Richmond Central

Start with your brainpower and finish with a bang! In this physical computing camp, apprentices combine coding with a series of other STEM activities to bring their programming skills into action!

It’s all about connecting the digital world and the real world. The goal? Create a motion-sensor machine that can launch an object, play a game or simply say “hello”. To get there, apprentices will learn to code an Arduino microcontroller, and connect it to a device they’ve built using electrical engineering and fabrication skills. Come and see how far your skills can go – literally!

Skills: Coding, Arduino, Electronics, Fabrication, Design & Planning

Ever wondered how your favorite games are made? Now’s your chance to find out—and create your very own! In this hands-on game design camp, young creators will turn from players into designers, learning to build, code, and customize their own interactive video games. Guided step-by-step, campers will explore coding fundamentals, game mechanics, and creative storytelling, all while developing a playable game they can share with friends and family. This is more than play—it’s a journey into the creative and technical world behind the screen.

Perfect for curious gamers ages 8–14 who are ready to level up from playing games to making them.

At our 3D Printed Project Camp, creativity takes center stage! In today’s world, 3D design is becoming an essential skill, and this camp is the perfect opportunity for kids to dive into it. Students will explore the exciting world of 3D design, transforming ideas from 2D to 3D, prototyping models, and creating unique designs with 3D pens. They’ll also learn to use specialized software to master the art of 3D design and bring their concepts to life as tangible keepsakes to take home.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to ignite creativity and equip kids with essential skills for the future!

Incoming! In this camp, Apprentices will become engineers as they work in teams to build the strongest catapult and tallest tower that they can. To conquer the challenge, they'll learn about levers and mechanical advantage, building techniques and balance. As well as becoming masterful engineers, they’ll tap into their creative side and make colorful birds and mascots to launch from the catapult. On the last day, teams will face off to try and knock down their opponents' towers before their tower is tumbled, too!

Skills: Building, Testing, Simple Structures, Levers, Mechanical Advantage, Applied Design Process, Team-work

Creative Coding Camp: Explore Scratch Jr. and Digital Storytelling

An exciting opportunity for kids to explore creativity and technology! This camp is designed to introduce children to the basics of coding through Scratch Jr., an interactive and engaging visual programming language. Each day, kids will learn essential coding skills and apply them to create their own digital stories. By designing characters and crafting imaginative narratives, participants will enjoy a blend of creative play and hands-on learning. This camp sparks curiosity, nurtures imagination, and builds foundational coding knowledge in a fun and age-appropriate environment.

Embark on a hands-on adventure with our Arduino Car with Bluetooth Control project! Learn the basics of Arduino programming and wiring as you build your very own car from the ground up. Then, take it to the next level by designing an app with MIT App Inventor, giving you smooth Bluetooth control of your new creation. This project brings together creativity, coding, and engineering for a fun, interactive way to explore real-world tech and innovation—perfect for aspiring young tech enthusiasts!

Please note: This camp is for kids ages 10 and up. The registration fee includes a take-home kit (retail value of $50).

Ignite your creativity and engineering spirit in this hands-on camp where you become the designer and maker of your own custom fidget toys!

Guided by our skilled facilitators, you'll dive into the world of digital design using professional 3D modeling software to transform your ideas into printable creations. You'll then bring your designs to life through the exciting process of 3D printing, learning about digital fabrication as you watch your unique toys take shape layer by layer. Experience the complete maker journey—from initial concept to functional product—and walk away with your own collection of 3D-printed fidget toys, valuable technical skills, and the proud satisfaction of being a true creator.

Perfect for curious minds ages 8-14 who love technology, design, and hands-on building.

Give your child a joyful, enriching experience filled with creativity, learning, and fun! Designed for curious young builders aged 5–7, this camp inspires imagination, teamwork, and foundational STEM and coding skills through hands-on LEGO® play, storytelling, and exploration.

What Kids Will Explore:
Creative building, basic STEM concepts such as balance and movement, teamwork and communication, problem-solving through testing and redesign, fine motor skill development, and beginner storytelling and coding inspired by Scratch.