Activities, Camps and After School Classes Near Me

In middle school? Love kids? Join our Coach in Training Program for 12+ middle schoolers looking to develop their leadership skills and have fun with friends! This CIT camp runs parallel to our regular day camp. The CITs will get opportunities to coach and play with the campers in that program. What will they do? CITs get to help set up and plan the camp day and assist with running the games and activities for the campers. They will learn leadership skills, basics of child development, public speaking skills, and much more. Their confidence will grow as they are given opportunities to shine with the younger campers. Each week will also consist of several "CIT only" activities, games, and rewards. CITs will work hard and play hard! Each CIT is assigned to a skilled mentor/coach that will help support and encourage them as they learn to interact and play with younger campers. This duo sticks together and works as a team to make Playformance camp great. Open to responsible and enthusiastic people ages 12-16. CITs must be able to attend all 5 days of the week and be on time. If there are any question about CIT Camp please contact our Camp and Classes Director Lucas Suycott at lucas@playformancetucson.org Note: 12 - 16 year olds are welcome as campers as well and do not need to be CIT's in order to learn, grow, and have fun at Playformance Camp.

In middle school? Love kids? Join our Coach in Training Program for 12+ middle schoolers looking to develop their leadership skills and have fun with friends! This CIT camp runs parallel to our regular day camp. The CITs will get opportunities to coach and play with the campers in that program. What will they do? CITs get to help set up and plan the camp day and assist with running the games and activities for the campers. They will learn leadership skills, basics of child development, public speaking skills, and much more. Their confidence will grow as they are given opportunities to shine with the younger campers. Each week will also consist of several "CIT only" activities, games, and rewards. CITs will work hard and play hard! Each CIT is assigned to a skilled mentor/coach that will help support and encourage them as they learn to interact and play with younger campers. This duo sticks together and works as a team to make Playformance camp great. Open to responsible and enthusiastic people ages 12-16. Note: 12 - 15 year olds are welcome as campers as well and do not need to be CIT's in order to learn, grow, and have fun at Playformance Camp.

This course is for the Lil’ Chefs, ages 3-5, who still need an adult by their side. This is a hands-on cooking class that allows adults to help their little ones measure dry and wet ingredients. Each adult has the choice to cook alongside their child or assist, depending on their age and capabilities. We start with baking recipes where they will learn how to measure dry ingredients and mix various batters. We will be making Rice Crispy Friendly Spider Treats. Ages: 3-5 (older kids are welcome)

This course is for the Lil’ Chefs, ages 3-5, who still need an adult by their side. This is a hands-on cooking class that allows adults to help their little ones measure dry and wet ingredients. Each adult has the choice to cook alongside their child or assist, depending on their age and capabilities. We start with baking recipes where they will learn how to measure dry ingredients and mix various batters. We will be decorating Fall sugar cookie cutouts. .

This course is for the Lil’ Chefs, ages 3-5, who still need an adult by their side. This is a hands-on cooking class that allows adults to help their little ones measure dry and wet ingredients. Each adult has the choice to cook alongside their child or assist, depending on their age and capabilities. We start with baking recipes where they will learn how to measure dry ingredients and mix various batters. We will be making Rice Crispy Friendly Spider Treats. .

