ELEMENTARY SUMMER CAMP
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Campers should register for the grade level they will attend in the 2025-2026 school year
Schedule
Camp drop off: 8:45am to 9am
All Elementary Camps are Full-day camps: 9am to 4pm
Camp pick up: 4pm to 4:15pm
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Elementary Week 1: June 9-13
Over the Rainbow
Grade Y5/KDG
Jane Broglio
$350Come spark your creativity, embrace the magic of color, and celebrate the beauty of the world around us! Through hands-on art projects, engaging songs, and outdoor play, campers will learn about colors and how to mix, blend, and explore them in fun new ways. Discover the science behind how rainbows form, and create rainbow crafts like painted rocks and mobile art.
It’s a colorful week of imagination and creativity as we search for the magical gold “Over the Rainbow”.
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It’s Time for Electronics!
Grades 1 - 3
Fun Learning Company
$350
Calling all curious kids! Do you love to tinker, experiment, and bring your ideas to life? This hands-on electronics camp opens up a whole new world of possibilities! From building basic circuits to programming interactive gadgets, we'll dive into the science behind how energy is generated & transferred, solar power, robotics and so much more!Come unleash your inner inventor and make inventions that actually work!
Key Features:
• Build basic circuits and electronic projects without soldering
• Explore circuitry, programming, solar power, pneumatics, and more
• Create interactive gadgets that connect to smartphones and tablets
• Program projects like an Etch-A-Sketch and computer mouse
• Gain a solid foundation in electronics and how energy worksTap into the magic of electronics and develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and tech skills and ignite your passion for science and innovation today!
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Gone Fishing!
Grades 2 - 6
Dave Willoughby & Bonnie Dingman
$350 - Limit 15 campersMr. Dave is back by popular demand!
Learn the basics of fishing including how to tie knots, kinds of lures and how they work, rods and reels, casting, fish identification, characteristics, and the habits of fish.
Make lures and learn some fly tying too! After practicing casting and fishing safety, we’ll fish for largemouth bass and sunfish in the pond next to the school!
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“Everything Chess” - Introduction to IMPLODS
Grades K- 6
Coach Bryan Wilson
$350Join National Championship Coach Bryan Wilson for an immersive chess camp, dedicated to introducing the renowned IMPLOD system. This week is perfect for players ranging from beginners to tournament-ready enthusiasts. Dive into the essentials of chess, from basic tactics to advanced strategies, all tailored to elevate your game. The week culminates in a USCF-rated tournament, providing a real-world test of your newfound skills.
Beyond our daily chess play, we’ll enjoy an array of fun outdoor games designed to refresh and inspire.
All participants are required to secure a $20 USCF membership, ensuring their official rating upon camp completion - to be paid directly to Coach Bryan on the first day of camp.
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Elementary Week 2: June 16-20*
*No Camp Thursday, June 19th - Juneteenth Observance
*The Magical World of Dr. Seuss
Grade Y5/KDG
Jane Broglio
$280Step into the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss where young adventurers will explore the wacky, and colorful stories of one of the greatest storytellers of all time! Full of imagination, creativity, and laughter, children will dive into the magical worlds of Dr. Seuss’s most beloved books. Campers will embark on exciting adventures through stories like The Cat in the Hat, Green Eggs and Ham, and Horton Hears a Who! They’ll participate in Seuss-themed activities such as creating their own zany hats, making green eggs and ham-inspired crafts, and even creating some oobleck! It’s the week when stories come to life, creativity knows no bounds, and fun is always just a page away!
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*Let Go of My LEGO
Grades 1 & 2
Bonnie Dingman
$280It’s time to pack your creativity and build with friends. This cooperative-learning camp will stretch the imagination and make you a city planner. Brainstorm together what your community will include and build the ultimate super city! The sky’s the limit as you create every activity center you’ve ever wanted to go to. Together you have the power to challenge your architectural skills and build a futuristic development for all.
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*Introduction to Robotics - The Possibilities are Endless!
