STEM Programs Near Me

Turn imagination into a Minecraft world of your own. If your child loves Minecraft, this camp shows them how to go beyond playing the game and start creating inside it. In Junior Minecraft, campers learn the foundations of Minecraft modding (short for "modifying") using an age-appropriate, block-based coding system that’s intuitive, visual, and fun. Students explore how Minecraft works behind the scenes as they customize characters, modify gear, and make meaningful changes to their worlds...all in a supportive, beginner-friendly environment. Campers work inside curated Minecraft worlds designed specifically for learning. Through guided challenges and creative projects, they’re introduced to the core ideas of “modding” while building confidence, problem-solving skills, and a sense of ownership over what they create. What students will do: Learn the basics of block-based coding Customize Minecraft worlds, characters, and items Explore how games are built and modified Follow structured challenges with room for creativity Build confidence using technology as a creator, not just a player This camp is ideal for younger Minecraft fans who are curious, creative, and ready to take their first steps into coding and game design—no prior experience required. Important note: This camp requires a Minecraft Java Edition account, available at: https://www.minecraft.net/en-us/store/minecraft-java-edition If your student enjoys Junior Minecraft, they may also love: Junior Game Designers (Scratch Programming) LEGO Robotics Roblox Game Design Junior Minecraft is often the first step in a longer STEM journey...and one of our most popular ways for kids to discover that learning can be just as fun as gaming.

Step inside the Creative Sparks Toy Factory, where imagination turns into real, working toys. Designed for curious creators ages 4.5–11, this hands-on S.T.E.A.M camp invites children to think like toy designers—sketching ideas, building prototypes, testing movement, and improving their creations through playful engineering challenges.

Step inside the Creative Sparks Toy Factory, where imagination turns into real, working toys. Designed for curious creators ages 4.5–11, this hands-on S.T.E.A.M camp invites children to think like toy designers—sketching ideas, building prototypes, testing movement, and improving their creations through playful engineering challenges.

Give your child the gift of confidence and the joy of cooking! Our culinary program offers hands-on cooking lessons for budding young chefs. We learn more than how to follow a recipe at Lil’ Chef School. We utilize math, science, teamwork, creativity, and more. Children learn about cuisines of the world and enhance their experience with fruits, vegetables, herbs & spices while gaining confidence and experience in the kitchen that will last them a lifetime. Children will make 2 recipes each week and will get a tasting of the food they made at the end of class. Recipes are provided online.

🧱✨ Build, Create, and Imagine at GrowFit’s LEGO® + All-Sports Camp! Calling all young builders, creators, and problem-solvers! GrowFit’s LEGO® + All-Sports Camp gives kids in grades 1–3 the perfect full-day experience—mornings filled with hands-on LEGO® building challenges and afternoons packed with high-energy All-Sports fun. It’s the ultimate blend of creativity, engineering, and movement! ⭐ Why Choose GrowFit’s LEGO® + All-Sports Camp? 🧱 Hands-On Building & Challenges: Campers dive into themed builds every day—bridges, vehicles, towers, robots, and full LEGO® worlds. Each project boosts imagination and engineering skills. 🧩 STEM Learning Made Fun: Kids practice problem-solving, design thinking, and early engineering concepts while experimenting with structures, motion, and simple mechanisms. 🤝 Teamwork & Creative Collaboration: From group builds to friendly challenges, campers brainstorm, build, and celebrate each other’s creations. 📈 Full-Week Immersion: Projects progress throughout the week, giving campers time to refine skills and complete larger builds. Drop-ins not available for this specialty camp. Camp Details 🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Full-Day Program) 🧱 Morning: LEGO® Camp (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM) 🏅 Afternoon: All-Sports Camp (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM) 📍 Location: The Plex Drop-off: 8:45–9:00 AM at the BACK of The Plex. Pick-up: 3:30–4:00 PM at the BACK of The Plex. Early pick-ups accepted at the same location. What to Bring: Comfortable clothing Water bottle Two snacks Lunch GrowFit has over a decade of experience running engaging, kid-centered camps. Our LEGO® + All-Sports Camp inspires creativity, problem-solving, and confidence—while giving kids the movement and fun they need each afternoon. Your child will come home excited to show you what they built, imagined, and discovered!

