Chess
Chess-Ed will once again provide this exciting, dynamic, and professional chess instruction that lifts each student to a new level of expertise. Students will enjoy an engaging weekly lesson with supervised time to play with classmates. Students will grow their knowledge of the game from the basics of chess through opening theory, middle-game tactics, and end-game combinations. Students’ vocabulary and math skills will grow as well. Studies confirm that the student who plays chess does better academically. Playing chess increases IQ performance, improves memory, uses analytical and critical thinking skills, teaches problem-solving, responsibility, sportsmanship, social skills, and more. 

Soccer
Through fun drills and mini-games, children will learn basic soccer skills such as dribbling, passing, and shooting, emphasizing teamwork and fair play.  

At 1000 Watts Sports, we offer a comprehensive range of sports programs designed to foster the development of young athletes. Our mission is to instill a lifelong passion for physical activity, emphasizing teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. Each session begins with a dynamic warm-up involving games and a stretching routine tailored to the sport. Following that, we will focus on gameplay. When introduced correctly, sports build hand-eye coordination, athleticism, and self-esteem. Our experienced coaches lead structured sessions that focus on developing physical fitness and strategic thinking, tailored to cater to children of all skill levels. We provide a supportive and inclusive environment where young athletes can thrive and grow physically and emotionally. By joining our programs, participants can develop essential life skills, such as sportsmanship, respect, and time management, while enjoying the many benefits of physical activity.

Bake Shop
Bake Shop is a fun exploration of tasty treats. From cupcakes to crepes, each week we tackle a new recipe with lots of room to be creative while learning the fundamentals of measuring, mixing, reading recipes, fractions and working together. Of course, your young chef will enjoy their sweet treat at the end of each class. Materials fee of $70 will be applied.

The Craft Corner
Welcome to the Craft Corner! In this space, we will use different art mediums to express our unique personalities, joys, and favorite things. We’ll explore various materials and techniques, from painting, drawing, sculpting, and collage. Students can experiment with colors, shapes, and textures, allowing their unique personalities to shine through their creations and create something beautiful. We will use our experiences, favorite songs, family photos, and the changing weather to maintain our inspiration and purpose.

Lego Robotics
This junior robotics course uses a hands-on approach to STEM discovery. Students learn valuable coding concepts while tapping into their imaginations to create and program robots. Step by step, we build various cool Lego robots based around a motor and controller. Then, kids use a block-based programming language to make their creations come to life! It’s educational, cool, and FUN!

Karate
Our dojo has been bringing the art of Shotokan Karate to Lab for almost 15 years–instilling discipline, confidence, and self-defense skills in young minds and led by experienced black belt instructors (Sensei Jay, Sensei Alex, and Sensei Vikky). Enso Shotokan Karate offers a safe and inclusive environment where children can learn this traditional martial art's fundamental techniques and principles. Students will develop strength, agility, and coordination through focused training sessions while enhancing their mental focus and self-awareness. At Enso Shotokan Karate, we embrace the values of respect, perseverance, and integrity, creating a supportive community that encourages personal growth and teamwork. Through our carefully crafted curriculum, students will progress through belt levels, setting and achieving goals while building self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment. Join us at Enso Shotokan Karate and embark on a journey of self-discovery, physical fitness, and martial arts mastery. 

Basketball
Participants will focus on fundamental basketball techniques, including dribbling, shooting, and passing, and engage in activities tailored to enhance coordination and confidence.

At 1000 Watts Sports, we offer a comprehensive range of sports programs designed to foster the development of young athletes. Our mission is to instill a lifelong passion for physical activity, emphasizing teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. Each session begins with a dynamic warm-up involving games and a stretching routine tailored to the sport. Following that, we will focus on gameplay. When introduced correctly, sports build hand-eye coordination, athleticism, and self-esteem. Our experienced coaches lead structured sessions that focus on developing physical fitness and strategic thinking, tailored to cater to children of all skill levels. We provide a supportive and inclusive environment where young athletes can thrive and grow physically and emotionally. By joining our programs, participants can develop essential life skills, such as sportsmanship, respect, and time management, while enjoying the many benefits of physical activity.

