guides

Our 2024-25 Local Extracurricular Activity Guide

Get in While You Still Can!

By Debra Flanagan, Macaroni KID Chicago Northside July 31, 2024

Are you ready for Back to School?  What about Back to After-School?

There are so many after-school and weekend classes to choose from. We are rounding up some of the best for you to look into. Get in on the fun before programs fill up!

1. Bookmark this Guide, as new programs are added throughout the year.
2. Click on Learn More for details about each program.
3. Contact each business directly for help with registration or questions.
4. Tell them you found them on Macaroni KID, and they'll be pleased to help you with anything you need.

Programs are listed alphabetically under the relevant categories.

ART|GENERAL PLAY|PERFORMING ARTS|SPORTS|STEM


 ART

Lillstreet Art Center


Kids and teens ages 3–16 explore a variety of art forms including pottery, painting, drawing, metalsmithing, printmaking, sewing, and digital art.
Learn more or register today for Lillstreet Art Center

The Studio W.I.P.


The Studio W.I.P. is the original Spray Paint workshop offering weekly workshops, private workshops, and other endless opportunities to create with SPRAY PAINT! 
Learn more or register today for The Studio W.I.P.


GENERAL PLAY

ClimbZone Chicago


Chicago's favorite venue for active entertainment.
Learn more or register today for ClimbZone Chicago

Southport FUNdamentals


Southport FUNdamentals is a community center located on the north end of the Southport Corridor neighborhood dedicated to MAKING LEARNING FUN for kids of all ages (grown-ups too)! We believe that joy is contagious and learning from an engaging teacher just feels good! Our goal is to provide a place where students of all ages can learn something new in a welcoming environment--we offer a range of classes, open play, as well as space rentals for gatherings. 
Learn more or register today for Southport FUNdamentals


PERFORMING ARTS

Chicago Mini Musicians



The #1 early childhood music school in the western suburbs has opened up a satellite location in the Irving Park neighborhood of Chicago as Chicago Mini Musicians, and we can't wait to share our skill-building, playful, and engaging music classes with your little one!
Learn more or register today for Chicago Mini Musicians

CircEsteem


CircEsteem is a nonprofit organization that serves youth ages 3 to 18 through a variety of onsite and outreach programming. Our mission is to unite youth from diverse backgrounds and identities to build self-esteem and mutual respect through the practice and performance of circus arts.
Learn more or register today for CircEsteem

CirquesExperience


From ages 5 to 99, anyone can learn Gym Wheel, Aerials, Trampoline and more at CirquesExperience!
Learn more or register today for CirquesExperience

Corella Productions Children's Theater Academy


Corella Productions offers after school performance classes in both the Chicagoland area and Northwestern Pennsylvania. Established in 2002, Corella Productions is celebrating over 20 years of changing lives through theatre with love, respect, and acceptance!

Learn more or register today for Corella Productions Children's Theater Academy

Dovetail Studios



Come dance at Dovetail Studios; make yourself at home!

Learn more or register today for Dovetail Studios

Imagine Performing Arts



Let your imagination run wild with an Imagine Performing Arts theatre class! We offer weekly classes and day-off camps to ages 4-14 that focus on building a strong theatrical foundation and enhancing performance skills.

Learn more or register today for Imagine Performing Arts

LYRIQ Music School

LYRIQ Music School specializes in private and small group lessons in piano, voice, violin, guitar, and more! Customized lessons to meet you where you are, ages 5 through adults. 
Learn more or register today for LYRIQ Music School

Merit School of Music


The sound of discovering a new passion! 🎶 Learn to play an instrument or sing at a top Chicago music school with classes and lessons taught by the best music teachers in the region.
Learn more or register today for Merit School of Music

Notre École de Musique

Our students benefit from a program where learning comes from a structured environment that includes theory/solfège, one-on-one instrument lessons, chamber music beginning at a very young age, and choral experience. This philosophy generates technical ability with a broad foundation in music.
Learn more or register today for Notre École de Musique


SPORTS 

Chicago City Soccer Club



Youth Soccer of all levels for boys and girls throughout the City of Chicago. Ages 18 months - 19 years.

Learn more or register today for Chicago City Soccer Club

CT Soccer




Our mission is to provide the best environment for our young ballers to reach their highest capability on the soccer pitch. To instill important values such as hard work, respect, and commitment.

Learn more or register today for CT Soccer

i9 Sports 



i9 Sports offers age-appropriate, fun sports leagues for kids ages 3-14 in soccer, flag football, baseball, basketball and volleyball.  Our leagues are only on weekends and are perfect for busy families looking for a fun outlet for kids.

Learn more or register today for i9 Sports

North Side Archery Club 



North Side Archery Club offers Kids (7-12), All-Ages Beginner, All-Ages Intermediate, Youth (12-17) Intermediate Classes, a Homeschooler class on Thursdays, events for all levels, and a youth team.

Learn more or register today for North Side Archery Club

Ultimate Ninjas Chicago



Ultimate Ninjas is a ninja warrior obstacle gym offering classes, camps, parties and family fun night!  Challenging and Fun for all ages...Come conquer our obstacles!

Learn more or register today for Ultimate Ninjas Chicago


STEM

BitSpace Chicago




BitSpace is a Chicago-based makerspace where kids ages 8 to 14 can let their imagination run wild. Young campers use state-of-the-art tools with guidance from real-world experts as they participate in year-round programs like summer camps, day-off camps, Open Shop, and more.

Learn more or register today for BitSpace Chicago