STEM Programs Near Me

Ready to spark a lifelong love for learning? 🚀 Our Toddler STEAM classes offer a research-based approach to play. We provide hands-on projects that encourage toddlers to ask "why" and "how" while developing essential early-childhood skills. What to Expect: ✅ Hands-on Experiments: Messy, marvelous, and educational. ✅ Skill Building: Focused on fine motor, sensory, and cognitive growth. ✅ Community: A welcoming environment for toddlers and caregivers alike. 🎟️ Your Registration Includes: A 60-minute guided STEAM class plus Full Access to the PlaySpace after class. It’s the perfect way to transition from "Learning Mode" to "Social Mode."

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.

The Ultimate Slime Makers Camp Get ready to plunge into a world where creativity meets chemistry! This isn't just a camp; it's a deep dive into the art of making, designing, and innovating with two of the most fun materials on earth: SLIME and CARDBOARD! Design, Build, and Innovate! Tap into your inner Slime Scientist. Campers will get to use our Innovation Lab. Every day is a new challenge: Slime Engineering: We'll master a new formula or slime-related project daily. Creative Construction: Put your building skills to the test! We'll use recycled materials and other building supplies to design and construct unique "slime houses" and structures worthy of your creations. Custom Containment: Every masterpiece needs a home. We will design and decorate some custom containers and storage solutions for our slimy creations. This is the perfect opportunity to combine science, engineering, creativity, and messy fun. Come ready to embrace the goo! Quick Tip for Slime Scientists: Please wear old clothing that can be permanently covered in colorful, slimy goo! All of the camps come together for lunch, recess breaks, and special events. There are free choice activities in the morning/afternoon including games and crafts. ***REGISTER BY APRIL 24th to RECEIVE A FREE SUMMER AT SEA CREST T-SHIRT*** Please look out for an email (sent to the email you register with) a week or two prior to the start of camp with more details, including any special days happening that week. Our aftercare at camp runs from 3:00pm-4:00pm the charge is an additional $15 a day, if your child is not picked up by 3:05pm they will automatically be checked into aftercare and we will charge the card on file. Aftercare after a long camp day is definitely a time for decompression and may include board games and/or educational films. We also combine all campers at this time including our JK/TK and kindergarten camp. All camps will run contingent upon a certain number of campers signing up. If your camp is cancelled, you will be notified at least 30 days prior. We may also combine the 1st and 2nd grade camps with the 3rd-6th grade camps if there is low enrollment. Cancellation Policy: Registrations canceled at least 30 days prior to the start of camp will receive a full refund. Registrations canceled 15-29 days prior to camp will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations within 14 days of the start of camp will not be refunded. Please wear sunscreen and bring a jacket daily because we never know what coastal weather will bring. Campers are required to bring a lunch, snack and water bottle daily.

In AI Pioneers, our emerging engineers will learn how to create projects for social good with Python programming language. Through hands-on coding, students will learn how computers can use data to solve complex problems like natural language processing and computer vision. Led by Stanford, MIT, and Ivy League alumni and grad students, students will explore the ways they can meaningfully use AI to predict heart disease, create social robots, assist with disaster relief, and navigate autonomous vehicles. In our curriculum, we emphasize ethical responsibility, career paths in artificial intelligence, and interdisciplinary applications! From beginner to advanced coders, we envision a future where students of all backgrounds can contribute towards a bright future of inclusivity and technological advancement. Per our Summer Camp Handbook, this is a cell phone free event. ***REGISTER BY APRIL 24th to RECEIVE A FREE SUMMER AT SEA CREST T-SHIRT*** Please look out for an email (sent to the email you register with) a week or two prior to the start of camp with more details. A technology agreement must be signed by the camper and parent or guardian in order to participate, please look for this in an email. All camps will run contingent upon a certain number of campers signing up. If your camp is cancelled, you will be notified at least 30 days prior. Cancellation Policy: Registrations canceled at least 30 days prior to the start of camp will receive a full refund. Registrations canceled 15-29 days prior to camp will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations within 14 days of the start of camp will not be refunded. Please wear sunscreen and bring a jacket daily because we never know what coastal weather will bring. Campers are required to bring a lunch, snack and water bottle daily.

