Little Passports is one of the best kids subscription boxes out there, and they’re making it easier than ever to explore the word right from a box
Most of us would agree that going on a world-class family vacation across the globe isn’t likely this holiday season. If your family actually is, please send pics. For the rest of us, we’re not going to jetset this year (not that far, anyway). But that doesn’t mean we can’t get to give our kiddos globally-inspired experiences right from the living room. With a subscription to Little Passports, you’re able to give your kids a world-wide adventure from anywhere. We’re convinced they’re one of the best kids subscription boxes out there.
Why Little Passports?
With so many kids subscription boxes to choose from, why are we hooked on Little Passports? Well, to start, we love our mom friends, so when we learned that Little Passports was started by two friends, Amy and Stella, who wanted to create something that allows kids to experience the world we share, we were immediately on board.
More than that, though, Little Passports is an award-winning subscription box service that ignites curiosity and celebrates cultures with globally inspired experiences, hands-on art and science activities, and stories for kids ages 3-10.
The Little Passports product line and vibrant community of parents, grandparents, and educators have grown over time. They’re passionate about encouraging kids (including our own!) to explore new places and ideas through hands-on activities and stories focused on world cultures, geography, art, and science. Sounds too good to be true? Stick with us.
Little Passports starts with 8 journeys, tailored to your kids’ ages and interests. And wait until you see what you get to choose from!
Early Explorers Ages 3-5
Little ones get to discover all the wonders of the world through hands-on activities, games, and stories! Their first box comes with their very own Little Passports suitcase and everything they'll need to start their journey: a wall-sized map to chart their adventures, a welcome letter from their new penpals Max, Mia, and Toby, a pop-out playset and stickers, an activity booklet with puzzles, games, and fun facts!
Each month brings a new adventure. Weather, dinosaurs, food, world celebrations, animals, oceans, art, music, and more. They'll read about Max, Mia, and Toby's latest journeys, add stickers to their world map and suitcase, share trading cards with friends, and enjoy new activities with every delivery! You can even upgrade to include companion books.
If you have a budding animal lover, the Animals Wild subscription is for them! They'll jump right in with their first delivery as they explore the Amazon rainforest. The pop-up playset allows them to discover the rainforest layers and its animal inhabitants, play the Rainforest Romp game, bring to life a pop-out macaw, poison dart frog, jaguar, emperor tamarin, and more.
With each delivery a new place is discovered, including the Serengeti, Pacific Ocean, and beyond. Creative hands-on activities teach them about the animal world, show them how to build a collection of 3-D animal friends, and help them get physical with games that involve dropping, reaching, stamping, and pulling! You have the option to upgrade your subscription to include a new animal book every month!
Blast off! Young space explorers get to expand their universe with the Space Quest subscription thanks to six cosmic activity sets and six out of this world posters. First stop? The night sky. They'll build a cardstock planetarium that projects onto walls and ceilings, get creative with a mini flashlight projector, hang a star lifecycle poster, and even learn about astronomy in ancient times.
Your kiddo will build hands-on projects, learn about the science behind modern space exploration, imagine what alien life might look like, and explore deep space with 6 other kid astronauts!
Jam-packed with hands-on science activities each month, kids get to immerse themselves in their home lab with the Science Junior subscription! Their first delivery opens up the world of Antartica, where they'll meet their penpals Sam and Sofia. It includes a full-cover magazine filled with facts and activities, an Antarctic board game, stickers, trading cards, and a special Weddell seal craft to create and display!
In the coming months, they'll build their science smarts as they learn about volcanoes, robots, gravity and motion, sounds and music, and so much more. They'll come along on Sam and Sofia's latest adventures, collect new stickers and trading cards, and have access to bonus online galleries!
Learning about different countries is super important, and has never been more fun than with the World Edition Subscription!! Your little travelers head to Brazil with their first delivery, filling their included signature suitcase with their passport and world map. They also receive a colorful display board and real Brazilian replica to start a global coin collection, activity booklet, chapter book featuring Sam and Sophia, a collectible souvenir, along with their first luggage tag, passport stamp, and map sticker.
Throughout their upcoming deliveries, they'll discover different cultures, recipes, and traditions. They'll continue to collect luggage tags, stamps, stickers, and keep up with Sam and Sophia!
Road trip! Coast to coast adventure is bundled into the USA Edition subscription. Sam and Sofia will be your kids' travel guides, and their first delivery includes their USA field guide, a wall-size map of the country to chart their adventures, and a discovery kit filled with fun facts, games, and activities!
The months ahead are packed with state-to-state adventures so your kiddos will get to visit them all. New activity journals and following along with Sam and Sophia are included, too!
A global culinary adventure arrives at your doorstep each month with Kitchen Adventures! First stop, Rome. Create 4 kid-tested, kid-approved recipes for pizza, pasta, and chocolate dessert. Tour Rome's famous landmarks with a marble maze, delve into the amazing food history of Rome via recipe notes and flavor journal, and get used to kitchen tools with a kid-friendly set of tongs!
You and your kiddos get to team up and cook together every month, shop for and pick out ingredients and build practical skills, and whip up family-friendly recipes.
Experiments, inventions, comic books, and badges fill each month of the Science Expeditions subscription. Month #1, become a DNA detective! They'll be tapping into their problem-solving skills with the forensic experiment kit, fingerprint analysis and ink pad, lab notebook, comic book and activity booklet, collective achievement badge, and Science Expeditions tote bag!
Sam and Sophia return month after month in their own comic book, along with hands-on experiments, science book, achievement badges, and lots of extra online content!
If all that wasn’t enough, Little Passports offers a happiness guarantee that you and yours will love it or they’ll make things right. And with subscriptions available at 12 month, 6 month, and month-to-month levels, you’re able to cancel anytime online. Little Passports is the kind of gift that lasts all year and beyond!
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Editor’s Note: As of press time, all the information in this story was accurate. But, as we know, things with COVID-19 can change rapidly. Please be sure to check directly with the camps concerning cancellation and refund policies or any changes to programming prior to registering.
With the current temps it seems unnatural to even think about summer camp signup. But, not unlike holiday decorations popping up months in advance, the camp chatter starts earlier and earlier each year. Some camps began registrations already and while you’re not too late to the game, it’s definitely time to start doing your research. From a focus on films to learning new sports, read on to find a few picks for camps to sign up for now.
Morton Arboretum
Morton Arboretum, credit Maria Chambers
Kids get totally immersed in nature and outdoor adventures with more than 100 camps planned among 1,700 acres of trees. The Arboretum's woodlands, ponds and prairie become one big classroom where campers learn about the natural world through science experiments, STEM, art and creative play.
Avid4 Adventure is new to Chicago, but they've been hosting camps in Colorado and California for years that focus on building confidence, decision-making skills and cultivating a sense of adventure in the outdoors.
Their two-week Adventure Camp takes kids in grades 2-7 to local settings for thrilling outdoor experiences like mountain biking, hiking, canoeing and kayaking, or SUP. When younger kids first attend camp, the focus is on getting comfortable with new activities. As they get older, the attention is shifted to teamwork and deepening technical competence.
SUP Camp allows kids to get out on the water where they can experience the fun of paddling while developing balance. Trained instructors teach campers basic strokes, rescue techniques and water safety.
Explorer Camp gets kids in grades K-1 outside hiking, paddling, learning solid biking skills and engaging in creative pursuits like yoga, art and music.
Dates: Adventure & Explorer Camps; (4) 2-week sessions, Jun. 6-Aug. 5; SUP Camp, (5) 1-week sessions Ages: Grades K-7 Christ Church of Lake Forest, 100 N. Waukegan Rd., Lake Forest Online:avid4.com
Hi-Five Sports Camp
Hi-Five Sports Camp Chicago
Top priority for this camp that's a dream come true for active kids is FUN! It's a total bonus the programming keeps your child active, healthy, smiling—and perhaps ready for early bedtimes from happy exhaustion. Hi-Five Sports Camp Chicago is about so much more than winning or losing, it's about teamwork, playing hard and fair, making new friends and learning the power of camaraderie. The staff is filled with professional coaches, high school and college athletes, as well as experienced P.E. teachers who are ready to guide kids through a positive, self-esteem building experience.
Dates: West Loop camps running Jun. 20-Aug. 12 Ages: Grades Pre-K-9 City-based camps hosted at either Chicago Hope Field/Quest Multisport or Whitney Young Magnet HS. Locations also in Naperville, Northbrook, St. Charles, & Mt. Prospect Online:hifivesportsclubschicago.com
In the meantime: Schedule a Hi-Five "Housecall". You gather 3-10 kids for 1-2 hours at a location of your choosing, and Hi-Five handles the planning and supplies the equipment. Also, check their website for day-off camps throughout the school year.
