STEM Programs Near Me

🛠️💡 Invent, Build, and Create at GrowFit’s Inventor’s Lab + All-Sports Camp Calling all young makers, builders, and big-thinkers in grades 1–3! GrowFit’s Inventor’s Lab + All-Sports Camp at Valle Verde Elementary blends a morning of hands-on invention with an afternoon of high-energy sports fun. It’s the perfect full-day experience for curious kids who love to tinker, test ideas, and bring their creations to life! ⭐ Why Choose GrowFit’s Inventor’s Lab + All-Sports Camp? 🛠️ Engineering for Kids: Campers use cardboard, tape, recycled parts, craft sticks, rubber bands, and more to build creative inventions—bridges, launchers, contraptions, machines, gadgets, and imaginative designs. 💡 Design Thinking in Action: Kids brainstorm, sketch prototypes, test ideas, and refine their builds just like real inventors. Every “What if…?” moment becomes a chance to learn. 🤝 Team Challenges & Collaboration: Campers work together to solve problems, create shared inventions, and cheer each other on through building challenges. 📈 Full-Week Inventing: Each day builds on the last as projects become more creative and advanced. Drop-ins are not available to ensure campers get the full hands-on experience. 🎉 Action-Packed All-Sports Afternoons: After lunch, campers join our All-Sports Camp for games like soccer, basketball, gaga ball, bounce house tag, and more—keeping bodies active and minds sharp. Camp Details — Walnut Creek 🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Full-Day Program) 🛠️ Morning: Inventor’s Lab (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM) 🏅 Afternoon: All-Sports Camp (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM) 📍 Location: Valle Verde Elementary School Drop-off: 8:45–9:00 AM at the GrowFit table at the front of the school Pick-up: 3:30–4:00 PM at the gymnasium What to Bring: Comfortable clothing (inventing can get messy!) Water bottle Two snacks Lunch Extra clothes are recommended for younger campers With over a decade of experience offering programs that spark creativity and confidence, GrowFit’s Inventor’s Lab + All-Sports Camp empowers kids to explore ideas, experiment with materials, collaborate with friends, and build amazing creations—all while staying active and having fun. 💡 Ready to Invent, Explore, and Play? Spots fill fast—register today! Refunds and Cancellations 30+ days before camp: Full refund minus a 10% fee Within 30 days: Credit for future GrowFit camps Day-of or after camp begins: Non-refundable

🧱✨ Build, Create, and Imagine at GrowFit’s LEGO® + All-Sports Camp Calling all young builders and creative thinkers in grades 1–3! GrowFit’s LEGO® + All-Sports Camp at Valle Verde Elementary delivers a full day of creativity, engineering challenges, movement, and fun. Mornings spark imagination with LEGO® builds—afternoons keep kids active and energized with our All-Sports Camp. It’s the perfect blend of hands-on creativity and play! ⭐ Why Choose GrowFit’s LEGO® + All-Sports Camp? 🧱 Hands-On LEGO® Building: Campers dive into daily themes—from bridges and vehicles to towers, mazes, robots, and entire LEGO® worlds. 🧩 STEM-Inspired Challenges: Kids practice problem-solving, design thinking, and early engineering skills through playful, engaging activities. 🤝 Collaboration & Creativity: Campers brainstorm, build, and test ideas together—building friendships and gaining confidence along the way. 📈 Full-Week Progression: Projects grow more complex each day, so drop-ins are not available. Full-week registration ensures campers get the most out of this immersive program. 🎉 Active All-Sports Afternoons: After lunch, campers join our All-Sports program for a rotating lineup of games like soccer, basketball, gaga ball, bounce house tag, and more! Camp Details — Walnut Creek 🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Full-Day Program) 🧱 Morning: LEGO® Camp (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM) 🏅 Afternoon: All-Sports Camp (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM) 📍 Location: Valle Verde Elementary School Drop-off: 8:45–9:00 AM at the GrowFit desk in front of the school Pick-up: 3:30–4:00 PM at the Gymnasium What to Bring: Comfortable clothing Water bottle Two snacks Lunch With over a decade of experience delivering engaging, confidence-building camps, GrowFit’s LEGO® + All-Sports Camp gives kids the perfect balance of creativity, movement, problem-solving, and fun. Your child will come home proud of what they built—and excited for the next day’s adventures! 🛠️ Ready to Build Something Amazing? Spots fill quickly—register today! Refunds and Cancellations 30+ days before camp: Full refund minus a 10% fee Within 30 days: Credit for future GrowFit camps Day-of or after camp begins: Non-refundable

