Camps and children’s interests have changed a lot over the years. A very
popular genre is everything technology: from coding to movie making to creating podcasts. Tech camps offer numerous benefits for participants, particularly for young learners interested in technology and digital skills development. Here is a great list of the top benefits: 1. Hands-on Learning: Tech camps typically provide hands-on learning experiences where participants can actively engage with technology tools, software, and hardware. This hands-on approach helps reinforce learning and allows participants to develop practical skills. 2. STEAM Education: Many tech camps focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) education, which is crucial for preparing students for careers in fields such as computer science, engineering, and IT. 3. Creativity and Innovation: Tech camps often encourage creativity and innovation by challenging participants to solve problems and complete projects using technology. This fosters critical thinking skills and encourages participants to think outside the box. 4. Collaboration: Participants in tech camps often work in teams to complete projects, which fosters collaboration and communication skills. Learning to work effectively in a team setting is valuable in both educational and professional environments. 5. Career Readiness: Tech camps can help participants develop skills that are highly sought after in today's job market, such as coding, web development, digital design, and robotics. By gaining exposure to these skills early on, participants can be better prepared for future career opportunities. 6. Confidence Building: Successfully completing projects and mastering new skills in a tech camp can boost participants' confidence and self-esteem. This confidence can extend beyond the camp setting and positively impact other areas of their lives. 7. Networking Opportunities: Tech camps often bring together participants with similar interests, providing opportunities for networking and forming connections with peers who share their passion for technology. 8. Exposure to Emerging Technologies: Tech camps may introduce participants to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and machine learning, giving them a glimpse into the future of technology and potentially sparking new interests and career paths. 9. Instructor Guidance: Participants benefit from the guidance of experienced instructors who can provide mentorship, support, and feedback as they navigate the learning process. 10. Fun and Engaging Environment: Tech camps strive to create a fun and engaging learning environment where campers can explore, experiment, and learn in a way that is enjoyable and memorable. Having an early start that encourages their curiosity and boosts their confidence is a great foundation for valuable educational experience that can inspire, empower, and prepare participants for future success in an increasingly technology-driven world.
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Oh, look another adult-parenting decision to make: selecting a summer camp for
your child! Let’s make it easier by taking this important decision and breaking it down to consider the factors to ensure it's the positive and enriching experience you are hoping for them. If you too remember being a camper, there is nothing like summer fun and camp friends. Here are some steps and factors to consider: 1. Identify Your Child's Interests: Consider what activities your child enjoys or has expressed an interest in. Some camps specialize in certain activities like sports, arts, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), outdoor adventures, or academic enrichment. 2. Location and Duration: Decide whether you prefer a local day camp or a residential camp where children stay overnight. Consider the distance from your home, transportation options, and the duration of the camp session. 3. Accreditation and Safety: Look for camps that are accredited by reputable organizations and have proper safety measures in place. Check if the camp follows state regulations and background checks for staff. 4. Camp Philosophy and Values: Research the camp's mission statement and philosophy to ensure it aligns with your family's values and goals for your child's summer experience. 5. Staff Qualifications: Inquire about the qualifications and experience of the camp staff, including counselors, instructors, and medical personnel. A low camper-to-staff ratio is typically preferable for personalized attention. 6. Facilities and Amenities: Visit the camp, have a virtual visit, or explore their website to see photos and descriptions of the facilities, accommodations, and amenities available to campers. 7. Cost and Financial Aid: Consider the camp fees, additional expenses, and available financial aid or scholarships. Most programs offer discounts for early registration and sibling discounts. 8. Reviews and Recommendations: Seek recommendations from other parents, friends, or online reviews to get insights into the camp's reputation and the experiences of previous campers. 9. Special Needs Accommodations: If your child has special needs or medical requirements, inquire about the camp's ability to accommodate those needs and the availability of trained staff. 10. Activities and Programming: Review the camp's daily schedule, activity offerings, and any special events or trips planned during the session. Ensure there's a balance of structured activities and free time for exploration and socialization. 11. Communication with Parents: Evaluate the camp's communication policies regarding updates on your child's well-being, activities, and any concerns that may arise during their time at camp. 12. Camp Culture and Environment: Consider the overall atmosphere and culture of the camp to ensure it fosters inclusivity, diversity, and a positive social environment for your child. This list is a great jumping off point to get so many questions answered and to make your camper feel comfortable with this decision. By considering these factors and involving your child in the decision-making process, you can select a summer camp that aligns with their interests, your values and needs, and provides them with a memorable and rewarding experience.