FAME Center
FAME Center Fine Arts Summer Camp offers two-week sessions of full-day, in-person camp. Each session explores a different theme culminating in a special celebration on the final Friday. Campers participate in 4, one-hour music, visual art or theater classes facilitated by FAME Center teaching staff. On Fridays, kids are treated to a Fine Arts Masterclass with local Chicago artists. Alongside fine arts classes, campers fill the rest of their days with fun, creative group activities, playing games and spending time outdoors.
Dates: (3) 2-week sessions, Jun. 20-Aug. 5 Ages: 6-12 Willow Creek Community Church, 1347 S. State St., Dearborn Park Online:famecenter.org
Chicago Botanic Garden
Chicago Botanic Garden
No way kids will suffer from summer break boredom at Chicago Botanic's camp. They'll be one with nature exploring a range of themes including science, nature, art, ecology and cooking. Each day offers a different adventure.
In the meantime: The Chicago Botanic garden grounds are open for Chicagoans to enjoy. Please register for a timeslot prior to visiting. Check their website for day-off camps throughout the year.
Camp Galileo
Camp Galileo
This camp is really the perfect combination of learning and fun with weekly themes like Dinosaur Dig, Amusement Park Adventure, Castle Quest and Counselor in Training. Camp Galileo presents art, science and outdoor activities on a daily basis. They can provide before and aftercare if you need to extend the day.
Dates: Jun. 20- Aug. 12 (dates vary by location) Ages: Grades Pre-K-10 (grades vary by location) Camps offered in West Loop, Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, Lincoln Square, Evanston, LaGrange, Winnetka, Deerfield & Arlington Heights Online: galileo-camps.com
The Kids' Table
The Kids' Table
The Kids' Table offers hands-on cooking fun all summer! Guided by chef instructors, kids get to chop, grate and roll their way to different delicious dishes each day. Registration is all week-by-week, so kids can join for as many weeks as they'd like. Best of all, these camps will inspire your kiddo to play a more active role in the kitchen (even cleanup!).
Dates: Camps running Jun. 6-Sept. 2 Ages: Full-day, ages 5-10; Half-day, ages 11-14 2337 W. North Ave., Wicker Park Online: kids-table.com
Where “playing like a girl” is a form of praise, this specialized camp is focused on empowering girls in a positive and spirited environment. This camp is well-known amongst parents as being a confidence booster for daughters and is a great way to introduce new sports in fun and exciting ways. They offer basketball, softball, soccer, tennis, volleyball and lacrosse, just to name a few.
Game on Sports Camp is also launching a sports camp for boys this summer in Glencoe. They believe adding programming for boys allows them to make an impact on all kids to ensure they show respect for each other on and off the field and empower all to speak up and stand up for themselves.
Located at Naper Settlement, a 12-acre living history museum in Naperville, Camp Naper offers kids the opportunity to explore, create and imagine. Each week offers a different theme and adventure to embark on.
Steve & Kate Camp is perfect for the camper that needs a flexible schedule, pick a day, a week or a month. S&K really lets kids just be kids. Your camper can sing, bake, sew, make a movie, dance or even code their own computer game in one of the several studios scattered throughout. Want to get outside? Jump in on a constant game of hockey, basketball or soccer likely happening all day long. Need some fuel? They provide daily lunch options from a variety of local restaurants and caterers. Sounds amazing — can parents sign up?
Dates: Weeklong camps, Jun. 20-Aug. 19 Ages: 4-12 Locations in Lincoln Park, Lakeview & West Loop Online:steveandkatescamp.com
Bubbles Academy
Bubbles Academy
Bubbles Academy's has a year-round preschool program that offers a summer semester for kids ages 2.5-5. The best thing about this arts-integrated preschool format is its flexibility—you can choose to send your child 2, 3 or 5 days a week. Bubbles Academy’s educational philosophy of arts-integration combines content and skills taken from arts practices including dance, music, theatre and visual arts, with developmentally appropriate, early childhood learning standards and socio-emotional skills.
They will also host an in-person STEAM-focused summer camp for kids going into grades 1-2. Campers will run, play, create and get messy while they explore the interdisciplinary magic in science, tech, engineering, art and math.
Dates: Jun. 7-Aug. 27 (for camps & pre-school) Ages: 2.5-5 for preschool; Grades 1-2 for summer camp 2184 N. Elston, Bucktown Online:bubblesacademy.com
Much like the kind of summer camps you see in the movies, Banner has it all. There’s a 3 to 1 camper to counselor ratio, which gives your little ones access to extra special attention while participating in all the activities they could ever ask for. Banner offers swimming, yoga, a climbing wall, arts, fishing, archery, dune buggies. . . you name it, they have it. While Banner Day Camp is in Lake Forest, they do offer supervised round trip bus service for city dwellers.
Kids will have an unforgettable experience climbing, rappelling, slacklining, ziplining, conducting search and rescue and exercising their creativity with arts and crafts. Each day of the week-long program offers a new fun theme. Summer camp registration is 20% off through Mar. 31.
During Conservation Camp, Lincoln Park Zoo educators will lead campers through a variety of activities that explore the fun and fascinating world of animals. Each day, campers will participate in movement activities, games, and crafts. They will get to see animals at the zoo and meet zoo scientists doing important conservation work.
Dates: Week-long camps, Jun. 21-Aug. 27 (currently a waitlist) Ages: Grades pre-K-4 2001 N. Clark St., Lincoln Park Online: lpzoo.org
In the meantime: Visit the zoo anytime in person!
Facets
Facets
Don’t let the venue fool you, this camp is much more than sitting around watching movies all day. Campers will get an intro into the art of film with a mix of offerings like editing, animation, intro to filmmaking and camper-favorite Film 101, which combines film criticism with basic filmmaking skills. They have both in-person and virtual camps and have expanded their offerings to include a broader range of ages.
Dates: Camps running Jun. 27-Aug. 12 Ages: 8-17 1517 W. Fullerton Ave., Lincoln Park Online:facets.org
In the meantime: Kids can stream age-appropriate film shorts via Facets Kids.
Shedd Aquarium
Shedd Aquarium
Shedd Aquarium is happy to welcome kids to Camp Shedd: Summer Splash, where campers enjoy five straight days of aquatic exploration. Kids will dive into various habitats and ecosystems, come eye-to-eye with incredible animals and participate in hands-on science activities that uncover some truly remarkable animal behaviors and adaptations.
Dates: Weeklong camps Jun. 20-Aug. 5 Ages: Grades K-5 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr., Museum Campus Online:sheddaquarium.org
Shedd's Summer Road trip camp explores the wonders of the Great Lakes. Using the Aquarium as home base, campers will set out on a new adventure every day full of outdoor activities, environmental investigations and unexpected discoveries that will spark compassion, curiosity and conservation for the aquatic world. The week will end with an overnight stay at the aquarium.
Dates: Weeklong camps Jul. 11-16 & Aug. 8-13 Ages: Grades 6-8 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr., Museum Campus Online:sheddaquarium.org
In the meantime: Keep up-to-date on the daily lives of the aquarium’s animals on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, create learning experiences for early learners through their Sea Curious YouTubeseries, check out live viewsfrom the Underwater Beauty special exhibit and dive deep with 360-video viewsto Keep Sharks Swimming.
Lookingglass Theatre Company
Lookingglass Theatre Company
Lookingglass Theatre Company creates performance magic in a 4-week immersive experience in theatre, movement, music and art. Young artists will receive training from professionals in the core values of Lookingglass Theatre: collaboration, transformation and invention. Campers will create and perform an original piece of theatre.
Dates: Jun. 27-Jul. 22 Ages: Entering grades 3-8 Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, 915 E. 60th St., Woodlawn Online:lookingglasstheatre.org
In the meantime: Take a circus-infused trip down the rabbit hole with Lookingglass Alice, Apr. 30-Jul. 31. This signature production has toured the country, enchanting audiences of all ages, painted each time with a fresh coat of magic.
Chicago Fire
Chicago Fire
The Chicago Fire Soccer Club hosts summer camps at various Chicagoland locations, making their camps convenient no matter where you live. These camps offer mini soccer fans the opportunity to learn from professional and experienced staff, regardless of their soccer ability.
