) What will you discover when you stumble upon some forgotten fairy dust? Join Fiona the fairy and her friend Francesca as you help them make magic on their very own fairy adventures! Students delight in helping Fiona and Francesca in their adventures! Join us every week for a new musical journey while singing, dancing and acting along the way. Students make new friends, connect to the musical theatre, and build a community among young artists. Theatre helps young children develop social, language, physical, and cognitive skills. Instructors: Margo Proeh, Gabrielle Garza and the Children’s Theatre Co.

Spring & Summer Programs

Musical Theatre Treasure Hunt Ages 3-4

Does your little one love to act, sing and dance as characters from their favorite musicals? Help Chloe the Goose find her Magic Basket in this musical theatre creative journey. Each week students will dance, sing and learn while helping Chloe discover clues that will lead her to her treasure basket. Using props, costumes, and movement, children develop knowledge, skill and an understanding of basic song, dance, choreography, and performance. Instructors: Margo Proeh, Gabrielle Garza and the Children’s Theatre Co.

Stage Stars | Grades K-5

Write, produce and perform in your own musical! This is the perfect place for the young performer who is looking for a energized class to let their talents shine. Harness the acting tools you already possess – your body, voice, and imagination – to physically express ideas, transform into multi-dimensional characters, and tell moving stories. Gain skills in creative thinking and public speaking, building confidence in yourself and your craft. Students choose current pop hits and musical theatre songs to develop an original musical using their own creative ideas to help write the play! They receive a speaking role, sing and dance in the final class production. Skills explored during this class include script writing, singing, dancing, and acting. The session culminates with a final performance that will be performed during our last class. Instructors: Margo Proeh, Gabrielle Garza and the Children’s Theatre Co.

Just Improv | Grades 2-6

Are you an aspiring young Fey or Fallon? Learn the improv skills from First Line Freeze to Jump Emotions to Sphinx: and how to build scene spontaneously in this fast paced and fun class. We will work on skills that will get you out of your head and into your imagination, the concept of “yes” and the importance of ensemble. The only materials required for this fun class are an open mind and a sense of adventure!
Instructor: Margo Proeh. Min/Max 4/16.

Contact:
Natalie Liang, Recreation Supervisor
Phone: 847.579.3131
nliang@pdhp.org

Karate  (Wednesdays): Click Here To Register For All Karate Programs

Instructors of the Illinois Shotokan Karate Club, under the direction of John DiPasquale, a four-time National Champion and former U.S. Karate National Coach, lead the Park District’s karate programs. Deerfield Park District residents, through a cooperative agreement, pay resident rates. This discount is not available through online registration.

Uniforms
Uniforms are not mandatory but are recommended at the beginning level. Uniforms are mandatory at the continuing, intermediate and advanced levels and program advancement is emphasized. Uniforms and belt testing are available through the ISKC instructor for an additional fee. Purchasing safety equipment ($50-100) is required for continuing, intermediate and advanced levels. Belt Testing Belt testing is available twice a year at various suburban locations for an additional fee. Uniforms and belt testing are available through ISKC instructor.

Youth Karate (Ages 8-14)
Karate skills put children in touch with their bodies and help build coordination, agility, strength and poise, as well as personal safety skills in a well-supervised setting. The confidence gained helps foster a strong positive self-image. The mental aspect builds confidence, control and discipline, and the physical aspect is enjoyable and beneficial.

Pre-Karate (Ages 4-7)
Through a variety of fun and creative activities, children develop coordination, strength and personal safety skills in a well-supervised setting. This program helps children develop memory and agility skills that are necessary for success in school and other sports.

Parent/Child Karate (Parent/Child, Ages 8 & Up)
Share quality time with your child while developing muscle tone, coordination, cardiovascular fitness and karate skills. Regardless of age, weight or current physical condition, karate can put your family on the right track to physical well-being. 

Taekwondo (Mondays or Thursdays): Click Here To Register for All Taekwondo Programs

One of the newest Olympic sports is a 2000-year-old martial art offering a variety of benefits for people of all ages and physical abilities. Students have the opportunity to improve concentration and self-esteem, achieve lifelong physical fitness and learn self-defense skills. Classes are taught under the direction of Grand Master Ki Hong Kim (8th Dan World Tae Kwon Do Federation).