Join us at Playformance for an unforgettable camp experience! Our camp is all about active play, building community, developing social skills, and creating joyful memories together. We strive to provide the safest, most fun, and most welcoming camp experience possible. Fall Break: First Friday Camp Hours Friday 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM Daily Schedule 8:30 AM – Opening Circle & Community Time Coaches will greet campers and check them in. Children will play in the outdoor courtyard until approximately 8:50 AM. Please label all of your child’s belongings. If you have questions or need to discuss your child’s needs, please contact us before camp at camp@playformancetucson.com. 9:15–10:30 AM – First Activity Block Games, challenges, and activities with coaches and friends. 10:30–11:00 AM – Snack Break Campers should bring snacks from home. Please pack plenty of healthy snacks, as we no longer have vending machines. 11:00 AM–12:00 PM – Second Activity Block 12:00–1:00 PM – Lunch & Free Play 1:00 PM – Whole-Group Community Activity Examples include lip-sync battles, coach performances, group games, and other camp traditions. 1:30 PM – Final Activity Block 2:10 PM – Closing Circle & Transition Outside 2:30 PM – Pick-Up DROP-OFF & PICK-UP Drop-off takes place between 8:30–8:35 AM. Please park in the lot east of our building or along 7th Street and walk your child to the front porch. A coach will greet you, check your camper in, and your child will head to our outdoor play area. Pick-up is from 2:25–2:30 PM on our covered front porch. Please wait on the porch while a coach brings your camper to you. Late Pick-Up Children remaining after 2:35 PM will incur a $20 late fee for every 10 minutes. If you’re running late, please call us as soon as possible so your child doesn’t worry. PARKING is available east of our facility. For safety, children are not permitted in the parking lot without an adult. Anyone picking up your child must be listed on your approved caregiver list. PLEASE let a coach know if your child will be walking home, riding home independently, or leaving with another family. WHAT TO WEAR & BRING? Please send your camper with: *Comfortable clothing for active play *Slip-on shoes (we are a barefoot gym) *A refillable water bottle *Plenty of healthy snacks *A large, nutritious lunch *No sugary drinks or soda, please For safety, please remove jewelry or anything that could become hazardous during play. ELECTRONICS Cell phones and other electronics are not permitted during camp. If a child brings a phone, it must be checked in with a coach at drop-off and will be returned at pick-up. BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS Our goal is to create a caring community where every camper makes friends, has fun, and leaves with wonderful memories. All campers are expected to: *Follow coach directions. *Treat everyone with kindness and respect. *Help create a safe and positive environment. At Playformance, we have two guiding principles: 1. We PLAY to have FUN! 2. We take CARE of the PEOPLE! If a camper struggles with behavior, our coaches will work with them using positive support strategies. If additional support is needed, we’ll contact a caregiver to discuss next steps. If behavior continues to create an unsafe environment, a camper may be sent home for the remainder of the day. No refunds will be issued. Before returning to camp, a phone or in-person meeting with a caregiver may be required. Aggressive or violent words or actions toward campers or staff will not be tolerated and may result in immediate dismissal for the day. We believe every child can succeed at Playformance, and we are committed to helping each camper have a positive experience. If you’d like to discuss your child’s needs or camp experience, please schedule a conversation before or after camp—not during drop-off or pick-up. Email: camp@playformancetucson.com Phone: (520) 623-3904 ILLNESS POLICY To help keep everyone healthy, please do not bring your child to camp if they are sick. Campers displaying symptoms of illness—including fever, headache, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, vomiting, or excessive fatigue—will be sent home. If your child misses camp due to illness, rescheduling may be available on a case-by-case basis, depending on availability and our cancellation policy. For illness-related questions, email lucas@playformancetucson.com. CANCELLATION POLICY No refunds or credits are issued for missed or canceled camp days. If your child is ill, rescheduling may be possible if space is available. To qualify for rescheduling, cancellations must be made at least 24 hours before the start of camp. Rescheduling is subject to availability and applies only to camps of equal value. For questions, contact Camp and Classes Director Lucas at lucas@playformancetucson.com. MEDICAL & DEVELOPMENTAL ACCOMMODATIONS Please check in all prescription medications at drop-off and complete the required medication form. Notify our staff before your child’s first day of camp about any medical, behavioral, or developmental needs so we can best support them. If you’d like to hear about your child’s day, our staff is always happy to chat after pick-up or by phone/ email. SUPPORT Need-based scholarships are available in limited numbers. Please contact Austin at austin@playformancetucson.com.

Satisfy your curiosity, and experience a fun and thorough introduction to throwing on the potter’s wheel. Learn the skills necessary to throw cylinders, cups, bowls and more in this exciting introduction to throwing fundamentals. Your instructor guides you through the process of throwing, shaping and trimming pots on the wheel. Special handbuilding projects will also included.   Basic surface decoration and glazing techniques are also demonstrated. This class is designed for students any level experience on the potter’s wheel.  Those who have more experience will complete more pieces/ advanced techniques. Those learning will master the basic skills to create wheel thrown pieces. Register for all classes, as we will build on experience of the students.  

It's cool if there's no school! Join us for camp with art, friends, and fun. Pre-registration required. Ages 3-14.

It's cool if there's no school! Join us for camp with art, friends, and fun. Pre-registration required. Ages 3-14.

*Mid-session registration: If you are signing up AFTER THE FIRST DAY OF THIS SERIES OF 9 CLASSES, email info@marvegos.com about a possible project conflict before you arrive for class.* This class introduces students to the fundamentals of digital drawing and painting using their own compatible tablet or computer. Through hands-on lessons, students will learn essential tools, brushes, layers, and digital techniques while creating original artwork and building a strong foundation in digital illustration. Designed for students ages 9.5–12 who are new to digital art or have little formal class experience, Beginning Digital Art emphasizes creativity, problem-solving, and core digital art skills. Small class sizes provide plenty of personalized instruction and one-on-one support. At the end of the session, students will receive a professionally printed item featuring one of their favorite digital creations. What to Bring to Class Fully charged compatible device Compatible stylus Charging cable Please refer to the <a href="https://marvegos.com/focused-classes/">Digital Art program page</a> for a complete list of compatible devices and software requirements. Because this program is offered on a limited basis, make-up classes are not available. Please be sure your child can commit to the full 9-class series before registering.