Raven Theatre's Take Flight Summer Camp features training sessions in theatre arts. This camp is great for beginners looking to learn the basics of performance or more advanced actors looking to hone their skills. Raven's team of teaching artists will help kids feel the confidence to contribute to the artistic process and the courage to try something new.
Dates: Jul. 5-15 & Jul. 18-29 Ages: 6-14 6157 N. Clark St., Edgewater Online:raventheatre.com
Instituto Cervantes of Chicago
Daily lesson plans are created for campers to achieve linguistic, cultural and educational goals. Children will have the unique opportunity to learn Spanish in a playful and enriching environment through total immersion of language while highlighting each student’s creativity and capacity to learn with projects, songs and activities.
Dates: Week-long camps offered Jun. 27-Sep. 2 Ages: 4-15 31 W. Ohio, Near North Side Online:chicago.cervantes.es
Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music’s mission is to create a summer experience where campers develop new skills, build friendships and have the freedom to explore their creativity. They’ll spend their days thinking independently, collaborating with peers and discovering their place in the arts. In-person Summer Mini-Camps have themes like percussion, characters & storytelling, dance, guitar, make believe, sketch comedy, singing and more.
Dates: Week-long camps available Jun.-Aug. Ages: 5-12 4545 N. Lincoln Ave., Lincoln Square Online: oldtownschool.org
In the meantime: Sign up for ongoing classes, ages 0-4 love the Wiggleworms programming. Many of their classes are now offered online, so you don't need to miss a beat with your kid's musical education.
PLANNING IN PROGRESS
Pedalheads Bike Camp
Pedalheads
Want your kids to know the joy of bombing around on a bike all summer? Pedalheads Bike Camps can get your kids up and riding in one week! The camps are held at various locations throughout Chicago and teach your kids all the basics of balance and road rules to make sure they're riding with confidence.
Dates: Week-long camps scheduled Jul. & Aug., dates for camps & sign-ups are TBD Ages: 2 & up 12 locations throughout Chicagoland Online:pedalheads.com/bike/illinois
Two words parents are all too familiar with: “I’m bored.” Two words that can instantly help: Google Families. This site helps parents navigate their family’s ever-evolving tech journey through educational—and really fun!—digital content to explore together. A go-to hub of interactive resources, families.google lets you take virtual field trips, travel to unexpected places, get creative and master new skills.
Here’s a snapshot of the cool content that will tap into your kiddo’s budding curiosity and creativity. (Be prepared to pick up some new hobbies and interests, too!)
Introduce your kiddo to computer science by coding their own super hero. Through short, instructional videos, kids learn how to use Scratch for CS First, a block-based coding editor. Create the hero, make her move, fly and spin. Add background music, transform it into a game and even add another character. Keep exploring the many coding lessons available to hone those stellar computer science skills. Good news for parents, you don’t have to be an expert coder or even know how to code at all. The instructions are easy to follow and fun for everyone involved!
Ready, Get STEM, Go!
Attention budding scientists, engineers, mathematicians, and tech stars… Explore Google Arts & Culture on the web or download the free app to open your eyes to our awe-inspiring world (and beyond!). Go on virtual reality tours of the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. With 100 interactive online exhibits, you’ll feel like you went to the museum, without having to find a parking spot. Other STEM activities give you the chance to climb inside a space shuttle, conduct an orchestra in your browser, build your own voice controlled object, and see a prehistoric “sea dragon” in 360 VR. Use Google Earth to go on an intergalactic space adventure with legendary explorers and travel to meet the most iconic women in science. Learn about everyday inventions (yep, even the toilet), incredible inventors, and so much more. Your littlest learners will love the Sesame Street science activities.
From touring art museums around the world to playing interactive games, there are countless ways to let your creativity flourish. Play “I spy” with the world’s most famous artwork or try a visual crossword puzzle. Use the art coloring book to add a fresh spin to famous paintings. See what’s happening at the Louvre or check out the most famous works of art around the world at any museum. Learn how to make an origami crane. And be sure to capture the family fun with an “art selfie.” This great content ties art, history and important icons together for a truly enriching experience.
Wonders of the World
Whether you want to go back in time or take a journey through Thailand, you don’t actually need to leave your home. Get immersed in cultures around the world, learn about trailblazers and pioneers, and important moments in history. Discover the ruins of the Colosseum, the Pyramids of Giza, the Versailles Hall of Mirrors, and many national parks. Join Mission Blue on the high seas and then scope out the fanciest rooms at the White House. Even better? You can do all of this without packing a suitcase. You’ll enjoy being part of this exploration with your children and opening their eyes to everything our world has to offer.
Who doesn’t love games? From playing old school PAC-MAN to hosting a digital puzzle party, there are lots of quality games, playlists, and kids apps to check out. Your resident Rockstar will love the Chrome Music Lab for hands-on experiments that make learning about music even more fun. And in case you’re in need of a new emoji, it can be created here.
Looking for creative ways to keep the kids entertained but learning too? Tons of museums and educational institutions have taken to the interwebs to share premium content that will have the entire family tuning in to learn something new. From outer space and wildlife to imagineering and weather, we’ve got some amazing virtual science resources for your little smarty.
Head to The Wild Center in Tupper Lake! The virtual visit lets guests "walk" around the interior of the Center, see exhibits and watch videos. The Wild Center Live Cams also host demonstrations via Facebook Live where naturalists and Animal Care staff lead behind the scene tours, animal encounters and educational activities.
Kids can get their hands on the Jr. Naturalist Book, a virtual interactive weekly activity. Over the course of eight weeks, a new page will be released and completed with activities that encourage engineering, creativity, challenges and a “Craft A Creature” challenge. When kids complete the book, they will earn a patch and certificate and become an official Wild Center Jr. Naturalist!
#AtHomeWithSixSenses Junior Marine Biology Program
Join this 10-week course for budding conservationists, where each week marine biologists on Laamu will host short videos and demonstrate activities. Open to viewers of all ages, courses will be pre-recorded and will remain on the website indefinitely.
Thames & Kosmos, makers of at-home science kit has created an online platform for distance learning, Science At Home. The site includes free, downloadable instructions, sample experiments, videos that demonstrate scientific effects, as well as word finds and coloring pages.
MilliporeSigma has created a number of easy science experiments on its' Curiosity Labs at Home hub. Using common household items, each video shows how to conduct different experiments with step-by-step instructions.
Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) in Fort Lauderdale
iStock
MODS is offering free daily activities, resources and educational that includes STEM videos. Daily Camp Discovery content will include, Slime of the Day, storytelling or early child education, school program lessons, science shows, animal meet and greets, camp activities and Makerspace activities by the Leighton Family and Citrix. You can subscribe to the MODS’enews and on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.
National Geographic just introduced NatGeo@Home, a digital resource for families to help with educational and entertaining content. The centralized platform features games, videos and live daily tasks with National Geographic Explorers. Nat Geo Kids Books will also be offering a new series of downloadable worksheets containing experiments, workbooks, and fill-in-the-blank activities.
Your little Jacques Cousteau will love the new Oceans Online platform that's packed full of ocean-inspired crafts, activities, DIY videos, live streamed learning and adorable animal content. Kids can learn about Arctic Adaptations, sharks, Ocean Plastics as well as head to the Recipe Corner, enjoy DIY video tutorials, Feed the Shark craft and curriculum based education kits.
Gamers will love the United Nationa's web-based game, Mission 1.5, which gives kids a change to learn the many ways they can stop climate change. Designed by the UN Development Programme (UNDP), top climate scientists, youth activists and game developer Playmob, Mission 1.5 gives kids the controls of government leaders to implement decisions electricity, transportation and goods. The main goal? To keep global temperature increase to just 1.5 degrees.
California Science Center's "Stuck at Home Science"
Cal Science's content experts and professional have created "Stuck at Home Science." The ongoing, online series of hands-on and age-appropriate science activities features a video and an downloadable lesson. Kids can download free activitiy sheets at californiasciencecenter.org in both English and Spanish.
Go behind the scenes of millions of specimens, tour and learn about the streets of Los Angeles and chat with scientists and educators––all online! The NHMLAC is virtually connecting families with science through online resource, through a variety of museums that include the Natural History Museum, La Brea Tar Pits and William S. Hart Museum.
Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex shares daily Facebook Live video experiences that pair with an at-home activity! The education team covers tours of Space Shuttle Atlantis, the Astronaut Training Experience, living in space and on Mars, rocketry 101, and more. Kids can also do hands-on activities using everyday items as well as downloadable activities.
