New Youth & Adult Programs

Spring & Summer

taekwondo

9-13 Yr Olds

This class introduces participants to the Korean martial art of Taekwondo, with a focus on the Chung Do Kwan lineage - one of the original schools known for its powerful, fluid movement and emphasis on dynamic kicking techniques. Participants will experience the structure of a traditional Taekwondo class through kicking drills and pad work designed to build strength, coordination, and endurance, while also developing focus and discipline. By the end of the session, participants will feel confident and prepared to transition seamlessly into a traditional Taekwondo program.

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $65r/$80nr 
  • Instructor: Master Josh Pickard - New Heights Martial Arts
  • Dates: Thur | May 8, 15, 22, 29
  • Time: 4:25-5:00 PM

  • Location: New Heights Martial Arts Fitness – 338 W Washington Ave, Zeeland

west michigan theatre company - broadway concert revue

16 Yr Olds-Adults

West Michigan Theatre Co. — a community theatre company founded to bring quality theatrical performance opportunities in the West Michigan area, with a home in Zeeland — is proud to invite you to be part of this inaugural journey! In our first year, we will produce a Broadway Revue, with intent to produce full length theatre and musical theatre productions in future years once a foundation has been established. We are looking for actors, vocalists, dancers, theatre technicians, and behind the scenes roles within this new venture. Fill our our applications linked below by May 8th to join us!

  • Audition Application (May 8 Deadline)
  • Technicians & Behind the Scenes Volunteer Application (May 8 Deadline)
  • Cost: $20 | Will be collected after auditions, and only to those cast in production
  • Auditions: 
    • May 12 & 13 | 6:00-7:30 PM or 7:30-9:00PM 
    • Make audition date/time selection via the Audition Application linked above
  • Audition Preparation: 
    • 32 Bar / One Minute Cut: Prepare a 32 bar or one minute cut of a musical theatre song of your choice along with accompaniment via blue tooth speaker or your phone. Auditionees may bring their own recorded accompaniment or sheet music with appropriate edits/cuts/key noted. 
    • Movement / Dance: In addition to the 32 Bar / One Minute Cut (see above), each auditionee will be asked to participate in a short movement/dance call. The selection is 5 counts of 8 and will be taught quickly at auditions. Perfection is unnecessary, but the panel would like to see comfort while moving, coordination, and rhythmic acuity. If you would like to learn this selection in advance, please use these videos: Movement/Dance Call Talk-Thru | Movement Call. If you are bringing special dance skills, dance experience, or advanced dance skill and you would like to show more, please feel free to share your experience or email videos of past dance work to Nancy Clyde at nclyde@zps.org. If you would like to practice, use the original Broadway Cast Recording of Pippin. The song is "Magic to De" (cue at 1:02). 
    • Optional Singing Portion: Advanced dancers who also sing are welcome to share a resume, reel, or video of any past dance work with nclyde@zps.org before their audition date
  • Rehearsals: M-TH | May 18-June 18 | Evening times arranged with cast after auditions | Complete availability questionnaire via the audition application linked above
  • Performance: Sat, June 20 | 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM | Call times TBD
  • Instructors: David Miller, Nancy Clyde, Robert Torgerson (90 yrs of combined experience)
  • Location: Cityside MS - Lokers Auditorium + Various Classrooms

nature journal club

18 Yr Olds +

Do you love spending time in nature? Join this warm, curious, kind group of people who gather together each month to investigate various natural phenomena, enjoy community connection, and learn new techniques for observing, exploring, and recording our adventures in nature. Each session will begin indoors, with some having optional outdoor portions. If interested in going outside, please dress for the weather. No prior experience in art, science, or nature journaling is required—just bring your journaling supplies (something to write/draw on, write/draw with, and your preferred tools for adding color). If you don’t have supplies, we’ll have extras available. Everyone is welcome, whether you choose to stay indoors or venture outside!

