EARLY CHILDHOOD CAMP general information
Exploration Station, Pee Wee Camp
- 2025 Registration will begin on Monday, March 11 at 9am for Residents and Monday, March 18 at 9am for Non-Residents.
- Registrations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration deadline is the Wednesday prior to each week of camp or until the camp fills to the maximum number of participants.
- Snacks and lunch are not provided by the Park District.
- All campers should arrive to camp dressed in comfortable clothes that can get messy, socks, and gym shoes.
- No refunds will be given for missed camp days unless cancelled by the Park District.
- Age/Grade requirements have been set based on the age appropriateness of the camp activities and camp structure. For camps that are based on grade level, the participant must be entering that grade to participate in that camp.
- All participants must be fully potty-trained and independent with bathroom needs.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE
- Registration deadline is Wednesday prior to each week of camp or until the camp fills to the maximum number of participants.
CANCELLATION/REFUND POLICY
- Self-cancellation prior to the cancellation deadline can be done online through your account or you can visit dgparks.org/request-a-refund to complete a refund form.
- Cancellation requests must be received at least 5 days before the camp start date.
- Withdrawals made before May 15 will incur a $5 service fee per participant, per camp.
- Withdrawals made on or after May 15 will incur a $10 service fee per participant, per camp.
- Cancellations made less than 5 days before the camp start date will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Any refund granted will be subject to applicable service fees and late cancellation fees.
participant information/Emergency forms
- The Downers Grove Park District will be utilizing ePACT for camper information/emergency forms. Within 1 week of your camp registration, you should receive an email from ePACT to set up an account and complete your camper's electronic information/emergency forms.
- Information/emergency forms for each camper must be completed through ePACT no later than the Wednesday prior to your child's first camp session and you only need to fill out the forms once regardless of how many camps your child is enrolled in.
- Campers will not be allowed to attend camp until the information/emergency forms are completed.
If your camper is enrolled in a program that is currently using the ePACT system, you will receive an email from ePACT to verify your child's information is correct and up to date.
financial assistance program
In an effort to provide recreation, health and wellness opportunities to all residents, including those who are experiencing financial hardships, the Downers Grove Park District has established a Financial Assistance Program. Participants must reside within the boundaries of the Downers Grove Park District to be eligible. For eligibility requirements or to donate to the Financial Assistance Program, please visit www.dgparks.org/financial-assistance-program.
2025 Summer Camp Parent Manual
Click the button below to review the Parent Manual.
2025 Parent Manual - Early Childhood Camps
parent communication
- A “Welcome to Camp” was sent on May 21, with information including what to wear to camp, what to bring to camp and camp procedures. Click the link below to see that email.
- Following the initial “Welcome to Camp” email, each camp will be emailed no later than the Friday prior to each session with specific camp information for the upcoming week.
WHAT TO BRING TO CAMP EACH DAY
- Backpack
- Change of clothes (including shoes and socks)
- Filled re-fillable water bottle
WHAT TO WEAR TO CAMP EACH DAY
- Comfortable clothing that can get messy/wet/muddy
- Closed toed shoes/boots with socks
- Sunscreen
Exploration Station
Choose 3 days or 5 days! Discover a summer of fun and learning for your preschooler! Campers will have a blast making new friends and exploring exciting activities, creative crafts and engaging games. Our staff is dedicated to creating memorable summer moments, fostering social skills and sparking curiosity through both structured activities and free exploration! Children must be bathroom-independent; pull-ups/training pants are not permitted. No Early Childhood Camps on June 19 or July 4. Child must be 4-5 years by Sept 1.
pee wee camp
Is your little one ready to begin their journey into independence? Pee Wee Camp is crafted to support young children in transitioning to a structured program, perfect for those getting ready to attend preschool in the fall! Our nurturing environment encourages independence and socialization. The camp day incorporates creative expression, circle time and motor skill development to prepare your child for their upcoming classroom adventures. Pull-Ups/training pants are permitted for campers who are working on potty-training skills. Staff are not permitted to change campers, so a trusted adult must be available if needed. Participants must turn 3 or 4 by September 1.
Safety Town
Safety Town is a nationally recognized safety education program presented by the Downers Grove Police Department, Downers Grove Junior Woman's Club, Downers Grove Park District and teen volunteers. A mini safety town, complete with kid-sized buildings, street signs and sidewalks, provides an environment where children learn pedestrian, passenger and at home safety. Children ride big wheel trikes and enjoy visits by local school bus and fire department staff, while learning bike, school bus and fire safety lessons. On the last day of each session, children will receive a certificate and share their learning experience. Each child receives an official Safety Town T-shirt and class picture. A detailed program outline is provided prior to the start of the program.
