Thinkery provides many ways to experience joyful learning, whether it be in our museum or out. One of our longest-running programs that allows children to dive deeper into our hands-on, play-based STEAM experiences is Thinkery Camps. Hands-on experiences like Thinkery Camps are proven to help children build the durable skills they need to prepare for an ever-changing workforce and world. While our museum exhibits allow children to dip their toes into joyful STEAM learning, Thinkery Camps allow children to expand their experience and dive deep throughout the course of five days.
What makes Thinkery Camps special?
We know that children need engagement, enrichment, and social opportunities. At camp, we focus on social-emotional learning along with confidence building.
At Thinkery Camp, it starts with a spark. We begin with a theme, but it is the children and their interests that bring it to life, that is when the magic happens. Our trained camp educators will curate special design challenges, maker activities, and games. Giving children power in their learning journey makes the process more engaging, meaningful, and joyful, and cultivates confident, creative thinking. This is what makes Thinkery Camp so unique and FUN!
What activities do children do at camps?
Children get to explore different STEAM tools and activities at Camps. The difficulty levels range based on the campers’ age and skillset. We meet each child where they’re at and build from there!
Real Tools: Campers will get the chance to use some “big tools” like hammers, power drills, sewing machines, or print-making tools. Learning how to safely use these tools is not just fun but builds confidence, encourages responsible risk-taking, and gives kids a chance to creatively express themselves.
Tools may include*:
- Woodworking tools (hammer, hand saw, nails)
- Power Tools
- Lino-cut/Print making
- Sewing/Embroidery Machines
Hands-On Technology: Activities like creating code, exploring how circuits work, or building a robot have never been more playful. Our use of technology incorporates real-world implications. If kids are working to create at Thinkery Camp, we’re going to make it fun!
Hands-on Technology may include*:
- Makey Makey
- Lego Spike Essentials
- Ozobots
- Circut Blocks
- Stop Motion
Messy Making: What’s more fun as a kid than getting your hands dirty? And what’s more fun as a caregiver than not having to clean up after? Messy making gives campers the opportunity to have that crucial sensory experience of using their hands to create and explore. It’s also a heck of a good time!
Messy Making may include*:
- Paper Mache
- Slime
- Planting/Gardening
- Stop Motion
*This is a non-exhaustive list of tools, technology, or activities. Because of the child-led nature of Thinkery Camps, campers’ interests drive the types of activities and tools that are used.
At the end of camps, children will get to show off their creations to YOU, their parents, families, and caregivers. Show and Share allows children to confidently share the joyful learning that’s happened throughout the week, so no one gets to miss out!