Learn how technology thinks — not just how to use it. Coding isn’t about memorizing commands or trying to compete with AI. It’s about learning how to think clearly, logically, and creatively in a digital world...and that skill is more important than ever. In Coding 101, students are introduced to the fundamentals of programming in a way that is approachable, engaging, and confidence-building. Through hands-on projects and interactive challenges, campers learn how code actually works behind the scenes — and how humans guide technology to do meaningful things. This camp focuses on core thinking skills: Breaking big problems into smaller steps Recognizing patterns Testing ideas and fixing mistakes Understanding cause and effect These are the same skills used by software engineers, game designers, data scientists — and even the teams who build and train AI systems. What students will do: Learn the basics of coding logic and structure Write programs and interactive projects Understand how computers “follow instructions” Practice problem-solving, debugging, and iteration Build confidence working with technology, not just consuming it For Loops, If/Else Statements, While Loops used daily by software engineers! Rather than treating coding as a rigid or intimidating subject, Coding 101 makes it accessible and empowering. Students leave with a strong foundation that prepares them for more advanced camps like game design, robotics, Minecraft modding, and beyond. For parents wondering whether coding is still relevant in an AI-powered world: AI doesn’t replace coding — it amplifies the people who understand it. Learning to code helps students become creators, problem-solvers, and critical thinkers who can shape technology instead of being shaped by it. This camp is an ideal starting point for students who are curious about how technology works and want to build skills that will serve them across school, careers, and life.

We're going to unlock all the incredible, hidden secrets of botany. You'll transform into a buddy botanist, discovering exactly how plants grow, what they 'eat,' and how they stay super healthy. Our hands-on fun includes awesome seed extractions – carefully freeing tiny seeds from tasty fruits and veggies! Then, grab your imaginary lab coats as we become soil chemists, figuring out the perfect recipe for happy, healthy soil. But the best part? You'll plant your own seeds and witness the pure magic of life as they sprout and grow! This camp includes a trip to the Children's Garden in the Golden Gate Park on Friday. Students will take the Muni to the designation.

Design games. Build worlds. Bring ideas to life. In Game Makers Lab, campers become game designers as they create their own 2D video games from start to finish—no traditional coding required. Using Flowlab, a powerful and intuitive game design platform, students design characters, build imaginative levels, and define how their games work. Inspired by classic games like Super Mario, Donkey Kong, and Space Invaders, campers learn how professional game designers think about gameplay, movement, challenges, and fun. While there’s no typing code in this camp, students still learn the logic behind game design—using visual tools to control physics, triggers, and interactions that bring their games to life. What students will do: Design and build original 2D video games Create characters, enemies, power-ups, and levels Use visual logic to control gameplay and interactions Explore physics, movement, and game mechanics Playtest, refine, and share their games with others This camp is perfect for creative students who love games and want to understand how they’re built, even if they’re new to programming. It’s also a great stepping-stone into more advanced game design, Minecraft Modding, and coding camps. Ages: 9+ Prerequisite: Basic keyboarding skills; no prior coding experience required Game Makers Lab empowers students to turn imagination into interactive experiences—and often sparks a deeper interest in coding and game development.

Give your child the best of both worlds this summer a place to play, explore, and grow while building the skills that set them up for academic success. At All-Star Academy, we believe in the power of hands-on learning through play, where every adventure sparks curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving. Reserve your spot today for an unforgettable experience!