  • Register Here
  • Cost Per Session: $10
  • Cost for Membership (All Sessions): $80 
  • Instructor: Ria VanderKlok
  • Session 2: Sat, May 16 | 10:00-11:45 AM
  • Session 3: Sat, June 20 | 10:00-11:45 AM
  • Session 4: Sat, July 25 | 10:00-11:45 AM
  • Session 5: Sat, August 29 | 10:00-11:45 AM
  • Session 6: Sat, September 19 | 10:00-11:45 AM
  • Session 7: Sat, October 17 | 10:00-11:45 AM
  • Session 8: Sat, November 21 | 10:00-11:45 AM
  • Session 9: Sat, December 12 | 10:00-11:45 AM
  • Location: Zeeland East HS - LGI Area & Occasional Zeeland Wetlands Use

lakeshore youth water polo league (coed - 5v5)

3rd-5th Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

The Lakeshore Youth Water Polo League is an exciting new coed program for students entering 3rd-5th grade, designed to introduce young athletes to the fast-paced sport of water polo in a fun, supportive, and team-focused environment. Open to players of all skill levels, the league emphasizes skill development, fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship while creating a positive and engaging experience in and out of the pool.

The season runs from early June through late July, featuring two weekly practices on Tuesdays and Thursdays, along with Saturday game days and a season-ending League Championship. All schedules, team communication, and league updates are managed through Team Sideline, ensuring families stay informed throughout the season.

Led by experienced coaches, players will build fundamental swimming, passing, and game strategy skills while learning the value of discipline and collaboration. All necessary equipment, including water polo caps and balls, is provided, and flexible participation options are available, including a game-day-only format for independent teams.

With a focus on accessibility, development, and fun, the Lakeshore Youth Water Polo League offers a welcoming opportunity for young athletes to learn the sport, compete, and be part of a growing water polo community.

  • Register Here (Registration Opens Apr 20)
  • Registration Deadline: Fri, May 22
  • Cost: $59r/$74nr | Independent teams may register for game-day participation only with a per-team fee of $30/game
  • Player Evaluation: Thur, May 28 | 6:30-8:00 PM
  • Practices: Tue & Thur | June 9-July 23 | 6:15-8:15 PM
  • Games: Sat | June 20, 27, July 11, 18 | League Championship - July 25 | Range from 9:00 AM-1:00 PM
  • Equipment: Towel | Goggles | Water bottle | Long hair must wear a swim cap underneath water polo cap | All other player equipment is provided by Zeeland Recreation
  • Location: Zeeland Recreation Pools

learning alterations for hire

18 Yr Olds+

Ready to turn your sewing skills into extra income? In this beginner-level workshop, you’ll learn the essential hemming techniques needed to alter dress pants, jeans, uniforms, skirts, and more — the kind of practical skills that pay off. Through clear, down-to-earth instruction from an experienced teacher, you’ll pick up trade tricks that don’t usually show up in basic sewing books. We’ll also cover business tips for marketing your new skills and earning extra cash. This is a hands-on workshop — no need to bring anything except pen and paper. All machines and supplies are provided, and you’ll leave with garment samples that you altered yourself. This workshop is for "Level 3" sewers (see "Sewing Level Guide" below). 

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Fri, May 29
  • Cost: $60r/$75nr 
  • Instructor: Julie Blakely 
  • Date: Thur, June 4
  • Time: 5:30-8:00 PM
  • Location: City on a Hill - 100 Pine St - STE 123 | After arriving at City on a Hill, drive around the building until you reach the entrance off of Taft Street. Enter the building through door G. Take elevator to 2nd floor, then follow the yellow signs leading you to the classroom. 
  • Sewing Level Guide:
    • Level 1: I have very little knowledge of sewing machines
    • Level 2: I know how to use a sewing machine and I can sew a straight line, thread a sewing machine and wind a bobbin
    • Level 3: I have confidence with a sewing machine and I can do small projects with very little assistance

