This list of courses is tentative, and could change due to issues with instructors’ schedules, coordinator placement, or space availability. The final schedule for week four will be available on the CampDoc registration site.
Use the links below to go directly to the morning or afternoon sessions.
Morning Classes: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Exploring Snowy Adventures
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Hazel Peel
Age Group: 6–8
Cost: $125
Description: Welcome to a land filled with winter excitement. Like Erie, most of the year, children will embark on a journey through a snowy wonderland right in the midst of summer. Through a blend of hands-on activities, games, and crafts, campers will discover the joys of winter sports, explore the beauty of snowflakes, and learn about the fascinating creatures that thrive in cold climates. Do you like winter and all things snow-related? Join in on the excitement this course has to offer!!
Prima Ballerina NEW COURSE!
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Alicea Chludzinski
Age Group: 6–8
Cost: $125
Description: Do you dream of twirling in a dazzling tutu and shining in the spotlight? Then our Ballet Basics course is perfect for you! Each day, we’ll explore the rich history of ballet, learn proper dance class etiquette, discover French ballet vocabulary, dive into classical music, and study dancer anatomy and costumes. We'll also highlight professional ballerinas like Misty Copeland and Tiler Peck. Throughout the course, students will engage in fun crafts, activities, techniques, and basic steps, all leading up to a small performance that family and friends are invited to watch at the end of the week. While dance attire (leotards, tights, ballet slippers) is encouraged, it's not required! Students can also wear athletic clothes and socks. This class is ideal for the budding ballerina who wants to test the waters before committing to a full-year course at a dance studio!
Engineering Challenges
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Sean Fleming
Age Group: 6–10
Cost: $125
Description: Is your child a hands-on learner? Want to develop their critical thinking capabilities? In this course, students will be challenged to five levels of engineering challenges and put each of the challenges to the ultimate test. Students will test their projects in a variety of ways, and learn skills such as critical thinking, team building, hand-eye coordination, and more! If your child loves building, blocks, and all things engineering-related, then this is the course for them to experience what it takes to become the next great developer, architect, or engineer! This course offers a limited amount of availability and will sell out! Please plan accordingly!
Do, Re, Mi! NEW COURSE!
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Susan Forsythe
Age Group: 6–8
Cost: $125
Description: Calling all young music lovers! In this course, students will embark on a fun-filled journey into the world of music notation. Through engaging games, hands-on activities, and plenty of singing, students will learn to read and write musical notes, rhythms, and symbols. We’ll explore the musical staff, note values, and simple melodies, helping children develop a strong foundation in music literacy. Whether your child is a budding musician or just discovering their love for music, this class will make learning do, re, mi as easy as 1, 2, 3! At the end of the week, the students would like to invite their parents to a ‘show and tell’ session that highlights all of the new skills they learned during the course.
*This course was made possible through a donation in memory of Mike Sider in order to instill a passion and love for music into the next generation of children.
Dino Digs! BACK FROM THE VAULT!
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Theresa Tonelli
Age Group: 6–10
Cost: $125
Description: Let’s travel back in time to a prehistoric era filled with volcanoes, cavemen, and DINOSAURS. In a class filled with our prehistoric friends, students will learn about the different types of dinosaurs, their qualities and traits, as well as what happened to the dinosaur population, and how paleontologists recover dinosaur bones, fossils, and other evidence supporting this scientific era. Get ready for a week of adventure! Who’s ready to learn about the dinosaurs and discover some amazing prehistoric artifacts?
The Author’s Stitch
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Jessie Fuller
Age Group: 8–10
Cost: $125
Description: Welcome to Author's Stitch, a classroom where students will write, create, and design their own book! During this course, students will learn about writing and illustrating a story of their own. Each day, students will hear short stories, learn about the processes it takes to develop a story, and then add to their very own story book! Come along for the ride and learn how to concoct a story of your own! We welcome students who can read and write to join this course and develop a magical tale of their own!
Titanic Time Travelers!
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Lauren Zamperini
Age Group: 8–12
Cost: $125
Description: Let's travel back to April 1912 to witness a marvel and disaster in the making...Titanic, the world's largest luxury ocean liner is about to set sail! Young adventurers will embark on a voyage back in time to explore the captivating story of the Titanic. Dive deep into the history of the Titanic, uncovering fascinating facts about its construction, luxurious amenities, and the people who traveled aboard this legendary ship.
*This course requires a Penn State login for our computer network on campus. Details on how to obtain this login will be sent to the participants after they register for the course. Be on the lookout for this information within your email.
Beginning Ukulele NEW COURSE!
