[Looking for our 2018 Summer Camp Guide?  Click HERE]

The 2016 My MI guide to summer camps on Mercer Island is here! With so many options to choose from, your child is bound to be a happy camper all summer long.

[Please note that this guide will be updated with new camp information as it comes available.]

City of Mercer Island VOICE / SVP Programs

VOICE (Volunteer Outreach in Communities Everywhere) and SVP (Summer Volunteer Program) provide structured group community service opportunities to Mercer Island middle and high school age youth.

This eight week summer program partners with over fifty community organizations, and our participants volunteer over 10,000 hours each summer. The SVP Program is for current 6^th and 7^th grade students, and the VOICE Program is for current 8^th – 11^th grade students.

SVP participants are expected to commit to at least four projects each summer, and VOICE participants are expected to commit to at least eight. Additionally, VOICE participants will have the option of participating in our Social Justice Film Festival (SJFF) as one of their projects.

2016 VOICE/SVP Program Registration is Open – Extended to May 18th!
VOICE: Current 8th – 11th Graders: Register here
SVP: Current 6th and 7th Graders: Register here
For Frequently Asked Questions about the VOICE/SVP Program, click here

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 Crossfit Kids Summer Camp

This camp will not only focus on CrossFit workouts but also healthy eating, nutrition, team building, social skills, emotion regulation and FUN!

• When: Monday-Friday, June 27-July 1, 1-4pm with a possible second session August 1-5th.
• Where:Mercer Island CrossFit
• Who: Kids ages 6-10yrs
• What: Join us for a weeklong camp incorporating CrossFit, social skills, team building, emotion regulation, nutrition and FUN!!!! Sessions are led by a Licensed Mental Health Therapist, Certified Personal Trainer and CrossFit Kids coach. During camp your child will be introduced to healthy movements, team building activities, social skills, emotion regulation and healthy eating habits. They will learn about nutrition and make healthy snacks while moving and engaging in individual and team activities.
• Cost: $210, includes a healthy snack

To Register: Go to https://mercerislandcrossfit.frontdeskhq.com, SERVICES->CrossFit Kids->CFK Camp
For more information contact: Allison McGee at [email protected], or 206-595-2011

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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 Northwest Yeshiva High School

Roller Coaster Science Camp (Grades K – 6)
Be first in line at the new Dinosaur Adventure Park! Go back in time to investigate the T-Rex’s awesome powers as campers build their own electric-powered T-Rex Roller Coaster. Thrills await as we battle gravity, take curves, & land our riders safely. Campers will engineer and take home a carnival of fun physics projects including: a magnetic game, a light-up bubble factory, and air catapults. Let’s observe & measure the thumping of our hearts, solar cook in the Top-Chef kitchen & face off in the Top-Secret soda lab!

Robot Challenge Science Camp (Grades K – 6)
Prepare for the invasion as you design & build your Bot-Team! Discover and share the super scientific principles behind robotics as you build your own team of wacky robots, including Mini Bug Bots, a Lego-compatible Sonic Speedy Bot, and a Programmable Pet-Bot that completes missions & even delivers your voice messages. Together we will design a robot party zone to include battles, races, and the ultimate programmable challenge. We’ll sharpen our engineering skills by designing an electronic game, creating a “beat machine” sound and laser show, and uncovering the fourth state of matter: PLASMA!!!

Super Hero Physics Science Camp (Grades K – 6)
Pilot a Super Hero Racer and discover super gadgets! Campers will build their own Super Hero Race Car while experimenting with open and closed circuits, wheels, friction and Newton’s Laws of Motion. We will unlock hidden super powers as we explore the physics and technology behind super hero gadgets, flash lightening speed, spy ears, and real world super creatures. Campers will encounter an amazing insect & more!