    • Level 4: I am an intermediate sewer who knows how to sew various fabrics and read a pattern

west michigan theatre company - summer theater intensive

6th-12th Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our new West Michigan Theatre Company, along with our very first theatre intensive! Over a focused, two-week session, participants will receive expert training from a directing team (Robert Torgerson, David Miller, Nancy Clyde) that has produced and directed hundreds of shows, all eager to inspire and guide beginning and experienced performers alike. Throughout the intensive you’ll have age and experience-appropriate instruction in acting, song performance, scene preparation, harmonies, vocal/dialect work, stage combat, acting techniques, dance for actor-singers, theatrical movement, vocal health, audition prep — plus scenic painting, digital lighting, theatre sound, and overall theatrical design. At the end of the program, everyone will perform in at least one number in our debut “Broadway Revue Concert,” taking place Sat, June 20. We can’t wait to help young artists find their voice, grow their skills, and shine on stage as part of something new and exciting! Participants should bring two snacks, a water bottle, and sack lunch daily. Register based on 2026-27 grade level. 

West Michigan Theatre Co. — a community theatre company founded to bring quality theatrical performance opportunities to our West Michigan area, with a home in Zeeland — is proud to invite you to be part of this inaugural journey.

  • Register Here
  • Intensive Daily Schedule
  • Cost: $300r/$315nr 
    • Cost Includes: intensive classes, t-shirt, headshot, and guarantee of at least one performance piece in premiere West Michigan Theatre Company - Broadway Concert Revue
    • Incoming 11th & 12th Gr: Also receive college prep services - artistic resume review, college application list assistance, resources for college auditions, college essay proofing, and audition prescreen critique.
  • Instructors: David Miller, Nancy Clyde, Robert Torgerson (90 yrs of experience combined)
  • Dates: Mon-Fri | 10:00 AM-4:00 PM | June 8-12 & June 15-19 (Two weeks)
  • Performance: Sat, June 20 | 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM | Call times TBD

  • Location: Cityside MS - Lokers Auditorium + Various Classrooms

pets, parachutes & slime - a family steam adventure

All Ages

Families will team up for a heartwarming, hands-on adventure filled with creativity, collaboration, and slime-tastic fun! Together you’ll engineer the perfect parachute to protect your adopted pet egg, design and build a dream room for your adopted pet, and celebrate your new family with sweet, swirly ice-cream slime. It’s an evening of imagination, teamwork, and unforgettable memories on Adoption Island!

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Tue, June 2 (or when full)
  • Cost: $79r/$94nr
  • Instructors: Rachel Franklin & Challenge Island Staff
  • Date: Tue, June 9
  • Time: 5:30-8:30 PM

  • Location: Cityside MS - ELA Room

little ninjas

2-5 Yr Olds

Little Ninjas is the perfect outlet for active little ones, and a great way for parents to connect and build community! This program blends fun gymnastics-inspired movement with exciting obstacle-course challenges that help kids burn energy, build coordination, and explore their growing independence. Each class invites children to jump, climb, balance, and tumble their way through playful stations while parents cheer them on and join in the fun. The shared activities create natural moments for parents to meet, socialize, and support one another, turning the class into a welcoming community space as much as a movement program. With its upbeat atmosphere, creative challenges, and family-friendly focus, Little Ninjas offers both a joyful workout for kids and a chance for parents to connect, unwind, and build lasting relationships!

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $33r/$48nr (per family - parents can bring more than one child, if desired)
  • Instructor: Kelly Nadeau 
  • Session 1: Mon | June 15 & 29 | 9:30-10:30 AM
  • Session 2: Mon | July 13 & 27 | 9:30-10:30 AM
  • Session 3: Mon | August 10 & 24 | 9:30-10:30 AM

  • Location: ZPS Early Childhood Center (Indoors & Outdoors)

bOYS LACROSSe SUMMER Camp

3rd-8th Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

Join the Zeeland Boys Lacrosse coaches to improve your lacrosse skills through different drills and scrimmages, while having fun doing it! Participants should bring a helmet, gloves, shoulder pads, elbow pads, athletic cup and cleats. Goalies will need a helmet, throat protector, chest protector, athletic cup and cleats. All skill levels are welcome. 

