Summer Science Spectacular: Dive into Discovery in The Lawrence Summer Camps!

Imagine how much your child could learn exploring The Lawrence for two weeks straight. They could learn how to search for constellations in the night sky, discover why some animals are able to change color, or invent their own contraptions. Summer Camps at The Lawrence are all of your young explorer’s favorite things about our science center rolled into one long action-packed experience filled with experiments, discovery, and fun!

“I want all of our campers to gain the confidence to further explore the topics they enjoy, and to know that science can be fun!”

Shira Baskind, Associate Director of Elementary Camps

Summer Camps have long been an essential part of our work to engage young scientists with quality science learning experiences. The Lawrence offers two-week programs for campers entering first through sixth grade with in-depth exploration of science topics like animal behavior, space exploration, and more. Campers get in-depth explorations while also enjoying everything that makes a summer camp experience so memorable for 

Our camp programs follow the same philosophy behind many of our exhibits and activities: making science and math topics accessible and digestible to young learners, even those who haven’t had positive experiences with science in more formal education settings. We foster an inclusive, exciting, and supportive environment for campers to follow their natural curiosity about science and the world around them.

“So often, topics in STEM are so inaccessible to kids that they don’t have the chance to build a love and passion for them,” said Shira Baskind, Associate Director of Elementary Camps at The Lawrence. “Even when kids have access to STEM learning, the content is often delivered in a way that is not consumable for them, and thus subjects such as science and math are seen as too difficult or even scary or intimidating. By creating engaging, age-appropriate programs, hiring supportive and understanding staff, and being in a space as amazing as The Lawrence, our campers can get excited about science, potentially for the first time ever!”

So what does a day in the life of a Lawrence camper actually look like? After check-in, campers meet in their camp room on C-level and prepare for a day of exploration. Each day provides a mix of guided activities and experiments related to the camp topic, exploration of interactive exhibits on the museum floor, and fun playtime outdoors.

For example, first graders in our Moon Explorers camp may start their day learning about how space suits help astronauts survive in space while constructing their own mock space helmets using recycled materials. Then, they’ll head upstairs to explore the night sky in an interactive Planetarium show. During lunch and breaks, they’ll head outside to our Outdoor Nature Lab, where they can run around, play with friends, or explore the native flora and fauna around them. They’ll also have ample opportunities for arts and crafts and other typical summer camp activities.

“Our camps are unique in the way they combine learning and discovery of science with the enjoyment and excitement of summer camp,” said Shira Baskind. “Our campers explore science topics through hands-on experiments and projects, while also having time in the day to run around outside, make friendship bracelets, play soccer, and enjoy the sun with their friends.”

In addition to our unique setting, our camp teachers are what make our camps truly special. Camps are led by expert museum educators, as well as passionate teens who are trained to foster a fun and supportive learning environment for campers. Each camp is led by two skilled teachers, and supported by our amazing camp staff. Our teen interns know how to strike the perfect balance between learning and fun!

“I really appreciate that the teacher took the time to explain some more complicated science concepts to my child,” said one camp parent.

“This is the best teacher I’ve ever met in my entire life,” said another camp parent. “She is so sensitive, intelligent, attentive, and she knows how to really listen to the kids.”

Summer camps can provide a formative experience for kids, fostering new friendships and potentially a lifelong love of science and learning. We hope our programs can be a part of your child’s learning experience. Registration for this summer is open now.

“I want all of our campers to gain the confidence to further explore the topics they enjoy, and to know that science can be fun! I hope that our programs empower kids of all backgrounds to enjoy science, even if it can be challenging at times,” said Shira Baskind.