WonderCamp
New sections added! See Topics page for reopened sessions!
WonderCamp is the museum’s popular summer science enrichment program for children entering kindergarten through sixth grade(in fall 2013). WonderCamp's primary purpose is to introduce children to the process of scientific inquiry and basic science content in an informal setting. WonderCamp is held Monday through Thursday at University Elementary School on Bloomington’s northeast side, and will take place at WonderLab on Fridays.
This year we will take an exciting new approach that incorporates parents' feedback and the latest ideas from the museum field. Some camps will emphasize the increasingly popular “maker” movement, which focuses on invention by creatively applying practical skills and technology in new and unique ways. Other camps will use projects that engage campers in ongoing exploration and applying problem-solving skills around a specific topic. Furthermore, we will continue to expand the involvement of scientists and other community partners, who enrich the camp experience. Overall, WonderCamp will offer rigorous science content while maintaining the fun, engaging atmosphere characteristic of a relaxed summer program. We look forward to providing your children with the best summer science enrichment in the region!
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Staff
All camps are led by experienced teachers with help from well-trained high school interns. The typical ratio is one staff person for every four to five campers.
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Age of Campers
WonderCamp serves children entering kindergarten through grade 6 in the fall of 2013. To help ensure a successful experience, children should be registered for a camp that is appropriate for their age, interests, and abilities. WonderCamp may not be appropriate for children entering kindergarten who have not yet had a successful nursery school or daycare experience. Discovery Time may be more appropriate for such children. Teens may become involved in the museum's Volunteer Program, and those of high-school age may apply to the Summer Internship Program.
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Daily Routine
All camps involve extensive hands-on activities. These typically are structured so that campers work together in small groups, rotate among science activity stations, or collaborate on special projects. Scientists and other experts in their field will visit some camps. Parents receive daily information that is intended to stimulate discussion between campers and parents about the day's activities and learning. Parents may find these discussions useful in seeking out more resources to further their child's interest in the subject.
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Daily Schedule
Camp is held for five days (Monday through Friday) during the weeks of June 17, June 24, July 8, and July 15. Morning camps are held from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, and afternoon camps are held from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Campers may attend morning, afternoon, or both camps. Each camp includes a break for a healthy snack. Most camps include a "recess" period from science activities.
Children may sign up for the supervised lunch hour between the morning and afternoon sessions. They should bring their own lunches and beverages. The lunch hour includes supervised play with campers of all ages on the school playground or inside, depending on weather. Children may come to lunch either after a morning camp or before an afternoon camp. Those attending camp all day must sign up for the lunch hour.
Children may not arrive more than ten minutes before the start of camp. Each day, the parent/caregiver should accompany the camper to the check-in table and then to the camp classroom. Children should be picked up on time when camp ends, as we offer no extended childcare service after 4:00 pm. The parent/caregiver should come to the camp classroom to sign out the camper and help carry projects home. -
2013 Fees and Scholarship Information
Member Child $83/camp
Note: Your membership must be current during camp week(s) to apply this discount fee.
Nonmember Child $93/camp
Note: Certain camps may have added materials or field trip fees. See the camp description.
Supervised Lunch Hour $15/week Note: Food is not included. Campers bring own lunches.
2013 WonderCamp logo t-shirt $15 Note: The t-shirt must be ordered no later than June 1.
Full scholarships are available to eligible families who provide written evidence of their participation in the free/reduced school lunch program or the Hoosier Healthwise program. A limited number of half-price scholarships are available for low-income families who meet certain income qualifications but are not eligible for full scholarships.
Click here to download a form to make changes to enrollment information you previously submitted.
