STEM Programs Near Me

Step inside the Creative Sparks Toy Factory, where imagination turns into real, working toys. Designed for curious creators ages 4.5–11, this hands-on S.T.E.A.M camp invites children to think like toy designers—sketching ideas, building prototypes, testing movement, and improving their creations through playful engineering challenges.

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.

🧱✨ Build, Create, and Imagine at GrowFit’s LEGO® + All-Sports Camp! Calling all young builders, creators, and problem-solvers! GrowFit’s LEGO® + All-Sports Camp gives kids in grades 1–3 the perfect full-day experience—mornings filled with hands-on LEGO® building challenges and afternoons packed with high-energy All-Sports fun. It’s the ultimate blend of creativity, engineering, and movement! ⭐ Why Choose GrowFit’s LEGO® + All-Sports Camp? 🧱 Hands-On Building & Challenges: Campers dive into themed builds every day—bridges, vehicles, towers, robots, and full LEGO® worlds. Each project boosts imagination and engineering skills. 🧩 STEM Learning Made Fun: Kids practice problem-solving, design thinking, and early engineering concepts while experimenting with structures, motion, and simple mechanisms. 🤝 Teamwork & Creative Collaboration: From group builds to friendly challenges, campers brainstorm, build, and celebrate each other’s creations. 📈 Full-Week Immersion: Projects progress throughout the week, giving campers time to refine skills and complete larger builds. Drop-ins not available for this specialty camp. Camp Details 🕘 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: The Plex Drop-off: 8:45–9:00 AM at the BACK of The Plex. Pick-up: 3:30–4:00 PM at the BACK of The Plex. Early pick-ups accepted at the same location. What to Bring: Comfortable clothing Water bottle Two snacks Lunch GrowFit has over a decade of experience running engaging, kid-centered camps. Our LEGO® + All-Sports Camp inspires creativity, problem-solving, and confidence—while giving kids the movement and fun they need each afternoon. Your child will come home excited to show you what they built, imagined, and discovered!

Messy experiments. Big discoveries. Endless curiosity. If your child loves asking “what happens if…?”, Weird & Wacky Science Lab is where curiosity takes center stage. In this hands-on science camp, campers roll up their sleeves and dive into the fun, surprising, and sometimes messy side of science. Through exciting experiments and outdoor exploration, students investigate the basics of chemistry, physics, biology, and environmental science—all in a way that’s engaging, playful, and age-appropriate. Campers will pop, squish, ooze, build, and explore as they conduct experiments using everyday materials and items found in nature. From examining pond water under microscopes to creating eye-catching chemical reactions, this camp turns big scientific ideas into unforgettable experiences. What students will do: Create hands-on experiments like neon slime, solar ovens, and sound-making instruments Explore chemistry and physics through safe, guided reactions Investigate biology by examining bugs, pond water, and natural materials Learn about photosynthesis and energy through outdoor experiments Build confidence asking questions, testing ideas, and making discoveries This camp is held both indoors and outdoors, encouraging movement, exploration, and curiosity. Getting messy isn’t just allowed—it’s part of the learning. Weird & Wacky Science Lab is a favorite for younger campers and a perfect introduction to STEM thinking. Students who enjoy this camp often love moving on to LEGO Robotics, Junior Game Designers, or other hands-on engineering camps.

Build, Code & Engineer the Future Step into the world of innovation! Tech Explorers gives teens hands-on experience with electronics, 3D printing, robotics, and engineering challenges. Throughout the week, campers build circuits, design 3D models, and explore electromagnetism discovering how technology powers the world around them. Whether they’re curious about engineering, love experimenting with gadgets, or enjoy solving complex problems, campers will gain confidence applying real-world STEM skills in a fun and engaging environment. All Summer Campers receive a free TCSL t-shirt!

An exciting introduction to the science of flight and propulsion. Rocket Academy introduces campers to the fundamentals of rocketry through hands-on design, building, and real rocket launches. Students explore how rockets work, then put those ideas into action as they design and launch a variety of rocket types using different propulsion systems. Throughout the week, campers learn how forces like thrust, momentum, and energy work together to lift rockets off the ground. These concepts are introduced in an age-appropriate, engaging way, allowing students to connect real science to what they see in the sky during launch activities. This camp emphasizes experimentation and discovery. Campers test designs, compare results, and refine their thinking as they explore what makes rockets fly higher, straighter, and farther. What students will do: Design, build, and launch multiple model rockets Explore how rockets operate and why they fly Learn the basic principles of propulsion, including thrust and momentum Compare different propulsion types and launch outcomes Build confidence through hands-on engineering and experimentation Model rocketry has long been a source of inspiration for scientists and engineers, and Rocket Academy gives campers an early opportunity to experience that spark firsthand. This camp is a great fit for students who enjoy building, testing ideas, and seeing science come to life—and pairs naturally with BattleBots, LEGO Robotics, and 3D Printing & CAD.

