STEM Programs Near Me

Hilltop Creative is nestled in Bernal Heights. Our space is aesthetically beautiful and calming for our days together. We are excited to spend the day being creative, building community and long lasting friendships. Hilltop Creative provides an enriching environment for children to explore art, nature, creativity and curiosity. We strive to build community and enrich social relationships. We also believe in the power and beauty of nature. We hold value in the important benefits it brings. Being outdoors brings increased happiness and reduces cortisol levels. We see better sleep, cognitive function and overall well being in ourselves. Here is a bit about our camp days: Drop Off is from 9am-9:30 and pick up is between 2:30-3 pm. During our days together at Hilltop Creative Camp we will start our mornings off with free exploration, morning greetings, snack and an indoor creative activity. We will have outdoor time on neighborhood hikes and also will visit our local playgrounds and recreational areas Bernal Heights, Holly Park and St Mary's. Towards the end of the day we will gather indoors and will have an afternoon snack provided by Hilltop Creative. Our ration is 1:6and we do not go over 12 campers. Hilltop Creative Daily Schedule 9:00-9:30 Drop off and Check in 9:30-10:00 Centers/ Free Choice 10:00-10:15 Morning Meeting 10:15-10:30 Snack 10:30-11:30 Art Activity (First Project) 11:30-12:00 Lunch 12:00-1:30 Park and Outdoor Time 1:30-2:00 Snack 2:00-2:30 Art Activity (Second Project) 2:30-3:00 Art Choice/ Free Choice and Pick -up

In the Applied Science Lab, students explore real-world science through fun, hands-on experiments. Each week, they build working projects like helicopters, flashlights, wind turbines, and more using everyday materials. The class encourages creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork while teaching core science and engineering concepts. No screens or kits—just engaging, interactive learning. It’s the perfect class for curious kids who love to build, explore, and discover how things work

Advanced 3D Printing & Design Design smarter. Print better. Build like an engineer. Advanced 3D Printing & Design is designed for students who are ready to go beyond the basics and take their 3D modeling and printing skills to the next level. In this hands-on, project-driven camp, students dive deeper into professional-level CAD design, learning how engineers and product designers create efficient, functional, and refined models. Campers explore advanced concepts such as parametric design, complex assemblies, and design optimization, giving them greater control over how their creations look and perform. Students also gain deeper experience with the 3D printing process itself, learning how advanced slicing settings—like infill patterns, layer height, and print speed—affect strength, detail, and print quality. To finish things off, campers are introduced to post-processing techniques such as sanding, smoothing, and custom finishing to elevate their projects from prototypes to polished products. What students will do: Create advanced CAD models using professional design techniques Build multi-part assemblies and optimized designs Fine-tune print settings for strength, detail, and efficiency Learn post-processing methods to improve finish and durability Bring multiple original designs to life with 3D printing This camp emphasizes problem-solving, iteration, and real-world engineering thinking, making it an excellent next step for students interested in design, engineering, or manufacturing. Prerequisite: Intro to 3D Printing & CAD (or equivalent experience) Ages: 10+ Important note: Due to printing time, some projects may finish after camp hours and will be available for pickup at Silicon STEM. Advanced 3D Printing & Design is a natural progression for students who want to deepen their skills and take pride in creating high-quality, functional designs.

In this hands-on engineering camp, students learn how to build their own interactive electronic devices. Using user-friendly microcontrollers, campers will build circuits, then code them to create systems that light up, buzz, react to motion & sound, and more. Students begin with the basics—how electricity flows, how devices collect data, and how coding controls hardware—then apply those skills to build smart alarms, reaction-time games, simple monitors, and interactive devices. (No coding experience required.) By the end of the week, each camper will have developed a working knowledge of physical computing, controls, sensors and more. This camp is ideal for students new to electronics as well as those ready to level up their engineering skills. Recommended for ages 11-15.

Tiny builders, big ideas! This week, campers design and decorate their own dream dollhouses using cardboard, clay, fabric, and imagination. From tiny furniture to colorful wall art, they’ll bring their miniature homes to life in the most delightful, creative way. 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.

Join us each week for a fun and educational homeschool art class where creativity meets learning! Every session explores a different educational theme—such as science, history, nature, or literature—and guides students through an exciting art project inspired by that topic. This hands-on approach encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and self-expression while reinforcing key educational concepts in a memorable and creative way. Perfect for homeschoolers of all ages!

