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“I’m bored,” is one of the most commonly uttered phrases from kids during the summer. With the year of quarantine and COVID-19 in full effect, many activities and in-person summer camps have been canceled. However, with a little creativity and help from online resources, there are plenty of fun and exciting adventures to still be had. Here are seven virtual summer programs worth checking out.
Camp PBS Kids. Complete with reading challenges and programs, space exploration, science, paleontology, and artistic fun, Camp PBS KIDS has an amazing array of free resources and ideas for your summer campers. Cost: Free.
Connected Camps. If you have a gaming-oriented child, you’ll definitely want to pop over to Connected Camps. With lessons in coding and designing, as well as skill building and team collaboration through online video games, there are plenty to choose from. Games such as Minecraft, Roblox, Fortnite, Overwatch and League of Legends are utilized. Cost: Between $65 and $100 per week session.
MarcoPolo World School. Geared toward little ones (ages 3-7), this online enrichment program offers fun and interactive videos, games and lessons. New content is added weekly and focuses on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) introduction. Cost: Free 7-day trial, $9.99 per month.
Camp Wonderopolis. This fantastically entertaining virtual camp also caters to STEAM principles but is open to children of all ages. Interactive programs include music, creative arts, engineering and health and fitness. Activities are offered online and also do-it-yourself. Cost: Free.
Makers Summer Camp. Does your child like to make (and break) things, or is a very tactile learner? This camp is one you won’t want to miss. With amusing instructor videos, kids can create just about anything from anything. From creating bead boards to learning about circuitry and switches, it’ll keep their minds engaged. Cost: Free.
Camp Kinda. With one of the most apropos monikers, Camp Kinda is just that … kind of a summer camp. Programs are designed for students in grades K-8 and offer online and offline instruction. Children can learn about science virtually and then do experiments at home or outside. It’s all about exploring the world around them. Cost: Free.
K12 Inc. Summer Program. Offered through Destinations Career Academy, this program is geared toward high school students interested in technology and computer sciences. Coding and virtual reality courses are just a few programs offered. Students who successfully complete the four-week courses may be eligible to earn partial high school elective credit. Cost: Free.