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Bethany Sulecki
Age Group: 10–12
Cost: $125
Description: Have you ever wanted to accompany yourself to your favorite songs or learn how to play an instrument? Not sure if a string instrument is your style? Now is your chance to find out! In this course, students will learn about the history of the ukulele, instrument maintenance and care, learn chords to play a variety of songs, write their own songs, and much more! No prior experience is necessary. Once the students spend a week letting their creative juices flow and learn the art of the ukulele, they will host a semi-formal performance on Friday to conclude the course and to show off their new skills to parents, guardians, or family friends! This course offers a limited amount of availability and will sell out! Please plan accordingly!
*This course was made possible through a donation in memory of Mike Sider in order to instill a passion and love for music into the next generation of children.
Fuzzy Friends: Puppet Making! NEW COURSE!
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Megan Jell
Age Group: 10–14
Cost: $125
Description: In a world filled with basic hand stitching techniques using needle and thread, students will design, create, and then assemble their own fuzzy hand puppet to take home and share with family and friends. This course was designed to allow students the opportunity to learn how to sew, while using their imagination and creative skills to design their very own puppet to cherish for years! If your child likes fashion, designing clothes, or wants to learn a new skill (sewing), then this would be the perfect course to let them explore the art of design!
Made in America! NEW COURSE!
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Hannah Kemmet
Age Group: 10–14
Cost: $125
Description: Sponsored by the METALS program at Penn State Behrend, this course is designed to spark an interest in the engineering fields this campus has to offer! Dive into the world of modern engineering and manufacturing with this dynamic, hands-on class designed for curious minds! Students will get a taste of additive manufacturing through 3D printing, creating custom models and even experimenting with edible chocolate creations for a fun twist. The course will also introduce students to the art and science of sandcasting, where they will mold and pour molten metal to create unique objects. At the end of the week, parents will be invited in for a special event on Friday where students will display their projects and highlight the skills they learned throughout the week.
*Due to the nature of this course, children will be required to wear closed-toe shoes as well as pants during this specific session of College for Kids. Students will be given hands-on experience in the engineering labs within our School of Engineering and Burke facilities during this program.
*If participating in this course, please arrive as early as possible for sign-in each day. Registration will begin at 8:40 a.m. and 12:40 p.m. daily. The METALS program will have a separate line for students in order to get them to the engineering labs in Burke as soon as possible. Additionally, please anticipate delays in pickup times as well. Students will be travelling across campus for class daily.
Advanced Drawing
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Tami Hritzay
Age Group: 12–14
Cost: $135
Description: Not for the weak or beginning artist, this advanced-level course is curated for the students with a passion and talent for drawing. Pencil, colored pencil, pen, and ink will be the mediums used in this class, as we sketch our way into another dimension. We will improve two-point perspective, drawing using proportions, and continue techniques in layering colored pencil. Once the students spend a week letting their creative juices flow, designing fabulous works of art, they will host a semi-formal art show on Friday to conclude the course and for the parents/guardians to attend and view the class's hard work!
*Due to an increase in the cost of art supplies and materials for this course, a $10 fee has been added to the class to cover the cost of items the students will use during the program.
Afternoon Classes: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Oceanography 101
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Hazel Peel
Age Group: 6–8
Cost: $125
Description: Come on! Let’s explore the ocean and everything it has to offer the world! In this science-based course, children learn about what lives in the ocean and the importance of the ocean in our everyday life. We will study marine life, its biology, build a diorama of the ocean, discover what threatens our ocean life, and understand the importance of this magnificent system on our planet. This course is perfect for any ocean lovers, mermaids, and future oceanographers! Let us explore the seven seas and all of their magnificence together!
Designing Dreams
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Tami Hritzay
Age Group: 6–8
Cost: $135
Description: If you like to draw and create works of art with pencils and colored pencils, this is the class for you! Students will broaden their artistic skills and knowledge in this little kid-oriented beginner-style art class. Our mission this week will be to help you create more realistic forms of art, while having fun and learning to become a better drawer! Once the students spend a week letting their creative juices flow, designing fabulous works of art, they will host a semi-formal art show on Friday to conclude the course and for the parents/guardians to attend and view the class's hard work!
*Due to an increase in the cost of art supplies and materials for this course, a $10 fee has been added to the class to cover the cost of items the students will use during the program.