DESCRIPTION This course covers the evolution and impact of automation and robotics, teaching students about mechanical systems and computer control through hands-on projects using VEX Robotics to create objects like traffic lights and robotic arms. KEY CONCEPTS VEX Code Engineering Electricity 3D Modeling 3D Printing Art of Design SPRINTS Robotic Fundamentals Robotics with VEX IQ Advanced Robotics 3D Modeling Midterm Robotics Project Electricity Electricity II Engineering Design Final Project: Build a Complex Robot SOFT SKILLS Teamwork Project Development and Ideation Fine Motor Skills and Coordination Critical Observation OUTCOMEs 3D Printed Innovation Small Scale Smart Home Simulation Robot Design Solution

Description: This course helps transition students from block coding to type coding through interactive Minecraft Education activities, covering core programming concepts like events, variables, and functions, engaging in block coding activities that transition into completing Minecraft Education activities with Python coding and using Lua to create Roblox games, fostering a deeper understanding of block- and text-based coding while emphasizing problem-solving, debugging, and collaborative projects to prepare students for more advanced coding challenges. Key Concepts: Programming Fundamentals Interactive Lessons MakeCode Programming Block Code Programming Transitioning Between Block and Text Code Python Programming Lua Programming Game Development Sprints: Introduction to Minecraft and Programming Intermediate Programming Concepts Advanced Programming Concepts Python Basics: From Blocks to Code Roblox Digital Citizenship and World Building Game Design for Roblox and Lua Programming Game Design for Roblox and Lua Programming II Comprehensive Roblox Development Final Project Soft Skills: Problem-Solving Collaboration Communication Adaptability Leadership Attention to Detail Outcomes: Proficiency in Text-Based Coding Understanding Core Programming Concepts Experience with Minecraft Education and Roblox game development

3 - 5 Year Old Drop Off. A multi-disciplinary class designed to introduce your child to engineering, design, art, math and movement. This S.T.E.A.M inspired class is great for the young maker, mover and thinker. It takes an active approach to school readiness and maintains our whole-child learning philosophy.

Our school skill classes help your child make that important transition to academic learning by way of a creative bridge. Our program instils classroom curiosity and a genuine love of learning. Children build self-confidence through art, science, math, language, movement and more.

Camp Footsteps Junior Explorers 2026 A Summer of Discovery, Creativity, and Fun! At Camp Footsteps Junior Explorers 2026, children entering TK through first grade will embark on a summer filled with imagination, friendship, and adventure. Each themed week is thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and encourage creativity through hands-on learning and play. From inventing and building during Maker’s Week to celebrating freedom and culture during Juneteenth: Freedom to Dream Week, every day brings new opportunities to explore, create, and grow. Campers will enjoy a wide variety of engaging activities, including art projects, outdoor games, field trips, science explorations, cooking projects, and meaningful community experiences that connect learning with fun. Our experienced and caring staff create a safe, nurturing environment where young children are encouraged to try new things, develop friendships, and discover their unique strengths. Whether your child is a budding artist, an enthusiastic explorer, or a hands-on maker, Camp Footsteps Junior Explorers 2026 offers an unforgettable summer filled with laughter, learning, and lasting memories. Week 3 – Hooray for Hollywood Field Trip: Mugglebee’s Play Performance Lights, camera, action! This exciting week invites campers to step into the spotlight and explore the magic of movies and theater. Children will design costumes, create props, learn simple stage skills, and even try out being directors and actors in short skits. From making star-worthy crafts to walking the “red carpet,” campers will discover how imagination and teamwork bring stories to life. The week will end with a mini showcase where our Hollywood stars can shine for friends and family. Special Event: Red Carpet Premiere Day Campers perform skits or share short videos they’ve made during the week. There will be a photo wall and fun award certificates such as Best Director, Most Creative, and Best Teamwork.

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.

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/TK and Kindergarten 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.

Encourage curiosity and build self-confidence in your preschooler through art, science exploration, play and more. Teachers also read children's books that explore and nurture key social and emotional skills, engage in activities that require cooperation.