Messy experiments. Big discoveries. Endless curiosity. If your child loves asking “what happens if…?”, Weird & Wacky Science Lab is where curiosity takes center stage. In this hands-on science camp, campers roll up their sleeves and dive into the fun, surprising, and sometimes messy side of science. Through exciting experiments and outdoor exploration, students investigate the basics of chemistry, physics, biology, and environmental science—all in a way that’s engaging, playful, and age-appropriate. Campers will pop, squish, ooze, build, and explore as they conduct experiments using everyday materials and items found in nature. From examining pond water under microscopes to creating eye-catching chemical reactions, this camp turns big scientific ideas into unforgettable experiences. What students will do: Create hands-on experiments like neon slime, solar ovens, and sound-making instruments Explore chemistry and physics through safe, guided reactions Investigate biology by examining bugs, pond water, and natural materials Learn about photosynthesis and energy through outdoor experiments Build confidence asking questions, testing ideas, and making discoveries This camp is held both indoors and outdoors, encouraging movement, exploration, and curiosity. Getting messy isn’t just allowed—it’s part of the learning. Weird & Wacky Science Lab is a favorite for younger campers and a perfect introduction to STEM thinking. Students who enjoy this camp often love moving on to LEGO Robotics, Junior Game Designers, or other hands-on engineering camps.

Get ready for a week packed with creativity, color, and hands-on fun! Our Slime & Ceramics Camp gives young makers the best of both worlds—messy, stretchy, sensational slime and beautifully hand-painted ceramics. From glitter and glow-in-the-dark slimes to fluffy, crunchy, and scented varieties, kids will learn slime-making techniques that spark imagination and sensory play. On the ceramics side, campers can pick from a variety of pieces to paint or try simple clay-building projects that let them express their unique style. With guided instruction, plenty of creative freedom, and a relaxed, supportive atmosphere, every child will finish the week with a collection of custom slimes and ceramic treasures to take home. It’s the perfect blend of art, science, and pure fun—ideal for kids who love to create, experiment, and get a little messy! ​For full day please pack a NUT FREE snack and lunch. Half day only a NUT FREE snack. PLEASE EMAIL A PDF REGISTRATION FORM & MEDICAL PRIOR TO THE START OF CAMP TO bethel@thegigglingpig.com

Build, Code & Engineer the Future Step into the world of innovation! Tech Explorers gives teens hands-on experience with electronics, 3D printing, robotics, and engineering challenges. Throughout the week, campers build circuits, design 3D models, and explore electromagnetism discovering how technology powers the world around them. Whether they’re curious about engineering, love experimenting with gadgets, or enjoy solving complex problems, campers will gain confidence applying real-world STEM skills in a fun and engaging environment. All Summer Campers receive a free TCSL t-shirt!

An exciting introduction to the science of flight and propulsion. Rocket Academy introduces campers to the fundamentals of rocketry through hands-on design, building, and real rocket launches. Students explore how rockets work, then put those ideas into action as they design and launch a variety of rocket types using different propulsion systems. Throughout the week, campers learn how forces like thrust, momentum, and energy work together to lift rockets off the ground. These concepts are introduced in an age-appropriate, engaging way, allowing students to connect real science to what they see in the sky during launch activities. This camp emphasizes experimentation and discovery. Campers test designs, compare results, and refine their thinking as they explore what makes rockets fly higher, straighter, and farther. What students will do: Design, build, and launch multiple model rockets Explore how rockets operate and why they fly Learn the basic principles of propulsion, including thrust and momentum Compare different propulsion types and launch outcomes Build confidence through hands-on engineering and experimentation Model rocketry has long been a source of inspiration for scientists and engineers, and Rocket Academy gives campers an early opportunity to experience that spark firsthand. This camp is a great fit for students who enjoy building, testing ideas, and seeing science come to life—and pairs naturally with BattleBots, LEGO Robotics, and 3D Printing & CAD.