Creative Drawing and Painting
In this fun and inspiring class, we will explore the basics of drawing and painting! Students will experiment with various materials such as pencils, pastels, watercolors, and acrylics. They’ll learn foundational art techniques while expressing their creative ideas, including color mixing, shading, and texture.  Classes will focus on a new theme or subject, such as animals, landscapes, or imaginary worlds, helping young artists build confidence and artistic skills. By the end of the course, students will have quite a portfolio of their masterpieces to take home!

Afro-Latin Dance
This class will teach the roots and fundamentals of Afro-Latin dance styles such as Merengue, Salsa, and/or Bachata. We will learn dance choreography, which will be performed at the end of the session! Maria Torres, a professional dancer, counselor at ESH, and dance/movement therapist, will lead this class. The class will incorporate activities fostering self-esteem, creativity, and expression.

Beginning Violin 
Introduce your child to the basics of violin playing through the Suzuki method of education. The Suzuki method originated in Japan and emphasizes repetition/review, listening, parental involvement, and community learning. Students in this introductory course will learn how to hold their instruments, play beginner pieces, and experience the joy of music-making with friends.

Violin rental from William Harris Lee & Co. is a requirement for participation unless your child already has a violin.

This class is not affiliated with the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools Music Department or curriculum.

STEAM Challenge Island- Believe It or Not
Give your child an unforgettable after-school adventure with Challenge Island! This engaging, screen-free program immerses children in hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) challenges. On Challenge Island's Believe it Or Not island, your child will team up with friends on a STEAM Team® to tackle wild engineering challenges inspired by zany facts. From amazing animals to extreme sports and epic earthquakes, Believe It or Not Island promises to be an all-time record-breaker! Kids will have a blast as they collaborate on imaginative projects while developing essential critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Let your child unleash their potential in this extraordinary environment!

Speech and Debate
Do you want to learn how to talk in front of others and share your thoughts? Join our Speech and Debate club! This program covers impromptu speaking and how to find your voice - perfect for acting and theater enthusiasts. You'll practice making speeches about fun topics and acting out stories. We'll also teach you how to talk persuasively and have friendly debates. There is no need for experience – just bring your curiosity and excitement! You'll become better at speaking and thinking, all while having lots of fun!

Cheerleading
Let's learn how to cheer! Join Cheer Destiny to learn all the basics of cheerleading including performance, cheers, jumps, basic stunting and tumbling, and more!

Acting Adventures: City Explorers
Calling all explorers to the concrete jungle! It’s time to become your city's heroes as you act out scenes, level up your stage skills, and imagine a city your way. You’ll identify community issues and use scene work and character creation to rehearse solutions. The last day of class will culminate in the opening (and closing) of your ensemble’s original city story performed right in your classroom!

Karate
Our dojo has been bringing the art of Shotokan Karate to Lab for almost 15 years–instilling discipline, confidence, and self-defense skills in young minds and led by experienced black belt instructors (Sensei Jay, Sensei Alex, and Sensei Vikky). Enso Shotokan Karate offers a safe and inclusive environment where children can learn this traditional martial art's fundamental techniques and principles. Students will develop strength, agility, and coordination through focused training sessions while enhancing their mental focus and self-awareness. At Enso Shotokan Karate, we embrace the values of respect, perseverance, and integrity, creating a supportive community that encourages personal growth and teamwork. Through our carefully crafted curriculum, students will progress through belt levels, setting and achieving goals while building self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment. Join us at Enso Shotokan Karate and embark on a journey of self-discovery, physical fitness, and martial arts mastery. 

Flag Football
Does your child love football? Join us for flag football, led by Lab school teacher Luke Murphy. Together we will practice sportsmanship and healthy competition while playing the sport we love. Classes will include instruction for basic fundamentals, scrimmages and team building. We can't wait to have you with us for Thursday Night (afternoon) Football Lab School Style!

Improv Adventures: Big, Bold Choices!
Get ready to shake out the nerves and take the stage as a confident and collaborative performer! In this improvisational theatre class, you’ll learn to take action onstage with bold choices as you create characters, laugh-out-loud scenes, and confident, unscripted storytelling. On the last day of class, UChicago Lab’s newest improv troupe will host a mini improv show right in your classroom!