Technology offers any great benefits to children. It can be a great tool for students to be creators and problem solvers. There are, however, potential dangers from overexposure to media. This month's Preschool and Beyond Podcast hosted by our partner, Discovery Child Development Center, explores effective ways to manage screen time and ideas so that your child uses it effectively. While the podcast is aimed at preschool families, the episode is applicable to children of all ages.
Example of Quality Apps and Computer Programs for Elementary School Children
- PhET simulations - for the computer and iPad - https://phet.colorado.edu/ - Scratch Jr (ages 5-7)it's an app https://www.scratchjr.org/index.html - Scratch (ages 8 - adult), (computer only) - https://scratch.mit.edu/ - coding - https://code.org/ -Khan Academy - https://www.khanacademy.org/although this is more passive learning, it is good for explaining curriculum and for self-motivated learners who want to advance themselves Site to help in evaluating media and finding some good media - Common Sense Media - https://www.commonsensemedia.org/ Gift Guide Overview - Discovery Tech - Morrisville/Cary, NCEvery year there are an increasing number of Tech gift options for children. I know with my 3 children, it can take a good amont of time and research to find the right gift. I definitely want to make sure my child will use the gift, especially for gifts that require a greater investment. There is nothing worse than spending a lot of money on a gift, to have it only be a used a couple of times. This guide will highlight popular technology products we use at DIscovery, as well as other products families have recommended. Ultimately, you know your child best, but hopefully these ideas can help steer you in the right direction. Favorites from Discovery Tech Summer and Track-Out CampsDot and Dash Robots (Ages 6+, $199 for both, they can be bought separately)
Snap Circuits (Ages 6+, prices vary depending on kit)Additional Tech Gift IdeasHere are some additional tech products that I have heard good things about this year. Fisher-Price's Think & Learn Code-a-Pillar (Ages 3-6, $39.00) This looks like a great toy to introduce children as young as preschool to coding. To program the codeapillar, children arrange the segments in a certain order. All the programming is done directly on the toy and you do not need to worry about using a phone or tablet. littleBits Kits (Price and ages vary by kit)My son received the Rule Your Room Kit for his birthday last week. He is having a great time with this product. It builds off their makey makey board to teach children about conductivity. They can create different alarms, sensors, a pop-up puppet and more. littleBits offers a number of different sets and I am already looking at ones for my son to get in the future. Jewelbots (Ages 7-14, $69)These are like no friendship bracelet you have seen before. Kids can send secret messages to their friends through these bracelets. It is open-sourced, and children can come up with their own programs for their bracelets. Sphero Star Wars BB-8 App Controlled Robot, ($129, $199 with force band)With the release of another Star Wars movie this year, this toy will be a big hit with children. They recently added a force band accessory capable of guiding the robot into action. Your child will feel like a Jedi master! 3Doodler Start ($49.99) |
AuthorMeet Dani, a dedicated mom of three (9, 6.5, 4.5) with a passion for education! With a background in education and a heart full of love for her children, she brings a unique perspective to the world of parenting and learning. Here she will share her journey of the joys and challenges of raising three little ones while sharing valuable insights and tips on fostering a love for learning in children and explores the endless possibilities of education and parenting in today's dynamic world. Archives
April 2024
CategoriesAuthorMike Dlott is the Director of Discovery Tech in Morrisville/Cary North Carolina and is also the Co-Director of Discovery Child Development Center. He lives in Cary with his wife and 3 sons. |