Fall Semester Session One (August-October) Students will exercise the imagination at the Art House. This class is designed to help our young artists learn and develop fine art skills that will also help them in writing and problem solving! Your child will be drawing, painting, and sculpting. Classes also expose them to art history. They are encouraged in their self expression while also learning to follow directions. Our projects are always new and engaging as they continue to grow in their abilities. We desire to build confidence and support their strengths. Classes are limited in sizes so sign your child up today!

Talk Trekkers” Intro to Public Speaking Series (NO Prerequisites) This fun, high-energy, and highly interactive public speaking series is perfect for young speakers of all experience levels! Whether your child is a beginner or already has some public speaking experience, this 5-session, 5-class-hour course provides individualized feedback and tailored challenges to help them grow while having a blast! Students will receive class materials, including a detailed class packet, to support their learning and practice. In each lively, engaging class, students will: LEARN - Learn and improve on the fundamentals of effective public speaking and explore different styles of speaking; - Learn to reduce and manage public speaking anxiety and nervousness; - Learn to implement DAILY positive public speaking and communication habits; - Learn to structure and improve their writing skills; - Understand the differences in various types of public speaking, such as persuasive, informative, storytelling, and conversational skills. DO - Practice their impromptu speech skills as well as prepared written assignments; - Present to the entire group and receive feedback from instructors and peers. IMPROVE - Each student will receive individualized feedback on their speaking to help them grow as confident and effective communicators. - If assignments are written, students will also receive individualized feedback on their writing to enhance clarity, structure, and impact. Every class is packed with high-energy activities, exciting public speaking games, and opportunities to practice new skills in a supportive, dynamic environment. For classes with more than 10 students, two engaging instructors ensure each child receives plenty of attention and feedback. Our instructors are professional teachers and public speaking experts with backgrounds stand-up comedy and performance, making sure every moment is as fun as it is educational!

Level 2 Storytelling & Public Speaking (Grades 5–8) Class Length: 1 hour and 15 minutes Prerequisite: Students who completed any Highest Speak Summer 2026 Camp are eligible for this Level 2 course. Students who completed a Highest Speak course during the 2025–2026 school year may also qualify depending on the course completed and prior experience. Please contact us at info@highestspeak.com and we will be happy to confirm eligibility. ****Students beginning with Level 1 this Fall should continue with the Level 1 course sequence and are not yet eligible for Level 2. Great speakers know how to tell great stories! Whether giving a presentation, sharing an idea, delivering a speech, or speaking on the spot, strong storytelling skills help students connect with an audience and make their message memorable. This engaging Level 2 course is designed for students in grades 5–8 who are ready to build on their foundational skills and take their storytelling and public speaking to the next level. Students will develop more sophisticated stories, strengthen their writing and organization, and learn how to deliver their ideas with greater confidence, creativity, and impact. In this fun, interactive class, students will: Create engaging, well-structured stories with strong openings, clear progression, and memorable endings Develop richer stories using descriptive details, character development, dialogue, conflict, and other creative techniques Strengthen organization and learn how to shape ideas into compelling narratives Use vocal variety, pacing, pauses, gestures, facial expressions, and movement to bring stories to life Practice both prepared storytelling and impromptu speaking Participate in creative storytelling games and speaking challenges that build quick thinking and confidence Receive constructive feedback and learn how to use it to strengthen both content and delivery Build greater confidence presenting original stories and ideas in front of an audience Our instructors are experienced educators and performers who create an encouraging, high-energy environment where students can take creative risks, develop their individual speaking style, and continue growing as confident communicators. Please note: Assignments will be given throughout the course to support preparation and practice outside of class for the best results. Questions about Level 2 eligibility? Please email us at info@highestspeak.com. We’re happy to review your child’s previous Highest Speak experience and recommend the appropriate level.

Happy Halloween! It's time to don a costume, light the candelabras, pick the music that makes us feel most alive, and dance in the full moon light. Everyone's invited: the zombies, witches, wizards, ghosties... and you! Please remember to pack a water bottle, nut-free lunch and a yummy snack (or 2!). Drop off: 9am - 9:30am Pickup: 2:30pm - 3pm Refund Policy: Please note that we have a no refund policy. Full credits will be issued for anything with a 4 week notice and can be used for any future Rabbit Hole activity. After 4 weeks we are unable to credit. If your child is sick or you need to miss a day of camp we will have a camp bag ready for you at the studio. This bag will be filled with enchanted projects, art materials, audio and video links and anything your kiddo might be missing in class. Please email us ahead of time and let us know if you need to miss and would like an at-home camp bag! Photography Notice: We love to share the joy of our experiences on SmugMug and social media! Photos taken during our sessions may be used on our social media platforms. If you would prefer not to have photos taken of your kiddo, please add a note to your child's account on Care.com.

