Here’s your 2015 guide to summer camps on Mercer Island. With so many options to choose from, your child is bound to be a happy camper all summer long.
Destination Science
Destination Science programs are fun-packed, one week day camps led by top notch, enthusiastic educators and leaders where kids get to have “Aha!” moments of creativity and discovery while building and playing with unique take-home toys, astonishing gadgets, and fantastic gizmos. These full-day camps are offered at Lakeridge Elementary school.
Amazing Superhero Science (Grades K – 6) – Become a caped crusader as you build your own electronic Super Hero Racer and get ready for race day. Defy the laws of Physics as you innovate and create gadgets and gears to face five engineering challenges and trap villains. Put your super senses to the test as you discover the truth behind spy ears and flash lightning speed. Grow your own sidekick and investigate invisible powers. Animals all around us have their very own super powers that we can learn from! Meet a live tarantula, beetles and other super insects. Get your own cape, electron light arm band and mask and find the hero in YOU!
Roaring Rockets and Astronaut Devices (Grades K – 6) – 3…2…1…Liftoff! Build your own Roaring Rocket and launch it over 1,000 feet skyward! Continue your space adventure by taking home your launch system and setting up mission control in your own back yard! In the afternoon, become an astronaut detective and solve a mystery spanning the solar system! We will explore the mysteries of space from an astronaut’s point of view!
Rock N Roll Gizmos & Gadgets (Grades K – 6) – Ever wonder how your favorite music is made? Amp it up! Find out how sound waves and electricity become music to your ears as you build your very own portable digital music system that goes anywhere you go! After lunch, let’s get rolling! Accelerate your knowledge of gravity, momentum, and velocity while you experiment with gears, levers, and other wacky contraptions. And if that wasn’t cool enough, discover amazing animation as you make your own 3-Dimensional cartoon, take the techno croc challenge, and much more!
Dino-Robot Creators & Raging Chemistry (Grades K – 6) – Design your very own electric powered Dino-Robot, ready to battle and race in our Jurassic Arena! Adapt your Dino-Robot to have all your favorite dinosaur features without limits – just use creativity, imagination, and fun! After lunch, enter the raging chemistry reaction lab where things fizz, pop, and glow. Get your lab gloves dirty with some slimy ooze and unlock the mystery of magic kinetic sand. Experiment with pouring instant light, growing edible polymers, exploding carbon dioxide, and much, much, more!
Visit Destination Science website >>
Bippity Bricks – Lego Summer Camps for the Serious Builder
Dragons, Elves, and Wizards (Ages 8 – 14) – This camp will develop a landscape and scenes based on the general theme of Medieval Fantasy. Participants will learn building techniques throughout the week and then apply them to planning and building their own landscape section and scene that will be part of a larger collaborative project. Together they will plot out a story, the scenery, props, and characters, and then take on individual sections to build (and take home). On Friday, they will learn the basics of stop motion animation and film a short section to tell the adventure they develop and play out using the models they have created. At the end of the week, participants will need to bring an ipad with the free app, LEGO Movie Maker installed. This camp is great for kids who enjoy building a variety of kits, want to explore how to do more interesting free building, and get ideas for how to play with what they’ve built.
Personalized Modular Building (Ages 8 – 14) – A class intended for advanced builders interested in learning how to design and build their own modular building. We will look at how real architectural details can be recreated, different styles of architecture appropriate for a modular design, how to build using standards established in the theme, and the importance of planning and interior design to making for a complete design. With over 1 million bricks in my stash, participants will be able to choose from a palette of color options, interior details, exterior styles, and design a unique building that they can add to their modular lineup. This camp is great for builders who enjoy building challenging models and are ready to take their skills and apply them to building their own highly detailed architectural model.
Mercer Island Boys & Girls Club
Since 1943, Boys & Girls Clubs of King Country has provided deserving kids with a safe place place to learn and grow, life-enhancing programs and character-development experiences, and ongoing relationships with caring, adult professionals. The MIBGC located at the PEAK facility on Mercer Island continues this mission, especially during the summer with a wide variety of day camps provided. Camps range from half to full-day and are offered in partnership with local organizations, committed to serving youth. Visit the MIGBC website (click on “register” under Programs drop-down menu) for full camp descriptions and to registration information.
Day Camps
Voyagers (K & 1st grade) – Voyagers summer camp will provide weeks of activities based on special themes that will take us on adventures around the city and the Club. Each week, the children will spend two days at the PEAK with theme-based programming, which will utilize the gym, kitchen, outdoor space, and classrooms; one day on a theme-based field trip; one day at a swimming pool; and one day at a local beach or park.
Explorers Camp (2nd & 3rd grade) – Explorers summer camp will provide weeks of activities based on special themes that will take us on adventures around the city and the Club. Each week, the children will spend two days at the PEAK with theme-based programming, which will utilize the gym, kitchen, outdoor space, and classrooms; one day on a theme-based field trip; one day at a swimming pool; and one day at a local beach or park.