Grades 3 & 4
Fun Learning Company
$280Prepare to be amazed as you embark on an unforgettable robotics adventure! Enjoy hands-on projects with Lego BOOST, Ozobot, and Dash Robot while learning essential skills in building, problem-solving, and programming. Robotics is the key to unlocking the future, and this immersive camp is your gateway to mastering this cutting-edge field. Through a dynamic blend of structured learning and open-ended exploration, you'll dive deep into the fundamentals of constructing, troubleshooting, and coding various robotic systems.
Whether you're a tech enthusiast, aspiring engineer, or simply curious about the inner workings of machines, this introduction to robotics will captivate and inspire you. Develop a versatile skillset that will serve you well, from following step-by-step instructions to unleashing your own innovative solutions. Don't just watch the future unfold - be a part of it. Join us for Intro to Robotics and unlock a world of endless possibilities.————————————
*Hyper Pro Training Chux (Padded Nunchucks) Presented By Master Lockman's Black Belt Academy
Grades 2 - 6
Master Brandon Lockman & Maya Vigil
$295 includes a $15 non-refundable fee for Padded ChuxKids will be ABSOLUTELY PUMPED to learn and exercise! The Hyper Athlete CHUX CAMP (Padded nunchucks) is designed to create a fun experience that inspires powerful athletes using martial arts. Each camp includes solid foundation strikes, martial arts tricks, all 4 sections of the Chux form used in competition, competition games and educational worksheets. Kids will receive 2 pairs of padded nunchucks (which has to be used strictly according to the rules set forth by the camp instructors and participants parents) to practice with and keep after the camp is over. This camp promotes exercise, focus, self-discipline, self-control and good sportsmanship all rolled into a fun learning environment.
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*Art with Ms. Amy - Flowers
Grades 3 - 6
Amy Morrell
$295 includes a $15 non-refundable materials feeWho doesn’t love beautiful flowers? We will spend the week creating stunning projects all related to our flower theme. Your ideas will blossom as we paint with paper, make a giant cloth flower, create 3D flowers and so much more! We may even sprinkle in some garden-themed insect crafts as well.
We’re Cultivating Creativity, One Petal at a Time!
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Elementary Week 3: June 23-27
Young Engineers: Our Early Innovators
Grade Y5/KDG
Fun Learning Company
$350Unleash your inner engineer! Young Engineers is the hands-on camp that turns students into problem-solving pros.
Dive into real-world engineering challenges through fun, collaborative projects and learn the engineering design process from start to finish - planning, building, testing, and improving. Explore various materials and technologies to create your own unique solutions developing critical thinking, teamwork, and creativity skills for the future.
In Young Engineers, students don't just read about engineering - they live it. Come learn to use a Chomp Saw: a kid safe power tool for cutting cardboard, allowing campers to create cardboard designs that spark their imagination and bring their creations to life!
Whether your child is a budding architect, aspiring robotics engineer, or just loves to tinker, Young Engineers provides the perfect outlet to cultivate their natural curiosity and build essential skills for the future.————————————
Kitchen Kidz: Snack Safari
Grades 1 - 3
Jacob Van Loon
$350Embark on a delicious adventure in Kitchen Kidz: Snack Safari, where young chefs explore the world of cooking and creativity! Campers will plant fresh herbs, master the art of “mise en place” (getting everything ready), and experiment with microwave cooking.
From crafting healthy snacks and no-bake treats to preparing frozen delights, kids will learn the secrets of making snack time fun and nutritious. Perfect for budding foodies ready to whip up their own culinary creations!
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Play with Clay I
Grades 2- 6
Suzanne Higgins
$700 - Week #1 of two week campCome dive into two weeks of pottery fun! Campers will begin by brainstorming what they would like to make. Pieces from the instructor’s pottery collection along with a slew of pottery books will be brought in for inspiration. During the first week, campers will devote their time to working with wet clay to build pieces using coils, slabs and pinched forms. During the second week, our artists will glaze their work and help load it back into the kiln for a glaze firing. By being immersed in this creative process, much will be learned about the possibilities of clay, altered forms, pottery tools and glazing techniques.
Come enjoy this ever popular two week camp, where artists will remember their experience and have creations from the final day’s
Art Show to keep and use forever!____________
Art with Ms. Amy - Bowls
Grades 3 - 6
Amy Morrell
$365 includes a $15 non-refundable materials feeBig bowls, small bowls, short bowls, tall bowls. We will have a blast creating decorative bowls of different sizes out of different materials. We will use balloons, yarn, glue, cloth, confetti, tissue paper, and natural materials to design original pieces of beauty.