Explore, Investigate & Discover the Inner Workings of Life Dive into the fascinating world of living organisms! This camp lets young scientists explore human and animal biology through hands-on observation, guided dissections, and comparative anatomy. Campers investigate how different species function and uncover the surprising connections between human organ systems and those of animals like frogs, fish, sharks, and fetal pigs. Whether they’re curious about biology, interested in animals, or excited to explore real scientific specimens, campers will build confidence as they investigate the incredible structures and systems that make life possible. All Summer Campers receive a free TCSL t-shirt!

In Drawing/Painting Class we will create a variety of fine art projects focusing on technique and style, composition, brushwork, and systematic practice. KVArteest will give input on our subject matter, as we together decide what we want to learn.

Light & Sound Explorers S.T.E.A.M Camp Step into a world of waves, color, and sound at Light & Sound Explorers S.T.E.A.M Camp. Designed for curious minds ages 4.5–11, this hands-on camp blends physics, creativity, and playful engineering through age-appropriate experiments and builds that make invisible ideas visible—and audible.

Turn imagination into a Minecraft world of your own. If your child loves Minecraft, this camp shows them how to go beyond playing the game and start creating inside it. In Junior Minecraft, campers learn the foundations of Minecraft modding (short for "modifying") using an age-appropriate, block-based coding system that’s intuitive, visual, and fun. Students explore how Minecraft works behind the scenes as they customize characters, modify gear, and make meaningful changes to their worlds...all in a supportive, beginner-friendly environment. Campers work inside curated Minecraft worlds designed specifically for learning. Through guided challenges and creative projects, they’re introduced to the core ideas of “modding” while building confidence, problem-solving skills, and a sense of ownership over what they create. What students will do: Learn the basics of block-based coding Customize Minecraft worlds, characters, and items Explore how games are built and modified Follow structured challenges with room for creativity Build confidence using technology as a creator, not just a player This camp is ideal for younger Minecraft fans who are curious, creative, and ready to take their first steps into coding and game design—no prior experience required. Important note: This camp requires a Minecraft Java Edition account, available at: https://www.minecraft.net/en-us/store/minecraft-java-edition If your student enjoys Junior Minecraft, they may also love: Junior Game Designers (Scratch Programming) LEGO Robotics Roblox Game Design Junior Minecraft is often the first step in a longer STEM journey...and one of our most popular ways for kids to discover that learning can be just as fun as gaming.