Challengers Camp (4th & 5th grade) – In this action-packed summer camp, Challengers will go on a different field trip every day. Whether we hit the beach, tour a restaurant, hike up Rattlesnake Ledge, or visit Wild Waves, there’s a new adventure awaiting us.
Middle School Camp (6th – 8th grades) – This camp will provide an enriching summer experience for every middle-schooler. Your middle-schooler will leave each session having discovered new interests and talents, made new friends, and created life-long memories.
Counselor in Training (Ages 14 – 18) – This program enables youth to give back and develop their leadership and service skills. Youth ages 14 – 18 can help with supervising field trips, serving snack, running activities, and will receive positive encouragement and guidance.
Summer Scrapbooking Camp – For the beginning to intermediate scrapbooker, this camp will start with paper basics, learning measuring techniques and putting together one-page layouts.
Sports Camps
Basketball Academy (K – 12th) – Players will work on ball handling, team work, and shooting skills to help improve their game! Coached by Kenan Oliver.
HSB Basketball Camp (K – 12th) – HSB Basketball Camp offers boys and girls the opportunity to train one-on-one with NBA players and other select pros.
Basketball Quick Handle Heat Camp (Grades 4 – 12th grade) – Quick Handle will instruct in the areas of advanced ball-handling drills and moves off the dribble. These camps are formatted to increase skill development, discipline and mental toughness. The full-day sessions will test stamina and increase physical condition, quickness, and confidence in a tough-as-nails camp.
Cheer Camp (Ages 5 – 8) – Mercer Island High School cheer leaders lead this camp in a fun week of games, dances, and cheers. All campers signed up by July 1st are guaranteed a cheer camp T-shirt and a set of maroon and white pom poms! Go MI!
Flag Football Camp (Ages 10 – 15) – Join us on the football field and get ready for some fun! Coaches will teach essential football skills and team work to get ready for daily competitions.
Football Camp (3rd – 8th grades) – Join us on the football field and get ready for the football season! Learn essential football skills and important personal development skills, such as team work, dedication, and leadership.
Skyhawks Camps – Skyhawks sports has led safe, fun, and skill-focused sports camps and programs for youth between the ages of 3-12. Our progression of camps and programs, led by our expert staff, are generated toward youth looking for a sports introduction or those who want to refine and master their sport-specific skills.
- Beginning Golf (Ages 5 – 9)
- Flag Football (Ages 6 – 12)
- Minihawks Multi-Sport (Ages 4 – 7)
- Multi-Sport (Ages 6 – 12)
Colin Rigby Soccer Camp (Grades K – 6th) – This soccer camp will introduce dribbling, passing, 1 v 1, shooting, scrimmages, and fun games to help develop skill and ability for grades K-6.
Speed and Conditioning Camp (3rd – 8th grade) – Hard work pays off! Coaches Dominique Davis and Kenan Oliver will host our speed and conditioning camp. Boys and girls will work on proper motor patterns in sprinting, balance, and change of direction, as well as body weight strength, jumping, coordination, vision, leg strength, core strength, and endurance.
Parkour Camp (Ages 6 – 12) – Brought to you by the Move Free Academy, you will learn the safest and strongest way to run, jump, and climb your way through any set of obstacles.
Volleyball Camp (6th – 10th grades) – Come have fun and work on individual skill development with Coach Dino Annest. Campers will work on basic skills to improve your level of play. Coach Dino will work on serving, transition defense and offense, ball control, movement, and attack and blocking footwork.
Yellow Yoga Camp (Ages 7 – 12) – Run by certified kids yoga teacher, Heather Feldman, our camp will include yoga, journaling, drawing, arts and crafts, yoga games, outdoor time, and relaxation.
Visit the Mercer Island Boys & Girls Club website >>
Mercer Island Boys Basketball Booster Club
Island Hoop Camp (Grades 1 – 8) – Coach Gavin Cree, his staff and select Islander alumni are again holding six intense and fun camps this summer at MIHS for players entering grades one through eight. Four sessions of Island Fundamentals camps will introduce and reinforce key fundamentals, while two Advanced Skills sessions will allow players entering grades five through eight to take their ball handling and scoring skills to the next level. Advanced Skill camps are limited to 30 players and require completion of Island Fundamentals. Camper-to-coach ratio is typically 8:1 or less. All campers receive a t-shirt and may be awarded daily and weekly prizes.
Visit the MIBBBC Island Hoop Camp website >>
Mercer Island Girls Lacrosse
Mercer Island Girls Lacrosse 12th Annual Developmental Camps (Grades 2-8) – Camps are run by MIHS Girls Varsity Coach, Liz Shields, and provide a mix of skills, drills, strategy, scrimmaging, and fun. Players from all skill levels, schools, and clubs are welcome. Sessions are June 22-26 and July 13 – 17, 9 am – 2 pm at the Mercer Island High School.