Space Quest Science Camp  (Grades K – 6)
May the Force of Science be with you! In a galaxy not so far way, campers will build & command their own Millennium Starship. Our intergalactic adventure includes searching deep space for an Earth-like planet, innovating an outer-space habitat, and conducting space experiments. Campers will explore the forces of acceleration and friction to create, launch, and race the mind-blowing Land Rocket Explorer. Much to learn, you have!
 Visit the Destination Science website >>

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Mercer Island Martial Arts

Mercer Island Martial Arts Summer Camps (Ages 6+)
The kids will have between 3-4 formal martial arts classes and will also learn valuable skills such as anti-bullying, anger management, leadership skills, and community service.  They will do art lessons, and 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 at the end of the day.  Our camps are a great way to get an introduction to martial arts or to get a leg up on your current martial arts training.
Visit the Mercer Island Martial Arts website >>

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Mercer Island Boys and Girls Club

Elementary School Summer Camps 2016
In this action packed summer camp, Challengers (4th/5th graders) go on a different field trip almost 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.  Camp hours are from 7:00-6:00 PM.  Please send the following items with your child: nut-free lunch, water bottle, sunscreen, swimsuit, and towel.  Below are date and themes for each summer week:
Here Comes The Sun: June 27-July 1
Luther Burbank Park, Game Works, Pioneer Park
Party In The USA: July 4-8
Groveland Beach, Seattle Bouldering Project, Reptile Zoo, Salmon Hatchery
(We will be closed July 4th in Observance of Independance Day.)
Dining Out: July 11-15
Berry Picking, Tutta Bellas Tour, Field Day, King County Fair, Bite of Seattle
Urban Adventures: July 18-22
Magnuson Park Swimming, Groveland Beach, Seattle Storm, LeMay Car Museum, Pike Place Scavenger Hunt
Deep Blue Sea: July 25-29
Green Lake Swimming, Groveland Beach, Wild Waves, Colman Pool, Alki Beach
Camp Camano: August 1-5
More details to come regarding packing lists, menus, and activities!
Field of Dreams: August 8-12
Kid’s Park Choice, Capture The Flag at the Arboretum, Tacoma Rainiers Game, Kickball at Capitol Hill Park
Into The Wild: August 15-19
Wallace Falls, Rattlesnake Ledge, Twin Falls, Seward Park
The Final Countdown: August 22-26
Laser Quest, Tide Pooling at Constellation, End of Summer BBQ
(We will be closed August 25 & 26 for staff trainings.)
Sign up here for summer camp!
Questions? Contact Dena Harkovitch 206.436.1952

Teen Summer Camps 2016
Middle School Summer Day Camps will strive to provide an enriching summer experience for every middle-schooler.  Through a variety of exciting theme weeks, campers participate in a variety of activities!  Your middle-schooler will leave each session having dscovered new interests and talents, made new friends, and created life-long memories.  Camp hours are from 7:00-6:00 PM.  Please send the following items with your child: nut-free lunch, water bottle, sunscreen, swimsuit, and towel.  Below are dates and themes for each summer week:
Here Comes The Sun: June 27-July 1
Luther Burbank Park, Game Works, Capture The Flag at the Arboretum
Party In The USA: July 4-8
Groveland Beach, Tech City Bowl, Pioneer Park, Woodland Park Zoo
(We will be closed July 4th in Observance of Independance Day)
Dining Out: July 11-15
Berry Picking, Field Day, King County Fair, Bite of Seattle
Urban Adventures: July 18-22
Tutta Bellas Tour, Groveland Beach, LeMay Car Museum
Deep Blue Sea: July 25-29
Green Lake Swimming, Groveland Beach, Wild Waves, Colman Pool, Alki Beach
Camp Camano: August 1-5
More details to come regarding packing lists, menus, and activities!
Field of Dreams: August 8-12
Kids Park Choice, Walk to Library, Tacoma Rainiers Game
Into The Wild: August 15-19
Wallace Falls, Rattlesnake Ledge, Twin Falls, Seward Park
The Final Countdown: August 22- 26
Laser Quest, Tide Pooling at Constellation, End of Summer BBQ
(We will be closed August 25 & 26 for staff trainings.)
Sign up here for summer camp!
Questions? Contact Dena Harkovitch 206.436.1952
Teen Employment, Counselor In Training/Summer Volunteer Opportunity