EC Newspaper Club
The EC Newspaper Club is interested in working with 1st or 2nd graders to develop their writing skills and create the next newspaper for our school! As a group, we will identify the needs of our school's next newspaper. Students will work in teams and/or independently to strengthen their informative and persuasive writing skills, develop the criteria for our next school newspaper, and begin the process of disseminating our writing. Students will engage with various tools to develop our newspaper, including cameras, microphones, iPads, and/or art. 

**This class is best suited for students who enjoy the writing process and are interested in becoming stronger writers.** 

Cardboard Sculpture with Ms. Liz
You will be amazed by all the different ways you can work with cardboard to create incredible artwork! This class will explore various methods of transforming cardboard from its ordinary existence into something completely different. We'll experiment with different sculpting techniques to create one or more artworks. At the end of the term, we'll display all artwork in Earl Shapiro Hall.

Enchanting Expressions
In this class, students will be introduced to the fundamentals of ballet with a Disney twist. They will learn skills, techniques, and vocabulary through exercises, games, and discipline. At the end of the program, a final Disney-themed showcase will highlight dance skills taught throughout the program.

Passport to Cooking
Young chefs will learn the basics of cooking in this fun, creative class designed to encourage and engage kids while teaching skills that inspire a lifetime of joy in the kitchen. As they cook, students learn about culture, foodways, and language through food. Kids will enjoy a delicious tasting of their creation at the end of each class. All classes are vegetarian and nut-free. We can accommodate most allergies with notice. Materials fee of $70 will be applied.

Camp Games
Various group games and activities will be featured, encouraging teamwork, problem-solving, and physical activity in a relaxed, fun environment.

• Dodgeball: A fast-paced game where players aim to hit opponents with a ball while avoiding being hit themselves, enhancing agility, reflexes, and teamwork.
• Capture the Flag: Teams strategize to seize the opposing team's flag and return it to their base, fostering strategic thinking, cooperation, and physical endurance.
• Steal the Bacon: Players race to grab an object from the center and return it to their side without being tagged, promoting speed, coordination, and competitive spirit. 
• Relay Races: Teams pass a baton in a sequence, emphasizing speed, teamwork, and efficient coordination, boosting cardiovascular fitness and cooperative skills.
   

3D Design with Roblox
This isn’t the usual Roblox! In this class, kids will delve into the amazing world of Roblox Studio - an aspiring game developer’s playground!! Students will sharpen their computer skills, express creativity in new ways, and create their own self-made worlds! Learning about game design concepts, kids will have a blast with games such as Obby and Galactic Speed!

Magic
In this unique course, students build self-confidence, performance skills, and theatrical charm to wow their audience with tricks from their very own magic kits! Students can learn the tricks of the trade and then practice them at home. Young magicians showcase their new skills for family and friends in a culminating magic show on the final day!

Robotic Challenges
Sign up for this exciting new opportunity to design and build programmable robots using motors, sensors, gears, wheels, and other technical components. Students will learn to build, test, troubleshoot, and revise their creations to improve robot performance and participate in specific challenge events (mystery mazes, speed racing, trailer-load pulling, line-following courses, etc.). Join Lab’s Middle School Computer Science teacher, Jeremy Schwartz, in fun and engaging activities to gain practical, hands-on experience and apply critical thinking skills in programming, engineering, problem-solving, and teamwork using the LEGO EV3 Mindstorms Education program.  New projects will be introduced every term so students can up every session!

Voices on the Rise
Does your child love to sing? Making music is always more fun with friends! Join Ms. Code and Mrs. Henricks for an hour of singing beautiful and challenging music. Voices on the Rise will engage in ensemble singing focused on complex songs with partwork. This is a great alternative to private voice lessons for young children. We will learn techniques for breathing, expanding our singing range, and blending sound, all while participating in fun new songs. Singing together will become even more joyful as we apply purposeful movement to strengthen musicality. Children will learn diverse songs, rounds, and arrangements, culminating in an “informance” to showcase our learning to family and friends. 