Visit the Mercer Island Girls Lacrosse website >>
Mercer Island Martial Arts
Mercer Island Martial Arts Summer Camp (Ages 6+) – Mercer Island Martial Arts summer camp teaches kids the practice of martial arts as well as valuable skills, such as anti-bullying, anger management, leadership skills, and community service. Kids will also have art lessons and will go outdoors to parks everyday. Every Friday we end the week with a big celebration and party. The camps are very structured and a lot of fun. Parents tell us they love that their kids are happy, and very tired. A great way to get a introduction to martial arts or to get a leg up on your current martial arts training.
Visit the Mercer Island Martial Arts website >>
Mercer Island Parks & Recreation Department
The Mercer Island Parks & Recreation Department offers a wide variety of partial-day and full-day camps. Full camp descriptions and registration information is available in the Spring / Summer Recreation Guide. Registration may take place through the MI Parks department or through a partnering organization.
Day Camps
Mini Mercer Camp (Ages 3 – 4) – This camp is a perfect fit for parents and campers! Each week has a creative and educational theme that includes activities, games, arts, and crafts. Themes include: Mini Mercer Madness, Fitness Fun!, Pirate Invasion, Outdoor Adventures, and Little Princesses.
Safety Town (Ages 5 – 7) – This camp teaches applicable safety information on important topics such as: traffic, earthquake, school bus riding, playground behavior, fire safety, bike safety and more.
Camp Mercer – Day Camp (Ages 6 – 11) – Experience a summer camp packed full of adventure, crafts, field trips, swimming, friends, educational activities and so much more! Weekly themes include: Construction Chaos; Farmers, Fitness & Fun; Outdoor Invasion; Pirates Plunder; Fanatic Fans; Hawaiian Hullabaloos; Movin’ & Groovin; Exciting Explorers; and Last Splash. (Full-day camp)
Music & Arts
Mercer Island Performing Arts Camp (Ages 11 – 18) – Calling young musicians! This camp will teach songwriting and performing tactics, how to arrange your own music and covers, and learn to make a music video and CD production. Plus learn to work in a band with instruction by music professionals!
Mary Art Adventures Oil Pastel Art Camp: Paws or Claws? Furs or Feathers? (Ages 5 – 12) – Campers will explore the wonderful world of nature and animals. We will learn about the animal and its habitat and create a piece of art each day! Your child will become very proficient with the many ways to use oil pastels.
Art for Kids Camp (Ages 5 – 12) – Kids will create fun projects and explore creativity using pen and ink, charcoal, soft and oil pastels, and acrylics (all supplies furnished). Students will complete approximately 8 finished art pieces.
Jeff Johnson’s Cartooniversity Day Camp (Ages 9 – 14) – A unique opportunity for kids of any skill level to learn all aspects of cartoon drawing from local editorial cartoonist Jeff Johnson. Multiple projects allow students to explore a wide range of cartooning techniques.
Youth Tech Inc.
Web Studio (Ages 10 – 17) – This class is a combination of the animation and web design classes. Students will learn to create fun interactive animations and also the basics of web design and how to publish their animations to share with the world.
Video Game Design (Ages 10 – 17) – This camp provides students with a fun interactive look at the world of video game design and development. Students will learn the basics of video game design and will produce different interactive video games.
Play-Well TEKnologies
Pre-Engineering with LEGO (Ages 5 – 6) – Let your imagination run wild with tens of thousands of LEGO! Build engineering-designed projects such as boats, bridges, mazes, and motorized cars, and use special pieces to create your own unique design!
Engineering FUNdamentals with LEGO (Ages 7 -11) – Power up your engineering skills with Play-Well and tens of thousands of LEGO! Play real-world concepts in physics, engineering, and architecture through engineer-designed projects such as arch bridges, skyscrapers, motorized cars, and the Battletrack!
Mine, Craft, and Build with LEGO (Ages 5 – 12) – Bring Minecraft to life using LEGO! Resourcefulness, creativity, and cooperation come together in this unique building adventure game; roll the dice to mine for resources, craft tools, and watch out for Creepers!
JEDI Engineering Using LEGO (Ages 5 – 6) – Young Jedi will explore worlds far, far away and engineering principles right in front of them. Defeat the Empire by designing and refining LEGO X-Wings, R2-units, and settlements on far-flung edges of the galaxy.
JEDI Master Engineering Using LEGO (Ages 7 – 11) – The Force is strong in this class. Build complex machines and structures based on the best designs from a galaxy far, far away. Projects include LEGO X-Wings, AT-AT walkers, Pod Racers, Star Destroyers, Cloud Cities, settlements, and fortresses.
Construction Vehicles and Machines (Ages 5 – 7) – Dig into engineering with big trucks, construction vehicles, and super machines. Explore the engineering terms, concepts, and vocabulary behind large scale building machines.
Engineering Challenge (Ages 8 – 12) – Crate a massive machine in the style of a Rube-Golberg invention. Learn how to build a variety of motorized devices, such as an air compressor, scissor-lift invention, and a marble-moving crankshaft in this advanced engineering camp.