Come one and all to The Great Prismatic Parade! This day camp will be sure to spark imaginations as we dive into songs, theater games, dress up, and crafts. Kiddos will be able to put on their very own parade come the end of camp, you won't want to miss it! Please remember to pack a water bottle, nut-free lunch and a yummy snack (or2!). Drop off: 9am - 9:30am Pickup: 2:30pm - 3pm Refund Policy: Please note that we have a no refund policy. Full credits will be issued for anything with a 4 week notice and can be used for any future Rabbit Hole activity. After 4 weeks we are unable to credit. If your child is sick or you need to miss a day of camp we will have a camp bag ready for you at the studio. This bag will be filled with enchanted projects, art materials, audio and video links and anything your kiddo might be missing in class. Please email us ahead of time and let us know if you need to miss and would like an at-home camp bag! Photography Notice: We love to share the joy of our experiences on SmugMug and social media! Photos taken during our sessions may be used on our social media platforms. If you would prefer not to have photos taken of your kiddo, please add a note to your child's account on Care.com.

Calling all aspiring mermaids! Welcome to Mermaid Lagoon, where the magic of theater meets the enchantment of the sea. Our Mermaid Camp combines the best of both worlds, offering young performers the opportunity to turn into their very own shimmering mermaid and dive into the world of theater. Drop off: 9am - 9:30am Pickup: 2:30pm - 3pm Refund Policy: Please note that we have a no refund policy. Full credits will be issued for anything with a 4 week notice and can be used for any future Rabbit Hole activity. After 4 weeks we are unable to credit. If your child is sick or you need to miss a day of camp we will have a camp bag ready for you at the studio. This bag will be filled with enchanted projects, art materials, audio and video links and anything your kiddo might be missing in class. Please email us ahead of time and let us know if you need to miss and would like an at-home camp bag! Photography Notice: We love to share the joy of our experiences on SmugMug and social media! Photos taken during our sessions may be used on our social media platforms. If you would prefer not to have photos taken of your kiddo, please add a note to your child's account on Care.com.

Fall Semester Session One (August-October) Exercise the imagination at the Art House. This class is designed for kindergarten through 2nd grade aged children to help them learn and develop fine motor skills through creating art! Your child will practice using scissors, holding a pencil and paint brush, and much more through drawing, painting, and sculpting. Students produce a variety of projects with various mediums and subjects in order to learn different techniques and skills in creating art. Classes are limited in sizes so sign your child up today!

Discover the fascinating intersection of acoustics and engineering. In this workshop, students will investigate the physics of sound, learning how vibrations travel to create the music we love. Through the lens of 'Musical STEMology,' we will analyze the mathematical patterns in rhythm and harmony, utilize digital technology to create soundscapes, and apply engineering principles to design custom instruments. Join us for an acoustic exploration of how science brings sound to life. Note: Aftercare runs until 5:30 PM on 12/21–12/23, and until 4:00 PM on 12/24.

Fall Semester Session One (August-October) Exercise the imagination at the Art House. This class is designed for kindergarten through 2nd grade aged children to help them learn and develop fine motor skills through creating art! Your child will practice using scissors, holding a pencil and paint brush, and much more through drawing, painting, and sculpting. Students produce a variety of projects with various mediums and subjects in order to learn different techniques and skills in creating art. Classes are limited in sizes so sign your child up today!

Brand New for 4th–7th Grade! NEW this year: 4th–7th graders will spend one hour each day dedicated exclusively to basketball, featuring skill development, competitive drills, contests, and games. This gives campers the best of both worlds: the variety and excitement of Hi-Five Sports Camp plus focused basketball training every day Credits only no refunds. NO CLASSES 11/27, 12/25, 1/1, 2/12) Last day 3/19 Please CLICK on EXTRAS to add the shuttle $10/ride

This 8 class session focuses on learning about clay as a medium: the transitions from greenware, to bone dry, bisque ware, and ceramic. Students will not only learn different hand-building techniques such as coiling, pinch pots, slab work, carving, and sculptural embellishments, but also how to glaze with both underglazes and medium fire glazes. Artist's who have taken this course with us will be able to continue building on their skills and knowledge as our projects are always changing, and we continue building a foundation of ceramic knowledge. The class is 1 hour once per week for 8 weeks. The registration fee includes clay, use of tools and supplies. Please note that we are unable to offer make-up classes, nor a pro-rate for future missed classes. Due to the time-intensive process of ceramics, not all pieces will be ready to take home on the last day of class. We will send an email notice within a couple of weeks of the class ending to let you know when pieces are ready for pick up.