As summer approaches, it also brings forth a lot of new opportunities for middle schoolers in particular. Especially for those interested in STEM, there’s a large number of programs available that delve into every aspect of science, technology, engineering, and math. One of the best ways to explore STEM beyond the boundaries of a classroom is through these engaging summer programs. These programs provide an in-depth learning experience and offer a glimpse into different career paths.
iD Tech
This is a technology camp focused on coding, robotics, and game development/design. Anyone between the ages of 7 to 19 is eligible to participate. These iD STEM camps are an amazing opportunity to help expand your knowledge and learn from incredible teachers while enjoying your summer at prestigious universities. Not only that, students will also be able to advance their skills quickly and join a community of 500,000 aspiring innovators.
NextWave STEM
This program offers various STEM courses for children of all ages to explore. Their primary focus lies in emerging technologies. Therefore, they offer courses related to drones, robotics, 3D technologies, and artificial intelligence. Additionally, they incorporate project-based learning into their curriculum. Their classes are designed to help improve critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration skills. Their mission is to ignite a passion for learning that will lead to better grades and increased opportunities throughout their education and career.
MakerKids
MakerKids offers virtual summer STEM courses for kids between the ages of 6 and 13. Students will have the opportunity to do hands-on projects with robotics stimulator technology, video game design, character development, and more. The purpose of this is to help children understand that they can use technology to shape the world around them. Furthermore, the programs are embedded with social skill lessons to help everyone connect with like minded peers.
Club Scientific
This program has a comprehensive STEM curriculum for children between the ages of 6 to 12. The topics range from forensics, robotics, and food science to engineering, meteorology, and emergency medicine. Instead of reading from textbooks or attending lectures, students can receive real world experience with the things that interest them. They will have the chance to utilize the latest technology by participating in experiments to enhance their knowledge on the subject they’re learning about.
National Computer Camp
The focus at National Computer Camp (NCC) is primarily on coding, 2D and 3D video game design, Android app programming, cryptography, digital video production, web page design, and software applications. This program is for kids ages 6 to 19 and is open to all levels of experience, from beginner to advanced. Something unique about NCC is that its purpose is to teach life-long computer skills by providing a solid foundation in programming.
Overall, the summer is a great time for taking a break from school, but also pursuing education outside of school such as these summer STEM programs. Middle schoolers in particular deserve the vacation but have the opportunity of using it to consider their interests and explore future career paths. Any of these programs or camps can help set the stage up for anyone who’s interested in some aspect of STEM. This allows students to learn more about what they’re interested in while also enjoying their summer as much as possible!
Written by Anumita Basani