CREATING CHARACTERS Come create at our afternoon 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!

We are offering 11 different art camps/ new curriculum for Art Camps this summer. Art Camp at All Things Art Studio is the best way to experience total immersion in a summer art program! It's fun & and students get a chance to delve into their creative selves without crazy time restraints. Students will also get to Tie Dye an All Things Art Studio Camp Shirt (or other item for repeat campers) on Day 1! (included in the fee of camp). In the mornings, they will be working on individual projects, and the afternoon art academy will give them a relaxed but focused exercise in fine arts. There will be landscape drawing and painting, and still life exploration. We explore drawing, clay, printmaking, textiles, weaving, watercolor, acrylics, tempera paint, glazing & more! We will work with canvas, clay, watercolor, tissue paper and many other types of medium as well. Every camp is a different curriculum, so please register for as many as you can :) It's an amazing week for students, they meet and make new art friends and enjoy the warm summer weather. Bring a sack lunch each day and a water bottle, We will have outdoor lunch & walk in the neighborhood- plus outdoor "en plain air" instruction in their daily journal/ sketchbook. Bring it on! Some of our Elementary, Middle School and High School groups will be offered at the same times & days (convenient for families with older & younger children). But the Camps will be separated by the groups and have different curriculum and locations within the studio. (MS/HS have a seperate registration with separate curriculum)

Journey to a place where cooking and creativity coalesce to celebrate cultures from around the world. Each day, kids will explore global cuisines, discover new foods, and experiment with enticing ingredients, creating vibrant dishes inspired by diverse traditions. Along the way, they’ll discover how food and creativity expand our understanding of the world, fostering connection, appreciation, and unity through the shared stories and flavors that bring us together. Your young chef will: -Learn baking and cooking techniques from different cultures and prepare authentic dishes using traditional ingredients -Create food-inspired art projects that celebrate global traditions and cultural expressions -Cultivate curiosity for new foods by exploring international herbs, spices, and flavors -Build cultural awareness and appreciation through stories, traditions, and the shared experience of preparing and enjoying meals together Daily Schedule: 9:00-9:30 AM: Arrivals and Activity Centers ‍9:30-9:50 AM: Welcome Circle and Stretching ‍9:50-11:00 AM: Cook Brunch ‍11:00-11:30 AM: Eat, Cleanup, and Quiet Time ‍11:30-12:45 PM: Cook Lunch and STEAM Activity ‍12:45-1:15 PM: Eat, Cleanup, and Quiet Time ‍1:15-2:15 PM: Outdoor Play ‍2:15-2:40 PM: Snack and Cleanup ‍2:40-3:00 PM: Closing Circle and Pick-Up

A colorful, candy-inspired art adventure! Campers will design and build sweet-themed sculptures using paint, clay, and collage materials. It’s a bright and playful week full of color, creativity, and deliciously fun art-making (no sugar needed!). Messy Art Lab Summer Camp Info 🌈 Art Show Each week ends with a special Art Show, where campers proudly share their amazing creations with family and friends! It’s a joyful celebration of their creativity and the wonderful work they’ve done all week. 🕘 Schedule Drop-off: begins at 9:00 AM Pick-up: 2:45–3:00 PM Aftercare: available 3:00–5:00 PM Aftercare Details: Aftercare can be purchased as a weekly package. We do not offer aftercare on Fridays. If you’d like to book individual aftercare days, please email Betty@messyartlab.com for availability. 🧺 What to Bring Please help your child come prepared for a fun (and messy!) creative day. 🚫 No nuts or nut products of any kind, please. -Two healthy snacks (morning & afternoon) -Lunch (no candy, gum, or sugary drinks) -A refillable water bottle -Comfortable, paint-friendly clothes -A jacket, sunhat, and layers for outdoor play -Sunscreen applied before camp -A full change of clothes (just in case!) 🧒 Camper Requirements To keep our camps safe, fun, and creative for everyone: -Campers must be 4 years and 6 months old by the first day of camp. (We’re not able to make exceptions to this policy.) -Campers should be able to follow safety instructions and engage in activities for about 30 minutes at a time. -Campers must be fully potty-trained and able to use the bathroom independently. -Please share any medical, behavioral, or developmental information (such as allergies, neurodiversity, or trauma) during registration. This helps us prepare thoughtfully and ensure a positive, supportive experience for every child. (All information is kept confidential.) 💰 Refunds & Cancellations We know plans can change! Please review our camp refund policy below: 100% refund for cancellations made within 24 hours of registration. All enrollments include a non-refundable 20% deposit. Cancellations made 30+ days before the camp start date: refund minus the 20% deposit. Cancellations made within 30 days of the camp start date: No refund unless we can fill your spot, in which case you’ll receive camp credit minus the 20% deposit. All cancellation requests must be sent in writing via email. Transfers to another camp week may be requested (based on availability). A 20% fee applies for transfers requested within 30 days of the original camp week.

