Back in my childhood days, many decades ago, summer camps were almost exclusively athletic and competitive in nature. We non-athletic kiddos didn’t have a lot of choices. Now, parents are lucky enough to be raising children in a time with seemingly endless options for all kinds of goals and interests.
If you have a learner who loves Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM), they have many camps to choose from now. (And of course, OES has plenty of other choices, too! You’re sure to find a good fit for your kiddo no matter what they love to do and learn.)
Here are five things to consider when choosing camps for your STEM kid:
1. Identify Your Child’s Interests
STEM is a broad field, encompassing everything from robotics and coding to environmental science and engineering. Understanding what excites your child the most will help narrow down the choices. Do they love plants and forests? Are they fascinated by fossils? Do they excel at math? Look for options that focus on your child’s particular passion. OES offers a number of STEM topics for various ages, including:
- K-1st Grade: Jurassic Goo Lab, Marvelous Math
- 2nd/3rd Grade: Junior Engineers, Cooking up with STEAM
- 4th/5th Grade: Contraptions & Reactions, Math Mindset
- 6th/8th Grade: River Runners
2. Consider the Camp Format and Schedule
STEM camps come in different formats, including day camps, overnight camps, and partial day or week programs. Consider your child’s age, comfort level, and your family’s schedule when selecting the right setting.
- Day Camps: Day camps are great for younger kids and those who prefer to stay local and return home each night. (OES offers day camps, but with extended care hours— they run from 7:45 am until 6 pm each day for ages pre-K through grade 5.)
- Overnight Camps: Overnight camps offer an immersive experience where kids can focus entirely on STEM activities while also gaining independence.
- Extended Care: Some day camps offer early drop-off and/or after-camp care to accommodate working parents’ schedules.
3. Look at the Curriculum and Activities
A high-quality STEM camp will offer a structured curriculum with hands-on learning experiences. Summer camp isn’t the time to sit at a desk to listen to lectures all day! Look for programs that provide some or all of the following:
- Hands-on experiments and projects (All STEM camps with Summer at OES are hands-on and project based.)
- Collaboration with peers
- Opportunities to solve real-world problems
- When appropriate to a class, access to modern technology and tools (3D printing, coding software, robotics kits, etc.)
- Integrated instruction that allows for creativity, outdoor time, and individual exploration. (OES offers a beautiful 60-acre campus for students to explore with their camp groups.)
- Off-site field trips (OES offers hiking and water-based field trips as part of their programs.)
4. Consider the Age Group and Skill Level
STEM is not only for older students! But it’s important to ensure your child’s camp is the right fit for their age and skills. Some camps cater to beginners, while others offer advanced courses for students with prior knowledge.
For example, one of the OES camps, Competition of Numbers, is best for students who have completed Algebra 1 to help them have a successful experience. Make sure the camp you choose aligns with your child’s current abilities while still challenging them appropriately.
5. Think About Cost
STEM camps can vary widely in cost depending on curriculum and instructor quality, location, schedule, and other factors. Determine your budget to help you find the right fit. But if a camp is initially outside your financial parameters, check if they offer scholarships, financial aid, or early registration discounts to bring the cost down. (OES offers flexible camp fees for those who qualify on a first-come, first-served basis.)
6. Look for Fun and Engagement
While STEM camps are inherently academic in nature, they should also be fun! Look for camps that balance education with recreational activities, teamwork, and creativity. The best STEM camps are inquiry-based to foster curiosity and excitement while making learning enjoyable and accessible.
OES programs are founded on growing inquiry and wonder, are play based, and are created by experienced year-round educators, so you know they are professionally designed and fun for your kids.
OES Has Your Children Covered
Finding the best summer camp for your child, STEM or otherwise, can take some research, but the benefits are well worth it. A great camp at Oregon Episcopal School will not only reinforce your child’s love for STEM but also inspire them to think critically, problem solve, and innovate. With the right choice, your kiddo will have a summer filled with learning, adventure, and discovery.
“When a child experiences summer in the OES community, they leave our programming and walk into the next school year more confident in their skills socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually—ready to thrive,” say the folks with Summer at OES.
See the full range of OES summer camp options to choose the best fit for your child. They offer programs for children ages 4-17, so you’re sure to find something to meet all of your summer camp needs.
For questions, please email OES at [email protected]. They’re eager to help your child have a phenomenal summer break!
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