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens is using their time to educate everyone with daily weekday videos. Tune in Monday through Friday on their Facebook page at 3 p.m. EST to see live videos with some of the zoo's famous friends, like Fiona the Hippo, Rico the Porcupine and Sihil the Ocelot!
Imagineering in a Box
Disney
Walt Disney Imagineers are inspiring creativity, curiosity and innovation through Imagineering in a Box, a free online program created in partnership with the Khan Academy and Pixar. This one-of-a-kind learning experience gives families a chance to dream, create and build right from home. The new program is a series of interactive lessons in theme park design and engineering, designed to give a behind-the-scenes peek into Imagineering’s development process. It combines 32 videos of actual Imagineers, real-world case studies, and lots of interactive activities to give you the opportunity to dream and design your very own theme park experience.
The American Museum of Natural History is closed, but the OLogy science website is not! Kids and families can find curriculum collections on topics like dinosaurs and river ecology, Museum courses on Coursera, Khan Academy, and Kahoot and even visit virtually through the Museum’s YouTube channel. The Museum’s Facebook page will also host previously recorded tours of the Museum’s halls and collections on Facebook Live at 2 p.m. ET.
Tune in at :50 past the hour on The Weather Channel! The network is dedicated this time every hour to share scientific explanations on everything from how raindrops and rainbows form, to why thunder happens, how to stay safe in all kinds of weather, and more. Families can visit We Love Weather TV for all the details.
Petersen Automotive Museum
Petersen Automotive Museum
The world famous Petersen Automotive Museum offers free educational live streams that you can watch anytime. Kids will also have access to downloadable worksheets and coloring sheets. If your little gear head loves learning about how things work, including STEM topics, these daily shows are for them!
Calling all Sid the Science Kids and Miss Frizzle fans: It’s time for science fair projects! Whether this is your kiddo’s first time showing off her Bill Nye side or if he’s a seasoned pro, they’ll need a fresh crop of science experiment ideas for this year’s fair. So nab a tri-fold poster board from the craft store, stock your home with plenty of supplies, and help your creative kid start hypothesizing as you check out these easy science fair projects that are easy for kids of all ages to explore.
Make a Volcano Explode
iStock
The quintessential science fair project, you might want to check with classmates to make sure there won't be five volcanos on the big day. Even so, there's a reason why this one is so popular. Not only is it fun to make the volcano, but the overflow of baking soda and vinegar is exciting for everyone. Get a great step-by-step tutorial from The Dad’s Book of Awesome Science Experiments. by clicking here.
How can your child make ice glow? Hint: It involves tonic water. If a chemistry exploration is on your child’s to-do list, check out this light-based learning idea. For more fun, check out our glow-in-the-dark science experiments.
What happens when you gradually add food coloring to water as it freezes? The answer is in this kids’ science experiment. If you’re looking for science fair projects that are easy, this one is a simple STEAM activity for kids in pre-k and up.
Light is more than just something that comes from kiddo’s star-shaped IKEA wall lamp. This science exploration from Hands On As We Grow helps your child to explore and experiment with the sun’s rays (or at least, the artificial version).
Your curious kid constantly asks why the colorful candy shell on their favorite sweets melts away in their sweaty little palms. With this experiment from Mama.Papa.Bubba. your child can explore the science dissolving Gobstoppers.
Sometimes there’s nothing better on a hot day than a cold drink—but what happens if it hasn’t been chilling in the refrigerator? This experiment helps kids test the quickest way to cool a can.
Most kids love apples, but so many of them won’t touch the fruit once it’s turned brown. So how about an experiment that keeps apples from turning brown? This easy, and fantastically fun, idea from Teach Beside Me has all the answers your child is looking for.
How does evaporation happen? Explore the way liquid turns into a gas with this awesome evaporation experiment. Get the full details, including materials and how-to steps, here.
How can your little learner create brightly-hued celery stalks? Check out this science experiment from Tinker Lab for a how to! Not only will your child dazzle with their new ability to turn the otherwise green veggie into pink, blue or purple pieces, but they’ll also learn about plant science.
Grab a handful of pennies (or other coins if you have them) sitting around and see which cleaning solution make them shine the best. Kids can use liquids such as baking soda with water, orange juice, toothpaste, lemon juice and dish soap. Use a toothbrush (not yours!) to clean each penny with a different solution, and then little scientists can write down what each coin looked like before and after the cleaning.
How, oh how, do gummy bears grow? Simply add a gummy bear to water and wait. This sweet experiment from Tinker Labs gives kids the chance to make comparisons and explore what happens to their favorite tasty treat when it takes a bath.
Are yellows the dominant color in the M&M bag? Why does it seem like there are so few green pieces? This project is an easy experiment for even the youngest of kids. Buy a few packages of M&Ms, and then have kids sort the colors and count them. Then they can create a chart to track each color.
If your kiddo has Hot Wheel cars sitting around, this experiment is an easy way to test force and motion. With a few books and your child’s fave Hot Wheels, your pint-sized physicist can determine if the slope of the tracks affect the speed of the cars with this experiment from Librarianism Chronicles.
This project is a great experiment if your family is a fan of microwave popcorn. Head to the store and buy three to five boxes of microwave popcorn from different brands, and then find out which one pops the best. Add variety to the experiment by testing butter vs. plain, or organic vs. regular. Get the full how to from Must Have Mom! here.
This colorful experiment found on CandyExperiments teaches your little scientist all about density using candy as the main ingredient. What’s not to love about this weighty rainbow!
Brain Boost Factor: The volume of sugar in each colored layer is the key to figuring out why the colors rise or sink.
S'more Solar Oven
Tierra Encantada
This awesome project from Tierra Encantada can be recreated any time of the year, as long as the sun is shining. You will need:
-Cardboard box
- Aluminum foil
- Plastic wrap
- Black construction paper
- Tape
- Scissors
- Something to prop your oven’s lid open (ruler, stick, marker, etc.)
- S’more goodies - graham crackers, chocolate, marshmallows (you can also reheat cooked food!)
Cover the inside of the box with aluminum foil (use tape to seal tightly). Place black construction paper inside the box to absorb light. Stack your s’more ingredients. Cover opening of box with plastic wrap to conceal heat. Adjust lid to find the best angle to reflect sunlight. Use a stick to keep the lid in place.
Get cooking! Don’t forget to check on your food every few minutes. Depending on the temperature outside and reflection of the sun, it should take about 30 minutes to cook.
When it's pumpkin time again, do some sciencey fun while you carve your family's jack o'lantern by letting the kiddos explore the ooey gooey goop inside. This sensory activity is ideal for little scientists who are into making hands-on discoveries. Have them close their eyes and describe what the inside of the pumpkin feels like. When they're done, scoop out the seeds and let them dry. Your creative kid can add a few drips of red, orange or yellow food coloring into a bag, toss in the seeds and coat them. When they're dry, the seeds are perfect for making mini mosaics or other types if seasonal art. Not only is this sensory exploration an artsy adventure, but it's also a lesson in the plant life cycle. Discuss why pumpkins need seeds. Save a few seeds and plant them in indoor pots, creating a second fall science activity!
Insider tip: in the mood for Pumpkin recipes? We have pumpkin recipes for every taste bud. Just hop on over to our story for pumpkin recipes here.
This STEM idea from Lemon Lime Adventures takes autumn engineering to the next level. Your little learner can explore the art of building, getting hands-on with concepts such as form vs. function, balance and weight distribution.
Break out your favorite family movie and grab the butter to go with homemade popcorn. Find out how to pop your own in this experiment outlined on Tinkerlab.
Brain Boost Factor: This is a simple heating up water experiment. The trick is that the water is inside the corn kernel. Who knew?
Take the traditional rock candy string experiment to the next level by making these tasty geodes. It’s all about crystallization achieved through total saturation with this experiment. Find out how to make these realistic looking candy creations at How to Cook That. Rock on!
Brain Boost Factor: They'll learn all about how crystals form and this one gives curious cuties the chance to see them life-size without using a microscope.
When a trip to colonial Williamsburg isn’t on the menu, you and your little chef can make your own homestead-style whip cream or butter by simply shaking and shaking and shaking heavy cream. Make and Takes has everything you need to turn back the clock in your own kitchen.
Brain Boost Factor: Churning butter and whipping cream is all about agitating the fat molecules (those pesky buggers) and getting them to eventually clump together. The longer you shake ‘em up, the stickier they get.