•  Who: 9-12 grade
• What: This program enables youth to give back and develop their leadership and service skills. Youth can help with supervising field trips, serving snacks, running activities, and will receive positive encouragement and guidance.
• When: All summer in weekly increments from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Where: Mercer Island Boys & Girls Club and Field Trips

Cost: $75 a week
There will be a mandatory training on Saturday, June 11 from 12-3 PM at the MIBGC.
Questions? Contact Lauren Henry 206.436.1953

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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 are 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 3 – 5) – This camp teaches applicable safety information on important topics such as: bike and traffic safety, stranger danger, school bus riding, playground behavior, and fire safety.

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: Great Outdoors, Rockin’ Out, Pirates & Princesses, Silly Science, Superhero Academy, Gameshow Mania, Northwest Is Best, Splast-tastic. (Full-day camp)

Music & Arts

Mary Art Adventures (Ages 5 – 12) – Campers will explore the wonderful world of nature and animals. Each day we will explore a different habitat at Woodlawn Park Zoo and draw an animal in its habitat! We will be using oil pastels, a very versatile medium Mary Loves. These are new lessons for returning students. (Mary Art website)

Cooking Camp With Cook, Learn, Grow! (Ages 7-13) – Kids can cook! Learn the basics, discover new foods, roll in the dough, and satisfy a sweet tooth at cooking camps with Cook, Learn, Grow! Campers will learn age-appropriate cooking techniques, food origins, seasonal recipes, and kitchen safety while having yummy hands-on fun.

Movie Star Camp (Ages 7-12) – Lights, camera, action! Movie Star Camp lets campers learn film acting skills and then actually be in a short film. The movie is shot by professionals and then campers are given a chance to walk the red carpet at their very own movie premier, complete with paparazzi and fans!

Adventure Playground Camp  (Ages 6-11) – Participants will design and build forts, tree houses, and more with the instruction of camp staff, professional builders, and naturalists. This outdoor camp will include elements of planning, building, and outdoor recreation – all while incorporating teamwork and fun. Friday field trip and beach party!

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). Dress to get messy! Students will complete approximately 8 finished art pieces. (Art for Kids Camp website)

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. (Cartooniversity website)

Video Game Design By 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.
Youth Tech Inc >>

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!

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.

Girl-Powered 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 build engineer-designed projects, such as arch bridges, motorized cars, skyscrapers, and amusement parks.

Mine, Craft, and Build with LEGO, Adventure Game (Ages 5 – 6) & Survival Game (Ages 7 – 11) – 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!

Art & Architecture Using LEGO (Ages 7 – 11) –  Explore great works of art and architecture through LEGO. Collaborate in small groups to build grand structures like the Parthenon in Greece, the Norte Dame Cathedral in Paris, the tree houses of Papua New Guinea and the Empire State Building in New York. Follow in the footsteps of master artists with  LEGO interpretations of sculptures, mosaics and stained glass. Team work and creativity take high culture to the next level!

JediCraft Adventure (Ages 5 – 6) & Survival (Ages 7 – 11)  –  Mine, craft and build the Star Wars Universe using LEGO. Roll the dice to gather Jedi resources. This Play-well game is inspired by the Minecraft tablet game and Star Wars fantasy setting.
Play-Well TEKnologies >>

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.

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.