Outdoor field games in local area parks daily, swimming twice weekly, kayaking and rock climbing once weekly each. We spend the first and last hour of the day inside doing arts and crafts, STEM projects, and indoor sports such bowling and ping pong. The rest of the morning and afternoon we are outdoors doing field games and traditional activities utilizing local area parks. Swim days are planned to be Tuesdays and Thursdays each week during the morning session. Kayaking are Wednesdays during the morning session, weather permitting. Rock climbing is on Fridays. We are open rain or shine, during inclement weather and poor air quality days we spend more time inside doing crafts, indoor sports and other activities. Hot lunch and healthy snacks are included. Early Bird pricing of 15% off, and ends 3/30. Early Bird pricing of 10% off, and ends 4/30. Early Bird pricing of 5% off, and ends 5/31. There is a sibling discount of 20% for each child beyond the first. Discounts do not stack with other discounts, you will receive the best discount available to you at check out.

Outdoor field games in local area parks daily, swimming twice weekly, kayaking and rock climbing once weekly each. We spend the first and last hour of the day inside doing arts and crafts, STEM projects, and indoor sports such bowling and ping pong. The rest of the morning and afternoon we are outdoors doing field games and traditional activities utilizing local area parks. Swim days are planned to be Tuesdays and Thursdays each week during the morning session. Kayaking are Wednesdays during the morning session, weather permitting. Rock climbing is on Fridays. We are open rain or shine, during inclement weather and poor air quality days we spend more time inside doing crafts, indoor sports and other activities. Hot lunch and healthy snacks are included. Early Bird pricing of 15% off, and ends 3/30. Early Bird pricing of 10% off, and ends 4/30. Early Bird pricing of 5% off, and ends 5/31. There is a sibling discount of 20% for each child beyond the first. Discounts do not stack with other discounts, you will receive the best discount available to you at check out.

Outdoor field games in local area parks daily, swimming twice weekly, kayaking and rock climbing once weekly each. We spend the first and last hour of the day inside doing arts and crafts, STEM projects, and indoor sports such bowling and ping pong. The rest of the morning and afternoon we are outdoors doing field games and traditional activities utilizing local area parks. Swim days are planned to be Tuesdays and Thursdays each week during the morning session. Kayaking are Wednesdays during the morning session, weather permitting. Rock climbing is on Fridays. We are open rain or shine, during inclement weather and poor air quality days we spend more time inside doing crafts, indoor sports and other activities. Hot lunch and healthy snacks are included. Early Bird pricing of 15% off, and ends 3/30. Early Bird pricing of 10% off, and ends 4/30. Early Bird pricing of 5% off, and ends 5/31. There is a sibling discount of 20% for each child beyond the first. Discounts do not stack with other discounts, you will receive the best discount available to you at check out.

Camp Footsteps Explorers 2026 A Summer of Discovery, Creativity, and Fun! At Camp Footsteps Explorers 2026, children entering TK through third grade will embark on a summer filled with imagination, friendship, and adventure. Each themed week is thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and encourage creativity through hands-on learning and play. From inventing and building during Maker’s Week to celebrating freedom and culture during Juneteenth: Freedom to Dream Week, every day brings new opportunities to explore, create, and grow. Campers will enjoy a wide variety of engaging activities, including art projects, outdoor games, field trips, science explorations, cooking projects, and meaningful community experiences that connect learning with fun. Our experienced and caring staff create a safe, nurturing environment where children are encouraged to try new things, develop friendships, and discover their unique strengths. Whether your child is a budding artist, an enthusiastic explorer, or a hands-on maker, Camp Footsteps Junior Explorers 2026 offers an unforgettable summer filled with laughter, learning, and lasting memories. Week 3 – Hooray for Hollywood Field Trip: Mugglebee’s Play Performance Lights, camera, action! This exciting week invites campers to step into the spotlight and explore the magic of movies and theater. Children will design costumes, create props, learn simple stage skills, and even try out being directors and actors in short skits. From making star-worthy crafts to walking the “red carpet,” campers will discover how imagination and teamwork bring stories to life. The week will end with a mini showcase where our Hollywood stars can shine for friends and family. Special Event: Red Carpet Premiere Day Campers perform skits or share short videos they’ve made during the week. There will be a photo wall and fun award certificates such as Best Director, Most Creative, and Best Teamwork.