Step into a world where baking is alchemy, blending science, creativity, and art to transform wholesome ingredients into extraordinary creations! In this camp, kids will explore the intersection of cooking, STEM, and artistic expression, crafting a variety of sweet and savory dishes while uncovering the magic behind every recipe. Each session sparks curiosity, builds confidence, and inspires creativity in the kitchen. Your young baker will: -Discover the science behind baking, from rising dough to golden crusts -Experiment with new ingredients and techniques to create both classics and inventive twists -Build essential skills through hands-on measuring, mixing, and tasting -Develop kitchen safety habits and a confident, intuitive approach to baking 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

Unleash Your Child's Creativity This Summer! Calling all young creators for an unforgettable summer filled with imagination, self-expression, and fun! Creator's Camp inspires campers to connect with their creativity while developing their skills in storytelling, art, music, and hands-on projects. Guided by award-winning Lando educators, campers will explore painting, drawing, and arts and crafts—engaging their hands, heads, and hearts while building lasting friendships. Weekly Schedule Each week combines traditional camp activities with specialized Lando classes. Campers attend two Lando sessions on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday (each class offered twice weekly), with Wednesdays reserved for exciting field trips. Field Trips: 1st-3rd Grade - Gilroy Gardens, Gilroy 4th-5th Grade - Great America, Santa Clara Campers will experience Four Award-Winning Lando Classes: Summer LEGO® Robotics Lab – Build a new robot daily using LEGO® bricks, motors, and sensors. Tackle the Kickoff Challenge, then upgrade during Engineering Sprints. Explore gears, pulleys, and measurable goals like distance and lift. Storyboarding and Comic Sketching – Create a finished storyboard each class. Learn drawing techniques and storytelling, then bring ideas to life during Studio Time with collaborative jams and peer feedback. Clay Sculpting and Scene Building – Sculpt connected scenes across the week. Practice techniques in daily warm-ups, then pinch, coil, and build your world—from beach stalls to sea monsters—for the Showcase Parade. Mini-Game Coding Studio – Code arcade games using Lando's Scratch-based iPad app. Build and remix multi-level mini-games, then test each other's creations in Playtest Lab while learning loops, events, and variables. Families receive weekly emails with photos, skills summaries, and ideas to continue exploring at home. Enroll today and watch your child's confidence and creativity soar!

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.

Turn creativity into content - and ideas into polished videos. In YouTube Creator Lab, campers learn what it really takes to create engaging video content - from planning and filming to editing and presentation. This camp focuses on creative storytelling, video production, and responsible content creation, not just posting videos online. Throughout the week, students use a professional video-editing application to transform raw footage into polished videos. They learn how thoughtful editing choices - like titles, transitions, music, and effects - can dramatically improve the quality and impact of a video. Campers also explore what makes content compelling and learn best practices around audience engagement, branding, and digital citizenship, helping them understand how creators grow channels responsibly and creatively. What students will do: Plan and storyboard video ideas Edit videos using industry-standard tools Add titles, transitions, music, and visual effects Learn the basics of storytelling and audience engagement Explore how creators grow channels and build an online presence This camp is perfect for students who enjoy video, storytelling, creativity, and media production. Whether they dream of being a creator or simply want to build valuable digital skills, campers leave with confidence and a stronger understanding of how content is made. Prerequisite: Basic computer and keyboarding skills Ages: 10–15 YouTube Creator Lab pairs well with Game Design, Pixel Art, and other creative technology camps for students who love expressing ideas through digital media.

Camp Footsteps Junior Explorers 2026 A Summer of Discovery, Creativity, and Fun! At Camp Footsteps Junior Explorers 2026, children entering TK through first grade will embark on a summer filled with imagination, friendship, and adventure. Each themed week is thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and encourage creativity through hands-on learning and play. From inventing and building during Maker’s Week to celebrating freedom and culture during Juneteenth: Freedom to Dream Week, every day brings new opportunities to explore, create, and grow. Campers will enjoy a wide variety of engaging activities, including art projects, outdoor games, field trips, science explorations, cooking projects, and meaningful community experiences that connect learning with fun. Our experienced and caring staff create a safe, nurturing environment where young children are encouraged to try new things, develop friendships, and discover their unique strengths. Whether your child is a budding artist, an enthusiastic explorer, or a hands-on maker, Camp Footsteps Junior Explorers 2026 offers an unforgettable summer filled with laughter, learning, and lasting memories. July 27–31 – No-Bake Chefs Week Field Trip: Gilroy Gardens At "Camp Footsteps: No-Bake Chefs", children will discover the joy of cooking without ever turning on an oven! Young chefs will learn to prepare fun, tasty, and healthy snacks and meals using simple tools and fresh ingredients. From fruit kabobs to no-bake granola bars, smoothies, and creative wraps, campers will gain confidence in the kitchen while exploring flavors and teamwork. The week will end with a vegetable pizza from our garden—a delicious celebration of what they’ve learned! Special Event: Footsteps Farmers Market & Tasting Day Campers prepare their favorite no-bake snacks and set up tasting tables for staff and families. They’ll create recipe cards to send home and compete in a fun “Top Chef” challenge with ribbons for presentation, creativity, and teamwork.