A Week-Long Exploration of Cells, DNA, Microbes & Real Lab Techniques Budding biologists and lab lovers this camp is for you! Let’s Get Cultured is a week-long deep dive into the exciting world of cells, genetics, microbiology, and metabolic science. Campers ages 12–16 will work with authentic lab tools, learn real scientific techniques, and explore the microscopic organisms and molecular systems that keep life running. Each day focuses on a new area of biological science, packed with hands-on experiments, microscopy, DNA investigation, and microbial challenges. Teens leave with stronger lab skills, greater scientific confidence, and an unforgettable appreciation for the hidden world of biology. All Summer Campers receive a free TCSL t-shirt!

🎨✨ Unleash Creativity at GrowFit’s Art + All-Sports Camp Calling all young artists in grades 1–3! GrowFit’s Art + All-Sports Camp at Valle Verde Elementary gives campers the perfect full-day experience: imaginative, hands-on art projects in the morning and high-energy sports fun in the afternoon. It’s the ideal balance of creativity and movement! ⭐ Why Choose GrowFit’s Art + All-Sports Camp? 🎨 Hands-On Art Projects: Campers paint colorful masterpieces, create leaf print art, sculpt with clay, explore mixed media, and experiment with new tools and textures. 🖌️ Creative Skill Building: Each day introduces new techniques that help kids build confidence, express themselves, and discover their unique artistic style. 🤝 Collaborative Fun: Campers create side by side, share ideas, and celebrate each other’s art in a warm, supportive environment. 📈 Weeklong Creative Journey: Art projects progress throughout the week, so drop-ins are not available. Full-week enrollment ensures campers fully explore their creativity. 🎉 Active All-Sports Afternoons: After lunch, campers join our All-Sports Camp for games like soccer, basketball, gaga ball, bounce house tag, and more—keeping their bodies moving and spirits high! Camp Details — Walnut Creek 🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Full-Day Program) 🎨 Morning: Art 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 table at the front of the school Pick-up: 3:30–4:00 PM at the gymnasium What to Bring: Comfortable clothes that can get messy Water bottle Two snacks Lunch Extra clothes are recommended for younger campers With over a decade of experience creating joyful and engaging hands-on programs, GrowFit’s Art + All-Sports Camp helps young artists express themselves, build skills, stay active, and make new friends—all in one unforgettable week. 🎨 Ready to Create, Imagine, 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

An exciting introduction to the science of flight and propulsion. Rocket Academy introduces campers to the fundamentals of rocketry through hands-on design, building, and real rocket launches. Students explore how rockets work, then put those ideas into action as they design and launch a variety of rocket types using different propulsion systems. Throughout the week, campers learn how forces like thrust, momentum, and energy work together to lift rockets off the ground. These concepts are introduced in an age-appropriate, engaging way, allowing students to connect real science to what they see in the sky during launch activities. This camp emphasizes experimentation and discovery. Campers test designs, compare results, and refine their thinking as they explore what makes rockets fly higher, straighter, and farther. What students will do: Design, build, and launch multiple model rockets Explore how rockets operate and why they fly Learn the basic principles of propulsion, including thrust and momentum Compare different propulsion types and launch outcomes Build confidence through hands-on engineering and experimentation Model rocketry has long been a source of inspiration for scientists and engineers, and Rocket Academy gives campers an early opportunity to experience that spark firsthand. This camp is a great fit for students who enjoy building, testing ideas, and seeing science come to life—and pairs naturally with BattleBots, LEGO Robotics, and 3D Printing & CAD.

​This drawing class is designed for students of all levels of drawing experience, and would like to learn some advanced techniques and explore new mediums. Students will have the opportunity to explore with charcoal. colored chalk pastels, oil pastels, different graphites and more. Many projects are “built upon” each class, so that students experience a variety of mediums and take home several projects at the end of the session. During our last class, we will meet the last 10-15 minutes of class for an Art Show Presentation. Students will present their pieces in an art show to guests. Parents- Invite grandparents, friends and family. All pieces go home the last day of class. Such a fun way for students to share what they have learned through process and design.