Camp Footsteps Explorers 2026 A Summer of Discovery, Creativity, and Fun! At Camp Footsteps Explorers 2026, children entering TK through third grade will embark on a summer filled with imagination, friendship, and adventure. Each themed week is thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and encourage creativity through hands-on learning and play. From inventing and building during Maker’s Week to celebrating freedom and culture during Juneteenth: Freedom to Dream Week, every day brings new opportunities to explore, create, and grow. Campers will enjoy a wide variety of engaging activities, including art projects, outdoor games, field trips, science explorations, cooking projects, and meaningful community experiences that connect learning with fun. Our experienced and caring staff create a safe, nurturing environment where children are encouraged to try new things, develop friendships, and discover their unique strengths. Whether your child is a budding artist, an enthusiastic explorer, or a hands-on maker, Camp Footsteps Junior Explorers 2026 offers an unforgettable summer filled with laughter, learning, and lasting memories. Week 4 – Old-Fashioned 4th of July Week Field Trip: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Celebrate Independence Day the classic way—with games, crafts, and summertime fun! Campers will enjoy an old-fashioned 4th of July through activities like making crafts, playing outdoor games, enjoying picnic-style snacks, and learning about the history behind the holiday. The week will include plenty of red, white, and blue spirit, with a mini “parade” and camp celebration. Special Event: Old-Fashioned Celebration Outdoor picnic lunch with classic games—sack races, water balloon toss, tug-of-war, and more!

Camp Footsteps Explorers 2026 A Summer of Discovery, Creativity, and Fun! At Camp Footsteps Explorers 2026, children entering TK through third grade will embark on a summer filled with imagination, friendship, and adventure. Each themed week is thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and encourage creativity through hands-on learning and play. From inventing and building during Maker’s Week to celebrating freedom and culture during Juneteenth: Freedom to Dream Week, every day brings new opportunities to explore, create, and grow. Campers will enjoy a wide variety of engaging activities, including art projects, outdoor games, field trips, science explorations, cooking projects, and meaningful community experiences that connect learning with fun. Our experienced and caring staff create a safe, nurturing environment where children are encouraged to try new things, develop friendships, and discover their unique strengths. Whether your child is a budding artist, an enthusiastic explorer, or a hands-on maker, Camp Footsteps Junior Explorers 2026 offers an unforgettable summer filled with laughter, learning, and lasting memories. Week 7 – Staying Fit in the Outdoors Field Trip: The Wave Waterpark, Dublin Let’s get moving! This week is all about staying active, healthy, and having fun outside. Campers will enjoy outdoor games, nature hikes, obstacle courses, and team challenges designed to build strength, balance, and confidence. Along the way, they will learn about healthy habits, teamwork, and the joy of movement in the fresh air. Each day offers new adventures that keep kids engaged, energized, and smiling. Special Event: Footsteps Adventure Challenge Day We’ll create a mini “adventure park” across camp with stations that mix fitness, teamwork, and problem-solving—balance beams, scavenger hunts, relays, and more. Highlight: Each team earns a ribbon or “Adventure Badge” for completing all stations.

Camp Footsteps Explorers 2026 A Summer of Discovery, Creativity, and Fun! At Camp Footsteps Explorers 2026, children entering TK through third grade will embark on a summer filled with imagination, friendship, and adventure. Each themed week is thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and encourage creativity through hands-on learning and play. From inventing and building during Maker’s Week to celebrating freedom and culture during Juneteenth: Freedom to Dream Week, every day brings new opportunities to explore, create, and grow. Campers will enjoy a wide variety of engaging activities, including art projects, outdoor games, field trips, science explorations, cooking projects, and meaningful community experiences that connect learning with fun. Our experienced and caring staff create a safe, nurturing environment where children are encouraged to try new things, develop friendships, and discover their unique strengths. Whether your child is a budding artist, an enthusiastic explorer, or a hands-on maker, Camp Footsteps Junior Explorers 2026 offers an unforgettable summer filled with laughter, learning, and lasting memories. Week 9 – Water Week Field Trip: Aqua Adventure, Fremont What better way to wrap up summer than with a week full of water fun? Campers will dive into exciting activities like water games, splash relays, bubble art, and science experiments that explore the wonders of water. Each day will bring a new way to stay cool and have fun while learning about the importance of water in nature and our daily lives. Special Event: Splash & Slide Finale! Our end-of-summer party features inflatable water slides, bubble stations, and popsicles—celebrating a summer full of laughter, learning, and friendship!