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $50r/$65nr 
  • Coach: Chris Scheldt (ZPS Varsity Boys Coach)
  • 3rd-6th Gr: June 15-18 | 9:30-11:00 AM
  • 7th-8th Gr: June 15-18 | 11:00 AM-12:30 PM
  • Location: Zeeland West HS - Practice Field 

ze & zw boys volleyball camp

6th-8th Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

Boys volleyball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, and we’re excited to help that growth continue right here in Zeeland! This camp is designed to build essential volleyball skills through fun, fast-paced drills and competitive, game-like environments. Athletes will also dive into the offensive and defensive tactics used by our Varsity volleyball team — perfect for players who are eager to sharpen their abilities and gain a competitive edge.Whether you’re brand new to the sport or already have some experience, this camp welcomes you to learn, improve, and enjoy the game! 

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $55r/$70nr
  • Coach: David Raab (ZPS Varsity Boys Coach)
  • 3rd-5th Gr: June 15-18 | 1:00-2:30 PM
  • 6th-8th Gr: June 15-18 | 3:00-4:30 PM

  • Location: Cityside MS - Main & Aux Gym

slimetopia - diners, drive thrus & dives

7-13 Yr Olds

You and your STEAM Team have been selected to host the new Slimetopia Diners, Drive-Thrus and Dives reality TV show! Prepare to embark on a cross-country culinary road trip to the slimiest eating establishments in the USA! With such instant Slimetopia classics as In and Out Burger Slime, Tex Mex Slime, King Cake Slime, Clam Chowder Slime and Peach Cobbler Ala Mode Slime, you’ll get an unforgettable “taste” of ooey, gooey local flavors from coast to coast.

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Mon, June 16 (or when full)
  • Cost: $240r/$255nr
  • Instructors: Rachel Franklin & Challenge Island Staff
  • Dates: June 22-25
  • Time: 8:30 AM-12:00 PM

  • Location: Cityside MS - Cafeteria

free family popsicle make & take workshop

School-Aged Kids & Their Families

Get ready for a fun, hands‑on class where families will laugh, learn, and see just how much sugar is hiding in everyday foods — but in the most tasty way possible! You’ll enjoy a refreshing popsicle in class, then get to experiment with creating your own healthy popsicle flavors to take home. Along the way, you’ll pick up easy, real‑life tips for cutting back on added sugars — all while having a great time together.

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Sat, June 20
  • Cost: Free - Registration Still Required
  • Instructor: Heidi Lynema (Corewell Health Dietitian & CATCH Instructor)
  • Date: Thur, June 25
  • Time: 1:00-2:30 PM
  • Location: Cityside Middle School - Room 135

drawing in nature series

14 Yr Olds-Adults

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world through our Drawing in Nature series! Perfect for amateurs, artists, and nature enthusiasts alike, this program combines field exploration with hands-on drawing. Participants will learn to capture the intricate details of the natural world using close observation, curiosity, and a few fundamental sketching techniques. Whether you want to enhance your art skills or simply enjoy a peaceful outdoor activity, this program is for you! Please bring drawing supplies (paper, clipboard, journal, pencil, pen, coloring tools, etc.) and an easy-to-carry folding chair. The path is accessible for wheelchairs and participants will have the option to sit in one place or meander. All experience levels are welcome. 

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $25r/$40nr
  • Instructor: Ria VanderKlok
  • Field Sketching: Thur, June 25 | 5:30-7:30 PM
  • Botanical Drawing: Thur, July 16 | 5:30-7:30 PM
  • Little Landscapes: Thur, July 30 | 5:30-7:30 PM
  • Location: Upper Macatawa Natural Area (1300 84th Ave, Zeeland, MI 49464  - 84th Ave Entrance - Meadow Path)

adults - back to dance!

