“Summer Camp 2026: Exploring the Arts!” for Professionals and Family Members in Springfield
A free two-day summer camp for families and professionals to explore using music to foster social-emotional growth and inclusive environments for preschool children of all abilities
STAR NET Region I and III will host “Summer Camp 2026: Exploring the Arts!” at Erin’s Pavilion at Southwind Park in Springfield on:
- July 14 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
- July 15 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.
Join Summer Camp 2026 to explore how developmentally appropriate music, movement, art, and dramatic play can foster social-emotional growth and inclusive environments for all preschool children, including those with disabilities.
Dive into the world of process art and transforming children’s literature into creative, open-ended classroom activities rather than uniform products with presenters:
- Early Childhood Resource Specialist for STAR NET Regions I and III, Marc Baxter, B.S. Ed.
- Director for the Center for Best Practices in Early Childhood Education and Professor in the School of Education at Western Illinois University, Dr. Lindsay Meeker
- Award-winning artist and music teacher, Carole “Miss Carole” Stephens
Through hands-on sessions, attendees will discover how to build community and kindness using:
- Interactive songs
- Fingerplays
- Immersive dramatic play setups
- Environmental modifications and adaptive tools to ensure every child can meaningfully participate in every aspect of their learning
The event is free. Social workers, educators, paraeducators, family members and other professionals interested in this topic are welcome to attend.
Learn more about “Summer Camp 2026: Exploring the Arts!” and register on STAR NET’s website.