Summer on the Prairie
Open to all students in Racine and surrounding areas, Summer on the Prairie’s day camps and workshops offer an unmatched opportunity to learn, explore, perform, discover, create, and grow — all on our beautiful campus along the shores of Lake Michigan. Prairie's faculty spend months planning unique programs in collaboration with our community partners so that we can offer the best summer experience for our campers. Whether they focus on academic development, artistic exploration, or athletic skills, your child will have a fun, enriching time when spending their summer on the prairie!
For Parents
Summer is a perfect time to continue learning, both inside and outside the classroom. The Prairie School is proud to offer the best summer program for kids, providing hands-on activities and the opportunity to explore new topics in a creative, enriching environment. Taught by The Prairie School’s expert faculty and seasoned community educators, our summer day camps, workshops, and programs focus on the whole child – so while your son or daughter may be polishing their tennis serve or learning a new language, their teachers will also focus on developing their compassion, leadership skills, and integrity.
Hawks' Haven Day Camp
Looking for a summer filled with arts and crafts, music, friendships, games, plenty of fun in the sun, and FIELD TRIPS? Then Hawks’ Haven Day Camp is the place for you! Offered from 8:00AM to 4:00PM — with extended care until 5:30PM — meet new friends and reconnect with old pals in a fun, hands-on learning environment.
At Hawks’ Haven Day Camp, campers play unique outdoor games, explore their creativity through music and art, test their wits with tricky scavenger hunts and academic retention games, and make friends through a variety of team and leadership-building activities. Our campers gather throughout the week for buddy activities, field trips, and a weekly celebration each Friday.
*Hawks’ Haven is closed June 19th in observance of Juneteenth and June 30th - July 4th in observance of Independence Day.
New this Summer!
Hawks’ Haven Liftoff (June 9th-13th)
Your Summer Adventure Starts Here!
Kick off the summer with Hawks’ Haven Liftoff, a special one-week program that leads into the excitement of Hawks’ Haven Day Camp. Designed to provide additional options beyond our regular camp schedule, Liftoff is the perfect way to welcome the carefree days of summer.
Before you know it, everyone will be ready to dive, jump, run, crawl, and cartwheel their way into Hawks’ Haven Day Camp!
Academics (CLICK TO VIEW)
Let’s work together to prevent the summer slide. In the summer, students can lose as much as 27% of the knowledge gained over the school year. At Hawks’ Haven, we incorporate daily games and activities tailor-made to help students retain this important information. Our activities are so much fun that your camper won’t even realize they’re learning!
Field Trips
Our energetic off-campus excursions are filled with happiness, hijinks and a whole lot of summer fun! Once a week we will embark on an offsite adventure where students delve into a variety of exciting hands-on activities.
Fun in the SUN!
Summer is all about having fun outdoors. At Hawks’ Haven Day Camp, we adapt our activities to make the most of the sunny summer weather. Our sprawling campus on beautiful Lake Michigan is the perfect spot for an afternoon picnic, summer gardening, sports, and a variety of recreational activities.
Water Fun FRIDAYS!
Everyone’s favorite day of the week! Grab your swimsuit, water shoes, and goggles, because Water Fun Fridays are not to be missed. Campers spend the afternoon playing drip drip drop, water limbo, sponge relays, and spray bottle tag — and don’t forget our 21-foot long water slide.
Hawks' Haven Info:
• Dates: June 9th - August 8th, 2025
• Time: June 9th - June 13th; 8:30AM to 4:30PM | June 16th - August 8th; 8:00AM to 5:30PM
• Closed June 19th in observance of Juneteenth
• Closed June 30th - July 4th in observance of Independence Day
• Child-teacher ratio approximately 6:1
• Children must be securely potty trained
• Children must bring a lunch and drink daily
• Children entering 4K and K take a 1 hour nap/rest each day
Did You Know?
• Hawks’ Haven Day Camp participants are escorted to and from all on-campus workshops and sports camps.
• Each Hawks’ Haven group has uniquely tailored, age-appropriate activities!
• Hawks’ Haven campers have an outdoor water fun time every week! (weather permitting)
Workshops
Have you ever wished for the chance to explore a new artistic or academic endeavor in depth? To spend your day programming, writing, performing, creating, or designing? Summer on the Prairie offers one-hour, two-hour, and half-day specialty workshops designed to help you explore your budding interests! We promise you a hands-on learning environment with expert faculty and a world of opportunities at your fingertips.