Lady LEGO Pre-engineers/Engineers (Girls Only! Ages 5 – 12) – A NEW Play-Well offering for girls who love to build! Taught by women engineers and scientists, this course will provide a supportive environment for girls to apply real-world concepts in physics, engineering, and architecture through engineer-designed projects, such as arch bridges, motorized cars, skyscrapers, and amusement parks.
Robo WeDo (Ages 7 – 9) – Build and program robots in this introductory Robotics class using the LEGO WeDo system. Learn basic programming skills, simple engineering concepts, and the names of robot components. Work in small groups to complete several projects using tilt and motion sensors.
Robots Using LEGO EV3 (Ages 9 – 13) – Build and program robots using the new LEGO Mindstorms EV3 system! Learn about mechanical and software design, loops, conditional statements, problem solving, and teamwork skills.
Skyhawks Sport Camps
Quickstart Tennis (Ages 4 – 6) – Skyhawks Tennis with Quickstart is a new format to help kids learn and play tennis. To create a successful learning environment, we have made modifications to our traditional tennis program. The court is smaller and has shorter nets, the racquets are smaller, and the balls are foam. In addition to developing a love for tennis, athletes will learn the rules and etiquette that make tennis such an exciting game to play.
Tennis Camp (Ages 7 – 12) – In Skyhawks Tennis Camp, players learn proper grips, footwork, strokes, volleys, and serves during a series of drills designed to teach skills in a fun and dynamic way.
Sports Camps
Mini Mercer Sports / Little Champs (Ages 4 – 6) – Join our enthusiastic and athletic summer staff for an awesome summer learning new sports skills at this fun filled camp. Week themes include Wacky Sports, Soccer, T-Ball, Track & Field, Golf & Frolf, Multi-Sport, and Wacky Sports 2.
Challenger British Soccer Camps – Camps include a Mini & First Kicks Camp for beginning players and Half and Full-Day Camps for more advanced players. Each camp features international coaching staff, low coach-to-player ratio, age and ability-specific curriculum.
TetraBrazil Soccer Camp (Ages 7 – 16) – TetraBrazil will inspire players to practice and improve their ball control, foot skills, and moves that Brazilian soccer is famous for. Brazilian soccer coaches challenge players to raise their game and reach new heights within an excellent learning environment.
Gymnastics Camp (Ages 3 – 12) – The emphasis is on FUN in this gymnastics camp run by certified and trained instructors from the Cascade Elite Gymnastics Training Center. Instruction is based on overall skill development.
Gary Payton Youth Skills Academy Basketball Camp (Ages 6 – 16) – From Rookie to veteran, this is a great camp! The camp includes form shooting, ball handling, defense, defensive techniques, one-on-one moves, passing and conditioning. NBA affiliates are scheduled to appear pending availability. Nate Robinson, Jamal Crawford, Shawn Kemp, Spencer Hawes, and Isaiah Thomas appeared in 2014.
Cheer Camp with Eastside Dream Elite (Ages 5 – 14) – Learn to be a cheerleader! Camp is designed for those who want to cheer, jump, and dance. This is a fun camp where participants will learn to perform cheers and a dance routine.
Aquatics / Boating Camps
Sailing – Junior Opti Camp (Ages 6 – 8) – This camp is focused on showing kids how much fun playing in boats is. This camp includes more direct supervision than our Opti program due to participant age.
Sailing Camps – Opti 1, 2 & 3 (Ages 8 – 14) – Sailing teaches kids not only a lifetime sport but also provides self-confidence and appreciation for the outdoors. Beginners will work on capsizing, tacking, gybing, and docking while more advanced students will work on boat control and other advanced techniques.
Stand Up Paddle Board & Kayak Camp (Ages 8 – 14) – Enjoy fun on the water, learning what’s cool to do with SUP’s and kayaking. The camp day will be divided between Stand Up Paddleboard and 1-person touring kayaks with expert Kayak Academy instructors. Learn basic paddling and safety skills while playing water games, such as sponge tag and going on a treasure hunt.
Visit the Mercer Island Parks & Recreation Department website >>
Mercer Island Saddle Club
JJ’s Equestrian Summer Camp (Ages 6 -12) – Spend a fun-filled week this summer learning and improving horsemanship skills – everything from grooming, saddling, horse care, and most of all, riding. We will have a visit from the local Veterinarian or Farrier to learn more about caring for horses. There will be fun activities, including painting T-shirts, learning how to draw horses, and more.
Visit the Mercer Island Saddle Club website >>
Mercer Island Songwriting Camp
Mercer Island Songwriting Camp (Ages 12+) – Do you love to sing? Want to write your own pop songs? Join award-winning singer/songwriters Mikaela Kahn and Jordan Burchill to develop your skills. Learn about songwriting fundamentals and work with other budding musicians. The camp culminates with a performance for friends and family and a recorded backing track of your song to take home. One-on-one vocal and guitar coaching sessions offered as well. Learn how to perfect vocal technique with Mikaela or polish your guitar skills with Jordan. Spaces are limited. This camp will take place July 13 – 17.
Ready, Set, Fit!