Uniforms
A $45 uniform fee is required at the first class. Belt testing is offered through the K.H. Kim’s Taekwondo (OATC) at an additional fee. All colored belt students are required to have complete sparring gears. Please note, after the second class the fee is not refundable.

Little Dragons (Ages 4-5)
This introductory class is designed to captivate the interest of our youngest students. Skills are developed through gentle instruction and appropriate games for their ability. This class focuses on developing balance, coordination and respect for the discipline of martial arts training.

Early Taekwondo (Ages 6-7)
Designed especially for younger children, this program helps kids develop conditioning, coordination, listening skills and self-confidence through creative activities.

Adult & Child Taekwondo (Parent/Child, Ages 7 & Up)
This class provides families with a fun opportunity to spend time together while improving physical and mental conditioning through cardiovascular drills, calisthenics and traditional Taekwondo techniques including punching, kicking and blocking.

Youth Taekwondo (Ages 8-13)
This program includes a balanced cardiovascular workout including punching, kicking and blocking skills using the Taekwondo tradition and self-control. Participants will improve coordination, power of concentration, balance and both physical and mental discipline.

Contact:
Tina Ginter
Athletics Coordinator
Phone: 847.579.3198
tginter@pdhp.org

Village (Adult/Child, Ages Newborn-16 Months)
This class stimulates the cognitive, social, emotional and physical development in the early days of your child’s life. We will participate in activities appropriate for the different stages of development for this age. We’ll play, massage, explore objects, sing and move to nurture development!

Our Time (Adult/Child, Ages 16 Months-3 1/2)
Based on child development research, this program addresses the whole child through singing, listening, moving and playing simple instruments. We will also explore texture and sounds, play finger games and learn to “take turns” so social skills will blossom.

To register, click here.

Contact:
Natalie Liang, Recreation Supervisor
Phone: 847.579.3131
nliang@pdhp.org

West Ridge is a great place to have your next birthday party or business meeting! West Ridge has the” at home” feeling with rooms full of toys, small tables and chairs to accommodate children. You can have your party here and leave the mess to us. You can bring in your own entertainment and food. We ask that you not bring in live animals or DJs.

• Jammin’ Jungle is our indoor playground and can be a great setting for the active child in your life.
• Multi-purpose room is great for those big parties with room for up to 100 people.
• Gym  is perfect for an athletic party.

Rental Days/Hours

All rentals are by the hour and are available Monday through Friday (depending on availability) and Saturday between 10am and 4pm. Rentals can be made up to 90 days in advance in person.

Fees

For availability Inquiries

Michele Long
Facility Coordinator
Phone: 847.579.3125
mlong@pdhp.org

Park District of Highland Park Building Use Policy Rental Rules and Regulations

1. Park District sponsored activities shall have priority in all facility usage.
2. All rentals must be applied for in-person at the designated facility at which time full payment is required.
3. Any individuals or groups applying for use of the facility must complete and submit the appropriate permit with the exception of scheduled Park District activities. The permits may be submitted no more than ninety (90) days prior to the proposed usage date and approved by the Center Supervisor dependent upon facility availability.
4. Rentals are ninety percent (90%) refundable if reservation is canceled ten (10) or more working days prior to approved rental date.
5. A refundable cleaning deposit will be charged. Cleaning deposits shall be refunded approximately two weeks after the date of rental if the group or individuals using the Center left the room in an orderly state. Please note: Additional fees will be assessed to the renter if there is any damage incurred by misuse of the facility and its property.
6. All rental fees and charges are subject to change and are established annually by the Board.
   Rental fees will be charged based on 2 divisions: Resident and nonresident. Proof of residency is required with a valid ID.
   Individuals signing permit must be 21 years of age, be present during rental period and assume responsibility for all actions of the group and usage of the room and equipment including the chaperoning of minors.
7. A rental permit shall be revoked at any time due to misconduct of individuals, falsification of information, misuse of property or failure to comply with Center and Park District rules and regulations. Rental payment will be forfeited to the Park District and future permits will not be issued to group or individuals involved.
8. Park District reserves the right to prohibit any rental application which is contrary to the public safety and welfare.
   Any use of loudspeaker or public address instruments must be approved by the Park District. Necessary information must be submitted on rental application.
9. Rental information for each facility, including forms, fees, hours and duration, room availability, and rules/regulations are available at the designated facility.
10. Permits for fund-raising activities must be submitted thirty (30) days prior to the proposed usage date and must be approved by the Board.