JumpStart for Arts Summer Camp

Join us for a fun and engaging arts-based summer camp!

JumpStart for Arts is a free* summer camp for Plano students ages 8–15, where visual art, music, movement, and theater create a fun and meaningful space for learning, connection, and creative exploration.

Through six weekly sessions each summer, the program often prioritizes underserved youth and students from Title 1 schools in Plano**. Your support helps ensure students can participate at no cost to their families.

Register for JumpStart for Arts!

Since 2003, JumpStart for Arts has been a trusted part of the Plano community, creating free experiences that leave a lasting impact on children and families.

  • 23 Years

    Of FREE camps

  • 5,000+

    Campers since inception

  • 2,000+

    Hours of instruction

  • Over 125

    Camp Showcases

  • $155

    Average cost per camper/wk.

  • FREE

    For every camper to attend!

JumpStart for Arts continues to be a valued part of the Plano community, providing free summer camp experiences for thousands of children.

This impact is only possible because of sponsors and donors who believe every child deserves access to an enriching summer experience.

Built around art, music, and movement, the program gives campers a place to explore their creativity, build confidence, and experience the joy of learning and connecting with others in a supportive environment.

Generous support that helps JumpStart for Arts grow.

JumpStart for Arts is made possible through the support of community-minded sponsors who believe in the power of creativity, connection, and confidence-building experiences for young people.

We are grateful for the corporations, individuals, and families who help make this program accessible, meaningful, and lasting — and we welcome others who want to join them in supporting the next generation of JumpStart campers.

JumpStart for Arts is funded in part by:

JumpStart for Arts FAQs

  • JumpStart for Arts serves campers ages 8–15 and is open to any Plano student* interested in participating. No referral or invitation is required. The program is designed to welcome children into a creative, supportive environment where they can explore art, movement, music, and new forms of self-expression.

    *Our funding from the City of Plano requires that children attending Title 1 schools are given priority to attend the summer camp.

  • Yes. JumpStart for Arts is completely free* for campers to attend, with no cost to the family. This is made possible through the support of funders, sponsors, donors, and community partners who believe in keeping meaningful arts experiences accessible to Plano children.

    *JumpStart is offered at no cost to the camper, however we do ask that you are respectful of the time and energy that is spent setting up for each class and camp and only sign up if you are able and committed to attending the full week of classes.

  • Your donation helps support the materials, supplies, snacks, and resources that make JumpStart for Arts possible. More broadly, every gift helps sustain a program where children can build confidence, connect with others, and experience the joy of creativity in a welcoming environment.

  • JumpStart for Arts is hosted by the ArtCentre of Plano and Chamberlain Ballet. Together, the two nonprofit organizations bring their creative leadership, staff, and community-focused expertise to the program, creating a richer and more meaningful camp experience for every child.

    Founded in Plano in 1984, Chamberlain Ballet is a long-standing nonprofit arts organization known for high-quality performance, arts education, and community outreach across North Texas. The collaboration between the ArtCentre and Chamberlain Ballet helps expand what JumpStart can offer while deepening its impact for Plano children and families.

  • You can register a camper for JumpStart for Arts on our home page.

  • For more information, please contact us at
    contactus@chamberlainballet.org

A group of young children sitting in a circle on the floor, listening to a woman reading a book.
Collection of children's drawings of animals and fantasy characters on small paper squares, including a lion, bear, peacock, cat, unicorn, lion, and other colorful animals and creatures.
The theater stage is set with colorful lighting and decorated scenery, with rows of empty chairs facing the stage and a few children seated in the front rows.
Collection of eight colorful children's drawings including animals, outdoor scenes, and a cityscape, painted with markers or crayons.

*JumpStart is offered at no cost to the camper, however we do ask that you are respectful of the time and energy that is spent setting up for each class and camp and only sign up if you are able and committed to attending the full week of classes.

**Our funding from the City of Plano requires that children attending Title 1 schools are given priority to attend the summer camp.