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 >>

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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 11 – 15.
Visit: www.mikaelakahn.com/camp >>

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Sift & Stir Summer Camps

This summer send your kids to Sift & Stir, a place to learn how to make delicious food and have a lot of fun.  Summer camps available for boys and girls ages 8 & older.  Custom classes can be arranged for groups of friends, clusters of neighbors and pairs of parents and kids.
Everything Pastry / Rice / Brown Sugar (Ages 11+)

In this summer camp, campers will learn how to cook and bake with pastry, rice, and brown sugar. Here are the projects / menu:
Everything Pastry

• quiche Lorraine
  
• beef empanadas
  
• deep dish chocolate pie

Everything Rice

• stir fried vermicelli noodles
  
• kappa maki (cucumber rolls)
  
• tri-colored mochi

Everything Brown Sugar 

• brown sugar bbq chicken 
• coffee cake with crumble topping  
• cupcakes w/ brown sugar chocolate frosting 

Make Your Own Breakfast, Snack, and Lunch Camp (Ages 8+)
This is a hands-on summer camp where kids 8 years and older learn to properly measure flour, use a knife and separate eggs – among other things! Breakfast and lunch will be provided daily. Classes held on the north end of Mercer Island.
Monday

• lemon poppy seed muffins
• chocolate mousse
• rolled wafer cookies
• yakisoba

Tuesday

• golden puff donuts
• cinnamon rolls
• boba drinks
• spring rolls – both cold & fried

Wednesday

• custard filled cream puffs
• chocolate ganache
• pumpkin cake w/ cream cheese frosting
• homemade pasta

Thursday

• peach scones
• fruity lollipops
• mocha brownies
• tamales

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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 GARINIM (Pre-Kindergarten) – The perfect way for our youngest campers to get their first taste of the joy of summer camp. Children spend the morning cooking, exploring nature and art, conducting science experiments, and playing outside, while making new friends and having fun in the sun with their counselors. This camp may only be half the day, but it will be ALL the fun!

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 MAGNIV (K-6th grade) – Experience camp through the lens of Israel and Israeli culture. Not only do Magniv (cool) campers get to enjoy our traditional camp programs, their counselors―all native Hebrew speakers―lead them on explorations of the art, food, and atmosphere of Israel, all in Hebrew.

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.

TEVA CAMPS (5th-8th grade) – Join us on Teva (nature) adventures! Hike mountain trails, kayak winding rivers, improve your wilderness skills, soup up your skills in the kitchen, and more. Campers face fun challenges indoors and out. From sustainable cooking to canoeing fundamentals and wilderness survival, we’re ready for a great adventure.

Art Camp (2nd – 8th grade) – Discover your inner artist and journey through a world of possibilities! Led by our amazing specialists—including Ellen Hochberg and Smart with Art—kids will explore cultures, pirates, magical creatures, the circus, and more through a wide variety of media.

NEW Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) Camp: kids will create and sell their original artwork to fund microloan programs for developing communities. Check the SJCC website for the grade range and dates for the art camps.

• Under the Sea
• Ancient Egypt
• Passport to Israel
• Photography
• Pirates
• Under the Big Top
• Where the Wild Things Are
• Junior Photography
• Abracadabra Art
• Tikkun Olam: Microloans
• Trash to Treasures
• Drama Behind the Scenes
• I <3 Washington

Science Camp (2nd – 6th grade) Science Camps are great for curious campers who want to explore how things work and why. Teachers from Pacific Science Center help young scientists discover chemistry, unlock the science of candy making, bust science myths, and more with their interactive curriculum. Get ready for hands-on experiments that will expand your world! Check the SJCC website for the grade range and dates for the science camps.

• Inventor’s Studio
• What’s Up Doc?
• Candyology
• Planet of the Decomposers
• ChemLab, Inc
• Slough Survival
• Duct Tape Challenge
• Wet and Wild
• Young Physicians
• Science Myths: BUSTED!
• Robotic Rangers
• Get Set to be a Vet

Visit the SJCC website >>

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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.

<Front End/> Web Development (Ages 7-16) – Students learn to design & develop interactive modern websites using professional tools, frameworks and libraries. This camp provides a strong Front End Web Development foundation as students learn user interface design and coding in HTML 5, CSS 3, JavaScript.