18 Yr Olds+

Join us for our adult back-to-dance class! Former Zeeland High School Dance Teacher, Mrs. Nancy (Rhodes) Clyde, will take you back to your dancing days. Class style will alternate primarily between jazz and contemporary with some musical theatre and hip hop sprinkled in. Ballet technique will be explored as a support to the other classes. Each class will include a warm-up, conditioning, across the floor and/or a short new combination each week. Come to every class or drop in when you are able. Class is geared to the advanced beginner to intermediate dancer with some past experience (even if that experience was 20+ years ago). Modifications will be offered to make movement more or less challenging - so just come and have fun! Dance burns calories, builds flexibility, improves posture & coordination and promotes strength. More importantly, come to experience joy and community. Grab your old dance friends and sign up now. All levels are welcome. 

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Mon, June 1
  • Cost: $50r/$65nr
  • Instructor: Nancy Clyde
  • Dates: Tuesdays | June 30-Aug 18
  • Time: 7:00-8:15 PM
  • Location: Zeeland East HS - Dance Studio (Room 301)

world war II - on the homefront

10-13 Yr Olds

Step back into the 1940s and discover what life was like for kids and families during World War II. Through hands-on activities, crafts, and games, participants explore rationing, victory gardens, letter writing to soldiers, and the many ways everyday people supported the war effort. Campers will leave with a deeper understanding of local and national history—and how actions on the homefront made a real difference. Lunch will be provided as part of the camp. Participants with specific dietary needs should indicate specifics in their registration so that accommodations can be made. 

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Wed, June 25 (or when full)
  • Cost: $65r/$80nr
  • Instructors: Zeeland Historical Society Staff
  • Date: Thur, July 9 
  • Time: 10:00 AM-3:00 PM

  • Location:  1881 New Groningen Schoolhouse (10537 Paw Paw Dr, Zeeland)

pedal pals - learn to bike - velo kids

2-6 Yr Olds

New to two wheels — or so close you can taste the freedom of riding solo? Come hang out with us at Pedal Pals – Learn to Bike! Velo Kids and Zeeland Rec are teaming up to give young riders a fun, supportive place to practice and learn to bike. We’ll meet on Tuesdays this summer to play games, be silly, hear stories, and — of course — have FUN on BIKES! We’ll work on balance, safe starts and stops, and building confidence on pedal bikes. This class is for riders who are ready to learn biking on 2 wheels. No need to bring your own — bikes and helmets will be provided through the Velo Kids Bike Library for your little ripper to borrow each session. Participants should bring their own helmet (or can be borrowed on site) and closed toe shoes. Although this isn’t a parent-child program, a guardian should stay on-site and in the area during the program. 

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Wed, July 1 (or when full)
  • Cost: $40r/$55nr 
  • Instructors: Velo Kids Staff
  • Session 1: Tue | July 7, 14, 21 | 11:00-11:45 AM
  • Session 2: Tue | July 28, Aug 4, 11 | 11:00-11:45 AM
  • Location: New Groningen Elementary School

urban adventure summer camp - velo kids

1st-6th Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

Velo Kids and Zeeland Rec are teaming up to bring you the Urban Riding Adventure Camp! Join us as we explore our community on two wheels and learn how to ride safely and confidently in a downtown environment. Using a proven curriculum, campers will grow their bike handling skills, learn group riding techniques, and develop the ability to ride on city streets. This half-day, adventure-based camp combines exciting exploration of the community with a focus on bike safety, skills, and stewardship. Campers will be grouped based on ability, and assessments will help determine readiness to advance to more challenging groups in the future. With engaging activities and expert guidance, this camp ensures every rider is equipped to handle urban biking while discovering new and exciting parts of their community. Participants must know how to independently ride a 2-wheel bike 3-4 miles (1st-2nd Gr), 5-6 miles (3rd-4th Gr) or 7-8 miles (5th-6th Gr). Please bring a bike, helmet, closed toe shoes, snack, water bottle, and backpack. If you don’t have a bike, you can borrow one from the Velo Kids on-site library (must be requested one week ahead of time).