Messy experiments. Big discoveries. Endless curiosity. If your child loves asking “what happens if…?”, Weird & Wacky Science Lab is where curiosity takes center stage. In this hands-on science camp, campers roll up their sleeves and dive into the fun, surprising, and sometimes messy side of science. Through exciting experiments and outdoor exploration, students investigate the basics of chemistry, physics, biology, and environmental science—all in a way that’s engaging, playful, and age-appropriate. Campers will pop, squish, ooze, build, and explore as they conduct experiments using everyday materials and items found in nature. From examining pond water under microscopes to creating eye-catching chemical reactions, this camp turns big scientific ideas into unforgettable experiences. What students will do: Create hands-on experiments like neon slime, solar ovens, and sound-making instruments Explore chemistry and physics through safe, guided reactions Investigate biology by examining bugs, pond water, and natural materials Learn about photosynthesis and energy through outdoor experiments Build confidence asking questions, testing ideas, and making discoveries This camp is held both indoors and outdoors, encouraging movement, exploration, and curiosity. Getting messy isn’t just allowed—it’s part of the learning. Weird & Wacky Science Lab is a favorite for younger campers and a perfect introduction to STEM thinking. Students who enjoy this camp often love moving on to LEGO Robotics, Junior Game Designers, or other hands-on engineering camps.

Messy experiments. Big discoveries. Endless curiosity. If your child loves asking “what happens if…?”, Weird & Wacky Science Lab is where curiosity takes center stage. In this hands-on science camp, campers roll up their sleeves and dive into the fun, surprising, and sometimes messy side of science. Through exciting experiments and outdoor exploration, students investigate the basics of chemistry, physics, biology, and environmental science—all in a way that’s engaging, playful, and age-appropriate. Campers will pop, squish, ooze, build, and explore as they conduct experiments using everyday materials and items found in nature. From examining pond water under microscopes to creating eye-catching chemical reactions, this camp turns big scientific ideas into unforgettable experiences. What students will do: Create hands-on experiments like neon slime, solar ovens, and sound-making instruments Explore chemistry and physics through safe, guided reactions Investigate biology by examining bugs, pond water, and natural materials Learn about photosynthesis and energy through outdoor experiments Build confidence asking questions, testing ideas, and making discoveries This camp is held both indoors and outdoors, encouraging movement, exploration, and curiosity. Getting messy isn’t just allowed—it’s part of the learning. Weird & Wacky Science Lab is a favorite for younger campers and a perfect introduction to STEM thinking. Students who enjoy this camp often love moving on to LEGO Robotics, Junior Game Designers, or other hands-on engineering camps.

A fun first step into coding, creativity, and game design. In Junior Game Designers, campers are introduced to the exciting world of coding and game creation in a way that’s visual, playful, and easy to understand - perfect for beginners. Using Scratch, the award-winning platform developed by MIT, students learn how to bring characters to life, design interactive games, and tell stories through block-based coding. By snapping together visual code blocks, campers quickly see how their ideas turn into real, playable creations. This camp focuses on creative problem-solving and logical thinking, helping students understand how games are built while encouraging imagination and experimentation in a supportive, low-pressure environment. What students will do: Learn the basics of coding and game logic using Scratch Animate characters and design simple games Create interactive stories and challenges Practice sequencing, problem-solving, and debugging Build confidence as creators - not just players No prior coding experience is required - just basic keyboarding skills and a creative mindset. This camp is an excellent stepping-stone into our Junior Minecraft programs, as well as LEGO Robotics and other game design and coding camps as students grow. Ages: 7–10 Junior Game Designers is often where kids discover that learning to code feels a lot like playing—and where a long-term love of STEM begins.

Advanced 3D Printing & Design Design smarter. Print better. Build like an engineer. Advanced 3D Printing & Design is designed for students who are ready to go beyond the basics and take their 3D modeling and printing skills to the next level. In this hands-on, project-driven camp, students dive deeper into professional-level CAD design, learning how engineers and product designers create efficient, functional, and refined models. Campers explore advanced concepts such as parametric design, complex assemblies, and design optimization, giving them greater control over how their creations look and perform. Students also gain deeper experience with the 3D printing process itself, learning how advanced slicing settings—like infill patterns, layer height, and print speed—affect strength, detail, and print quality. To finish things off, campers are introduced to post-processing techniques such as sanding, smoothing, and custom finishing to elevate their projects from prototypes to polished products. What students will do: Create advanced CAD models using professional design techniques Build multi-part assemblies and optimized designs Fine-tune print settings for strength, detail, and efficiency Learn post-processing methods to improve finish and durability Bring multiple original designs to life with 3D printing This camp emphasizes problem-solving, iteration, and real-world engineering thinking, making it an excellent next step for students interested in design, engineering, or manufacturing. Prerequisite: Intro to 3D Printing & CAD (or equivalent experience) Ages: 10+ Important note: Due to printing time, some projects may finish after camp hours and will be available for pickup at Silicon STEM. Advanced 3D Printing & Design is a natural progression for students who want to deepen their skills and take pride in creating high-quality, functional designs.