Ready, Set, Fit! Summer Camp (Grades 2 – 6) – We’re back for another summer of fitness adventure at Lakeridge Elementary. This year’s schedule combines several new activities along with some of our favorites from the past. Our Complete Champion Approach means that each camper will…
- Participate in outdoor games and activities that will help to build confidence
- Develop their teamwork and cooperation skills
- Learn the invaluable skills of goal-setting and good-decision making
- Engage each day in lessons geared toward character building in positive attitude, self discipline, integrity, self pride, and quiet confidence.
SJCC Summer Camps
The SJCC looks forward to offering another amazing year of art, sports, gaga, songs, celebrating Shabbat, and friends, and we want you there! SJCC Summer Camp offers weekly options from June 22 through August 28, Monday through Friday, 9:30 am to 4 pm. Click on the links below for full camp descriptions, availability, and weeks offered.
Camp Katan (Incoming Kindergarteners) – Fun activities for our youngest campers, including art, science, drama, cooking, storytelling, and outdoor exploration.
Camp Kef (K – 6th grade) – Join old friends and new in exploring, creating, and playing in the SJCC’s largest and most popular summer camp: Camp Kef.
Camp Ivrit (K – 6th grade) – Hebrew immersion camp that provides a unique cultural perspective and deepens Jewish cultural identity while putting a unique cultural spin on traditional summer camp.
X Camp (5th – 8th grade) – Campers experience the great outdoors with hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, Frisbee golf, paddle boating, archery, golfing, and everything else under the sun.
Sports Camp (Junior: K – 3rd grade; Sports: 4th – 6th grade) – Daily scrimmages and drills emphasize sportsmanship and teamwork, and kids fine-tune their sports skills and learn new games, techniques, and sports.
Performing Arts Camp (1st – 8th grade) – Powered by Mercer Island’s own Youth Theatre Northwest, kids will hone theater and life skills, gaining confidence both on and off stage.
Adventure Camp (5th – 8th grade) – Hike mountain trails, kayak down winding rivers, improve your wilderness skills, and more. Each camp takes kids on exciting outdoor journeys and teaches them valuable life skills.
Art Camp (2nd – 8th grade) – From Lego® animation and photography to cartooning and a new Minecraft® camp, age-appropriate camps develop artistic skill and foster imagination.
Science Camp (2nd – 4th grade) – Coaches from Big Brains Education Enrichment of Bellevue help young scientists explore the wide world of science—from robots and rockets to chemistry and submarines.
Tech Smart Kids
Tech Smart Kids’ mission is to inspire kids to see things differently and to believe that they can change the world through technology. We develop technology curriculum and courseware in computer science & hardware engineering and offer courses and camps for elementary and middle school students. Summer camps are held at the Mercer Island Community & Events Center.
Introduction to Coding (Ages 7 – 10) – Students learn fundamental computer science concepts and coding techniques as they code interactive programs and games in Scratch, a visual drag-and-drop programming language from MIT.
Beginner Mobile Game Development for iOS™ and Android™ (Ages 8 – 10) – Students learn computer science concepts as they design and code mobile game Apps using Stencyl, a complete game development platform that features a powerful (“Scratch-like”) visual drag-and-drop coding and authoring environment.
Mobile Game Development for iOS™ and Android™ (Ages 10 – 15) – Students learn to design and code mobile game Apps using Unity, a professional game development engine and the C# programming language. This camp uniquely blends computer science, coding, game design and mobile App development.
Making: Hardware | Code | CAD | Fabrication (Ages 10 – 15) – Students learn to make interactive computer hardware MAKER products as they work with Arduino open source hardware, write embedded code, design 2D & 3D CAD objects and fabricate with a laser cutter and 3D printer.
Visit Tech Smart Kids website >>
Youth Theatre Northwest
Join us for the summer as we take to the sky! Explore imagination, hone song and dance skills, and perform in a full-scale production at Youth Theatre Northwest. There is something for everyone from the tiniest preschool sparkler to the supernova high school senior. What does your family need? We have one week, three week, full day, half day, flexible payment plans, and a broad array of educators who are out of this world!
Frozen Fun (Ages 3 – 5) – Join us for an snowy summer adventure in Arendelle with Elsa, Anna, Olaf, and the gang. You know the movie, now it’s time to take the story to the next level and see where our imaginations will lead us. Students learn about teamwork and theatre without even realizing it, as their voices, bodies, and imaginations expand on their own version of this timeless world.
Winnie the Pooh (Ages 3 – 5) – What better place to find an adventure than the Hundred Acre Wood? Join Winnie, Piglet, Rabbit, Owl, Tigger and Christopher Robin to tell our own unique story inside this beloved story. There are characters to meet, problems to solve, and delicious honey to be eaten. Students learn about teamwork and theatre without even realizing it, as their voices, bodies, and imaginations expand on their own version of this timeless world.
Fantastical Fairies and Frogs (Ages 3 – 5) – So many magical stories feature fairies and frogs and their adventures. Campers will explore fantastical worlds inhabited by tiny creatures with wings, slimy frogs who are not what they seem and the endless possibilities of our imagination. Students learn about teamwork and theatre without even realizing it, as their voices, bodies, and imaginations to create a story like no other.