CREATING CHARACTERS Come create at our afternoon camp with hands on art and a whole lot of fun! At this camp your child will create an animal sculpture in they style of the popular video game and movie, Minecraft. Sculptures will be made using polymer clay which is baked and cooled and then painted. Your child will come home with a unique work of art. At this camp your child will get to learn about art, get their creative juices flowing, and have fun creating artwork of their own. Spaces are limited. Save your child's spot by registering today!

Get ready for an adventure in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM)! As an Epic Engineer, your camper will embark on a journey of discovery, creativity, and innovation. Through hands on projects and team based challenges, campers will unleash their inner engineer, artist, and scientist. We will celebrate achievements and share creations with fellow campers. Don't miss this amazing opportunity to join the Epic Engineers STEAM Camp and begin the engineering journey that could last a lifetime. All of the camps come together for lunch, recess breaks, and special events. There are free choice activities in the morning/afternoon including games and crafts. ***REGISTER BY APRIL 24th to RECEIVE A FREE SUMMER AT SEA CREST T-SHIRT*** Please look out for an email (sent to the email you register with) a week or two prior to the start of camp with more details, including any special days happening that week. Our aftercare at camp runs from 3:00pm-4:00pm the charge is an additional $15 a day, if your child is not picked up by 3:05pm they will automatically be checked into aftercare and we will charge the card on file. Aftercare after a long camp day is definitely a time for decompression and may include board games and/or educational films. We also combine all campers at this time including our JK/K tide pool camp. All camps will run contingent upon a certain number of campers signing up. If your camp is cancelled, you will be notified at least 30 days prior. We may also combine the 1st and 2nd grade camps with the 3rd-6th grade camps if there is low enrollment. Cancellation Policy: Registrations canceled at least 30 days prior to the start of camp will receive a full refund. Registrations canceled 15-29 days prior to camp will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations within 14 days of the start of camp will not be refunded. Please wear sunscreen and bring a jacket daily because we never know what coastal weather will bring. Campers are required to bring a lunch, snack and water bottle daily.

We are offering 11 different art camps/ new curriculum for Art Camps this summer. Art Camp at All Things Art Studio is the best way to experience total immersion in a summer art program! It's fun & and students get a chance to delve into their creative selves without crazy time restraints. Students will also get to Tie Dye an All Things Art Studio Camp Shirt (or other item for repeat campers) on Day 1! (included in the fee of camp). In the mornings, they will be working on individual projects, and the afternoon art academy will give them a relaxed but focused exercise in fine arts. There will be landscape drawing and painting, and still life exploration. We explore drawing, clay, printmaking, textiles, weaving, watercolor, acrylics, tempera paint, glazing & more! We will work with canvas, clay, watercolor, tissue paper and many other types of medium as well. Every camp is a different curriculum, so please register for as many as you can :) It's an amazing week for students, they meet and make new art friends and enjoy the warm summer weather. Bring a sack lunch each day and a water bottle, We will have outdoor lunch & walk in the neighborhood- plus outdoor "en plain air" instruction in their daily journal/ sketchbook. Bring it on! Some of our Elementary, Middle School and High School groups will be offered at the same times & days (convenient for families with older & younger children). But the Camps will be separated by the groups and have different curriculum and locations within the studio. (MS/HS have a seperate registration with separate curriculum)

