Camps for Youth from Grades 4-6 (age 9-12)

Skills-based Summer Camps with LINKS @ Loyalist College take an interactive, discovery approach.  Our Skills-based camps provide opportunities for learners to enhance their skill set and gain hands-on experience in a skilled trade.

Camp Registration and Camp Subsidy Applications NOW OPEN!

Application review will begin in May, on a first-apply, first-approved basis, and continue until spots are filled.  All applicants are subject to College policies; details can be found at Important Camp Information.

Idea Forge: Inventor’s Lab Camp

JUL 8-12

Welcome to a world where imagination meets creation, and dreams are drafted into reality! Idea Forge: The Inventor’s Lab Camp is a thrilling adventure into the heart of innovation and invention, designed especially for curious minds aged 9-12.
Our future leaders in innovation will:

• Explore an Inventor’s Playground: Leap into the exciting realm of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math), where you’ll get your hands busy with real tools and materials. From sketches on paper to tangible prototypes, witness your wildest ideas take shape!
• Engage in Engineering Escapades: Uncover the secrets of engineering design, where every problem is a puzzle waiting to be solved. You’ll learn the nuts and bolts of turning concepts into creations, all while thinking like a true engineer!
• Throw a Prototype Party: Join the party where invention is the guest of honor! You’ll design, build, and test your prototypes, making each iteration better than the last. This is where your ideas jump off the page and come to life!
• Lead a BioScience Collaboration Station: Teamwork makes the dream work! Collaborate with fellow bio inventors to mix, match, and merge ideas into extraordinary experiments. Here, every voice counts, and every idea is a spark of genius!
• Showcase Ideas on Display Day: Cap off camp by showcasing your prototypes and bioscience experiments at the Idea Forge Exhibition. Share your creations and discoveries with the world and take pride in the incredible work you’ve accomplished!

By the end of camp, everyone will feel inspired to continue on their inventive journey, knowing creativity knows no bounds, and truly believing they are inventor in the making. Welcome to the Idea Forge: where we dream, design, and do!

COST $285.00

Game Design Camp for Kids: Leadership Through Creative Game Development

JUL 8-12

At our Kids Game Design Camp at Loyalist College, we ignite the spark of innovation and leadership in young minds through the exciting world of game development. In this unique and immersive camp experience, campers transform their imaginative game concepts into playable realities, utilizing industry-standard tools and software.

At camp, our young Game Designers will:

• Explore Game Design Fundamentals: Understand the principles of gameplay and level design, paving the way for innovative game creation
• Craft and Construct: Build engaging levels and dynamic environments, infusing each project with creativity and strategic thinking
• Program with Purpose: Learn visual programming languages to bring game mechanics to life, enhancing problem-solving skills
• Learn Real-World Skills for Future Leaders: Acquire essential game development skills that are directly applicable to the tech industry, emphasizing project management and leadership
• Work with the Pros: Benefit from the wisdom and experience of an instructor with Triple-A game production experience, gaining insights into leadership roles within the tech sector
• Collaborate Creatively: Engage in team-building exercises that emphasize the importance of leadership, communication, and cooperation in the game development process

By the end of camp, each camper will have not only harnessed the tools and techniques of game design but also cultivated a strong foundation in leadership and collaborative skills. They will leave with a portfolio of their own creations, a deeper understanding of the game development process, and the confidence to envision and pursue their role as future leaders in technology and innovation. This transformative experience lays the groundwork for them to become not just participants in the digital world, but pioneers who shape its evolution with creativity, vision, and an inclusive, team-oriented approach.

COST $285.00

Minecraft Modding and Game Design Camp: Unleashing Creativity and Leadership

JUL 15-19

Discover the transformative power of modding in the Minecraft Modding and Game Design camp! This experience empowers campers to become leaders in innovation by customizing their Minecraft experience, crafting unique mods that showcase their creativity and technical skills.