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

Camp Footsteps Junior Explorers 2026 A Summer of Discovery, Creativity, and Fun! At Camp Footsteps Junior Explorers 2026, children entering TK through first grade will embark on a summer filled with imagination, friendship, and adventure. Each themed week is thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and encourage creativity through hands-on learning and play. From inventing and building during Maker’s Week to celebrating freedom and culture during Juneteenth: Freedom to Dream Week, every day brings new opportunities to explore, create, and grow. Campers will enjoy a wide variety of engaging activities, including art projects, outdoor games, field trips, science explorations, cooking projects, and meaningful community experiences that connect learning with fun. Our experienced and caring staff create a safe, nurturing environment where young children are encouraged to try new things, develop friendships, and discover their unique strengths. Whether your child is a budding artist, an enthusiastic explorer, or a hands-on maker, Camp Footsteps Junior Explorers 2026 offers an unforgettable summer filled with laughter, learning, and lasting memories. Week 3 – Hooray for Hollywood Field Trip: Mugglebee’s Play Performance Lights, camera, action! This exciting week invites campers to step into the spotlight and explore the magic of movies and theater. Children will design costumes, create props, learn simple stage skills, and even try out being directors and actors in short skits. From making star-worthy crafts to walking the “red carpet,” campers will discover how imagination and teamwork bring stories to life. The week will end with a mini showcase where our Hollywood stars can shine for friends and family. Special Event: Red Carpet Premiere Day Campers perform skits or share short videos they’ve made during the week. There will be a photo wall and fun award certificates such as Best Director, Most Creative, and Best Teamwork.

DESCRIPTION This course covers the evolution and impact of automation and robotics, teaching students about mechanical systems and computer control through hands-on projects using VEX Robotics to create objects like traffic lights and robotic arms. KEY CONCEPTS VEX Code Engineering Electricity 3D Modeling 3D Printing Art of Design SPRINTS Robotic Fundamentals Robotics with VEX IQ Advanced Robotics 3D Modeling Midterm Robotics Project Electricity Electricity II Engineering Design Final Project: Build a Complex Robot SOFT SKILLS Teamwork Project Development and Ideation Fine Motor Skills and Coordination Critical Observation OUTCOMEs 3D Printed Innovation Small Scale Smart Home Simulation Robot Design Solution

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.

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.

This combination class still offers students a sampling of art projects using various media such as clay, painting, watercolors, printmaking, collage, and pastels. Several projects are “built upon” each class, so that students experience a variety of mediums and take home several projects. Students encouraged to create their own designs by using new materials and mediums. New materials are introduced, and students are guided in how to interpret their project design. Projects are new every session, so sign up for all sessions.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.

This combination class offers children a sampling of art projects using various media such as painting, clay, watercolors, collage, and pastels. It is amazing what you can create when you explore with your imagination. A variety of materials are used to create your many masterpieces – Many projects are “built upon” each class, so that students experience a variety of mediums and take home several projects. Projects are new every session & seasonal, so sign-up for all sessions.

This combination class offers children a sampling of art projects using various media such as painting, clay, watercolors, collage, and pastels. It is amazing what you can create when you explore with your imagination. A variety of materials are used to create your many masterpieces – Many projects are “built upon” each class, so that students experience a variety of mediums and take home several projects. Projects are new every session & seasonal, so sign-up for all sessions.