<Back End/> Web Development (Ages 10-16) – Students learn to design & develop database driven dynamic web applications using professional tools, frameworks and libraries. This camp introduces Front Web Technologies while providing a strong emphasis and foundation in Back End Web Development. Students learn to write server-side code in Python and connect a website to a database to drive dynamic content.

<Full Stack/> Web Development (Ages 10-16) – Students learn to design & develop database driven dynamic web applications using professional tools, frameworks and libraries. This full day camp provides a strong foundation coding in the full “stack’ of web technologies, both the Front End (HTML 5, CSS 3 and JavaScript) and Back End, writing Python code to connect a website to a database to drive dynamic content.

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 7 – 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 – 16) – 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.
Visit Tech Smart Kids website >>

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Youth Theatre Northwest

Join us for the summer! 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!

Wee Dragons, Knights, and Princesses (Ages 3 – 5) – Step inside a fairy tale 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.

Parent & Child – Creative Drama Sampler (Ages 3 – 5) – Want to dip your toe into drama classes but not sure your kiddo is ready to fly solo? Take a class together. Start your day with a magical adventure and participate in a creative dram session with your little one. Guided by a YTN expert, everyone plays together as we explore new and familiar world using our bodies and imaginations to create characters, solve problems, and bring stories to life! Parents are free!

Sample Stages: Wee Wonderful Oz (Ages 3 – 5) – What better place to find an adventure than the magical land of OZ? Did you know that in addition to our beloved Wizard of Oz, there are 14 additional stories featuring our favorite characters and fantastical new creatures? Students learn about teamwork and theatre using their voices, bodies, and imaginations expand on their own version of this timeless world. A shorter version of our week long camps – perfect for first time students.

Tiny Tunes: Frozen In Summer (Ages 3 – 5) – It’s time to cool thing off with a trip to snowy Arendelle. 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.

Early Stages: Wee Under The Sea (Ages 3 – 5) – Mermaids, sharks, clown fish, and more – you never know who you’ll meet under the sea! Campers will explore underwater worlds and the characters who live there using story books and our endless imagination to explore the theme. Students will develop beginning theatre skills, team work, and confidence, all while having a fantastical time. On the final day we will share highlights from class with friends and family.

Sample Stages: Kooky Cats (Ages 3 – 5) – Cats know a thing or two about mischief! Sweet, sassy, or full of trouble we love stories about our feline friends. Campers will explore stories about kooky cats using our purrfect imaginations to explore the theme. Students will develop beginning theatre skills, team work, and confidence, all while having a fantastical time. On the final day we will share highlights from class with friends and family.

Early Stages: Stars On Stage (Ages 3 – 5) – In Stars on Stage every child gets to shine. This program is the perfect place to gain confidence and learn what it’s like to be a part of a classroom. Students will experience speaking in front of a group, working as a team, expressing emotions, and creating characters with their whole bodies. Life skils taught within a creative world of storytelling games and performance. Students will share their skills on the last day of camp and leave shining like a star.

Sample Stages: Super Duper (Ages 3 – 5) – It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s a super kiddo! Campers will explore stories about heroines and heroes and the villains they must overcome to save the world. Put on your cape and get ready to explore this power theme! Students will develop beginning theatre skills, team work, and confidence, all while having a fantastical time. On the final day we will share highlights from class with friends and family.

Story Book Players: 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.

Storybook Players: The Wonderful Land Of Oz (Grades K-2) – 9:00 – 12:00 What better place to find an adventure than the magical land of Oz? Did you know that in addition to our beloved Wizard of Oz, there are 14 additional stories featuring our favorite characters and fantastical new creatures. We will join Dorothy, Princess Ozma, and the citizens of Oz to tell our own unique story inside this beloved world. Students will learn the basics of acting, movement, and storytelling. There are characters to meet, problems to solve, and magic to be made all inside our own version of Oz. All students receive a free ticket to YTN’s production of Glinda of Oz. 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, swimming at Mary Wayte pool, and other summer adventures will fill the afternoon.