At camp, our young Minecraft Masters will:

• Master Minecraft Modding: Dive into the world of Minecraft modding, learning to manipulate and enhance the game environment
• Learn Tools of Innovation: Utilize advanced tools such as MCreator and Java, fostering technical prowess and creative thinking
• Bring Ideas to Life: Develop custom items, blocks, and entities, translating imaginative concepts into tangible game elements
• Experiment with Coding for Creators: Experiment with coding to implement unique gameplay features, enhancing logical thinking and leadership in problem-solving
• Engage in Collaborative Game Testing: Share and test mods with peers, fostering a community of feedback and improvement, crucial for leadership development
• Receive Mentorship from Experts: Receive guidance from experienced instructors, learning the nuances of leadership in the context of game design and development

By the end of camp, each camper will have transformed from a player to a creator within the Minecraft universe, equipped with a comprehensive set of modding skills and a newfound perspective on leadership and collaboration. They will depart with their own custom mods, ready to share with the Minecraft community, and a bolstered confidence in their ability to lead projects, solve complex problems creatively, and work effectively in teams. This empowering experience not only enriches their technical and creative abilities but also instills the critical leadership qualities of communication, adaptability, and strategic thinking, laying the foundation for their future roles as innovators and leaders in technology and beyond.

COST $285.00

GirlTech BioArt Camp

JUL 15-19

Dive into the vibrant world of biology, chemistry, and art with our GirlTech BioArt Camp, exclusively designed for young girls and those who identify as such. At camp, we foster a nurturing, explorative environment where campers are encouraged to discover the wonders of science and the creativity of art, breaking new ground as future leaders and innovators.

At camp, our young BioArt Innovators will:

• Discover the Magic of BioArt: Explore the fascinating world where biology and art intersect, learning how living organisms can become the medium and muse for artistic expression
• Confidently Create with Chemistry: Delve into the colorful and reactive world of chemistry to create art that changes and evolves, demonstrating the dynamic nature of science
• Explore Nature’s Palette: Use the beauty and complexity of nature to inspire art projects, understanding the science behind the colors and patterns in the natural world
• Create Scientifically Inspired Art: Learn how to incorporate scientific concepts and techniques into art, from microscopy-inspired drawings to chemical reaction paintings, blending accuracy with creativity
• Learn about Leadership in STEAM: Engage in activities that highlight the role of women in STEAM, promoting leadership, teamwork, and confidence in a field where they are traditionally underrepresented
• Be Inspired and Mentored: Engage with women leaders and innovators in the fields of biology, chemistry, and art, offering campers role models and mentors to inspire their journey

By the end of camp, each camper will:
Have developed a unique portfolio of BioArt, showcasing their ability to intertwine the disciplines of biology, chemistry, and art in innovative ways. They will gain a comprehensive understanding of how science can inform art and vice versa, fostering a deep appreciation for the interdisciplinary nature of knowledge. With newfound skills, confidence, and a vision for the future, campers will be poised to become leaders who challenge the boundaries between science and art, ready to make their mark on the world as champions of creativity and scientific inquiry.

COST $285.00

Roblox Modding and Game Design: Leading the Way in User-Created Gaming

JUL 22-26

Enter the expansive world of Roblox with our Roblox Modding and Game Design camp at Loyalist College! This camp is designed to inspire the next generation of game designers and leaders, offering campers the tools and knowledge to create their own games within the Roblox universe.

At camp, our young Game Designers will:

• Explore Unlimited Creativity in Roblox: Explore the vast potential of Roblox Studio to create games that push the boundaries of imagination
• Enhance Skill Development in Modding: Gain proficiency in Roblox Studio, learning to design custom assets and gameplay mechanics that engage and inspire
• Craft Interactive Design: Craft interactive and dynamic game elements, focusing on user experience and creative storytelling
• Harness the Power of Teamwork and Leadership: Collaborate with peers in a creative sandbox, leading projects from the ideation phase to execution, highlighting the importance of leadership in creative endeavors
• Learn about Safe Community Engagement: Participate in the vibrant Roblox community, learning to navigate and contribute to a global platform of creators and innovators
• Receive Guidance from Seasoned Developers: Learn from instructors with firsthand experience in Roblox game creation, providing insights into leadership in the digital and creative sectors

By the end of camp, each camper will have become a pioneer in the Roblox world, armed with the skills to design, develop, and deploy their own unique games. They will leave with a deep understanding of game design principles, a portfolio of original projects, and a newfound confidence in their ability to lead and collaborate within digital creation spaces. This experience not only empowers them with the technical skills required for game development but also instills essential leadership qualities such as creativity, strategic planning, and community engagement. Ultimately, campers will step into the future ready to make their mark as innovative game designers and collaborative leaders in the ever-evolving universe of user-generated gaming.