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Mon, July 6 (or when full)
  • Cost: $140r/$155nr 
  • Instructors: Velo Kids Staff
  • Dates: July 13-16
  • Time: 9:00-11:30 AM
  • Location: Zeeland Stadium - Parking lot

girls LACROSSe SUMMER Camp

3rd-8th Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

Join us to improve your stick skills, offensive skills, defensive skills and gameplay! Limited girls' sticks will be provided for those who don’t have one. However, it’s recommended that participants bring a girl's stick, eye mask and mouthguard. All skill levels are welcome, from first-timers to experienced players.

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $50r/$65nr 
  • Coach: Meghan Chang (ZPS Varsity Girls Coach)
  • 3rd-6th Gr: July 14-16 | 5:00-6:30 PM
  • 7th-8th Gr: July 14-16 | 7:00-8:30 PM
  • Location: Zeeland Stadium 

civic citizenship & leadership camp

9th-12th Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

Discover how everyday citizens shape their communities and learn what leadership looks like in action. In this hands-on camp, participants will explore local government, civic engagement, and leadership through team activities, simulations, and guest visits from local leaders. Students will develop skills in communication, collaboration, and problem-solving while gaining insight into how they can make a difference right here in Zeeland. A pizza lunch will be provided as part of the camp. Participants with specific dietary needs are welcome to bring their own lunch instead.

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Fri, July 3 (or when full)
  • Cost: $60r/$75nr
  • Instructors: Zeeland Historical Society Staff
  • Date: Thur, July 16
  • Time: 9:00 AM-3:30 PM

  • Location: Dekker Huis Museum (37 E Main Ave, Zeeland, MI 49464)

watercolor in nature - beginners

14 Yr Olds-Adults

Join us to explore nature’s beauty while learning the techniques of watercolor painting! Participants will learn a few field sketching and watercolor techniques to help get what you notice onto your paper as we look closely, ask questions, and develop our skill of observing the world around us. All supplies will be provided and participants will go home with a watercolor journal, watercolor field kit, and water brush. The path is accessible for wheelchairs and participants will have the option to sit in one place or meander. 

  • Register Here (Online Registration Opens Mon, Jan 19 @ 10:00 AM)
  • Cost: $75r/$90nr
  • Instructor: Ria VanderKlok
  • Date: Fri, July 17
  • Time: 5:30-7:30 PM

  • Location: Upper Macatawa Natural Area (1300 84th Ave, Zeeland - Meadow Path)

watercolor in nature - intermediate

14 Yr Olds-Adults

Build on your watercolor experience and enjoy the community of other watercolor enthusiasts as we look closely, ask questions, share ideas and techniques, and develop our skill of observing the world around us through painting what we see. Bring your own preferred watercolor supplies and a comfortable, easy-to-carry folding chair. The path is accessible for wheelchairs and participants will have the option to sit in one place or meander. 

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $25r/$40nr
  • Instructor: Ria VanderKlok
  • Date: Sat, July 18
  • Time: 10:00 AM-12:00 PM

  • Location: Upper Macatawa Natural Area (1300 84th Ave, Zeeland - Meadow Path)

dance camp for kids

3 Yr Olds-3rd Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

Join us to receive excellent dance training, improve coordination, develop artistic creativity, make lasting friendships and have fun! Participants will develop techniques that will help them in all dance genres as they get older (Ballet, Jazz, Jazz Funk, Tap, etc). All participants must be potty-trained. 3-5 Yr Olds: Register based on age at the start of the program. K-3rd Gr: Register based on 2026-27 grade level