We’ll “bowl” you over with the possibilities!
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Soccer Stars
Grades 1 - 6
Coach Paul
$365 includes a $15 non-refundable jersey feeSoccer is the fastest-growing youth sport in the U.S., and now is the perfect time to get your young athlete in the game. At Soccer Stars, the largest youth soccer program in the country, we bring 20+ years of experience to deliver a week packed with age-appropriate, skill-building fun.
With 130 expertly designed lesson plans, we provide a comfortable learning experience for beginners and a fast-track program for players with advanced skills. Each day is filled with action-packed drills, exciting games, and countless opportunities to build teamwork, confidence, and a love for the game.
Kick it with us this summer and watch your child grow both on and off the field!
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Elementary Week 4: July 7-11
Tropical Vacation
Grades Y5/KDG
Alejandra Benitez & Bethany Simons
$350Who’s ready for a vacation? It’s time for all things tropical…
tropical smoothies, tropical fruit, and colorful sand art - just to name a few.Get ready to pack your newly decorated beach bag & visor with your flip flops, beach towel, and swim suit as we hit the Daycroft beach for some tropical water games and fun in the sun!
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Calling All Swifties!
Grade 1 - 3
Bonnie Dingman
$350Calling all young fans of Taylor Swift! Welcome to this ultimate summer camp where the music, magic, and inspiration of Taylor Swift comes to life!
Designed to celebrate the songs, stories, and creativity of one of the world’s most beloved artists in a fun and interactive way, “Calling All Swifties” campers will dive into Taylor’s iconic music through sing-alongs, dance parties, and fun games inspired by her albums.
Whether it’s shaking it off to “Shake It Off,” learning the moves from “You Belong With Me,” or making friendship bracelets to share, each day is packed with music, movement, and creativity!
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Art with Ms. Amy - Birds & Trees
Grades 2 - 4
Amy Morrell
$365 includes a $15 non-refundable materials feeIt’s time to bring the outdoors inside! By using birds and trees as a theme for our projects this week, artists will use their imagination and creativity to make their work come to life!
Using various mediums such as watercolors, air-dry clay, cardboard, tissue paper, and more, students will design and create unique works of art including paintings and 3D birds to name a few.
From Tree Tops to Skylines: Art Takes Flight!————————————
Play with Clay I
Grades 2 - 6
Suzanne Higgins
Week #2 of two week campCome dive into two weeks of pottery fun! Campers will begin by brainstorming what they would like to make. Pieces from the instructor’s pottery collection along with a slew of pottery books will be brought in for inspiration.
During the first week, campers will devote their time to working with wet clay to build pieces using coils, slabs and pinched forms. During the second week, our artists will glaze their work and help load it back into the kiln for a glaze firing.
By being immersed in this creative process, much will be learned about the possibilities of clay, altered forms, pottery tools and glazing techniques.
Come enjoy this ever popular two week camp, where artists will remember their experience and have creations from the final day’s
Art Show to keep and use forever!____________
Earth ROCKS: Geology at it’s Finest!
Grades 1 - 6
Jacob Van Loon
$350Join the ultimate geological adventure with Earth ROCKS: Geology Camp! Campers will uncover the secrets of the Earth as they explore fluorescent minerals, create stunning fossil jewelry, and build live volcanic demonstrations.
They'll also hunt for rocks outdoors, model sediment deposition, and experiment with landforms using pans.
Plus, kids will engineer their own water filter from layers of sediment and fibers, learning the science behind our planet's amazing processes.
Let’s dig into fun and discovery!
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Elementary Week 5: July 14-18
South of the Border
Grade Y5/KDG
Alejandra Benitez & Bethany Simons
$350Board your flight to a destination “South of the Border” as your flight attendants, Ms. Alejandra & Ms Bethany, lead you on a trip to Central and South America and the rich Spanish cultures of the region. Enjoy a sampling of the foods, play games, and listen to the music of this special geography which is full of traditions and rich history. Get your passport ready for a week of Spanish flavors and fun!