COST $285.00

Creative Makerspace Camp: An Inclusive STEAM Adventure

Registration opening soon!

AUG 6-9

Welcome to Creative Makerspace Camp, where innovation and imagination are accessible to all! This specialized half-day camp is tailored for youth living with physical and/or cognitive disabilities, ages 9-12, to delve into the wonderful world of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math). Our unique program embraces diversity and promotes an inclusive environment where every camper can express their creativity, experiment with technology, and engage in the joy of making.

With 1:1 support, each day at Creative Makerspace Camp is a journey through creativity, hands-on learning, and joyful discovery meeting campers where they are at. Our activities are designed to be adaptable, ensuring that campers of all abilities can participate fully, comfortably and meaningfully.

Our campers will:

• Explore Adaptive Crafting Corners: Utilize a wide range of accessible materials and tools to create art that expresses the camper’s individual perspective and use modified techniques and assistive technology available to ensure everyone can craft their vision
• Learn Robotics is Fun for Everyone: Dive into the basics of robotics with kits that are designed for various skill levels, including adaptive interfaces for those with limited motor skills. Programming and control tasks will be tailored to the cognitive abilities of each camper, ensuring a rewarding experience
• Experience Artistic Expression Through Technology: Explore digital art with touch screens, eye-tracking software, and other adaptive technologies and collaborate on a group mural that incorporates elements from each camper’s individual work
• Explore Sensory Science: Engage in science activities that delight the senses, such as tactile astronomy or sound wave experiments, making STEAM subjects accessible to all

Additional Camp Features:

• Sensory Break Spaces: Quiet zones equipped with sensory tools to provide a restful space when needed
• Peer Buddies and Support Staff: Trained staff and peer buddies to provide one-on-one assistance, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and empowering environment
• Show and Tell Showcase: An end-of-camp celebration where campers can showcase their creations to family and friends, highlighting the camp’s collaborative and individual accomplishments
• Take-Home Kits: Campers will receive customized take-home kits with materials and instructions for activities they can enjoy beyond the camp
• Ongoing Community Connection: Access to an online platform for campers to continue sharing ideas, artwork, and inventions with their peers and camp staff

At Creative Makerspace Camp, we believe that every child has the potential to be a maker, an artist, and an innovator. Join us for a half-day filled with creativity, friendship, and the magic of making dreams into tangible realities, all in an inclusive and supportive STEAM environment.

GirlTech BioArt Camp

AUG 12-16

Dive into the vibrant world of biology, chemistry, and art with our GirlTech BioArt Camp, exclusively designed for young girls and those who identify as such. At camp, we foster a nurturing, explorative environment where campers are encouraged to discover the wonders of science and the creativity of art, breaking new ground as future leaders and innovators.

At camp, our young BioArt Innovators will:

• Discover the Magic of BioArt: Explore the fascinating world where biology and art intersect, learning how living organisms can become the medium and muse for artistic expression
• Confidently Create with Chemistry: Delve into the colorful and reactive world of chemistry to create art that changes and evolves, demonstrating the dynamic nature of science
• Explore Nature’s Palette: Use the beauty and complexity of nature to inspire art projects, understanding the science behind the colors and patterns in the natural world
• Create Scientifically Inspired Art: Learn how to incorporate scientific concepts and techniques into art, from microscopy-inspired drawings to chemical reaction paintings, blending accuracy with creativity
• Learn about Leadership in STEAM: Engage in activities that highlight the role of women in STEAM, promoting leadership, teamwork, and confidence in a field where they are traditionally underrepresented
• Be Inspired and Mentored: Engage with women leaders and innovators in the fields of biology, chemistry, and art, offering campers role models and mentors to inspire their journey

By the end of camp, each camper will:
Have developed a unique portfolio of BioArt, showcasing their ability to intertwine the disciplines of biology, chemistry, and art in innovative ways. They will gain a comprehensive understanding of how science can inform art and vice versa, fostering a deep appreciation for the interdisciplinary nature of knowledge. With newfound skills, confidence, and a vision for the future, campers will be poised to become leaders who challenge the boundaries between science and art, ready to make their mark on the world as champions of creativity and scientific inquiry.