We are offering 3 different art camps/ new curriculum for Middle and High School Art Camps this summer. Art Camp at All Things Art Studio is the best way to experience total immersion in a summer art program! It's fun & and students get a chance to delve into their creative selves without crazy time restraints. Students will also get to Tie Dye an All Things Art Studio Camp Shirt (or other item for repeat campers) on Day 1! (included in the fee of camp). In the mornings, they will be working on individual projects, and the afternoon art academy will give them a relaxed but focused exercise in fine arts. There will be landscape drawing and painting, and still life exploration. We explore drawing, clay, printmaking, textiles, weaving, watercolor, acrylics, tempera paint, glazing & more! We will work with canvas, clay, watercolor, tissue paper and many other types of medium as well. Every camp is a different curriculum, so please register for as many as you can :) It's an amazing week for students, they meet and make new art friends and enjoy the warm summer weather. Bring a sack lunch each day and a water bottle, We will have outdoor lunch & walk in the neighborhood- plus outdoor "en plain air" instruction in their daily journal/ sketchbook. Bring it on! Some of our Elementary, Middle School and High School groups will be offered at the same times & days (convenient for families with older & younger children). But the Camps will be separated by the groups and have different curriculum and locations within the studio. (MS/HS have a seperate registration with separate curriculum)

A Week of Innovation, Creativity & Hands-On Tech Adventures Gear up for a high-tech journey! Tech Explorers is the ultimate summer camp for curious creators who love to build, experiment, and explore the future of technology. Throughout this exciting week, campers dive into circuits, virtual worlds, and real engineering tools—learning by doing and creating projects they can proudly show off. Perfect for beginners and budding engineers alike, this camp blends creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on discovery in a fun, supportive environment.

Tiny builders, big ideas! This week, campers design and decorate their own dream dollhouses using cardboard, clay, fabric, and imagination. From tiny furniture to colorful wall art, they’ll bring their miniature homes to life in the most delightful, creative way. Messy Art Lab Summer Camp Info 🌈 Art Show Each week ends with a special Art Show, where campers proudly share their amazing creations with family and friends! It’s a joyful celebration of their creativity and the wonderful work they’ve done all week. 🕘 Schedule Drop-off: begins at 9:00 AM Pick-up: 2:45–3:00 PM Aftercare: available 3:00–5:00 PM Aftercare Details: Aftercare can be purchased as a weekly package. We do not offer aftercare on Fridays. If you’d like to book individual aftercare days, please email Betty@messyartlab.com for availability. 🧺 What to Bring Please help your child come prepared for a fun (and messy!) creative day. 🚫 No nuts or nut products of any kind, please. -Two healthy snacks (morning & afternoon) -Lunch (no candy, gum, or sugary drinks) -A refillable water bottle -Comfortable, paint-friendly clothes -A jacket, sunhat, and layers for outdoor play -Sunscreen applied before camp -A full change of clothes (just in case!) 🧒 Camper Requirements To keep our camps safe, fun, and creative for everyone: -Campers must be 4 years and 6 months old by the first day of camp. (We’re not able to make exceptions to this policy.) -Campers should be able to follow safety instructions and engage in activities for about 30 minutes at a time. -Campers must be fully potty-trained and able to use the bathroom independently. -Please share any medical, behavioral, or developmental information (such as allergies, neurodiversity, or trauma) during registration. This helps us prepare thoughtfully and ensure a positive, supportive experience for every child. (All information is kept confidential.) 💰 Refunds & Cancellations We know plans can change! Please review our camp refund policy below: 100% refund for cancellations made within 24 hours of registration. All enrollments include a non-refundable 20% deposit. Cancellations made 30+ days before the camp start date: refund minus the 20% deposit. Cancellations made within 30 days of the camp start date: No refund unless we can fill your spot, in which case you’ll receive camp credit minus the 20% deposit. All cancellation requests must be sent in writing via email. Transfers to another camp week may be requested (based on availability). A 20% fee applies for transfers requested within 30 days of the original camp week.