They would absolutely not be at a disadvantage if they are new to coding and robotics.  Each kid starts at the level that they are at and getting kids started with TechyKids is optimal as we build help lay a strong foundation for growth.  In camp we always assume that each kid is a beginner unless we hear otherwise, and then adjust appropriately.

Yes!  If your child has shown an interest in coding already, and is into building and lego, this camp is a perfect fit for them.  TechyKids explains about the broader applications of robotics so it elevates their understanding from just ‘play’ to also understanding that with the skills they are learning it can be applied in real world applications.  It puts kids on a growth path towards developing their ‘playing’ into creating and giving them a desire to grow their skills to be able to rise to the occasion for larger challenges, and empowers them to do so.  TechyKids also instills the right mindset for growth and innovation, so it gives a foundation and larger framework that kids can build from.

In terms of robots, there are many of them out there, there are also many different languages.  In camp we use a robot called the Thymio robot that is a platform the imagination.  It is LEGO compatible, and kids will be building with it and also programming.  The robot is a premier educational robot developed in a university by educators and roboticist as an educational robot.  It has 20 different sensors, more than 40 programmable lights, and can be coded with a block based language and real written code in a code editor.  We get the kids writing real code- and they LOVE it.  We’ve heard straight from kids how at first they were intimidated when they saw the text language, but not for long!  Often by the second day of camp we have the kids writing real code.  And when it ‘clicks’ for them they get a feeling that now anything is possible.  And they prove it, by creating original inventions and creations.  The TechyKids program was developed by an engineer/educator, so it is a strong program that really introduces and puts them on the path of being able to ‘think’ like an engineer.

The TechyKids program with Thymio robot has been tested and granted a seal from Purdue University, a top ranked US engineering university as teaching design and engineering to kids.

There will be a wide range of ages and abilities at the summer camp.  TechyKids is unique in this way that it is able to support the range of ages/abilities and subject matter as each child will have their own personalized logins to get high quality content at their own pace and level, pulling the appropriate resources when they want and need it.

We have helpful and experienced staff in camp that will help mentor students towards leveling up their thinking and approach.  The camp is project based, so your son or daughter will be able to work at his own pace and receive support.  Our program is adjusted and flexible to support kids of different skill levels and interest areas.

Campers ideate and collaborate together to create unique projects, learn skills and flex their abilities as they bring their ideas to reality.  The participants also learn other skills and create videos and presentations about their projects that they proudly showcase out to parents and campers during the last day of camp.

The camp is project and inquiry based, with new kids coming in each week.   Kids who have been in TechyKids camp in the past and also in the classroom during the year are continually challenged.  If you son or daughter would come, the first week they would be paired with another beginner.  And then the next week(s) they would paired them with a kid with more experience.  Think of it like a maker space with guidance and help.  The next week they would be gaining more knowledge and have more time for exploration and be able to bring their projects to the next level.

They would be able to do the camp more than one week and still be very much engaged, and gain further technical skill and general ability.

Yes, campers provide their own lunch.

The format of camp is that we orient the kids, they get to know how to use TechyKids to access their resources and templates for their original projects, we pair them up with with a camper of a similar age or ability level, and then they learn and work together in projects, and we help them achieve their goals. Friday of camp the kids present out to fellow campers and family. Kids work at their own level and pace, with ample support and guidance.

On the TechyKids site, you can look at the projects to see the wide range of projects created by the kids.

Video about camp: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uz6OLcEj8cQ

Interview with a kid talking about camp: https://youtu.be/wTEaOvsHLC0

A short description of what they will be learning and experiencing:  How do robots work? How does the robot see the world? Learn it all here while you program a real robot! Thymio is a versatile and fun robot with 20 sensors, 2 motors, and 39 LEDs. It’s the perfect platform for an endless amount of projects and creativity. First, get started with the easy to learn visual programming language as you learn to program behaviors. Then we’ll advance to learn what ‘if then’ statements are and how to read and modify real code! We’ll be doing a variety of projects from programming a robot pet with personality, to having Thymio follow a path, solving a maze, to creating a musical instrument.

Thymio is not just an ordinary robot, it’s the platform to use your imagination to create and invent whatever you can imagine! Program the robot to behave as you wish and then build off of Thymio with LEGO, and crafts to turn it into your invention. Then we’ll be working on logo design, your product description, and making a video advertisement for your robot. By the end of camp you’ll be revving to try and sell your newly branded invention.

There is a lot of preparation of equipment, space, staffing and such that is required to run a camp and we can only do what we can.  We have a no-refund policy because once everything is set up everything is a sunk cost and enrollment is how we make ends meet.  If you cannot attend your scheduled camp session for some reason, let us know ASAP and we will see if there are any other arrangements we can work out.