Great Lakes Science Center’s Camp Curiosity program is offering new Camps@Home virtual STEM summer camp options this year. Every one of the previously scheduled summer day camps for kids in grades K-8 will have a corresponding home version.
“We’re bringing the camp experience to you this summer,” said Scott Vollmer, vice president of STEM education. “The science center is the first in Northeast Ohio to offer individualized, at-home camp experiences with supplies included.”
Each camper will need access to an internet-connected device (phone, tablet or laptop), but the @Home camp is a two-way experience — GLSC will not be parking your camper in front of a screen for an entire week. There will be breakout rooms so campers can collaborate safely and effectively, and counselors will be online throughout the day to answer questions and give advice to the campers in their group. Additionally, this year’s campers will have access to digital assets on a secure website that is protected for their particular camp. These assets will include video recordings of Big Science Shows, demonstrations and how-tos where needed.
Virtual campers will receive their own set of materials that is specifically designed for the camp they are attending. Materials can be picked up at the science center and loaded into your car by a staff member. Once camp ends, the non-consumable materials provided can be dropped back off at GLSC, or for an additional charge, campers may elect to have their materials shipped to and from their house.
Summer camps at the science center will be adapted, as well. With GLSC closed to the general public, campers will be able to spread out in order to give appropriate social distance between people. Each classroom will have only six to eight campers, a counselor, and a tech support staff member, and all campers (both virtual and on-site) will receive a washable Camp Curiosity facemask.
Summer camp options for both home and on-site camps begin June 1. The deadline to receive an early bird registration discount has been extended to May 18. For more information on camp topics, details on virtual camps, or with questions on safety protocols for on-site camps, visit greatscience.com or email [email protected]