Wee Dragons, Knights, and Princesses (Ages 3 – 5) – Step inside a fairytale world where we create the characters based on our favorite stories. Brave princesses, shy dragons and nervous knights are all part of the same silly story. Who knows where our imaginations will take us? Students learn about teamwork and theatre without even realizing it, as their voices, bodies, and imaginations expand on their own version of this timeless world.
My Little Pony (Ages 3 -5) – Friendship, magic, ponies and music–are the perfect mix for a frolicking fun week. Campers will have a galloping good time exploring the world where equine friends meet magical characters, solve problems and save the day. Students learn about teamwork and theatre without even realizing it, as their voices, bodies, and imaginations expand on their own version of this sparkly world.
Adventures with Curious George (Ages 3 – 5) – No one knows how to get into a pickle faster than Curious George. Lucky for that silly monkey – we’re here to help! We’ll jump right inside a book and explore the world of The Man with the Yellow Hat and our favorite little monkey! Each day we will explore a new story, using teamwork, imagination, and theatre skill to lend George a helping hand. We’ll share some of our unique adventures with friends and family on the last day of camp.
Magic Tree House (Ages 3 – 5) – Jack and Annie, keepers of one very special tree house, are in need of our help. In this class, we will use the Magic Tree House books as a jumping off point to create our very own time traveling adventures. Kids learn about teamwork and theatre without even realizing it, as their voices, bodies and imaginations expand on these adventures. Come along for the ride as we travel to long ago times and far-away lands, solve riddles, and escape danger, all without leaving the classroom!
Hold onto Your Hat (ages 3 – 5) – Just like a magician, we’re pulling this camp out of a hat. Stories about hats, hats that tell stories, and maybe even a story inside a hat.From the famous to the obscure–there are endless stories about hats and the characters who wear them. Each day we will explore a new story, using teamwork, imagination, and theatre skills to bring unique worlds to life. We’ll share some of our amazing adventures with friends and family on the last day of camp.
Feeling Fancy Like Nancy? (ages 3 – 5) – The last week of summer dahling, and we’re feeling fabulously fancy. Who better to spend the week with than Fancy Nancy, herself? Each day we will explore a new story from Nancy’s world, using teamwork, imagination, and theatre skills to bring her glitter-filled world to life. We’ll share some of our fabulous adventures with fancy friends and family on the last day of camp.
Frozen! (Grades K – 2) – 9:00 – 12:00 Morning starts with musical theatre: singing, dancing, character exploration and theatre skills. This week we’ll focus on the story of two sisters, one with magical powers and one with the power to save her. Students will learn the basics of vocal training, acting, and choreography. By the end of the week campers will be singing and dancing in a showcase of toe-tapping fun that will leave the audience cheering for more! Bravo! Our final showcase will be at 11:30am on Friday. 12:00 – 4:00 After lunch (provided by parents) and some quality quiet time we switch gears into traditional summer camp fun! Playing outside, arts ‘n crafts, and other summer adventures will fill the afternoon.
Adventures with Winnie the Pooh (Grades K – 2) – 9:00 – 12:00 What better place to find an adventure than the Hundred Acre Wood? Join Winnie, Piglet, Rabbit, Owl, Tigger and Christopher Robin to tell our own unique story inside this beloved story. There are characters to meet, problems to solve, and delicious honey to be eaten, a lovable story to be told on a sunny afternoon. All students receive a free ticket to YTN’s production of The House at Pooh Corner. 12:00 – 4:00 After lunch (provided by parents) and some quality quiet time we switch gears into traditional summer camp fun! Playing outside, arts ‘n crafts, and other summer adventures will fill the afternoon.
Fantastical Fairies and Frogs (Grades K – 2) – 9:00-12:00 So many magical stories feature fairies and frogs and their adventures. Campers will explore fantastical worlds inhabited by tiny creatures with wings, slimy frogs who are not what they seem and the endless possibilities of our imagination. Each child will be challenged to create characters, solve problems, and work with others as an ensemble. Our final showcase will be at 11:30am on Friday. 12:00 – 4:00 After lunch (provided by parents) and some quality quiet time we switch gears into traditional summer camp fun! Playing outside, arts ‘n crafts, and other summer adventures will fill the afternoon.
Dragons, Knights, and Princesses (Grades K – 2) – 9:00 – 12:00 Morning starts when campers travel back in time to days of long ago when knights were bold, dragons were huge, and princesses were always beautiful and extremely intelligent. In this class students will create and star in their own tale of fantasy and adventure. Each child will be challenged to create characters, solve problems, and work with others as an ensemble. Our final showcase will be at 11:30am on Friday. 12:00 – 4:00 After lunch (provided by parents) and some quality quiet time we switch gears into traditional summer camp fun! Playing outside, arts ‘n crafts, and other summer adventures will fill the afternoon.
