Summer camps sure have changed a lot since we were kids. When we were just wee, the only type of camp was a nature camp where kids learned canoeing, horseback riding, swimming, archery and other outdoor activities.
Those were great times and we loved learning all those things. But, nowadays, there are different kinds of camps out there for kids that have different interests.
Here are just a few of the different kinds of camps available to parents to keep their kids not only entertained throughout the summer, but also keep them learning those Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM) skills:
Sylvan Learning offers several different types of camps for children through its Sylvan EDGE camps. These camps include:
- Robotics - Kids learn how to build robots with Lego and program them.
- Coding for Kids - They get to make their own video games and animation.
- Engineering Camp - Designing and building superstructures (well, small scale superstructures, anyway).
- Fit4Algebra - Older kids learn all the ins and outs of math with letters.
- Writing Camp - For the writers out there, this camp helps them hone their skills.
iD Tech, meanwhile, also has 21st century camps for kids all around the country:
- iD Tech Mini - Students learn programming, video game design and more.
- iD Tech Camps - In this camp, students learn programming, apps, game design, robotics, filmmaking, photography, 3D printing, and more.
- Alexa Cafe - In this all-girls camp, young ladies learn coding, web design, filmmaking, game design, philanthropy, 3D printing, and more.
These are just some of the many many many camps available for children throughout the United States that focus on STEAM skills. You should be able to find some in your local area pretty easily as these camps are popping up all over the place.
Barbara Rowley of Parenting.com suggests that when parents choose a camp for their children, they get input from the kids about what type of camp they want to go to and do a bit of research on any camp they are thinking about sending their kids to, especially if it is of the sleepaway variety (although they should also do their due diligence for day camps, as well).
When choosing a camp, Rowley suggests checking for:
- A good history.
- An easily identifiable focus (sports, leadership, STEAM, etc) that is integrated into its programs.
- An emphasis on creating community.
- Well-trained staff.
- An element of choice for kids over what activities they participate in.
- A good communication plan for keeping in touch with parents.
- A high standard of accreditation.
Have fun out there no matter what type of camp you choose!
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