New this summer:
Brick Heroes (CLICK TO VIEW)
Unleash your Lego creativity and problem-solving skills at Brick Heroes! This hands-on camp invites kids to tackle exciting engineering and design challenges using Lego bricks. Each day, campers will work in teams to solve fun, real-world problems like building bridges to span “rivers,” designing earthquake-proof towers, or crafting boats that really float.
Through guided activities and free-building time, participants will develop critical thinking, teamwork, and innovation skills while having a blast! Whether creating vehicles that race or inventing gadgets for futuristic cities, every camper will leave with a sense of accomplishment and newfound building expertise.
Join us for an unforgettable journey where imagination and engineering come to life—one brick at a time!
Dream House Studio
Step into the world of imagination and creativity at Dream House Studio! In this one-of-a-kind camp, every camper will receive their very own miniature house to transform into the ultimate dream space. Whether you envision it as a dollhouse or a unique wall shelf to display your treasures, the possibilities are endless! With paintbrushes, glue, and a world of materials at your fingertips, you’ll:
- Paint vibrant walls to set the perfect mood for your rooms.
- Craft stylish furniture from scratch, designing everything from cozy beds to chic tables.
- Weave colorful rugs to add a personal touch to every space.
- Print custom wallpaper that reflects your unique vision.
- Add intricate details like tiny decorations and finishing touches that bring your dream house to life.
Whether you dream of a bohemian bungalow, a modern mansion, or a whimsical woodland retreat, this camp gives you the tools and freedom to create something truly special. Get ready for hands-on fun, creative challenges, and a masterpiece to take home and treasure!
Dungeon Master’s Quest
Step into a world of imagination, strategy, and adventure at Dungeon Master’s Academy, the ultimate summer camp for aspiring heroes and storytellers alike! Whether you’re new to the world of D&D or already a seasoned adventurer, this camp will immerse you in the magic of roleplaying and worldbuilding.
At Dungeon Master’s Quest, campers will create their own characters and embark on epic quests, learn the art of storytelling and map-making to design thrilling adventures and team up to solve puzzles, battle monsters, and unlock treasures in unique campaigns. By the end of the week, you’ll be ready to roll the dice and lead your own adventures with confidence. Join us at Dungeon Master’s Academy, where your next legendary quest begins!
Missy’s Marvelous Meals
Welcome to a culinary adventure on the prairie! In this fun and flavorful camp, Missy the Prairie Chef will guide young chefs through the art of creating Prairie School favorites like the crowd-pleasing Penne Rosa and other delicious dishes. Each day, campers will not only prepare savory meals but also get hands-on experience making a delightful treat or candy to take home and share with their families.
From mixing and measuring to plating and tasting, this camp is perfect for budding chefs eager to learn kitchen skills, explore new flavors, and create unforgettable memories. Join us for a week of marvelous meals, sweet surprises, and culinary creativity!
Molten Masters
Dive into the fascinating world of glassmaking in Molten Masters! This camp introduces students to a variety of glassmaking techniques, including fusing, hot working, cold working, bead making, and casting. Participants will craft their own unique pieces, such as a fused tile or dish, vibrant glass beads, a small casting, and their choice of a glass blown paperweight, flower, ornament, or cup. Perfect for anyone curious about this extraordinary medium, Molten Masters offers an exciting opportunity to explore the creative potential of glass through hands-on projects.
First Stage Theater: Page to Stage
In this weeklong camp students will use their actor tools of voice, body and imagination to create their own short play based on a favorite picture book. Students will dip their toes into acting, playwriting, and design. The camp will culminate with a presentation of their short play for families and friends.
Multiplayer Mayhem
Get ready for a summer of thrilling competition and non-stop fun at Multiplayer Mayhem! This high-energy camp is all about party video games and friendly tournaments that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Campers will:
- Compete in a variety of party video games, including Mario Kart, Mario Party, Super Smash Brother, and many classic multiplayer favorites.
- Test their skills in a knockout-style tournament to see who will be crowned the ultimate champion.
- Practice teamwork, strategy, and sportsmanship in an exciting, supportive environment.
- Make new friends and bond over their favorite games in a shared love of play.
Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just love a good challenge, Multiplayer Mayhem is the perfect place to level up your summer fun. Join us and see if you have what it takes to top the leaderboard!