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Glue, Glitter & Beyond
Grades 1 - 3
Megan Nicholson
$350Welcome to the ultimate crafting adventure for creative kids! This hands-on camp is all about exploring the world of arts and crafts and making beautiful, one-of-a-kind creations. Campers will dive into a variety of exciting projects, from making sparkly jewelry and custom t-shirts to creating colorful collages, 3D sculptures, and magical mixed-media art. Each day will be filled with opportunities to get creative, experiment with new materials, and bring ideas to life with imagination and flair.
Join us at Glue, Glitter & Beyond, where the only limit is your imagination, and every project is a masterpiece waiting to happen!
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Avoiding Checkmate! IMPLODS Strategies
Grades 1- 6
Coach Bryan Wilson
$350Continue your chess journey or jump right into advanced play. Take a deep dive into the IMPLOD system, focusing on sophisticated concepts of imbalances and openings. It's ideal for returning students or new advanced players seeking to refine their tactics. Beginners aren't left out; specialized training and homework are tailored to accelerate their progress. Expect a mix of intensive learning and playful outdoor activities, ensuring a balanced and enriching experience.
Elevate your game, enjoy the camaraderie, and embrace the challenge during this week chess camp.
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Dungeons & Dragons
Grades 3 - 6
Fun Learning Company
$350Unleash your inner hero and embark on a fantastical adventure like no other with our Dungeons & Dragons and Other Roleplaying Adventures camp!
Dive into a realm of endless possibilities and forge lasting connections with your peers. Experience the transformative power of cooperative storytelling, social skills development, reading, and probability through exhilarating play sessions. Take on the role of courageous adventurers, intrepid explorers, and treasure seekers in a world of fantasy, ancient ruins, and magic.
Work together to solve puzzles, find treasure, defeat monsters, and save the day! As the story unfolds and complications arise, you'll have the chance to describe what your Adventurer does and how they react, even taking on the personality, gestures, and voice of your character. It's a thrilling journey that will leave you feeling empowered, inspired, and deeply connected to your fellow players.
Embark on this transformative journey and unlock a world of wonder, camaraderie, and personal growth.————————————
Art with Ms. Amy - Oceans
Grades 3 - 6
Amy Morrell
$365 includes a $15 non-refundable materials feeAhhh, nothing like the thought of being seaside during the summer. Splash into this week and embrace the ocean’s beauty by creating wonderful crafts with fun materials. We will use shells, paint, air-dry clay, tissue paper, glass, and sequins to make animals, canvas art, suncatchers, and your very own pom-pom anemone!
"Ride the Waves of Imagination and Create Ocean Magic!"
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Elementary Week 6: July 21-25
Busters with a Twist
Grade Y5/KDG
Bonnie Dingman
$350What do you get when you combine the popular “Energy Busters” with Daycroft’s incredible playground? A “twist” that only Ms. Bonnie can create! Join her for a week of fun in the gym and on the new playgrounds too. Play games, challenge yourself to the obstacle course, and make new friends during this week of fun in the sun and team building, all rolled into one.
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Shoot the Moon
Grade 1 - 3
Megan Nicholson
$350Reach for the stars and shoot for the moon in this out-of-this-world art camp for young astronauts & space explorers. Shoot the Moon takes young explorers on a creative journey through the cosmos, where they’ll use their imaginations to design cosmic landscapes, alien creatures, and futuristic spacecraft. From painting the moon’s surface to building models of distant planets, campers will embark on a space adventure like no other! Campers will not only learn about the wonders of space, but also express their creativity through hands-on art projects that capture the magic of the universe. Each day will be filled with exciting space missions and endless artistic possibilities. Your mission starts here!
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American Girl: The Tradition Continues
Grades 1- 6
Jeanine Wright
$350Calling all doll lovers! Get ready for a week of creative fun where you can get messy, make new friends, and create amazing projects for both you and your doll (or stuffed animal)! It’s the ultimate week to let your imagination shine!
Throughout the week, campers will dive into exciting activities like baking tasty treats, learning the basics of sewing, crafting items for you and your doll, and playing fun games. Whether you're designing sparkly dresses, sewing cute accessories, or having a doll tea party, there's always something fun and creative to do!