Microwave Marshmallows
Put marshmallows in the microwave and your little scientists will be amazed at the crazy antics that follow. They puff up. They shrink back down. And they still taste good. The Exploratorium spells out the necessary steps for this simple (tasty) experiment.
Brain Boost Factor: The thrilling combo of sugar, water and air do amazing things when heated up and cooled off quickly.
Bake Fresh Bread
Allison Sutcliffe
Break out your favorite bread recipe (and that bread machine that’s collecting dust in the cupboard) to cook up a loaf alongside this experiment, explained on Teach Beside Me. It’s an “inner working” visual that will certainly make an impact on your little cooker.
Brain Boost Factor: As yeast munches on the sugars in the bread, the gasses released perk it up, up, up!
Shake Up Ice Cream
iStock
\You don’t need all 31 flavors to start in on this experiment with your kidlet. Get the step-by-step on shaking out single serve scoops in re-sealable plastic bags on Instructables. Be sure to have fresh fruit or other treats ready to mix in when the experiment is over. Yum!
Brain Boost Factor: The salt does most of the work in this frosty experiment. It lowers the freezing point of the outside ice enough so that the milk mixture inside becomes cold and creamy. Delish!
This egg-cellent experiment described on Science- Sparks will have everyone cringing when little hands put the big squeeze on a fragile egg. Try as you might, that baby won’t break. Until you crack it into a pan to make breakfast for dinner afterward.
Brain Boost Factor: The egg’s shape is clearly stronger than it looks.
Let your little chemists study the periodic table and make a tasty treat, all at once. Prep a batch of (extra big) sugar cookies, let the kids choose an element at the beginning of the periodic table, then set out frosting and M&Ms to re-create the atomic layout. Easy! Get the details over at Life at Cold Feathers Farm.
Brain Boost Factor: Giving your kids a visual (and tasty) version of nature’s building blocks is an easy intro to the physical sciences.
Test Grape Juice
Allison Sutcliffe
If you didn’t know grape juice was an indicator before, you will after walking your sidekick through this experiment found on education.com. Simply mix up some juice, add in a few extras and watch what happens. It’s a juicy revelation!
Brain Boost Factor: Recognizing acids and bases is the name of this color-changing game.
Insert a little plant science into the mix by re-growing food from scraps. Think onions, potatoes, and lettuces for this one (psst… green onions are a super easy, fast option). Get the low down on all that recycled goodness at Mrs. Happy Homemaker. Since plants need water and sunlight to grow, exposing scrap roots to that winning combo helps them recharge.
Plain old fresh-squeezed lemonade is so last year. Boost the fun quotient and learn a simple science concept simultaneously when you recreate this edible Fizzy Lemonade drink from Learn With Play at Home. It’s super easy to mix and little sippers report it’s pretty tickly too. A great alternative to the baking soda-vinegar volcano, it shows kids what happens when an acid and base are mixed together.
'Tis the season for gumdrops and this classic structural engineering challenge uses just two ingredients: toothpicks and candy. We’re particularly fond of this one from The Homeschool Scientist because it helps you explain what the concepts (engineering, load distribution, physics, shape comparison) are to your kiddos while they are building it. doing it. Visit The Homeschool Scientist to get going. And click here for five more gumdrop-themed challenges.
Bake Hygroscopic Cookies
This simple science experiment is best when you check in on it the next morning. Bake up a batch of cookies, then place them in an airtight container with a piece of fresh bread. Watch as the cookies stay straight-from-the-oven soft thanks to the moisture of the bread (The sugar in the cookies is hygroscopic, which means it absorbs water molecules out of the bread). The best part? Getting to eat the cookies!
Explore the science of your child's fave Valentine's Day candy and use up those leftovers STAT. Toss them into warm water and wait (and watch, of course) to see what happens. Repeat the science experiment with cool water, veggie oil, milk or any other liquid and record what caused the candy to dissolve the fastest, which took the longest.
Teach kids the importance of smell with this activity that asks them to use only their noses to identify objects. Can they sniff out the fish oil over the garlic cloves? The lemon juice over the orange oil? Homeschooling blogger Ana has the instructions at Babble Dabble Do.
Tummy’s rumbling–it’s time to eat! Did you know that you “eat” with your nose and eyes as well as your mouth? It’s true. Put your family’s snifffers and peepers to the test with this juice-guessing game.
How to: 1. Stack a piece of tape on the bottom of each glass and number them one to four, making sure your partner can’t see the numbers. Pour one type of juice into each glass.
2. Send your partner out of the room. Drip a different food coloring into each juice and stir so your partner can’t recognize the juice by its color alone. Record the number, juice type, and color in each glass on a piece of paper.
3. Call your partner back. Tell her to hold her nose, sip from each glass, and guess the juice If she’s like most people, she’ll be kind of confused–her eyes and tongue give her two conflicting flavor messages.
4. Ask her to unplug her nose, close her eyes, and sniff the juice before drinking it. Her guesses should be on target now. All hail the mighty schnoz!
From Candy Experiments 2 by Loralee Leavitt/Andrews McMeel Publishing, LLC.
Did the candy melt or disappear? Your sweetums might think it’s magic, but it’s really all about how oil redirects light, causing half the candy to disappear! Click here for the instructions on how to recreate this mind-warping experiment.
After figuring out this simple experiment your sidekick will want to play Houdini with all her friends. All it takes is an apple, vanilla extract, and a cotton ball to pull one over on her tastebuds. Abracadabra!
Be careful: The water only has the power to make the sugar crystals “invisible” when it’s piping hot. After the water cools down and evaporates, the sugar turns back into a solid. And with a little help of your sugar-soaked string, the crystals will find a home to grow upon and become rock candy. Learn how to make your smart sweets with these instructions from the Exploratorium.
You’ve probably seen the label that says “fortified with iron” on your cereal box, but how much iron is actually in your cereal? Is there enough to cause a magnetic reaction? This super easy experiment doesn’t require too many fancy ingredients (cereal + magnet) which means you and the kiddos can try it right away. The results may surprise you! Get the how-to at Rookie Parenting and get started!
Wondering about the status of summer camp in San Diego? You’re not the only one! We’ve found several summer camps for kids that are sure to put a smile on the face of your happy camper. Depending on your needs, we’re sharing the scoop on virtual camps for kids as well as in-person camps. Kiddos can enjoy everything from baseball and hands-on animal interactions to music, art and science adventures. Read on and sign-up today.
Send your kids to Space Camp this summer! Created by a San Diego teen (yes, you heard correctly), this free camp program will take kids to outer space—without leaving their living rooms. There are new space-related themes each week, ranging from origins of the universe, the solar system and search for life on other planets. The videos also include art projects and science experiments for kids.
SDCYB Virtual Ballet Camps will be on Zoom for two hours a day for five days, and consist of a daily ballet class, arts and crafts activities (materials provided by SDCYB!) and ballet storytime. The students will also learn a dance to perform on the final day of camp, taught by teachers with extensive experience in this Zoom format, who will be working hard to engage the students in the lessons. Note that in this virtual format, you do NOT need to be local to San Diego in order to become a student at this historic ballet school.
Camps for kids ages 4-6 and 7-10 are Jun. 29-July 3 and July 13-17.
Looking for fun and creative ways to keep the kids busy and entertained? Businesses from ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station are offering a variety of virtual and in-person summer camps, focusing on the arts. From animation, art to theatre and dance, there is something from everyone. To register and find links to each camp, click here.
Virtual Camps & Programs:
FX Dojo is offering an online animation camp no experience necessary. For young artists, ages 6-12 there is 2D Animation and for technical artist, ages 10-18 there is 3D Animation.
Malashock Dance is offering creative contemporary, modern jazz, ballet and advanced modern dance classes.
Theatre Arts School of San Diego is offering free and low-cost classes to inspire all artists from beginners to masters.
Monart School of Art has put together weekly camps for kids of all skills. Each week consists of an art project based around a different theme.
In-Person Camps & Programs:
If I Was A Bird Yoga & Youth Studio has put together a Yoga & Art summer camp program. Sign up for yoga, art camps, paddle board yoga camps and more.
Milk Oolong Studio is offering a two-hour pottery wheel class. Lead skills in the pottery wheel, sculpting, hand building and surface decoration to create a variety of projects.
San Diego Craft Collective has put together a craft summer camp. Lean skills in woodworking, sewing, paper craft, jewelry making and more! Kid Ventures has put together ten weeks of indoor and outdoor activities. Each week is a different theme ranging from dinosaurs to Star Wars and superheroes.
