12+

Learn from a seasoned FLL (First Lego League) Pro. Lego Mindstorms is a system of parts that can be programmed to complete a task.

Add motors to move your creation around, and sensors to let it detect the world around it. Then, learn the basics of programming and make your robot accomplish tasks difficult for a purely mechanical machine to do. Work with others to tackle engineering challenges and build robots that you design. Work with a partner to solve problems. Collaboration is a key to refined design.

Embrace the power of precision. With a Trotec laser capable of addressable accuracy to 5 µm (0.0002 inch) you have the tool to create dependable parts. It is your challenge to design those parts to solve problems.
There are two primary challenges for this week’s camp.

Design a car that can travel the farthest in an all-terrain obstacle course.

Design the fastest car for a straight track.

Learn how to use Rhinoceros 3D, a design software program. Use the Trotec laser cutter to make the parts for your vehicle. Construct the winning car or cheer your friends on to victory. Gear motors, DC motors, and battery packs are included.

East Rock Park was established 140 years ago to preserve and share the woodlands and wildlife that surround the river that powered Whitney’s machines. 400 acres rise from the tidal basin to a trap rock ridge with a panoramic view of Long Island sound.
Learn the intricacies of hiking: planning, map reading, orienteering, trail safety, responsible impact, and proactive stewardship. Explore some of the Park’s 10 miles of trails. Use our binoculars to get a closer look at birds and wildlife in the Park.
Learn the art of the sketchbook (journal). Make close observations and record what you see. Learn tricks for measuring and techniques for drawing. Learn to use field books to guide your observations.

Technology surrounds us and is so woven into our everyday lives.  Even entertainment, like video games, has grown so much in popularity and accessibility becoming a driving force in our culture. Despite this, it is nice to take a step back and see which way the dice fall. In the tradition of classic tabletop gaming, create a war band of miniatures and skirmish with other 'bands' to gain wealth, power, and size. Painting your figures gives them a personality all their own. In between games, help with the construction of a detailed scenery board to have for years to come. Build the environment, learn strategies, play the game. All levels are welcome.

Please note that the tools and techniques explored in this camp require an advanced level of strength and manual dexterity. We will not accept any campers who are younger than 12, and we ask that parents call us to discuss any questions regarding their child's readiness. Campers may also meet the instructor before signing up.

Over the course of a week, you will design, build, paint, and relax in an Adirondack Chair. Following an introduction to furniture design, you will learn to construct this traditional style of chair using various hand tools such as drills, drivers, and handsaws. Bring your personal flair to your design. Construct a custom chair that reflects your personality. Add it to your collection. Enjoy your chair for years to come! 

Learn to code in Python. This versatile programming language is used throughout the developer world.

We will focus on using visual outputs to create different images, program movement, and allow campers to become more comfortable with programming.

No prior experience is required; each day, we will focus on new skills that build upon the ones learned the previous day.

Please note: This 4 Day Camp, there is no camp on Friday.

Plastic Scale models began to appear in the 1940s. While easier to construct than the balsa models that preceded them, plastic models still require time, patience, and know-how, which are the focus of this Workshop. Classic models are a cherished tradition for those who appreciate the fine details.
Construct three scale models (chosen from many). Learn the math of scale. Learn to prep parts and sequence, and organize construction. Learn good work habits, safe non-toxic glue, and the wisdom of mixing fresh air and exercise with hours of careful concentration. Learn painting and kit-bashing: the art of creatively transforming out-of-the-box models. Learn the history of the planes you construct. This is the primary purpose of modeling in the first place.

Please note: This workshop requires dexterity, persistence, and patience.

This is a 4-day week; we will not have camp on Friday.

Do you see the automated world around you? Are you curious about how it all works? This is the camp for you. Your curiosity will drive you to problem-solve through the lens of robotics.

Assemble, program, and modify a robot to accomplish various tasks: drive around a track, draw a picture, or dance to music. Try out various sensors that let your robot detect the world around it, and work with a partner to figure out how to solve a maze. Take your robot home at the end of the week and continue tinkering at home.

Utilize the open-source electronics prototyping platform, Arduino,  used by hundreds of thousands of makers and hobbyists across the planet. With an Arduino board, you can control a huge variety of devices and projects with only minimal knowledge of electronics.

Please note: This 4 Day Camp, there is no camp on Friday.

Immigrants brought to America traditions of crafting simple playthings out of common materials. These toys develop dexterity and inventiveness. Two toys from the catalog of classics. Understand Force and Motion or connect to Colonial curriculum or the geography of play. Yesterday's toys for today's kids – and they still evoke wonder. Nothing and everything is new.

The X-wing was a prominent series of multiple starfighters produced by Incom with a characteristic "X"-shape of four wings, known as S-foils, extending out from the fuselage. These starfighters were found in the service of the Rebel Alliance, New Republic, and also the Eli Whitney Museum.