Potter’s Playground
Step into the world of clay and creativity at Potter’s Playground! In this hands-on camp, students will learn the fundamentals of handbuilding and wheel throwing, exploring techniques to shape and craft unique pottery pieces. Whether you’re forming a bowl on the wheel or sculpting imaginative creations by hand, this camp is perfect for budding artists and pottery enthusiasts alike. Get ready to mold, spin, and bring your ideas to life in this fun and immersive clay adventure!
Print, Press, Pizzazz!
Unleash your creativity at Print, Press, Pizzazz!, where students dive into the colorful world of printmaking! Design your own amazing prints using cool tools like stamps, wooden blocks, foam shapes, and a variety of exciting materials. Each day is an adventure as we explore colorful mixed-media art, make magical mandala prints, and try out awesome monoprinting techniques. This camp is all about having fun, getting creative, and making artwork that’s as unique as you are. Join us for a week full of printing, pressing, and pizzazz-packed fun!
Print & Paint Studio
Unleash your creativity in our Print & Paint Studio summer camp! Campers will dive into the world of printmaking by carving their very own stamps, crafting stunning linocut prints, and learning the basics of screen printing. They’ll also explore the magic of painting, creating vibrant artworks while discovering the secrets of color schemes. This camp is perfect for budding artists eager to experiment with new techniques and express themselves through a variety of artistic mediums. Join us for a week filled with color, creativity, and fun!
Loading… A Journey Through Gaming History
Step back in time and experience the golden age of gaming! This camp is all about retro games and the classics that started it all, taking campers on an interactive journey through the evolution of video games. From pixelated arcade hits to legendary console favorites, kids will learn about the origins, technology, and cultural impact of the games that paved the way for today’s gaming world.
Campers will get hands-on with iconic games like Pac-Man, Tetris, and Super Mario Bros., exploring how gameplay and design have changed over the decades. Through fun challenges, friendly competitions, and engaging discussions, they’ll discover what made these games so revolutionary—and why they’re still beloved today.
If your camper loves retro gaming or is curious about the roots of the gaming industry, this camp is the perfect way to play, learn, and celebrate the classics. Get ready for a week of 8-bit fun and timeless adventures!
Sports Camps
Students of every age will find a place to work up a sweat at Summer on the Prairie! Beginning with soccer for our youngest campers (age 4), all of our athletic camps – from archery to basketball – nurture individual talents and abilities at every level. Campers learn to turn athletic fundamentals into expert techniques through skill-building exercises, games, drills, and friendly competition.
New this summer:
Archery: Arrow Arcade (CLICK HERE TO VIEW)
Step into the exciting world of archery games at Arrow Arcade, where campers will aim, shoot, and score their way through a week of action-packed fun! Perfect for beginners and experienced archers alike, this camp offers a dynamic twist on traditional archery.
Campers will hone their skills with guidance from skilled instructors as they tackle creative challenges like Archery Battleship, Fruit Ninja, Target Tic-Tac-Toe, and more!
Each game is designed to improve precision, focus, and hand-eye coordination while fostering teamwork and friendly competition.
Every day brings new games, unique targets, and plenty of opportunities to hit the bullseye. Whether they’re slicing through imaginary fruit or strategizing their next move in a battle of wits and aim, campers will have a blast building confidence with every arrow they release.
All Sorts of Sports
Get ready to discover your new favorite sport at All Sorts of Sports Summer Camp! This dynamic camp introduces kids to a wide variety of sports and games, fostering teamwork, skill-building, and a lifelong love for games.
Campers will explore different sports each day, including soccer, basketball, tennis, volleyball, and more. Learn the rules, techniques, and strategies for each sport in a fun and supportive environment. Build teamwork, coordination, and sportsmanship while making new friends. Enjoy friendly games, mini-tournaments, and unique challenges to keep every session exciting. Whether you’re a budding athlete or just love to play, All Sorts of Sports has something for everyone. Join us for a week filled with action, laughter, and discovery!
Floor Hockey
Get ready to hit the floor running at our high-energy Floor Hockey Summer Camp! Designed for players of all skill levels, this camp combines fun and fundamentals as we dive into the exciting world of floor hockey. Campers will learn essential skills such as stick handling, passing, shooting, and defensive strategies while building teamwork and sportsmanship.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the game or a seasoned player eager to sharpen your moves, this camp is your chance to play hard and have a blast. So grab your stick, lace up your sneakers, and join us for an unforgettable week of floor hockey fun!