All dolls and stuffed animals are welcome to join the fun, and extra dolls will be provided by the instructor for those who want a new friend to share in the adventure. Join in the AG Summer Tradition and make new friends too!
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Play with Clay II
Grades 2 - 6
Suzanne Higgins
$700 - Week #1 of two week campCome dive into two weeks of pottery fun! Campers will begin by brainstorming what they would like to make. Pieces from the instructor’s pottery collection along with a slew of pottery books will be brought in for inspiration. During the first week, campers will devote their time to working with wet clay to build pieces using coils, slabs and pinched forms. During the second week, our artists will glaze their work and help load it back into the kiln for a glaze firing. By being immersed in this creative process, much will be learned about the possibilities of clay, altered forms, pottery tools and glazing techniques.
Come enjoy this ever popular two week camp, where artists will remember their experience and have creations from the final day’s
Art Show to keep and use forever!————————————
Drones & Rockets
Grades 3 - 6
Fun Learning Company
$365 - includes $15 non-refundable materials feeCalling all future aerospace engineers and tech enthusiasts! This immersive drone and rocket camp will take your STEM skills to new heights! Design and assemble your own custom drone, from high-speed racers to camera-equipped VR models. Construct a rocket to launch with the Jackson Model Rocket Club. Explore the fascinating history and modern applications of drones and UAVs. Take home your personalized drone creation to continue your flight adventures.
Whether you're dreaming of a career in aviation or just love tinkering with cutting-edge tech, this camp is your ticket to an unforgettable experience. Get ready to unleash your inner innovator and boldly go where few have gone before! -
Elementary Week 7: July 29-August 2
3d Printing Jr.
Grades Y5/KDG
Fun Learning Company
$350
Are you ready to turn your ideas into reality? 3D Printing Jr. is your ticket to a whole new world of design and innovation. Dive into the exciting world of 3D design using the intuitive Tinkercad platform. As you tackle a series hands-on design challenges, campers will learn how to transform their imagination into 3D models that can be brought to life. Then, you'll get to see your creations come to fruition on state-of-the-art Toybox 3D printers.
Whether you're a budding engineer, artist, or just someone who loves to tinker, this camp will open your eyes to the endless possibilities of 3D printing. By the time you leave, you'll have a new set of skills - and a collection of custom-printed objects to show off to your friends and family.————————————
Fancy Fairies
Grades 1 - 3
Jeanine Wright
$350Flutter your way into the magical world of fairies. Sprinkle some fairy dust and wave your fairy wand as we skip through the landscape and craft our way through the magic. Mini fairy gardens and ribbon wands are just a few of the magical fairy activities we’ll create. It’s a Fancy Fairy Frenzy all wrapped up in Fabulous Fun!
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Theme Park Imagineers: Coasters & Characters
Grades 1 - 4
Jacob Van Loon
$350Calling all creative minds! In Theme Park Imagineers: Coasters & Characters, campers become the designers of their own magical theme parks. They'll build roller coasters and rides using simple machines and motors, dream up their park's unique “world” through art, storytelling, and spatial reasoning, create captivating characters, design thrilling attractions, and even plan transportation systems. At the end of camp, they’ll show off their one-of-a-kind theme parks to friends and family. A perfect blend of imagination and engineering fun!
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Play with Clay II
Grades 2 - 6
Suzanne Higgins
Week #2 of two week campCome dive into two weeks of pottery fun! Campers will begin by brainstorming what they would like to make. Pieces from the instructor’s pottery collection along with a slew of pottery books will be brought in for inspiration. During the first week, campers will devote their time to working with wet clay to build pieces using coils, slabs and pinched forms. During the second week, our artists will glaze their work and help load it back into the kiln for a glaze firing. By being immersed in this creative process, much will be learned about the possibilities of clay, altered forms, pottery tools and glazing techniques.
Come enjoy this ever popular two week camp, where artists will remember their experience and have creations from the final day’s
Art Show to keep and use forever!____________
Spotlight Performers: Lights, Camera, Action!
Grades 2 - 6
Carolyn Pierce
$350Step into the spotlight and unleash your creativity at this exciting week, perfect for young performers who love to act, create, and bring stories to life! Campers will spend the week learning and rehearsing short skits, developing their acting skills, and working as a team to bring stories to life on stage.