The Outbound is an immersive summer experience led by Sea Crest's very own Upper School Humanities Teacher Graham Charles, it is designed for students who want to disconnect from the screen and reconnect with the wild. This isn’t just a "nature walk" it’s a deep dive into the rugged terrain of the Coastside and beyond. We will focus on Field Intel (outdoor science), Land Art (collaborative builds), and Trail Mastery (the physical and mental grit of long-range exploration). Come jump in the Sea Crest Van for a small group experience that is sure to create a lasting bond. 5 days, 5 hikes. Weather and availability- determine experiences. Modern life is loud. The Outbound gives us the rare chance to develop a "Quiet Mind” a high-level skill used by elite explorers and artists to sharpen observation and mental clarity. We’re trading classrooms for the redwoods and textbooks for the trail, spending multi-hour blocks navigating, creating, and learning to be comfortable in the elements. Per our summer camp handbook, this is a cell phone free event. **This camp is for Incoming 5th-8th graders only** ***REGISTER BY APRIL 24th to RECEIVE A FREE SUMMER AT SEA CREST T-SHIRT*** Please look out for an email (sent to the email you register with) a week or two prior to the start of camp with more details. All camps will run contingent upon a certain number of campers signing up. If your camp is cancelled, you will be notified at least 30 days prior. We may also combine the 1st and 2nd grade camps with the 3rd-6th grade camps if there is low enrollment. Cancellation Policy: Registrations canceled at least 30 days prior to the start of camp will receive a full refund. Registrations canceled 15-29 days prior to camp will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations within 14 days of the start of camp will not be refunded. Please wear sunscreen and bring a jacket daily because we never know what coastal weather will bring. Campers are required to bring a lunch, snack and water bottle daily.

Journey to a place where cooking and creativity coalesce to celebrate cultures from around the world. Each day, kids will explore global cuisines, discover new foods, and experiment with enticing ingredients, creating vibrant dishes inspired by diverse traditions. Along the way, they’ll discover how food and creativity expand our understanding of the world, fostering connection, appreciation, and unity through the shared stories and flavors that bring us together. Your young chef will: -Learn baking and cooking techniques from different cultures and prepare authentic dishes using traditional ingredients -Create food-inspired art projects that celebrate global traditions and cultural expressions -Cultivate curiosity for new foods by exploring international herbs, spices, and flavors -Build cultural awareness and appreciation through stories, traditions, and the shared experience of preparing and enjoying meals together Daily Schedule: 9:00-9:30 AM: Arrivals and Activity Centers ‍9:30-9:50 AM: Welcome Circle and Stretching ‍9:50-11:00 AM: Cook Brunch ‍11:00-11:30 AM: Eat, Cleanup, and Quiet Time ‍11:30-12:45 PM: Cook Lunch and STEAM Activity ‍12:45-1:15 PM: Eat, Cleanup, and Quiet Time ‍1:15-2:15 PM: Outdoor Play ‍2:15-2:40 PM: Snack and Cleanup ‍2:40-3:00 PM: Closing Circle and Pick-Up

A colorful, candy-inspired art adventure! Campers will design and build sweet-themed sculptures using paint, clay, and collage materials. It’s a bright and playful week full of color, creativity, and deliciously fun art-making (no sugar needed!). Messy Art Lab Summer Camp Info 🌈 Art Show Each week ends with a special Art Show, where campers proudly share their amazing creations with family and friends! It’s a joyful celebration of their creativity and the wonderful work they’ve done all week. 🕘 Schedule Drop-off: begins at 9:00 AM Pick-up: 2:45–3:00 PM Aftercare: available 3:00–5:00 PM Aftercare Details: Aftercare can be purchased as a weekly package. We do not offer aftercare on Fridays. If you’d like to book individual aftercare days, please email Betty@messyartlab.com for availability. 🧺 What to Bring Please help your child come prepared for a fun (and messy!) creative day. 🚫 No nuts or nut products of any kind, please. -Two healthy snacks (morning & afternoon) -Lunch (no candy, gum, or sugary drinks) -A refillable water bottle -Comfortable, paint-friendly clothes -A jacket, sunhat, and layers for outdoor play -Sunscreen applied before camp -A full change of clothes (just in case!) 🧒 Camper Requirements To keep our camps safe, fun, and creative for everyone: -Campers must be 4 years and 6 months old by the first day of camp. (We’re not able to make exceptions to this policy.) -Campers should be able to follow safety instructions and engage in activities for about 30 minutes at a time. -Campers must be fully potty-trained and able to use the bathroom independently. -Please share any medical, behavioral, or developmental information (such as allergies, neurodiversity, or trauma) during registration. This helps us prepare thoughtfully and ensure a positive, supportive experience for every child. (All information is kept confidential.) 💰 Refunds & Cancellations We know plans can change! Please review our camp refund policy below: 100% refund for cancellations made within 24 hours of registration. All enrollments include a non-refundable 20% deposit. Cancellations made 30+ days before the camp start date: refund minus the 20% deposit. Cancellations made within 30 days of the camp start date: No refund unless we can fill your spot, in which case you’ll receive camp credit minus the 20% deposit. All cancellation requests must be sent in writing via email. Transfers to another camp week may be requested (based on availability). A 20% fee applies for transfers requested within 30 days of the original camp week.