My Little Pony (Grades K – 2) – 9:00 – 12:00* Friendship, magic, ponies and music–are the perfect mix for a frolicking fun week. Morning starts with musical theatre: singing, dancing, character exploration and theatre skills. By the end of the week, campers will be singing and dancing in a showcase of galloping goodness that will leave the audience whinnying for more. Bravo! Our final showcase will be at 11:30am on Friday. 12:00 – 4:00 After lunch (provided by parents) and some quality quiet time we switch gears into traditional summer camp fun! Playing outside, arts ‘n crafts, and other summer adventures will fill the afternoon.
Stars on Broadway: Frozen (Grades K – 2) – This week we’ll focus on Disney’s Frozen, the story of two sisters, one with magical powers and one with the power to save her. Students will learn the basics of vocal training, acting, and choreography. By the end of the week campers will be singing and dancing in a showcase of icy-cool fun that will melt the heart of every audience member. Bravo!
Dragons, Knights, and Princesses (Grades K – 2) – Campers travel back in time to days of long ago when knights were bold, dragons were huge, and princesses were always beautiful and extremely intelligent. In this class students will create and star in their own tale of fantasy and adventure. Each child will be challenged to create characters, solve problems, and work with others as an ensemble.
Stars on Broadway: 101 Dalmatians (Grades K – 2) – Stars on Broadway is jam-packed with Broadway-style musical theatre — no experience necessary. This summer, each week brings a different musical and you can experience all three. This week we focus on the musical Disney’s 101 Dalmatians. Students will learn the basics of vocal training, acting, and choreography. By the end of the week, campers will be singing and dancing in a showcase of puppy powered fun that will leave the audience cheering for more. Bravo!
Comicbook Capers (Grades K – 2) – Do you love to put on a cape and save the day? Or are you more the type who plots to take over the world? Maybe you’re a little bit of both. It doesn’t matter how you’re drawn– if you love comics then this camp is for you. We will use our imaginations and favorite stories of brave heroes and dastardly villains to create a performance piece sure to save the day! All the while learning the basics of theatre, character creations, and epic storytelling.
Musical Theatre: Frozen! (Grades 3 – 5) – This week we’ll focus on the musical story of two sisters, one with magical powers and one with the power to save her. Students will learn the basics of vocal training, acting, and choreography. By the end of the week campers will be singing and dancing in a showcase of fun that will leave the audience cheering for more! Bravo!
Comedy Bootcamp (Grades 3 – 5) – Are you the class comedian ready to step up your game? Do you like to laugh and have everyone laugh with you? Explore the world of comedy basics from joke telling, to improv, to physical comedy and scenes that will have your audience rolling in the aisles. Comedy isn’t easy, but it sure is fun!
Puppetry with Elizabeth Westerman (Grades 3 – 5) – Puppets are universally beloved. How do they work? How are they made? What’s does it take to truly make a puppet come to life? All these questions and more will be answered by the fabulous Elizabeth Westerman. Together we will create a new character and build a puppets to match. At the end of week we will have a showcase to share our new skills and students will take their original puppet home!
Musical Theatre: Cinderella (Grades 3 – 5) – This session we’ll focus on the beloved musical Cinderella., nasty sisters, and dreams of true love all set to fantastic music. Students will learn the basics of vocal training, acting, and choreography. By the end of the week we will share selections in a showcase that will leave the audience cheering for more! Bravo!
Musical Theatre: Into the Woods (Grades 3 – 5) – This session we’ll focus on the popular movie musical Into The Woods. The lives of fairytale characters intersect in unusual ways as they find their way through the wood. Students will learn the basics of vocal training, acting, and choreography. By the end of the week we will share selections in a showcase that will leave the audience cheering for more! Bravo!
Scenes from Harry Potter (Grades 3 – 5) – Join Harry, Hermione and Ron in their magical Hogwarts adventures! Class will be performing adapting their own favorite scenes from the beloved Harry Potter series. Students will hone basic acting skills, character creation, and discover the importance of teamwork on stage. Our favorite scenes will be performed on the last day of camp.
Musical Theatre: Grease! (Grades 3 – 5) – This session we’ll focus on the popular movie musical Grease! The Pink Ladies and the T-Bird are the coolest of the high school cool in this 1950’s throwback filled with beloved tunes. Students will learn the basics of vocal training, acting, and choreography. By the end of the week we will share selections in a showcase that will leave the audience cheering for more!
Advanced Musical Theatre – Les Miserables (Grades 6+) – Sing, dance and act your way towards becoming a triple threat! This week we combine all three elements of musical theatre and take on songs, dances, and scenes from the long-running Broadway hit, Les Miserables. Students work with a vocal coach, an acting coach and a choreographer to create a dazzling showcase of their hard work to perform for parents and friends on the last day of camp.
Acting with Accents (Grades 6+) – For actors, the wider variety of skills, the better. Why not add an accent to your repertoire? Dialects may sound easy to do, but there are many skills that you need to learn to make your accent believable. Students will work on scenes and characters who have an accent and perform on the final day of class.