We’ll practice character development, stage presence, and expression while participating in creative games and exercises. At the end of the week, campers will have the chance to perform their skits for family and friends, showcasing all the hard work and imagination they've put into their performances.
Whether you’re a seasoned performer or new to the stage, this camp is a fantastic opportunity to build confidence, make new friends, and experience the magic of theater.
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Elementary Week 8: August 4-8
Jr. Soccer Stars
Grades Y5/KDG
Coach Paul Greifenberger
$365 includes a $15 non-refundable jersey feeSoccer is the fastest-growing youth sport in the U.S., and now is the perfect time to get your young athlete in the game. At Soccer Stars, the largest youth soccer program in the country, we bring 20+ years of experience to deliver a week packed with age-appropriate, skill-building fun.
With 130 expertly designed lesson plans, we provide a comfortable learning experience for beginners and a fast-track program for players with advanced skills. Each day is filled with action-packed drills, exciting games, and countless opportunities to build teamwork, confidence, and a love for the game.
Kick it with us this summer and watch your child grow both on and off the field!
————————————Good Vibes
Grades 1 - 3
Jacob Van Loon
$350Get ready to feel the rhythm in Good Vibes! Campers will create musical instruments from everyday materials like tissue boxes, rubber bands, and water bottles, crafting items like shakers, finger pianos, and even water bottle xylophones. They’ll also take on exciting engineering projects, such as building an air cannon from a trash can! With a focus on sound, creativity, and fun, this camp for 1st through 3rd graders will have kids tapping into their inner musicians and inventors all week long.
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Hometown Heroes
Grades 2 - 6
Dana Woodley & Bethany Simons
$350One of our best camps from the past is back once again to inspire and inform our youth. Heroes come in many forms. Join us for a week of visitors and an exploration of the heroes around us and what they do every day to help others! Build up your social superpowers and show your appreciation, empathy, and compassion. Gain insight into the world around us and discover your own superpowers and what you can do to help others! Make blankets for animals at the shelter, write letters to veterans, make treats for our local firefighters, and organize and participate in helping our neighbors with food scarcity. Learn to be the change you’d like to see in others!
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Get Fit with Karate - Presented by Master Lockman’s Black Belt Academy
Grades K - 6
Master Brandon Lockman & Maya Vigil
$350Join us for a fun, active, martial arts-themed, sports-oriented camp for beginners and experienced martial arts students. Emphasis is on cardiovascular, endurance, and strength-based exercise. Play simple karate games and drills to padded nunchaku practice, obstacle courses, Ga-Ga ball games and more! Anti-bullying strategies, confidence-building and basic self-defense exercises will be taught.
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Robot Rumbles - Battlebots!
Grades 3 - 6
Fun Learning Company
$350Calling all future engineers and robotics enthusiasts! Battlebots is an exhilarating LEGO robotics camp that will have you designing, building, and coding your own battle-ready robots.
Choose from a variety of models like bulldozers, rattlesnakes, and turtles. Team up with friends to combine your creations and build the ultimate Battlebot. Hands-on learning to master the essentials of robotics and coding. Witness your Battlebot in action at the final showdown at the end of the week!
Get ready to put your problem-solving skills to the test as you learn to construct and program your very own robots. Battlebots is the perfect way for aspiring builders, coders, and competitors to unleash their creativity and bring their robotic visions to life. Whether you're a LEGO expert or new to the world of robotics, this camp will transform you into a Battlebot master, ready to dominate the arena.
Battlebots is ideal for kids who love hands-on projects, friendly competition, and learning new skills. By the end of the week, not only will you have built incredible robotic creations, but you'll also have gained valuable skills in design, coding, and teamwork that will serve you well both in and out of the classroom.
Refund Policy
There will be no refunds after May 1, 2025; instead, a credit will be given towards another 2025 camp if space is available.
To cancel a summer camp by May 1st, please email Michele McGrath at michelem@daycroft.org.
Please include the week you would like to cancel and the name of the camp and camper.
Refunds will be given for camp registration fees only - credit card fees & notated material fees are non-refundable.

Questions about summer camp?
Please call Michele McGrath, Director of Auxiliary Programs, at 734.662.3335 or email michelem@daycroft.org