Program Information
Veterans Park District offers many educational, active, and fun classes for children ages 2-5. Whether children are painting, decorating cookies, making slime, or dancing the jitter bug, they are not only learning new skills, they are meeting new friends and learning about their themselves and their world. All early childhood classes are taught by qualified early childhood staff.
Currently offered
For detailed information please check Summer 2026 Program Guide.
Morning Musts
Start with Art –Think Spring
Age: 2-5
Explore seasonal topics and areas of interest in this engaging art program. Participants become more familiar with arts and crafts materials by engaging in interactive activities. Each week has a themed sensory station that relates to our weekly art projects. We cannot wait to see your child’s creativity at work!
Note: 2- & 3-year-olds must be accompanied by parent.
Apr 14-May 26* | Tu 10-11 AM
* No class Apr 21
Afternoon Additions
Storybook Creations
Age: 2-5
Books come to life in this imaginative class! Each session features a beloved children’s book, followed by a themed craft, movement game, or sensory play related to the story.
Note: 2- & 3-year-olds must be accompanied by parent
Apr 8-29 | W 12:15-1 PM
Evening Experiences
Mini Scientist – Signs of Spring
Age: 2-5
Participants explore the sights, sounds, and changes of spring through hands-on science and themed activities. From blooming flowers to busy bugs, each session invites playful discovery with experiments, sensory fun, and a take-home activity to continue learning at home.
Note: 2- & 3-year-olds must be accompanied by parent.
Apr 16-May 7 | Th 4:45-5:30 PM
Pee Wee Tot Camp
Ages 3-5
We’re thrilled to welcome our youngest campers to our Preschool-Aged Camp, a place where fun and learning come together!
Our summer-themed topics will spark curiosity and create excitement for hands-on learning in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Whether it’s through art, music, outdoor play, or interactive projects, your child will enjoy their time with VPD!
CAMP HOURS: 9 AM-12 PM
DAYS: Monday-Thursday
FEE: $300 per session / $75 per week
DATES:
Session 1: June 1-25
Session 2: July 6-30
CAMP LOCATION:
Bulger Park Community Center
1601 Hirsch Street, Melrose Park
CAMP MIN: 5 per week
Free lunch provided by School District 87
Pee Wee Splish ‘N’ Splash
Ages 0-5
Enjoy a relaxed and playful water experience designed just for little ones! The kiddie pool is open exclusively before public swim hours, giving families a calm and comfortable space to splash and play. This unstructured swim offers a safe, welcoming environment where infants, toddlers, and preschoolers can explore the water at their own pace. With warm, shallow water and fun, age-appropriate toys, children can build confidence and develop motor skills while sharing special moments with a parent or caregiver.
Caregivers must remain in the water within arm’s reach at all times. Lifeguards are on duty.
DATES: June 19, July 24
TIME: 9:30-11:30 AM
DAY: Friday
FEE: $5 per child / $3 additional child
LOCATION: Gouin Pool & Waterslides, 2400 Scott Street, Franklin Park
Location
Bulger Preschool
1601 Hirsch, Melrose Park
Phone: (708) 731-5290
Registration Tip
Registration can be taken over the phone, on our website, or in person during registration hours at any one of our facilities: George A. Leoni Complex, Grant Park, Cimbalo Fitness Center or Gouin Pool.
Registration Locations
Grant Park
44 W. Golfview Dr., Northlake
Phone: (708) 343-5270
Fax: (708) 492-1801
George A. Leoni Complex
800 N. 17th Ave., Melrose Park
Phone: (708) 716-4822