CircEsteem’s Summer Circus Camp provides a fun, safe, and supportive environment where children, (ages 6-16), are encouraged to explore, move, and grow. Through hands-on circus arts training led by professional teaching artists, campers develop physical strength, confidence, collaboration, self-regulation, and a deeper understanding of their own potential.
Each week introduces campers to a wide range of circus disciplines. Skills may vary by session, but often include aerial silks, trapeze, lyra, tightwire, gym wheel, mini trampoline, tumbling, partner acrobatics, clowning, rola bola, diabolo, stilts, juggling, and more—each anchored by a unique weekly theme. Camp days also include games, creative activities, and outdoor time when weather allows.
At the end of each week, campers take center stage in a joyful Show Off performance, sharing their newly learned skills and confidence with family and friends.
Before Care AND After Care are available
Business Review
"Our son loves CircEsteem, and so do we. He's spent two wonderful summers in the summer camp, and a season or two of Saturday mornings learning to clown, climb, juggle, and tumble. When his cousin visited from Switzerland, they both performed together. Meanwhile, as a community member, EVERYONE is represented here -- it's inclusive, confidence-building, and inspiring. When I think about the cultural richness of our neighborhood, CircEsteem surely rises to the top. It's a hidden jewel, and it shouldn't be." -James Janega
"What an AMAZING organization! CircEsteem really focuses on inclusion and self-esteem for its participants. The youths of Chicago are lucky to have this organization, and the community is as well to witness the smiling faces and impressive skills at performances. If you have not yet attended a CircEsteem event, do yourself a favor and GO!" -Brianna Burgart
"My kids have been involved in CircEsteem for 7 and 3 years, respectively. I've seen them grow and develop in the circus in ways they aren't elsewhere; gaining confidence, strength, self esteem, and compassion for others. Neither of my kids moved to this country speaking English but quickly found that circus was a place that embraced and accepted them, providing them with their first (and still most significant) social networks." -Liz Kloster
"I am so thrilled to get my child back in camp! I looked into so many camp options and I am so happy that we chose circesteem. They really live by their mission of their name. We were looking for lots of exercise and maximum fun! After the first day, my child asked if she could go for all 6 weeks! And my high energy kid is exhausted (which is exactly what I want!). After just one week of camp they managed to direct the kids in putting on a great performance! Thank you for bringing back the fun!!! Thank you for putting smiles on my child's face again! Thank you CircEsteem!" -Maureen Callaghan