Kickball
Get ready to kick, run, and have a blast at Kickball Camp! Perfect for kids of all skill levels, this action-packed camp is designed to bring out the fun and excitement of one of the most classic playground games. Campers will sharpen their kicking, throwing, catching, and base-running skills while learning teamwork and strategy through engaging drills and spirited games.
Each day will feature team challenges, creative variations of kickball, and plenty of opportunities to make new friends and enjoy the thrill of the game. From kicking the winning run to catching a pop fly, every camper will leave with unforgettable memories and a love for the game.
Whether you’re new to kickball or a seasoned pro, this camp is the perfect way to spend a fun-filled week on the field!
Ultimate Frisbee
Discover the fast-paced, high-flying fun of Ultimate Frisbee at our Ultimate Frisbee Camp! Designed for players of all skill levels, this camp will teach campers the fundamentals of throwing, catching, cutting, and defending while introducing them to the exciting spirit of the game.
Through interactive drills, team-building exercises, and action-packed scrimmages, campers will develop their skills, improve fitness, and learn strategies to excel on the field. Emphasizing sportsmanship and fair play, this camp fosters teamwork, communication, and a love for the game in a supportive and energetic environment.
Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn or an experienced player looking to refine your skills, Ultimate Frisbee Camp is the ultimate way to spend your summer. Join us for a week of fun, competition, and unforgettable memories!
Volleyball Clinic Series - Setters
Join Prairie Varsity Volleyball Coach, Mel Mason, and her staff in a clinic series where each session will focus on skill specific techniques. The first session will focus on defense, including passing and blocking, while the second session will focus on offense and include hitting, serving, and setting. Girls and boys entering 5th through 8th grade are welcome.
Wiffle Ball
Step up to the plate and join us for a week of fun at Wiffle Ball Camp! Perfect for kids of all skill levels, this camp is all about enjoying the excitement of the game in a relaxed and playful environment. Campers will learn the fundamentals of hitting, pitching, fielding, and base running through engaging drills and friendly scrimmages.
Each day will be packed with team challenges, mini-games, and plenty of opportunities to develop skills, boost confidence, and build friendships. Whether you’re aiming for a home run or just want to have fun on the field, this camp offers something for everyone.
Get ready to swing for the fences and enjoy a week of fast-paced, action-packed Wiffle ball fun!
Policies & Procedures
For information regarding registration, payment, refund, attendance, and medication policies, please view the attached files.
FAQs
Who can attend The Prairie School's Summer Programs?
All programs are open to the public.
What is the cost of Hawks’ Haven Day Camp?
$350 per week
Is there a discount for additional children from the same family?
To discuss rates, please contact Director of Summer Programs Jake Lipor at jlipor@prairieschool.com.
Can my child attend a partial week?
If you would like to register for a partial week, please contact Director of Summer Programs Jake Lipor at jlipor@prairieschool.com.
What are the hours each day?
June 9th – June 13th; 8:30AM to 4:30PM
June 16th - August 8th; 8:00AM to 5:30PM
Do you offer extended care?
Camp classroom activities run 8:00AM – 4:00PM, with extended day care running from 4:00PM – 5:30PM at no additional charge.
Do you serve lunch? Breakfast? Snacks?
An individually packaged afternoon snack will be served daily at 3:00PM. Lunch is not provided. Students must bring a bag lunch with them to camp each day.
What if my child has a medical issue or allergy?
To discuss allergies, please contact Director of Summer Programs Jake Lipor at jlipor@prairieschool.com.
What is the student:teacher ratio?
Our student-teacher ratio is 6:1.
Do your younger students nap?
Students in Pre-K and Kindergarten take a one hour rest and read time daily.
Can my child attend a specialty camp as well as Hawks’ Haven? What if the two conflict?
Hawks’ Haven Day Camp participants are escorted to and from all on-campus workshops and sport camps. Students will not be transported to our off-campus summer golf camp. Please contact Director of Summer Programs Jake Lipor with questions at jlipor@prairieschool.com.
Be advised that in the event of a scheduling conflict between your camper’s workshop or sport camp and our planned field trip, it is presumed that your camper will not be able to participate in their respective activity and will instead be attending the field trip. Should you prefer your camper to attend the workshop or sport camp and consequently forgo the field trip, we kindly request that you communicate this preference to us and make the appropriate supervision and transportation arrangements.
Who are their teachers?
The Hawks’ Haven staff are made up of high quality certified teachers, college students, and high school students. In order to select the best staff for our campers, all Hawks’ Haven employees undergo a thorough interview and training process.
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