Top Online Summer Camps for Kids

It’s that time of year when you’re starting to think about sending your kids to summer camp, but with the way this year has gone, many camps are still closed, and social distancing is still happening in many states. You may be wondering how you all ever keep your kids and teens busy at home all summer.

The good news is with the technology available today, many places are moving their summer camps online, which will allow your kids to attend summer camp right from your living room. If you are looking for a way to keep your kids learning and engaged in something fun, then look no further. Here are top online summer camps for kids

Destination Science

The mission of Destination Science is to get kids excited about science and build terrific life skills. This camp focuses not only on science but also on character education and building confidence in kids ages 5-11. Destination Science focuses on STEM learning and is offering weekly virtual STEM topics starting July 6. Their top-notch teachers will be offering two hours of learning each day Monday through Friday.

Camp Wonderopolis

Camp Wonderopolis is a free online summer camp with a focus on STEM topics and literacy. Wonderopolis was created by the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) and is one of the most popular educational sites out there. Camp Wonderopolis brings the essence of the full Wonderopolis site and packs it in a few weeks in order to keep kids engaged and learning throughout the summer.

Act One Theatre Camp

The goal of Act One Theatre Camp is to offer a hands-on theatre experience for kids and teens. Due to COVID-19, Act One has moved their camp online this year, which makes it accessible to families all over the country! This camp is open to kids and teens ages 6-15 and has many different classes available. There are three different sessions to choose from with the first session starting on June 15. Act One Theatre Camp will offer classes on acting, singing, dancing, on-camera, design, and improv.

Maker Summer Camp

Maker Summer Camp is one of the free best virtual summer camp for kids that has had over a million participants since it started in 2012. Just like you may expect based on the name, this camp is focused on kids learning to make, or create things with their own hands. With an entire project library available on their website, Maker Camp is a great resource for kids who want to learn about STEAM, collaboration, and creative expression.

Bionerds

Bionerds is a hands-on science camp for kids that is now offering online classes with live demonstrations. All of the teachers for Bionerds have Biology or other science degrees, and they also have a passion for teaching kids to appreciate all living things. During the month of June, there will be online classes available for kids in K-8th grade.

Camp Awesome

Camp Awesome is a beach summer program for ages 4-13, but in these uncertain times, they have adapted to meet the needs of their families. Due to the current situation, Camp Awesome is offering a free virtual interactive camp experience. There will be online activities held Monday through Friday at 10 am and 2 pm. Due to their classes being held via Zoom, there is limited availability for each class.

Camp CodeREV Kids

The founder of CodeREV Kids has taught STEM for over 14 years and believes in the importance of kids learning how math and engineering can help them build fun and useful things. The goal of CodeREV Kids is to teach children coding in order to teach them programming early and prepare them for future jobs. CodeREV has been offering online classes for many years and have now expanded their program to add a kid’s virtual tech camp and online classes from June 1-August 28.

Baketivity Bake-A-Camp

For the kids who love to bake or would like to learn, Baketivity is offering hands-on virtual baking activities. All the kids who join Bake-A-Camp will receive their own baking box with four themed baking kits. Bake-A-Camp focuses on helping kids ages 6-11 build their baking skills and techniques. Each kit comes with directions, baking methods, and an explanation of the science behind the baking. Whether your child already loves to bake or has recently become interested in learning, this at-home baking camp is great for any experience level.

Digital Dragon

Digital Dragon is a summer camp program for ages 8-12 years old and focuses on many different technology projects such as game design, coding, and digital art. Due to social distancing protocols, they have removed all in-person programs, but are also offering virtual classes for middle and high school students. You can purchase some of the classes at Digital Dragon by the week or day, if you aren’t looking for a full-summer camp. Summer is a great time for kids to relax and have fun, but its also important for them to continue learning and challenging themselves This summer more than ever, kids and teens need opportunities to be creative and learn something new. Even if your kids are stuck at home all summer, there are still plenty of ways for them to learn , create, connect and engage in purposeful activities. Whether you’re looking for a science camp or an art camp, there is something out there for your kids.

We hope this list of the top online summer camps helps you find something that works for you and your family.

You can find additional free resources on our website including science videos and STEM activities to keep your kids learning and engaged this summer. If you are looking for a screen-free alternative, you can subscribe to print issues of Smore Magazine.