🧱✨ Build, Create, and Imagine at GrowFit’s LEGO® + All-Sports Camp Calling all young builders and creative thinkers in grades 1–3! GrowFit’s LEGO® + All-Sports Camp at Valle Verde Elementary delivers a full day of creativity, engineering challenges, movement, and fun. Mornings spark imagination with LEGO® builds—afternoons keep kids active and energized with our All-Sports Camp. It’s the perfect blend of hands-on creativity and play! ⭐ Why Choose GrowFit’s LEGO® + All-Sports Camp? 🧱 Hands-On LEGO® Building: Campers dive into daily themes—from bridges and vehicles to towers, mazes, robots, and entire LEGO® worlds. 🧩 STEM-Inspired Challenges: Kids practice problem-solving, design thinking, and early engineering skills through playful, engaging activities. 🤝 Collaboration & Creativity: Campers brainstorm, build, and test ideas together—building friendships and gaining confidence along the way. 📈 Full-Week Progression: Projects grow more complex each day, so drop-ins are not available. Full-week registration ensures campers get the most out of this immersive program. 🎉 Active All-Sports Afternoons: After lunch, campers join our All-Sports program for a rotating lineup of games like soccer, basketball, gaga ball, bounce house tag, and more! Camp Details — Walnut Creek 🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Full-Day Program) 🧱 Morning: LEGO® Camp (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM) 🏅 Afternoon: All-Sports Camp (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM) 📍 Location: Valle Verde Elementary School Drop-off: 8:45–9:00 AM at the GrowFit desk in front of the school Pick-up: 3:30–4:00 PM at the Gymnasium What to Bring: Comfortable clothing Water bottle Two snacks Lunch With over a decade of experience delivering engaging, confidence-building camps, GrowFit’s LEGO® + All-Sports Camp gives kids the perfect balance of creativity, movement, problem-solving, and fun. Your child will come home proud of what they built—and excited for the next day’s adventures! 🛠️ Ready to Build Something Amazing? Spots fill quickly—register today! Refunds and Cancellations 30+ days before camp: Full refund minus a 10% fee Within 30 days: Credit for future GrowFit camps Day-of or after camp begins: Non-refundable

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 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!

Hilltop Creative is nestled in Bernal Heights. Our space is aesthetically beautiful and calming for our days together. We are excited to spend the week 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 Summer 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

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

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 2 – Juneteenth: Freedom to Dream Week Field Trip - Domini Hoskins Black History Museum and Learning Center & Red Morton Park, Redwood City (includes lunch) In honor of Juneteenth, this week celebrates freedom, culture, and community through fun, creative experiences. Campers will explore African American history and traditions in age-appropriate ways—through art, music, storytelling, and hands-on projects that highlight creativity and unity. Each day offers opportunities to make crafts, enjoy songs and rhythms, and learn about the importance of freedom and working together. This week helps children appreciate history while also building joy, respect, and connection.

Calling all curious scientists! Are you ready to unravel the amazing mysteries hidden deep inside every living thing – including you? During Genetic Genius, we'll dive into the fascinating world of Genetics & DNA to discover what makes you, YOU! We'll start by learning all about traits – like why your eyes are a certain color or why you might have curly hair! We'll explore how these traits are passed down from parents to kids, a bit like a secret family recipe. Then, we'll get up close with DNA structures, discovering what these incredible twisted ladders look like and what amazing information we can find inside DNA that tells every cell what to do!

Calling all super-sleuths and curious minds! Are you ready to crack codes, follow clues, and solve thrilling puzzles? This camp transforms every day into a new "mystery" where campers use their sharp math skills to become the ultimate Math Detectives! Campers will dive into exciting activities like deciphering secret codes using substitution ciphers and uncovering hidden messages in number patterns. Throughout the week, we'll sharpen key math powers: logic, problem-solving, measurement, basic cryptography, and spatial reasoning. Get ready to put on your thinking caps, collaborate with your fellow detectives, and use the power of STEM to solve every perplexing puzzle thrown your way!

CREATING CHARACTERS Come create at our morning camp with hands on art and a whole lot of fun! At this camp your child will create an animal sculpture in they style of the popular video game and movie, Minecraft. Sculptures will be made using polymer clay which is baked and cooled and then painted. Your child will come home with a unique work of art. At this camp your child will get to learn about art, get their creative juices flowing, and have fun creating artwork of their own. Spaces are limited. Save your child's spot by registering today!

Farm Camp is run from our 1-acre school farm in the Mission Terrace neighborhood. We provide an opportunity for children to connect with nature while directly participating in the daily rhythms of farm life. Our day camp is designed to inspire a connection with and love of the natural world, and also a chance to get hands dirty in fun and educational ways. Activities include animal care for our chickens, weeding, watering, mulching, harvesting, compost care, crafts and free play. Children should bring snacks and lunch and come prepared to get dirty!