A Week-Long Exploration of Cells, DNA, Microbes & Real Lab Techniques Budding biologists and lab lovers this camp is for you! Let’s Get Cultured is a week-long deep dive into the exciting world of cells, genetics, microbiology, and metabolic science. Campers ages 12–16 will work with authentic lab tools, learn real scientific techniques, and explore the microscopic organisms and molecular systems that keep life running. Each day focuses on a new area of biological science, packed with hands-on experiments, microscopy, DNA investigation, and microbial challenges. Teens leave with stronger lab skills, greater scientific confidence, and an unforgettable appreciation for the hidden world of biology. All Summer Campers receive a free TCSL t-shirt!

In Game Art Studio, campers explore the world of pixel art and animation using Aseprite, a professional tool used to create graphics for 2D video games. Students learn how to design characters, environments, icons, and animated sprites while building strong foundations in color, shading, and animation timing. Throughout the week, campers create original game-ready artwork such as character walk cycles, enemies, backgrounds, and user interface elements. They also learn how pixel art is used in real games and how their creations can be exported for use in 2D games, Scratch or Flowlab projects, Godot or Unity games, Minecraft-style mods, and animated GIFs. This camp is ideal for creative kids who love games and want to bring their ideas to life. No prior art or coding experience is required. Recommended for ages 10 - 15.

🎨✨ Unleash Creativity at GrowFit’s Art + All-Sports Camp Calling all young artists in grades 1–3! GrowFit’s Art + All-Sports Camp at Valle Verde Elementary gives campers the perfect full-day experience: imaginative, hands-on art projects in the morning and high-energy sports fun in the afternoon. It’s the ideal balance of creativity and movement! ⭐ Why Choose GrowFit’s Art + All-Sports Camp? 🎨 Hands-On Art Projects: Campers paint colorful masterpieces, create leaf print art, sculpt with clay, explore mixed media, and experiment with new tools and textures. 🖌️ Creative Skill Building: Each day introduces new techniques that help kids build confidence, express themselves, and discover their unique artistic style. 🤝 Collaborative Fun: Campers create side by side, share ideas, and celebrate each other’s art in a warm, supportive environment. 📈 Weeklong Creative Journey: Art projects progress throughout the week, so drop-ins are not available. Full-week enrollment ensures campers fully explore their creativity. 🎉 Active All-Sports Afternoons: After lunch, campers join our All-Sports Camp for games like soccer, basketball, gaga ball, bounce house tag, and more—keeping their bodies moving and spirits high! Camp Details — Walnut Creek 🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Full-Day Program) 🎨 Morning: Art Camp (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM) 🏅 Afternoon: All-Sports Camp (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM) 📍 Location: Valle Verde Elementary School Drop-off: 8:45–9:00 AM at the GrowFit table at the front of the school Pick-up: 3:30–4:00 PM at the gymnasium What to Bring: Comfortable clothes that can get messy Water bottle Two snacks Lunch Extra clothes are recommended for younger campers With over a decade of experience creating joyful and engaging hands-on programs, GrowFit’s Art + All-Sports Camp helps young artists express themselves, build skills, stay active, and make new friends—all in one unforgettable week. 🎨 Ready to Create, Imagine, and Play? Spots fill fast—register today! Refunds and Cancellations 30+ days before camp: Full refund minus a 10% fee Within 30 days: Credit for future GrowFit camps Day-of or after camp begins: Non-refundable