Mini Musical: Frozen In Summer (Grades K – 2) – 9:00 – 12:00 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 Frozen fun that will leave the audience with chills. 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.

STORYBOOK PLAYERS:  Drama Unicorns  (Grades K – 2) – 9:00 – 12:00 We will join unicorns and their friends from new and familiar storybooks to tell our own story as unique as any mystical beast.Students will learn the basics of acting, movement, and storytelling. There are characters to meet, problems to solve, and magic to be made all inside our own unicorn themed world. 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, swimming at Mary Wayte pool, and other summer adventures will fill the afternoon.

MINI MUSICALS: The Little Mermaid (Grades K – 2) – 9:00 – 12:00  Morning starts with Broadway-style musical theatre — no experience necessary. This week we’ll focus on The Little Mermaid, and the story of a mermaid who knows what she wants and the friends on land and under the sea who love 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 that will be fin flapping fun. 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, swimming at Mary Wayte pool, and other summer adventures will fill the afternoon.

MINI MUSICALS: The Aristocats (Grades K – 2) – 9:00 – 12:00 Morning starts with Broadway-style musical theatre — no experience necessary. This week we’ll focus on The Aristocats, and the story of some Parisian cats and the bumbling catnappers who are after them. 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 that will be purrfectly fabulous. 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, swimming at Mary Wayte pool, and other summer adventures will fill the afternoon.

STORYBOOK PLAYERS:  Dragon, 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, swimming at Mary Wayte pool, and other summer adventures will fill the afternoon.

STORYBOOK PLAYERS: Comic Book Capers (Grades K-2) 9:00-12:00  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.  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, swimming at Mary Wayte pool, and other summer adventures will fill the afternoon.

Audition Preparation (Grades 1-3) – Are you ready to be on the YTN Main Stage? At YTN’s season auditions, the directors observe our youngest actors as they participate in drama games and activities. This shows the directors what they need to see without the nerves inducing atmosphere. We’ll explore auditioning, games, and callbacks,  the perfect class to prep for YTN’s 2016-2017 Season! We will share our skills on the last day of camp.

SKILL BUILDING:  Comedy Improv  (Grades 3-5) Love to crack up your family and friends?  Ready to take your gift for comedy to the next level?  In this class students will hone improv skills through games and exercises designed to get you thinking on your feet, working as an ensemble, and gaining confidence as they discover–it’s okay to fail. We will share our comedy in a final showcase on the last day of class.

SCENE STUDY: Glinda of Oz  (Grades 3-5) Did you know that in addition to our beloved Wizard of Oz, there are 14 additional stories featuring this fantastical world? This summer YTN will be performing an original adaptation of Glinda of Oz and in this class we will study scenes from the script and even meet the playwright! Script analysis, character study and scene partnering are just some of the valuable acting skills that we will build in the class culminating in a performance on the last day. All students receive a free ticket to YTN’s production of Glinda of Oz.

MUSICAL THEATRE: The Wiz  (Grades 3-5) This session we’ll focus on The Wiz  a funky spin on Dorothy’s familiar trip to Oz recently featured on NBC’s live musical. 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 before the ease on down road. Bravo!

SCENE STUDY:  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: Cats  (Grades 3-5) – This session we’ll focus on the beloved musical Cats. Andrew Lloyd Webber gives us a peek into the secret lives of cats in a musical that has nine lives! 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 yowling for more!  All students receive a free ticket to YTN’s outdoor production of Cats!

SKILL BUILDING:  Stage Combat  (Grades 3-5) – 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!

SKILL BUILDING:  Auditioning For The Camera  (Grades 3-5) – Ever see kids your age in commercials or television shows and think:I can do that!  This class will help you prepare for on-camera auditions. Class will explore working comfortably in front of the camera, concentrating on skills exclusive to auditioning for television work. There will be with a showcase on the final day. Only ten spots available for this class–save you place today! Taught by friends of YTN, Angela DiMarco and David Hogan, from Mighty Tripod Productions.