Spin. Soar. Engineer. In this high-energy LEGO® Robotics theme, students explore machines that spin, soar, splash, and perform dramatic actions—all while learning to code and control their creations. Each build uses rare and hard-to-find LEGO® elements to create dynamic motion and expression. Students will program motors and sensors using a beginner-friendly drag-and-drop interface, building both engineering and creative skills in every session. Disclaimer: Students will not take home any LEGO® kits, parts, or creations. This program is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the LEGO Group.

Give your child the gift of confidence and the joy of cooking! Our culinary program offers hands-on cooking lessons for budding young chefs. We learn more than how to follow a recipe at Lil’ Chef School. We utilize math, science, teamwork, creativity, and more. Children learn the world's cuisines and enhance their experience with fruits, vegetables, herbs & spices while gaining confidence and experience in the kitchen that will last them a lifetime. Children will make 2 recipes each week and will get a tasting of the food they made at the end of class. Recipes are provided online.

Give your child the gift of confidence and the joy of cooking! Our culinary program offers hands-on cooking lessons for budding young chefs. We learn more than how to follow a recipe at Lil’ Chef School. We utilize math, science, teamwork, creativity, and more. Children learn about cuisines of the world and enhance their experience with fruits, vegetables, herbs & spices while gaining confidence and experience in the kitchen that will last them a lifetime. Children will make 2 recipes each week and will get a tasting of the food they made at the end of class. Recipes are provided online.

Explore Space, Experiment & Train Like a Real Explorer Blast off into a week of discovery! Astronaut Boot Camp lets young explorers investigate the Moon, stars, planets, and the science of space travel through hands-on experiments and creative engineering challenges. From lunar landings to Mars missions, campers get an exciting introduction to the wonders of space and the skills astronauts use every day. Whether they dream of becoming an astronaut, love space science, or simply enjoy exploring how the universe works, campers will gain confidence as they experiment, build, and think like true space explorers. All Summer Campers receive a free TCSL t-shirt!

Explore, Experiment & Cook Up Some Science Step into the delicious world of food science! Kitchen Scientists combines hands-on experiments with fun cooking challenges, giving campers the chance to explore chemistry, microbiology, and biochemistry through tasty creations. From observing crystals to testing enzymes, making butter, and even creating ice cream, campers see science in action while preparing real food. Whether they love cooking, experimenting, or discovering how everyday ingredients work, campers will gain confidence applying scientific concepts in the kitchen and end the week with a friendly cook-off. All Summer Campers receive a free TCSL t-shirt!

Build, Engineer & Compete. Design it. Build it. Battle it. If your student loves building, problem-solving, and friendly competition, BattleBots delivers an unforgettable hands-on engineering experience. In this camp, students work in teams to design and build their own robots using VEX IQ robotics kits, the same platform used in competitive robotics programs worldwide. Campers start from the ground up—planning, constructing, testing, and improving their robots as they learn how engineering decisions impact real-world performance. Once their robots are built, teams customize and fine-tune their designs in preparation for a series of exciting challenges. The week culminates in a BattleBots®-style tournament, where robots face off in a structured, high-energy competition that rewards strategy, teamwork, and creative problem-solving. What students will do: Design and build a robot from scratch using VEX IQ Learn mechanical design and basic engineering principles Test, troubleshoot, and improve robot performance Collaborate with teammates and follow design constraints Compete in a fun, structured robot tournament While campers do not take their robots home, they gain something even more valuable: engineering experience, teamwork skills, and confidence built through hands-on problem-solving. Ages: 10–15 Prerequisite: Ability to work collaboratively and follow building guidelines If your student enjoys BattleBots, they may also love: Rocketry 3D Printing & CAD Advanced Robotics and Engineering camps BattleBots is where creativity, strategy, and engineering collide and one of our most popular camps for students ready to level up their STEM skills.