⚡🔬 Spark Curiosity and Movement at GrowFit’s Science + All-Sports Camp! Calling all future scientists, inventors, and explorers in grades 1–3! GrowFit’s Science + All-Sports Camp blends the excitement of hands-on discovery with the energy of multi-sport fun. Mornings are all about science experiments, creativity, and discovery—while afternoons are packed with sports, teamwork, and laughter. It’s the perfect balance of brain power and playtime! Why Choose GrowFit’s Science + All-Sports Camp? 🔬 Explosive Science Fun: From building erupting volcanoes and creating glow-in-the-dark bouncy balls to crafting colorful kaleidoscopes, campers explore the magic of science through exciting hands-on experiments. 🧪 Curious Minds at Work: Campers dive into chemistry, physics, and engineering concepts in a playful, age-appropriate way that sparks critical thinking and creativity. 🏅 Active Afternoons: After lunch, the fun continues with our All-Sports Camp—featuring a variety of games like soccer, basketball, gaga ball, and bounce house tag. 🤝 Teamwork and Discovery: Whether mixing experiments or mastering teamwork on the field, campers collaborate, problem-solve, and celebrate each other’s successes. 📈 Full-Week Experience: Each day builds on the last, so full-week registration is required—giving kids the time to fully explore, experiment, and grow. Camp Details: 🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Full-Day Program) 🔬 Morning: Science Camp (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM) 🏅 Afternoon: All-Sports Camp (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM) 📍 Location: The Academy 🚗 Drop-off: 8:45–9:00 AM | Pick-up: 3:30–4:00 PM 🎒 What to Bring: Comfortable clothes that can get messy, a water bottle, lunch, and two snacks. With over a decade of experience delivering enriching and fun-filled camps, GrowFit’s Science + All-Sports Camp inspires curiosity, confidence, and connection—where discovery meets play every single day! ⚡ Ready to Experiment, Explore, and Play? Spots fill quickly—register today and watch your child’s curiosity and creativity come to life! Refunds and Cancellations: Cancellations made at least 30 days prior to the camp date will be eligible for a full refund, minus a 10% cancellation fee. For cancellations within 30 days of the camp start date, we’re happy to offer a credit for future participation. Please note: cancellations on or after the start of camp are non-refundable. Tax ID: 81-1018163

An exciting introduction to the science of flight and propulsion. Rocket Academy introduces campers to the fundamentals of rocketry through hands-on design, building, and real rocket launches. Students explore how rockets work, then put those ideas into action as they design and launch a variety of rocket types using different propulsion systems. Throughout the week, campers learn how forces like thrust, momentum, and energy work together to lift rockets off the ground. These concepts are introduced in an age-appropriate, engaging way, allowing students to connect real science to what they see in the sky during launch activities. This camp emphasizes experimentation and discovery. Campers test designs, compare results, and refine their thinking as they explore what makes rockets fly higher, straighter, and farther. What students will do: Design, build, and launch multiple model rockets Explore how rockets operate and why they fly Learn the basic principles of propulsion, including thrust and momentum Compare different propulsion types and launch outcomes Build confidence through hands-on engineering and experimentation Model rocketry has long been a source of inspiration for scientists and engineers, and Rocket Academy gives campers an early opportunity to experience that spark firsthand. This camp is a great fit for students who enjoy building, testing ideas, and seeing science come to life—and pairs naturally with BattleBots, LEGO Robotics, and 3D Printing & CAD.

Farm Camp is run from our 1-acre school farm in the Mission Terrace neighborhood. We provide an opportunity for children to connect with nature while directly participating in the daily rhythms of farm life. Our day camp is designed to inspire a connection with and love of the natural world, and also a chance to get hands dirty in fun and educational ways. Activities include animal care for our chickens, weeding, watering, mulching, harvesting, compost care, crafts and free play. Children should bring snacks and lunch and come prepared to get dirty!