The Hot Spot: Pottery Painting and Candle Making is dedicating each day to special handmake project like painting, candle making, mosaics, fairy/gnome gardens and more!
Let the kids go wild (literally) this summer! The team at Helen Woodward Animal Center is excited to provide an opportunity for your happy campers to get out of the house and make meaningful connections with animals and their peers. They'll be offering a heavily modified version of their beloved Summer Critter Camp based on CDC guidelines and to ensure everyone's safety. This year's camp theme is "Surrounded by Superheroes" and activities will include hands-on animal-interactions, animal-themed games, crafts, songs and more.
Click here for a preview of Summer Critter Camp 2020.
Camps for kids in kindergarten-6th grade will be offered Jun. 8- Aug. 28.
After months at home, now your kids can experience this fun summer program in San Diego. Encore Creative Arts & Enrichment Camp is hosted in a gated, 45,000 sq. ft. campus which includes indoor and outdoor facilities. A 12 to 1 student to staff ratio and new distancing protocols allow for a camp community with security. Many hands-on experiences, educational opportunities, arts and much more are offered. There's a camp for every kid's interest!
Programs Include:
Athletics (Archery, Badminton, Field Hockey, much more)
San Diego Padres baseball camp is sure to be a home run for your lil' sluggers. Each 5-day session of baseball camp will include exceptional instruction, character development and a unique Major League experience that kids will treasure forever. Camp registration includes an official Padres baseball camp uniform, a meet and greet with a current or former Padres player or coach, an autograph from a current or former Padres player or coach, five days of baseball instruction, competitions, and games for campers ages 4-12 and two tickets to the Camp Reunion hosted at a Padres regular season game in August.
Good to know: Net proceeds from the Padres Baseball Camp program benefit the Padres Foundation and support the club's youth baseball and softball outreach efforts.
Covid-19 info: The San Diego Padres are actively monitoring the ever-changing COVID-19 landscape in the State of California with their partner, Rally Camps, who runs the Padres Summer Baseball & Softball camps. They are optimistic that camps will be feasible under Stage 3 of the Governor’s reopening plan, and they are currently working on proper health and safety protocols to provide a safe environment for all when that stage is reached. All families who plan to participate in the camps will be notified of those procedures in advance of their scheduled dates. If the camps are cancelled for any reason in the future, full refund and exchange options will be offered.
Camp sessions run Jun. 15-Aug. 14 at various locations around San Diego.
If your young thespians are seeking a summer full of drama, then this is the virtual camp for them. San Diego Junior Theatre has moved their popular camps online. Their camps, geared for varying age ranges and ability levels, include signing, acting, dancing and other specialties offered via Zoom. Each camp will offer innovative ways for young people to create, interact, and collaborate from their computer or tablet. Campers will enjoy four classes each day: acting, voice, dance and a theatre specialty topic.
Varying camp sessions for different age groups are offered in a variety of fun themes like Monsters & Beasties or Heroes & Villains to "Just Peachy: The Stories of Roald Dahl.
Birch Aquarium is excited to share the ocean world with your kids this summer through new, virtual camps. All camps are live and taught by two of the Aquarium's expert instructors. Campers will create crafts, participate in experiments, learn about oceanography, and virtually interact with ocean animals. Camps are divided into two age groups for kids in kindergarten-2nd grade and for 3rd grade-5th grade graduates.
New this year: Their 1.5 hour long camps are available for a full week, or you can select individual days. Simply select your preference during registration.
Camps run weekdays from Jun. 22-Aug. 21, and campers can enjoy two full weeks of curriculum.
Let science take center stage by enrolling your curious kiddo in either a virtual or in-person summer camp at the Fleet Science Center.
The Fleet is offering virtual camps for the duration of camp (Jun.-Aug.) if you wish for your child to experience fun science activities at the comfort of your own home.
Campers will pick-up a camp kit that's filled with new challenges, hands-on activities that can done using materials found in your home and has challenges aimed for students in grades 2–4. With four unique kits per week, campers can explore fields including biology, chemistry, engineering, environmental science, physics, robotics and much more! Sign up for one or bundle kits together and save.
Each Virtual Camp kit includes:
Prepackaged materials ranging from craft supplies to specialty items packed by the Fleet's Science Educators
Additional educational content and challenges
Video content that introduces the challenge and provides strategies for caregivers in confidently facilitating these activities. Designated live virtual weekly meetings with a Fleet Science Educator to keep everyone connected, share results and ask questions.
In-person camps are designed for kids of various age ranges include themes such as: Chemistry with a Bang, Robotics Camp, Art-ology, Gross and Gooey and many more!
Covid-19 info: The Fleet is scheduled to commence in person camps starting in July while abiding by CDC regulations. But please note that due to the uncertain times we live in, everything is subject to change. In the event that all in-person camps become cancelled, the Education Coordinator will reach out to all parents and you will have a few options: get a refund, apply the difference to a virtual camp instead, or turn your camp balance into a tax-deductible donation that supports the Fleet’s mission. Other than that, regular cancelation guidelines will apply.
Camp sessions start Jun. 15 (virtual) and July 6 (in person).
Virtual & On-Site ZenTotz Mindfulness, Art & Yoga Camp
Help your kids channel their zen this summer by registering for a summer camp with ZenTotz. The ZenTotz Program provides unique opportunities for kids to practice mindfulness and awareness. Their day camps combine mindfulness practices with hands-on arts activities, yoga, and creative games. During the program schedule, participants will practice mindful movement, develop compassion, discover creative talents, taste healthy foods, make quality friendships, and learn the benefits of stillness.
Their award-winning curriculum is designed for children ages 4-11.
Camp info:
Virtual Mindfulness, Yoga & Art Workshops: 6/8-6/14 (10-11 a.m. & 2:30-3:30 p.m.) Participants will visit The ZenTotz “Zoom-Room” in either the morning or afternoon. Drop-ins & lower-priced workshop bundles are available (50% Sibling Discount!) Art supplies & healthy treats will be specially home-delivered (free shipping!) Space is limited and deliveries must arrive on time, so prompt sign-ups are warmly recommended. Register online: zentotz.com/register-my-child
Full & Half Day Summer Camps (on-site): 6/22-6/26, 7/6-7/10, 7/20-7/24, 8/3-8/7, 8/17-8/21
Early commitment discounts are offered until two weeks before each event. The 10% Sibling Discount is available always. All materials and a healthy (nut-free!) snack will be provided each day. Timely registration is highly recommended due to the small-group setting. The rosters fill up quickly!
Virtual and on-site camp sessions run from Jun. 8-Aug. 21.
Mad Science is offering fun and interactive virtual camps that kids can participate in from home. They use a protected Zoom portal and mail out materials before class so campgoers can easily join in the activities. There are so many awesome camp themes offered, so you're sure to find something appealing for your young Einstein in grades 2-6. From Jr. Detective which invites kids on a fascinating journey into the world of detection, forensics and classified information as they learn a code language to send secret messages as part of their mission, to Brixology which uses LEGO construction to teach kids about aerospace and mechanical engineering and Checkmate Chess which teaches the rules, strategies and tactics of one of the world's most popular games––these camps are sure to keep blossoming minds entertained and engaged.
Calling all creative, curious kids! San Diego Children's Discovery Museum has a camp with your name on it. Join the fun this summer for under-the-sea adventures, outer space journeys, dinosaur excavations, and other exciting expeditions... right from the comfort of your own home.
Each day of virtual camp includes:
Private access to two daily science and art activities aligned to the camp theme, recorded specifically for campers by the Museum team.
Specially curated camp kits (available for pick-up or delivery) with everything you need to complete the camp activities (science experiments, art activities, and more!)
Two daily Zoom sessions with your camp educator to share information about the topic and facilitate the most fun part of camp: getting to know each other. Zoom calls include songs and games to help keep the camp experience as social as possible.
Register now for ChIMES at home Summer 2020 session. This 8-week session is for parents/caregivers and kids ages 0-5 (and any other members of your household that would like to join in the fun too)! You and your little one will share meaningful music-making experiences together at home. Interactive LIVE classes and creative videos will have you singing, dancing, playing instruments and learning new skills.
Session includes:
2 live-streaming classes each week
New video posted every week, plus at-home musical activities, tips and resources
1 Instrument Kit per family
On-demand access to all ChIMES videos and live class recordings
In spite of what we’re facing now with the COVID-19 crisis, as parents we still must look forward, and we know summer is coming. For many of us, summer camps and childcare is a necessity. We are doing our best to monitor any changes, and encourage you to double-check the individual camp refund/cancellation policies. We also want to continue to support our local businesses including these beloved summer camps.