Audition Preparation (Grades 4+) – 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 2016-2017 Season!

Performance Series: The Tempest (Grades 3+) – The YTN Performance Series: everyone is cast and the session culminates in a full production. Students work with educators to create basic production elements using items from home, YTN stock, and their own creations. Sometimes we share the stage with another show, sometimes it’s all our own, the adventure changes every session keeping us on our toes and presenting endless opportunities for creative problem solving and teamwork. Led by beloved YTN super-duo Amy J. Ferguson and Phoenix Smith, this summer they will bring their mystical Shakespeare skill to the turbulent world of The Tempest. . In Shakespeare’s final play comedy, romance, and tragedy combine into an epic tale.  A storm at sea brought on by a vengeful magician causes an almost-tragic shipwreck! An exiled Duke works against those who betrayed him on an island inhabited by magical creatures. Deeds of mischief abound and, of course, against all odds, a couple of young nobles find true love. Performances: Thursday, July 14 at 7pm (Actors attend regular camp times and return at 6 pm). Friday, July 15 at 2 pm (Actors attend regular camp times and stay for strike after show). 

Musical Performance Series: Honk! Jr.  (Grades 3+) – The YTN Performance Series: everyone is cast and the session culminates in a full production. Students work with educators to create basic production elements using items from home, YTN stock, and their own creations. Sometimes we share the stage with another show, sometimes it’s all our own, the adventure changes every session keeping us on our toes and presenting endless opportunities for creative problem solving and teamwork. Honk! JR. is a heart-warming celebration of being different that is sure to delight audiences of all ages with its sparkling wit, unique charm and memorable score.  Witty and hilarious, but also deeply moving, Honk! JR. will treat your audiences to equal amounts of laughter and tears. Ugly looks quite a bit different from his darling duckling brothers and sisters. The other animals on the farm are quick to notice and point this out, despite his mother’s protective flapping. Feeling rather foul about himself, the little fowl finds himself on adventure of self discovery all the while unknowingly outwitting a very hungry Cat. Along the way Ugly meets a whole flock of unique characters and finds out being different is not a bad thing to be. Performances: Friday August 5 at 2 pm and 7pm (Actors return at 6 pm for Friday evening show). 

Yoga and Movement (Grades 6+) – Get those muscles strong, warm, and ready for a summer of dance. Start class with bodywork designed open the body and mind, both important skills for actors at any point in the careers. The second half of class will concentrate on movement and dance, the perfect transitions from school to summer. Requires Education Director’s approval for enrollment. Email Stephanie at [email protected] to inquire.

ADVANCED MUSICAL THEATRE: The Wiz (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 Wiz. Recently featured on NBC’s live musical, The Wiz is a funky spin on Dorothy’s familiar trip to Oz. 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.

ADVANCED SCENE STUDY:  Modern Drama  (Grades 6+) – Take your skills to the next level with this advanced acting class. Featuring scenes from modern plays dealing with dark and mature subjects. Students prepare for a final showcase on the last day of camp, working on character study, script analysis, and physical embodiment of emotion and intent. All with the focused attention from a director that you’ve been craving! Requires Education Director’s approval for enrollment. Email Stephanie at [email protected] to inquire.

ADVANCED SCENE STUDY:  Modern Comedy (Grades 6+) – Take your skills to the next level with this advanced acting class. Featuring scenes from modern plays dealing comedically with life’s problems. Students prepare for a final showcase on the last day of camp, working on character study, script analysis, and physical embodiment of emotion, and a stronger ear for comedy. All with the focused attention from a director that you’ve been craving! Requires Education Director’s approval for enrollment. Email Stephanie at [email protected] to inquire.