Hollywood Stunts
Learn how to perform professional, insider stunts used in the entertainment industry and choreographed stage combat! These energetic skills help hand-eye coordination and body control while teaching students how to safely execute fun stunts and tricks.

Hair and Makeup: Hollywood and Broadway 
Grades 4-5 Only
Lights, camera, action? Not yet. Hair and Makeup are essential showbiz elements in making the talent stage or screen-ready. This class demonstrates how to be proficient and self-sufficient with your own hair and makeup before replicating iconic characters' hair and makeup from award-winning musicals (The Lion King), movies (Harry Potter), and TV Series (Stranger Things). Materials fee of $100 will be applied.

Dance Fusion
Join Sonia Perez in this very fun class. Students will move their bodies and learn choreography. They will also explore various dance styles and techniques. Dancing is very beneficial for overall health. Students will work on developing a growth mindset about dance. The goal of the class is for students to create choreography and have fun! 

Computer Programming Challenges
Learning how to write computer programs to solve problems and create innovative digital artifacts, students participating in the “Computer Programming Challenges” activity will have fun and interact with an engaging challenge-based program. The instructor for this class will be Lab’s Middle School Computer Science teacher, Jeremy Schwartz, and the class will take place using desktop computers in a Computer Lab space. Whether a student is just starting with coding or has some programming experience, this after-school activity class can help everyone take their skills to the next level. Students can register to expand their knowledge and develop new understandings in a supportive and engaging environment. Students will have repeated opportunities to select from various simple to complex programming challenges, ranging from game design, data processing puzzles, calculation and computation riddles, etc.

Additionally, students will explore coding using block- and/or text-based languages, such as Scratch and/or Python. The curriculum for each term session will be different, allowing interested students the option to sign up for this same class in the fall, winter, and/or spring of the school year, as the content will not be repeated. Students can explore new and different critical thinking and problem-solving challenges each term.

Creative Crafting & 3D printing
Led by Lab’s Makerspace teacher, students will be presented with challenges to move, build, change, and/or protect something to complete a task, using everyday items to create unique solutions. With a new daily challenge, innovation, design thinking, and team building will be practiced in each session! And talking about creating things, students will also be introduced to the world of 3D designing and 3D printing at the school's maker space to fabricate cool items!

Dioramas!
Inspired by sources as varied as Joseph Cornell's boxes, museum taxidermy displays, and toy playsets, students will create 3D scenes in boxes. First, students will each decide on a theme. Then, they will collect materials around that theme, like found objects, colored papers, etc. Next, they’ll use art supplies I’ll provide to alter those materials by cutting, painting, bending, sculpting, and assembling them to turn ordinary boxes into dramatic scenes, beautiful collections, or handmade playsets. As we create one-of-a-kind art pieces, we'll explore art-making principles such as foreground, middle ground, background, color and mood, and storytelling. Students can bring a box (no smaller than a mint tin and no larger than a shoebox, please) or take one of mine - I have plenty to share.
 

Sculpture
In this hands-on class, students will dive into the world of sculpture! Students will explore various materials like clay, wire, and recycled items to create their unique three-dimensional art. We will focus on a new technique, such as modeling, carving, or assembling, and students will learn about famous sculptors for inspiration. This class encourages creativity, problem-solving, and self-expression while providing a fun and supportive environment for young artists to bring their imaginations to life in 3D form!

Lego Robotics
This junior robotics course uses a hands-on approach to STEM discovery. Students learn valuable coding concepts while tapping into their imaginations to create and program robots. Step by step, we build a variety of cool Lego robots based around a motor and controller. Then, kids use a block-based programming language to make their creations come to life! It’s educational, cool, and FUN!

Passport to Cooking
Young chefs will learn the basics of cooking in this fun, creative class designed to encourage and engage kids while teaching skills that inspire a lifetime of joy in the kitchen. As they cook, students learn about culture, food ways, and language through food. Kids will enjoy a delicious tasting of their creations at the end of each class. All classes are vegetarian and nut-free. We can accommodate most allergies with notice. Materials fee of $90 will be applied.