If summertime has you feeling like a cruise director with the daily “what are we going to do today?” questions, we’ve got the scoop for you. These local Bay Area summer camps for kids have modified their offerings to create smaller group camp experience and virtual camps for kids. Kids can practice different forms of art, make pasta, learn coding and spend the day outdoors exploring nature. And, don’t forget to check out our Summer Camp Guide for even more Bay Area summer camp ideas!
ABADA Capoeira Summer Camps
ABADA Capoeira
ABADA Capoeira San Francisco (ACSF) will be holding two in person summer camps for kids ages 5-12 starting July 6.
ACSF’s experiential camp is full of fun, friends, and learning! During each one-week session, children are exposed to diverse cultural arts, and introduced to the Mission neighborhood through mural tour adventures. Campers spend the day learning capoeira and maculelê movements, playing instruments including trying their hand at drumming, singing songs in Portuguese, and playing capoeira-based games that accentuate team building, leadership and cooperation.
Campers not only learn acrobatic and self-defense movements but also use them to improvise and create in collaboration with other students. They receive exposure to a broad range of arts, with guest artist classes in hip hop, percussion, and Afro-Brazilian dance. Camp is led by Antonio Contreras “Instrutor Corrente”, under the supervision of Mestra Márcia Cigarra.
Cooking Round the World—Virtual and In-Person Camps
Cooking Round the World
Cooking Round the World Summer Camp is a delightful way for your child to have a summer of food, fun and deliciousness! They offer virtual camps throughout the summer as well as in-person camps available in Oakland, Millbrae, Walnut Creek, Concord, Cupertino, Hayward, Hercules and Pinole. Themes like Harry Potter, Star Wars, baking and Pixar are sure to keep the kids interested in cooking.
COVID-19 Update: Check the website for precautions being followed for in-person camps.
Camp CuriOdyssey—Virtual STEAM Camps
Camp CuriOdyssey provides kids with interactive experiences that spark excitement and ignite curiosity. Campers utilize their natural talents of inquiry, investigation, and individual discovery to develop lifelong critical thinking skills. Camp groups are small and there are lots of opportunities for scientific discovery. Camps available for pre-K through 6th graders.
Dates: Week-long camps available June 15-August 21 (see update below) 1651 Coyote Point Drive San Mateo, CA Online: curiodyssey.org
COVID-19 Update: While their traditional science camps will not be taking place this summer, CuriOdyssey has re-envisioned their summer programs to provide stimulating activities that will ignite children’s curiosity in a format that can be delivered safely for everyone. Virtual STEAM offerings will include materials that can be picked up or delivered prior to camp.
Virtually Vocal
Virtually Vocal
The award-winning choral organization for girls, Young Women's Choral Projects of San Francisco, is offering two weeks of online singing camps for girls in grades 1-8, in two sessions grouped by age. Activities for each group will include singing music in a variety of styles, building music reading and writing skills, instruction in vocal technique, music games, dancing, yoga, arts and crafts—and more singing! Local and non-local singers welcome. Scholarships available. Come experience the joy of singing this summer!
The Marine Mammal Center’s Camp Sea Quest is getting a virtual makeover to support families during these uncertain times. This summer, rising fifth through eighth graders have an exciting opportunity to experience the best marine science activities the world’s largest marine mammal hospital has to offer from the comfort of their home! Through our interactive virtual community, campers will connect with one another as they learn about the importance of ocean conservation and marine mammals while developing key team-building and leadership skills.
Campers have the opportunity to choose from a mix of science-based activities they can complete at home, as well as behind-the-scenes virtual experiences of the hospital and marine mammal habitats. Interactive activities include science experiments, crafts, monitoring animal behavior, marine mammal identification and much more that can be easily done at home with just a few materials!
Camp EDMO, leading Bay Area non-profit offering STEAM and SEL (social emotional learning) camps and programs, announced its line-up of online summer camps that will provide a rich and engaging virtual experience for kids in Pre-k to 8th grade, while still moderating screen time. The week-long, 2.5 hour morning and afternoon camps, will kick off the week of June 8 and will be led by experienced Camp EDMO staff. Camp sessions, arranged by age groups, are geared to maker, science and tech projects, but will also include rallies, snack breaks, SEL games and indoor recreation.
Dates: June 8-Aug. 14. Morning, afternoon and drop-in sessions available. Online: campedmo.org
The Rabbit Hole Children's Theater—Virtual Summer Camps
iStock
With the health and safety of families and staff at the forefront of our mind, The Rabbit Hole has decided to transition their summer programming to a new In-Home structure. Consistent with their studio-based imaginative offerings, your kiddos will experience interactive, creative, collaborative FUN in the safety of your home!
Home-to-Home Camps will be offered by delivering a camp Bunny Box to your door filled with craft projects, props, set pieces and everything your child will need to build an exciting show. We will also include a camp schedule, daily morning zoom class, recorded puppet shows, and a dance routine in addition to a pre-recorded narration of the final show that will feel like old world radio meets a make-believe podcast adventure to really spark your kiddo's imagination and guide them through a theatrical performance at home!
If you've been to any of the Bay Area Young Art locations, you know what an awesome experience it is for kids to get hands-on coaching in creating art. This summer, Young Art will be offering a virtual class experience combining multiple art forms and scientific experiments. Weekly morning and afternoon sessions are available. A supply list will be provided or purchase a supply kit to have it sent to you.
Dates: June 8- Aug. 28 Cost: Use code "RedTriCamp" to save 50% off the $79 weekly camp cost Online: youngartusa.co
GrowFit Camp Redwood City, San Jose, West Sacramento, San Ramon & Rancho Cordova
Grow Fit
GrowFit Camp is for kiddos between the ages of four and twelve. Locations are open this summer in Redwood City, San Jose, West Sacramento, San Ramon, and Rancho Cordova. GrowFit strives to be the safest place for kids to try new sports. Nurturing the playfulness within us, GrowFit’s social-emotional approach helps children ages four to twelve, learn to love being active – while building confidence and having fun. Schedules vary at all locations based on county COVID-19 orders.
Alexander Valley Film Society (AVFS), Luther Burbank Center for the Arts (LBC), and Transcendence Theatre Company (TTC) are collaborating on an incredible program of virtual summer camps. Collectively, the organizations will provide seven weeks of virtual, wrap-around summer arts camp experiences for students sheltering in place.
Beginning June 22, they can take the AVFS Filmmaking Bootcamp to prepare for capturing footage of themselves and their families during the rest of the summer camps. Next, students head to the LBC Summer Arts Sampler Camp for hip-hop dance, ukulele, & percussion for one of the three week-long sessions. Then students attend the Transcendence Theatre Company camps for theater, improv, dance, and movement. Finally, students return to the AVFS Editing Bootcamp to put together their final footage from the summer. Students are encouraged to mix and match camps or take them all! A showcase of student films will take place at a later date.
Bonus: the majority of the camps are totally free!
Connect with nature in the Marin Headlands with weekly themes like marine biology, coastal ecology, conservation and cultural history. Campers get up close with tidepool creatures in the intertidal marine lab, create field sketches while overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge, sail the Bay on an 82-foot schooner and hike along coastal trails to the historic Point Bonita Lighthouse. They even offer a shuttle service from San Francisco, Sausalito and Mill Valley.
Dates: Week-long camps available June 8-August 14 (partially canceled, see update below) Marin Headlands 1033 Fort Cronkhite Sausalito, CA Online: coastalcamp.org
COVID-19 Update: Costal Camp has canceled all sessions through June 29. They have also canceld the shuttle service. See here for updates.
Snapology offers STEAM fun online theme based virtual camps. Camps are designed for ages 5-12 and only use the screen or device to simply instruct the students. The core of their two-hour camps is always focused on building, creating, designing and problem solving using LEGO bricks. Programs include plenty of activity breaks to make sure your child stays active and engaged.
At our summer camps we mastered Cat's Cradle, but today's campers will come home with the ability to build websites, design games, even create their own social media platforms. The Coder School is a wildly popular South Bay institution, training the next generation of techies.
Dates: Week-long camps available June 8-August 14 (see update below) Locations: throughout the Bay Area Online: thecoderschool.com
COVID-19 Update: Coder School will be holding in-person camps based on the local requirements. Some locations will be offering virtual camps in place of in-person. Check your nearby location for current information.