COST $285.00

Science Behind Sports Camp

Registration opening soon!

AUG 12-16

Welcome to the Science Behind Sports Camp, where young athletes and budding scientists come together for an exhilarating 4 and a half days of action-packed learning! This camp is designed not just to educate but to empower kids with life skills through the lens of sports and science.

Young leaders in sport science will:

• Explore Where Brain Meets Brawn: Dive into the fascinating world of sports science, where your child will discover that the heart of athleticism beats with the pulse of physics. They’ll explore how gravity, force, and motion come into play in their favorite sports, from the arch of a basketball shot to the aerodynamics of a swimmer slicing through water
• Use Data-Driven Athletics: In the digital age, data is king, and sports are no exception. Our campers will learn about athletic performance analytics, using real-life stats and technology to measure and improve their sporting prowess. It’s about more than just numbers; it’s about understanding how to set goals, measure progress, and strive for personal bests.
• Experience Inventive Minds at Work: What does it take to design the perfect soccer cleat or the most aerodynamic bicycle? At our camp, your child will get hands-on experience with sports equipment engineering. They’ll take on the role of innovators, learning problem-solving and critical thinking skills as they tinker and create.
• Enhance their Teamwork and Leadership Skills: Sports are a natural place to foster teamwork and leadership. Our campers will engage in collaborative projects, learning how to communicate effectively, lead by example, and support their teammates. These are skills that will serve them on the field, in the classroom, and throughout life.
• Learn Life Skills Through STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math): Our curriculum is carefully crafted to integrate life skills into every STEAM activity. Time management, resilience, and adaptability are just a few of the competencies your child will develop. They’ll leave the camp not just with a deeper appreciation for the science behind sports but also equipped with skills that will help them navigate the world with confidence.
• Celebrate A Grand Finale: On the last day of camp, we celebrate! Campers will showcase their engineering projects and participate in a mini-Olympics where they apply their newfound knowledge. It’s a time for reflection, recognition, and looking ahead to how they can apply their skills both on and off the field.

Join us for the Science Behind Sports Camp and watch your child transform into a STEAM-powered athlete with the skills to succeed in every arena of life!

COST $285.00

Racing Into Science: The Mechanics of Speed Camp

AUG 19-23

Embark on a thrilling journey at the crossroads of imagination and innovation with our Racing into Science: The Mechanics of Speed camp! Designed for young minds passionate about the pulsating world of speed and motion, this camp is your child’s ticket to an adrenaline-fueled educational adventure.

Our young speed scientists will:

• Build, Race, and Learn: Campers will dive headfirst into the dynamic principles of physics as they design, build, and race their very own mini-cars. They’ll experience first-hand how forces act on moving objects and learn how to harness these forces to their advantage. It’s a chance to put theory into practice, culminating in a mini-car grand prix that’s as competitive as it is educational.
• Learn How Creativity Meets Aerodynamics: What do racing suits and art have in common? Your child will discover the intricate dance between form and function as they design racing suits that slice through air like a knife through butter. They’ll learn about drag, air resistance, and the importance of aesthetics in the engineering world, bridging the gap between the arts and sciences in a way that sparks a lifetime of curiosity.
• Analyze Fast Movement: Speed isn’t just about vehicles — it’s also about the human body. Campers will explore the biomechanics of fast movement, understanding how athletes optimize their bodies for peak performance. Through interactive activities, they’ll get to analyze and experience the science behind sprinting, jumping, and more.
• STEAM-Powered Education: This camp isn’t just about understanding speed — it’s about preparing for the future. Campers will engage with STEAM concepts through hands-on activities that encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. They’ll leave with not just a deeper knowledge of how things move quickly, but also with skills that apply to all walks of life.
• The Race to the Future: On the final day, we’ll reflect on our camp journey, share stories of triumphs and learnings, and look ahead to how we can apply these new insights. As we wave the checkered flag, each camper will have a map of their personal achievements and a vision for how they can contribute to the fast-moving world of science and technology.

Join us at Racing into Science: The Mechanics of Speed Camp for a STEAM experience that’s as fun as it is informative, where your child will not only race mini-cars but also race towards their potential!

COST $285.00