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Mon, July 13
  • Cost: $88r/$103nr
  • Instructor: Rachel Plaggemars
  • Dates: July 20-23 & July 27-30 (Two Weeks)
  • 3 Yr Olds-KG: July 20-23 & July 27-30 (Two Weeks) | 9:00-9:45 AM
  • 1st-3rd Gr: July 20-23 & July 27-30 (Two Weeks) | 10:00-11:00 AM
  • Location: Cityside MS - Performing Arts Room

line dance night

16 Yr Olds-Adults

Grab your boots and hat and join us for Adult Line Dancing Night — a fun, social evening where you’ll learn some of country’s most popular line dances, from the Tush Push to the Electric Slide. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned stepper, our instructor will guide you step‑by‑step with easy‑to-follow instruction, upbeat music, and a lively, welcoming crowd. No partner needed — just bring comfortable shoes and a readiness to step, stomp, shuffle, and have a great time on the dance floor.

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $19r/$34nr
  • Instructor: Cydney Sheneman 
  • Date: Wed, July 22
  • Time: 7:30-9:00 PM
  • Location: Zeeland Rec - Shoreline Studio

intro to nature journaling

18 Yr Olds +

Many of us seek ways to better connect with nature. We want to learn its languages, patterns, and secrets, help protect its inhabitants, and find our place within the natural community. Nature journaling offers a unique way to engage with all that’s around us through intentional observation, investigation, and playful curiosity. In this program, you’ll learn how to start a nature journal, the art of observation, some of the common hindrances and pitfalls, and helpful prompts, drawing, and writing techniques to support you wherever you are, whether in the field, on the move, or at home. All supplies will be provided.

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $20r/$35nr
  • Instructor: Ria VanderKlok
  • Session 2: Sat, July 25 | 1:00-2:45 PM
  • Session 3: Sat, October 17 | 1:00-2:45 PM
  • Location: Zeeland East HS - LGI Area & Occasional Zeeland Wetlands Use

jurassic island

6-11 Yr Olds

Calling all budding paleontologists! Set up camp on Jurassic Island, uncover a land forgotten by time, and unearth the incredible secrets of the dinosaurs and their ancient ecosystem. Walk in the footprints of the gentle giant brachiosaurus, race against the velociraptors, soar through the skies with the pterodactyl, and battle the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex. This STEAM-fueled camp is sure to be the learning adventure of all time! 

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Fri, July 27 (or when full)
  • Cost: $240r/$255nr
  • Instructors: Rachel Franklin & Challenge Island Staff
  • Dates: Aug 3-6
  • Time: 8:30 AM-12:00 PM

  • Location: Cityside MS - Cafeteria

floral design workshop - seasonal vase arrangement

16 Yr Olds-Adults

This floral design workshop teaches participants how to create beautiful vase arrangements using fresh, locally grown flowers. Through hands-on instruction with a local flower farmer, participants will learn foundational design techniques, how to work with seasonal materials, and how to use floral mechanics to build arrangements that last. The workshop also covers key design principles like balance, proportion, color harmony, and focal emphasis, giving participants the confidence to create arrangements that are visually appealing and thoughtfully structured. 

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Thur, July 16
  • Cost: $75r/$90nr
  • Instructor: Jenna Leigh Flora
  • Date: Thur, Aug 6
  • Time: 6:00-8:00 PM
  • Location: Zeeland West HS - Room D107

slimetopia - shake, rattle & sushi roll

7-13 Yr Olds

Get ready to roll into a deliciously creative STEAM adventure! Campers will mix up a batch of bento box slime, test their engineering skills as they design and shake-test their very own “Ring of Fire” sushi restaurant, and top it all off by creating Rockin’ Ramen Noodle Slime. It’s a night of stretchy, squishy, sushi-inspired fun where science and imagination stick together in the most delightfully slimy way!

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Mon, Aug 3 (or when full)
  • Cost: $54r/$69nr
  • Instructors: Rachel Franklin & Challenge Island Staff
  • Date: Mon, Aug 10
  • Time: 5:30-8:30 PM

  • Location: Cityside MS - ELA Room