SHAKESPEARE INTENSIVE:  Titus Andronicus (Grades 6+) – One week.  One incredible Shakespeare play.  Are you up for the challenge? Revenge is a dish best served cold … or in a pie. Beloved and weary Roman general, Titus Andronicus, just wants to quietly retire from intrigue and violence, but politicians –and some of Shakespeare’s best villains– keep pulling him back in! In this tragedy, Titus violently loses family members, status, and even a hand, before his scheming enemies realize that they might have just awoken a master of revenge! Award-winning educators, Amy & Phoenix, combine first-class understanding of the Bard, master fight direction, and a constant commitment to Shakespeare’s original text to create endlessly entertaining performances from their young actors. It will be fun, but it won’t be easy and on the final day of camp, actors will perform a production of Titus Andronicus for friends and family.

ADVANCED SPECIALTY:  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? We will concentrate on scene study and working in front of the camera with multiple partners ending with a showcase on the last day of class. Only 12 spots for this exclusive class–save your place today! Taught by friends of YTN, Angela DiMarco and David Hogan, from Mighty Tripod Productions. Requires Education Director’s approval for enrollment.  Email Stephanie at [email protected] to inquire. 

TECHNICAL THEATRE: Spotlight on Lights (Grades 6+) – Have you ever wanted to try your hand at lighting a show, not just running the light board but designing a plot and enhancing the action on stage with your ideas?  Students will have hands on experience learning the basics of light plots, implementation, and enhance their behind the scenes knowledge with hands on experience.

Visit Youth Theatre Northwest’s website >>

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Kids Co. at Island Park Summer Day Camps 2016

Week 1: Getting to Know You (June 27 – July 1)
Start the summer off right at Kids Co. as we build positive relationships, work together on group projects, and do awesome team building activities. This will be a great week to make new friends, meet the summer staff, and gain social skills that will set the path for a great summer.

Week 2: Standing Ovation (July 5 – 8…closed Monday, July 4)

Get ready to be the star of the show. Performing arts are a wonderful way for kids to express themselves. Kids get a chance to discover what they are passionate about by focusing on a different art form each day. We will end the week at the Moore Theatre watching dances from around the world.

Week 3: Level Headed Science (July 11 – 15)

Who says science is always weird and wacky? Try to keep a level head while having a blast with all sorts of amazing experiments. From rocket launching to observing chemical reactions, this week is sure to pique the interest of a budding scientific mind.

Week 4: Outdoor Adventure (July 18 – 22)

Summer is a great time to get outside and enjoy the sunshine. We will spend this week exploring the wooded trails of Mercer Island. During our exploration we will learn how to identify the different plants and animals that we may come across. We will also pick an off island park to visit where we can have a nature scavenger hunt and use the skills we learned on the island to identify plants and animals there as well.

Week 5: How It Works (July 25 – 29)

All of us have spent time wondering how different things work or get made. This week will be filled with opportunities to take things apart to see what’s inside as well as projects that will allow the kiddos to use their own engineering skills.

Week 6: H2OhhYeah!!! (August 1 – 4…closed Friday, August 5)

Cool off from the August heat with us! Water balloons, water limbo, water color, splish splish splash, and so much more will fill our days this week. We will also pick a local park to go have a picnic while we watch our beloved Blue Angels practice their show.

Week 7: Build On (August 8 – 12)

From big to small we build it all. This week we will use our imagination and architectural skills to use all sorts of materials from Legos to cardboard and everything in between to build all sorts of amazing sculptures and forts. We will also explore our local surroundings to get ideas for our creations.

Week 8: Passport To Our Past (August 15 – 19)

This week is really about you, the families in our program. We will be encouraging attending families to share some of their heritage and traditions with us prior to this week. From this we will create a curriculum that will allow our kids to experience the rich cultural diversity of our program first hand.

Week 9: Best Week Ever!!! (August 22 – 26)

Join us for a final farewell to summer! This will be an entire week of fun fast paced games, exciting projects and memories that will last a lifetime. Throughout this week kids and staff will be planning our last day of summer penny carnival and BBQ that will be held at Island Park. Families are encouraged to join in on the fun!

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And More!