5 Summer Camp Options for Boston-Area Kids who Love Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM)

Whether it’s building a machine or a cool contraption, designing a video game or iPhone app, or teaming up with fellow “engineers” to build a bridge or launch a model rocket, some kids just can’t get enough of science and technology. And what better time than summer for kids to take the time to explore their passions to their hearts’ content. We’ve rounded up 5 summer programs that are rich in science, technology, engineering, math (STEM), architecture, design and robotics - great for kids in kindergarten through high school.

iCamp by Children’s Technology Workshop
Ages: 8-14

iCamp taps kids’ creative energies through the use of sophisticated technologies. Options include computer game design, robotics, engineering, programming, digital design, music creation, movie production, news casting, and animation are some of the options at icamp.

One-week sessions take place at five locations (Belmont, Concord, Lexington, Needham, Weston) throughout the summer; see the website for a convenient location and date

Fees: $650-$675/session

GreenApple Campus
Ages: K through 8th grade

GreenApple offers creative and challenging STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) enrichment programs utilizing Robotics, LEGO, green energy, Digital Media & Technology and Video Game Design (new for 2012). Campers work independently, in small groups and on teams for different activities throughout the week.

Sessions: 6 weekly sessions, beginning 6/25
Fees: $250 & up. Extended care available.
Location: Olin College, Needham

Emagination Computer Camps
Ages: 8-17

Emagination blends technology learning with fun activities to create a well rounded summer camp experience. Two-week sessions give campers time to make friends, build self-confidence and be part of a community. Many campers stay multiple sessions and come back year after year. Day and overnight sessions.

Sessions: Two-week sessions, 6/24-8/10
Fees: 2-week session begins at $2,525.
Location: Bentley University, Waltham

iD Tech Camps
Ages: 7-17

iD Tech Camps strike a balance between off-computer activities (creative games, sports, life skills, etc.) and cutting-edge technology education to foster STEM skill development (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). 2012 topics covered include video game design, app development, video editing, web design, robotics and more. Most courses are for beginner to advanced learners.

Sessions: 5-day sessions throughout the summer, beginning 6/18, running through 8/10.
Fees: $849-$949
Location: MIT Campus, Cambridge

Camp Invention
Ages: Grades 1 to 6

Local schools host the Camp Invention program and the week's hands-on activities are led by local teachers Children rotate through four modules each day, each of which encourages working in diverse teams, engaging in investigations, experiments, and engineering challenges that combine science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) in fun, hands-on activities.

Sessions & Location: Week-long sessions take place throughout the summer beginning 6/26. Use the Location Search function to find a convenient location and date.