Circus Fun with CircEsteem!
Juggling, trapeze, and plate spinning - all skills students can experience at Circus Fun with CircEsteem. CircEsteem’s mission is to challenge youth to collaborate and to help youth build self-esteem through the practice and performance of circus arts. By participating in circus arts, students will be challenged to develop their balance, trust, flexibility, coordination, strength, and teamwork skills. Students will also be challenged to discover new skills they feel proud of performing in front of others.

Cheerleading
Let's learn how to cheer! Join Cheer Destiny to learn all the basics of cheerleading including performance, cheers, jumps, basic stunting and tumbling, and more! 

Ceramics
Students are invited to make both sculptural and functional pieces out of clay, such as bowls, cups, and sculptures - like animal figurines and pretend food. The instructor will fire the clay pieces in the kiln, then the kids will have some options for glazing or painting them. Materials fee of $80 will be applied.

Speech and Debate
Do you want to become a better public speaker and learn how to make convincing arguments? Our Debate class is the perfect place to start! In this course, students will learn how to craft persuasive speeches and participate in debates on various topics. You'll learn how to analyze different viewpoints, develop your own arguments, and use effective speaking techniques to communicate your ideas. This class will help you become a better speaker and critical thinker. No prior experience is needed—just bring your curiosity and enthusiasm!

STEAM Challenge Island - Believe It or Not
Give your child an unforgettable after-school adventure with Challenge Island! This engaging, screen-free program immerses children in hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) challenges. On Challenge Island's Believe it Or Not island, your child will team up with friends on a STEAM Team® to tackle wild engineering challenges inspired by zany facts. From amazing animals to extreme sports and epic earthquakes, Believe It or Not Island promises to be an all-time record-breaker! Kids will have a blast as they collaborate on imaginative projects while developing essential critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Let your child unleash their potential in this extraordinary environment!
 

Karate
Our dojo has been bringing the art of Shotokan Karate to Lab for almost 15 years–instilling discipline, confidence, and self-defense skills in young minds and led by experienced black belt instructors (Sensei Jay, Sensei Alex, and Sensei Vikky). Enso Shotokan Karate offers a safe and inclusive environment where children can learn this traditional martial art's fundamental techniques and principles. Students will develop strength, agility, and coordination through focused training sessions while enhancing their mental focus and self-awareness. At Enso Shotokan Karate, we embrace the values of respect, perseverance, and integrity, creating a supportive community that encourages personal growth and teamwork. Through our carefully crafted curriculum, students will progress through belt levels, setting and achieving goals while building self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment. Join us at Enso Shotokan Karate and embark on a journey of self-discovery, physical fitness, and martial arts mastery. 

Creative Minds Crafting Lab
Unlock your creativity with our fun and engaging Crafting Class!  Students will explore various crafting techniques, including collage, beadwork, recycled art, painting, fabric crafts, clay creations, and nature crafts. Each session is designed to develop fine motor skills, foster artistic expression, and encourage problem-solving while having fun. Our hands-on projects allow students to create beautiful art, emphasizing safety and following instructions. The class culminates in a Craft Showcase, where students can display their masterpieces. Join us for an exciting journey of creativity and imagination! Materials fee of $70 will be applied.

Advanced Elementary Acting: Showstoppers!
Get ready to take the stage! Through character work, vocal warm-ups, and physical exploration, students will develop essential theatre skills for confidently and charismatically taking to the stage. Collaborate with your ensemble to create and perform original show-stopping scenes. Friends and family are invited to the opening (and closing) of your ensemble’s original story performed in Blaine Theater! 

Chess
Chess-Ed will once again provide this exciting, dynamic, and professional chess instruction that lifts each student to a new level of expertise. Students will enjoy an engaging lesson each week with supervised time to play with classmates. Students will grow their knowledge of the game from the basics of chess through opening theory, middle-game tactics, and end-game combinations. Students’ vocabulary and math skills will grow as well. Studies confirm that the student who plays chess does better academically. Playing chess increases IQ performance, improves memory, uses analytical and critical thinking skills, teaches problem-solving, responsibility, sportsmanship, social skills, and more.