Stage Combat (Grades 6+) – For actors, the wider variety of skills, the better. Why not add stage combat to your repertoire? Our instructors work on an individual level to create a challenge for every level of student. Learn basic hand-to-hand and swordplay combat including stage falls and reactions. The week’s focus is on presenting the skill and the art that the audience does not see!
Puppetry with Elizabeth Westerman (Grades 6+) – Puppets are universally beloved. How do they work? How are they made? What’s does it take to truly make a puppet come to life? All these questions and more will be answered by the fabulous Elizabeth Westerman (puppet master for YTN’s Avenue Q: School Edition.) Together we will create a new character and build a puppets to match. At the end of week we will have a showcase to share our new skills and students will take their original puppet home!
All the World’s a Stage – Twelfth Night or What You Will (Grades 6+) – Shakespeare’s beloved mistaken-identity, girl-disguised-as-boy, true love comedy! Complete with shipwreck, twins, foolish clowns, royalty, a love letter delivered to the wrong person AND a duel for honor! Students will produce their own show (costumes, set & prop design), learn the basics of The Bard and conclude with a showcase performance!
Advanced Musical Theatre – Into the Woods (Grades 6+) – This session we’ll focus on the popular movie musicalInto The Woods. The lives of fairytale characters intersect in unusual ways as they find their way through the wood. Students will learn the basics of vocal training, acting, and choreography. By the end of the week we will share selections in a showcase that will leave the audience cheering for more! Bravo!
Acting for the Camera (Grades 6+) – You’re comfortable onstage in front of an audience of hundreds, but do these skills translate in front of a camera? Are the auditions different? What does it take to transition from stage to screen? We will answer all these questions and more. Class will explore the techniques and skills exclusive to getting television and film work, with a showcase on the final day!
The Mysteries of Stage Make-Up (Grades 6+) – Ever want to turn yourself into a zombie, an animal or even see what you will look like when you are old? Well, with the skills learned in our class you can turn your face into your canvas! From basic technique to mystical creatures, we will explore the fun and exciting world of stage make-up. On the last day of camp we will showcase our favorite creations and you get to keep the make-up to continue your practice at home. Taught by YTN favorite, Michael Yakovich.
Intensive Scene Study (Grades 6+) – For advanced actors* ready to really sink their teeth into a scene, analyze character, and break down a role for deeper understanding of script in character. A great way to prepare for a theatre filled summer! *Requires Education Director’s approval for enrollment.
Performance Series: A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Multi-age Camp | Grades 3+) – The YTN Performance Series provides the perfect transition from classes to our Main Stage and Studio Stage Productions. There is no audition required, and we will have costumes, props, sets, lights, and sound. All that’s missing are our actors – YOU! This session we will tackle A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare and led by popular duo Amy Ferguson and Phoenix Smith. Mischief, mistaken identity, fairies and fauna all combine for a woodland adventure for the ages. What better way than to start your summer off than – Shakespeare style!
Performance Series: Annie Jr (Multi-age Camp | Grades 3+) – The YTN Performance Series provides the perfect transition from classes to our Main Stage and Studio Stage Productions. There is no audition required, and we will have costumes, props, sets, lights, and sound. All that’s missing are our actors – YOU! Amanda Lee Williams is back in town and she’s gonna make this show “shine like the top of the Chrysler Building!” Spunky orphans, sneaking bad guys, and a billionaire with a heart of gold. There’s no doubt the sun will come out for this show!
Musical Performance Series: Shrek Jr (Multi-age Camp | Grades 3+) – The YTN Performance Series provides the perfect transition from classes to our Mainstage and Studio Stage Productions. There is no audition required, but we will have costumes, props, sets, lights, and sound. All that’s missing are our actors – YOU! Who wouldn’t want to spend August in a swamp with an ogre? Shrek Jr. – has all the fun of the beloved movie with incredible songs and a wicked twist on the familiar characters of fairy tales. Students will gain confidence on stage as we bring these characters and stories to life.
Audition Preparation (Multi-age Camp | Grades 3+) – Are you ready to be on the YTN Main Stage? We’ll explore vocal projection, audition etiquette, what to expect at a callback. Each actor will leave with a monologue and song prepared for the YTN school year auditions. This class is a great way to calm the nerves for individual auditions and get you ready for YTN’s 2015-2016 Season!
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And More!
Even more summer camp opportunities abound. Here are a few more places offering summer camps on the Island:
- Kids Co. – Offers full-time summer camp at Island Park Elementary for kids in grades K – 5. Two time options available: 7 am – 6 pm or 9 am – 4 pm
- Your local preschool – Many preschools, including Sunnybeam, Emmanuel Day School, and Pebble Preschool @ MIPC, offer summer camps.
- Clubs – The Mercer Island Beach Club, the Mercer Island Country, and the Mercerwood Shore Club offer summer camps to member families.
- Churches – Several churches will host Vacation Bible School, a week-long Christian summer camp. For example, the Mercer Island Presbyterian Church will host Everest Vacation Bible School for K – 5th graders from July 6th to the 10th.
Don’t see your favorite camp listed? Please share it with us in the comments.