Steve & Kate's Camp—Various Bay Area Locations
Steve & Kate's Camp
A total procrastinator's dream, Steve and Kate's Camp offers drop-in camps for kids as young as four at their 13 Bay Area locations. Camps run Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and you can drop off your camper any time during that period with no advance notice needed. Camp days are totally led by each kid—they choose from activities relating to film, bread-making, coding, fashion and film. There's no worry about kids getting bored as they can literally move to another activity whenever they choose. You can purchase any number of day passes you wish and use them at any of their locations. Plus, you are automatically refunded for any passes that you buy and don't use by the end of the summer.
Dates: Daily, drop-in camp from June 8-August 14 (see update below) Online: steveandkatescamp.com
COVID-19 Update: As of 5/26, Steve & Kate's is in a holding pattern for Summer 2020. They plan to offer a modified summer camp program to comply with local requirements. Check here for current updates.
With two locations in Los Gatos and Willow Glen, kids have tons of opportunities to beef up their cooking skills at Cucina Bambini's summer camp. Teens can learn how to make pasta while little ones bake cakes or make apple crumble with ice cream in a bag. There's even a Top Chef-esque battle class where kids learn essential cooking skills and compete in daily individual and group challenges.
COVID-19 Update: Cucina Bambini will be offering smaller classes (max 12 students) beginning June 15.
Sessions Academy of Movement—San Jose
Kids will feel like an American Ninja Warrior when they take on the obstacle courses, parkour games, freerunning and other age-dependent activities at this summer camp. Kids will flip for the acrobatics they get to do into the stunt bag. Campers must be at least age five and all camps run from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
COVID-19 Update: Camps will be held as scheduled with smaller groups (max 12 kids).
Have you signed your kids up for a summer camp in the Bay Area? Where will they be going this year? Don’t forget to visit our Summer Camp Guide for even more summer camp suggestions.
Are you really even a parent if you haven’t questioned your abilities multiple times a day during the pandemic? Whether you’re looking for answers to tough parenting questions, amusing stories that are totally relatable or you simply need a new listen for your daily walks, these Seattle podcasters can help. Listen up!
Amy Lang’s Just Say This!
courtesy Amy Lang
For over 25 years, Seattle mom Amy Lang has been walking parents through The Talk (birds, bees and all) and the awkward questions that come with it. Now this sexual health counselor and educator is taking her knowledge to the airwaves with Just Say This!. Each Q&A style episode features parents sharing funny stories and asking tough questions, followed by Lang walking them through the answers with sincerity, humor and a focus on building healthy relationships. Tune in to find out how to deal with those unavoidable parenting moments that make you go “hmmm.”
Good to know: Parents can submit question or share funny stories that may be featured on the show by leaving a message at 206-926-1522.
Can’t-miss episode: Because terminology can be tricky, check out this episode that makes things clear.
The 3D Parent Podcast host, Beaven Walters, is passionate about supporting parents, and her focus on the three D’s—dignity, direction and deep connection—is key to her approach. Podcast episodes deal with the stuff of everyday parenting, like managing morning mayhem and figuring out how to have kids apologize and truly mean it. You’ll also find a few Q&A episodes that feel like a sit down sesh with a good friend. Throughout, Walters approaches each topic with the eye of an expert (she’s a certified parenting coach, mom of four and spent a decade teaching), doling out tools that are easily understood and implemented. And at around 30 minutes an episode, finding the time to tune in is a totally doable.
If you think “Badoo” and “Lipsi” are nonsense words, and monkeys are only found in the zoo, we’ve got the podcast you need. Because finding time to learn about the social media apps and platforms kids use is a full time job, there’s Seattle dad, Jo Langford’s APPropriate. In each episode, Langford, a master’s level therapist and sex educator, distills the need-to-know details surrounding nebulous social media apps, so parents can keep kids safe and responsible in the digital age. You’ll find the information you’ve been looking for in each brief (think 10-20 minute) show.
Can’t-miss episode: Because your kid are on it 24/7 during the pandemic, give the TikTok episode a listen. Add to your list, the two part series about YouTube (Part 1 & Part 2) Langford is especially proud of.
When was the last time someone read you a story? Now you can sit back and let someone else do the storytelling for a change, thanks to the Seattle Public Library’s new podcast, Thrilling Tales. Because hosting this (usually live at the library) story time for grown-ups isn’t possible right now, David Wright, Reader Services Librarian at the Central Branch, will sit down weekly to read short stories that will thrill, excite and move listeners each time they tune in. Kick off the season with This World is Taboo, an eight-part Sci-Fi pulp serial by Murray Leinster.
If you’re looking for expert advice on screen time, chores or enticing picky eaters, Encompass’s Parent Talks Podcast can give you insight and peace of mind too. This non-profit helps families across the Snoqualmie Valley and the Eastside thrive by providing early learning, pediatric therapy and family enrichment programs. To date, Encompass has recorded 15 episodes that often pair parents, who share experiences and parenting questions, with experts, who work to answer them. The short, supportive episodes make this resource a treasure trove of helpful tips for local parents.
Can’t-miss episode: Because the world is changing quickly and family routines are out the door, "Understanding Childhood Anxiety," Parts 1 & 2 tops the listen list.
If you like “fun interviews to help you learn and discover new things and inspire you to follow your dreams,” the Adventuring Sisters Podcast is made for you. What started out as a father/daughter project in 2014 (inspired by the Maker Dad book), has grown into a local phenom. On each episode the Adventuring Sisters, Ellie (10), Carly (7) and Jo (4) interview people they’d like to meet, like Mayor Durkin, Jaycie Johnson of OL Reign fame and Chef John Armstrong, a creator of the amazing gingerbread houses featured at JDRF’s Gingerbread Village. The girls also take listeners on engaging tours to local hot spots like the Space Needle, MoPOP and the zoo. The thoughtful questions the girls craft (yep, they come up with them on their own, with a little help from dad), and the time they take to prepare, make this an inspiring podcast kids of all ages will enjoy.
Can’t-miss episode: The episode featuring Lindsey Stirling is something to look forward to (it should drop soon). While you wait, check out the interview with Seattle Storm’s Jordin Canada, recorded in honor of National Girls and Women in Sports Day.
What if we told you that you can still experience the benefits of learning about science and technology from one of the most renowned museums in the country, all without leaving your couch? The Exploratorium’s online learning resources are an awesome way for kids to get excited about science and technology, and they’re completely free!
San Francisco’s Exploratorium is not a typical science museum. It’s an ongoing exploration of science, art and human perception. It was started by Frank Oppenheimer, a professor, high school teacher, cattle rancher and an experimental physicist. Oppenheimer was passionate about making science visible, touchable and accessible to everyone. While teaching at a university, he developed a “library of experiments” that enabled his students to explore scientific phenomena at their own pace, following their own curiosity. He used that model to create the Exploratorium. The museum staff creates, experiments, tests and builds nearly everything themselves. They’re always looking to push boundaries and explore the impossible.
They’ve taken this same approach to science and technology and created an extensive online learning center that contains a huge collection of free videos and teacher-tested (and approved) educational activities that families can do at home with simple household items. Here are a few ways the museum’s Online Learning Toolbox can help kiddos learn and explore at the Exploratorium.
Viruses and Us Families can learn all about the science of viruses and how they impact people in the “Viruses and Us” online module. The content is especially timely as kids can learn about Covid-19 in an age-appropriate way. Videos include “How Does Soap Inactivate Coronaviruses?” and “How Do We Fight Viruses?” There are also tons of activities families can do at home, including using paper, yarn and cotton balls to show that viruses are simply bundles of protein and nucleic acid, not living organisms.
Science Snacks Satisfy your curiosity for hunger without ever getting full with these fresh and exciting science activities. Kids can test their sense of taste and smell, or make a marshmallow test tube. All the experiments use cheap materials that you likely have at home.
Tinker Around Your House These tinkering projects encourage kiddos to “think with their hands” using items from around the house. For example, the “Toy Take Apart” experiment challenges kids to figure out what’s inside their toys and make exciting and surprising discoveries.
Take a Virtual Tour of the Museum Can’t make it to the Exploratorium, then let the museum come to you! You can tour the museum virtually by watching a series of videos hosted by Exploratorium exhibit developers, scientists and educators.
Science and Food Being at home in the kitchen is a great way to explore science. Families can experiment with water, pressure cooking, turkey brining, popping popcorn, soaking pasta, and lots more. Kids will love discovering the science of food, and getting a taste of chemistry and physics.
The Exploratorium doors are never closed, even when the museum must be. Explore more!
