Children can discover a passion for science, mathematics, innovation and ingenuity at Camp Invention in New London.
A program of Invent Now, the camp is designed to help prepare children by facilitating their knowledge of 21st century skills.
Camp Invention programming provides STEM enrichment: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) concepts are explored via hands-on, creative problem solving activities. Camp Invention inspires children to be curious about their world and prepares them for the future –
orking in teams, children are presented with real-world challenges that promote the direct application of critical-thinking and communication skills demanded by colleges, careers and citizenship in the 21st century.
Kristin Grable, principal at Readfield and Sugar Bush Elementary schools, is the program director for Camp Invention, which will be held June 17-21 at Parkview Elementary School. She spoke to the New London Rotary Club last week to explain the program.
“I am a parent of two boys who like to build things and take things apart,” said Grable. “So I understand the value of this program, and I’ve seen that it’s something our kids enjoy.
“I became a Camp Invention instructor while teaching in Oshkosh. Last year, we brought the camp to New London. It was a great time, and we’re excited to offer it again this year,” she continued. “Last year, we expected 50 campers and wound up with 61. We already have 30 signed up for this year.”
Grable said the camp is designed to get kids excited about science and invention projects. Physical fitness games are also incorporated.
“There is lots of team building and a ‘discovery approach’ with Camp Invention,” said Grable. “We don’t tell kids the answer – we just help them find their way to the answer. The teacher-to-student ratio is about 1:8. Camp Invention curriculum is nationally renowned and is created by professionals. The curriculum aligns with national and state standards. The program is taught by local, certified teachers.”
Grable said the camp adds to the district and community’s summer offerings. Local organizations and businesses are already on board with scholarship donations, and families don’t have to meet any criteria for their children to be able to attend Camp Invention via scholarship monies.
“The base cost of the week-long program is $220 per child, but nobody ever pays full price,” said Grable. “Donations from area businesses and organizations are used as scholarships to help students whose families can’t afford full tuition.”
At the end of the camp, a special Inventor’s Showcase event is held. The event provides families with a glimpse of the week via pictures and student presentations and finally a tour of all of the modules campers experienced.
To learn more about Camp Invention or make a scholarship donation, contact Grable via email at [email protected] or call 920-667-4265.