A Week at Hogwarts! (Little Kids Version)
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Theresa Tonelli
Age Group: 6–10
Cost: $125
Description: Welcome to the Wizarding World of all things Harry Potter! In this magical and exciting course, students will spend a week “at Hogwarts” designing their own wand, attending Hogwarts-style classes like Astronomy and Potions, creating their own magical creatures, and more! Let’s not forget, we’ll even be sorted into one of the four historic houses! If your child loves Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, or Ronald Weasley, then this is the course for them to explore all things related to the magical world, while experiencing out-of-this-world adventures with their peers! This course offers a limited amount of availability and will sell out! Please plan accordingly!
Music on Reed Lawn! NEW COURSE!
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Susan Forsythe
Age Group: 6–8
Cost: $125
Description: Get ready to jump, clap, and dance your way into the world of music! In Music on Reed Lawn, we’ll take music learning outdoors, using games and movement to explore rhythm, melody, and other musical concepts in a fun and active way. From drumming on natural objects to creating musical patterns with our bodies, students will discover their hidden musical talents while enjoying the fresh air. This class is perfect for kids who love to move, play, and express themselves through sound—because music is everywhere, and learning it should be an adventure! At the end of the week, the students would like to invite their parents to a ‘show and tell’ session that highlights all of the new skills they learned during the course.
*This course was made possible through a donation in memory of Mike Sider in order to instill a passion and love for music into the next generation of children.
Just Breathe… NEW COURSE!
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Jessie Fuller
Age Group: 8–12
Cost: $125
Description: Welcome to a course all about yoga and the art of meditation. During this weeklong seminar, students will learn an introduction to yoga, methods to control their breathing, how to meditate, basics of tai chi, and how to use positive affirmations in their daily routines. Students will learn how to do relaxing exercises and then spend time relaxing, making crafts, or coloring throughout the course. Come spend a week learning how to chill out and find your inner self!
Dance 101 NEW COURSE!
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Alicea Chludzinski
Age Group: 8–12
Cost: $125
Description: Are you interested in dance, but don’t know where to start, or what style of dance suits you? This is the perfect class for you! Dance 101 will take students through a different dance style each day. We’ll explore the history of jazz dance and learn about the complex rhythms of jazz music. Next, we will cover ballet and answer the question of “how do ballerinas stand on their tiptoes?” We will also cover hip-hop and learn about the origins of hip-hop dance and the culture surrounding it. Finally, we explore non-verbal storytelling with lyrical dance and learn how Broadway stars can sing and dance at the same time. During each class, we will learn about the history of each style, as well as influential figures. We will also experience each dance style while we warm up, stretch, and learn basic steps and a short dance. Students are welcome to wear dance attire to class (leotard, tights, ballet slippers, jazz shoes, dance paws), but it is not required. Students are welcome to wear athletic clothes with socks and sneakers to dance in. Dress comfortably and prepare for a week filled with dance excitement!
Titanic Time Travelers
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Lauren Zamperini
Age Group: 8–12
Cost: $125
Description: Let's travel back to April 1912 to witness a marvel and disaster in the making...Titanic, the world's largest luxury ocean liner is about to set sail! Young adventurers will embark on a voyage back in time to explore the captivating story of the Titanic. Dive deep into the history of the Titanic, uncovering fascinating facts about its construction, luxurious amenities, and the people who traveled aboard this legendary ship.
*This course requires a Penn State login for our computer network on campus. Details on how to obtain this login will be sent to the participants after they register for the course. Be on the lookout for this information within your email.
Fuzzy Friends: Puppet Making! NEW COURSE!
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Megan Jell
Age Group: 10–14
Cost: $125
Description: In a world filled with basic hand stitching techniques using needle and thread, students will design, create, and then assemble their own fuzzy hand puppet to take home and share with family and friends. This course was designed to allow students the opportunity to learn how to sew, while using their imagination and creative skills to design their very own puppet to cherish for years! If your child likes fashion, designing clothes, or wants to learn a new skill (sewing), then this would be the perfect course to let them explore the art of design!
Introduction to Robotics
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Paul Semrau
Age Group: 10–14
Cost: $125
Description: Come and explore the fascinating world of robotics. Robots are everywhere, from toys to robots used in industry and to robots used in the space program. Come learn about how the science behind robots affects your everyday life. We will be experimenting, designing robots to complete projects using the LEGO® Education SPIKE™ Prime Set, Jitter Bot, MiP, Edison, and more!
*This course requires a Penn State login for our computer network on campus. Details on how to obtain this login will be sent to the participants after they register for the course. Be on the lookout for this information within your email.
Made in America! NEW COURSE!
Dates: July 7–11
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Hannah Kemmet
Age Group: 12–14
Cost: $125
Description: Sponsored by the METALS program at Penn State Behrend, this course is designed to spark an interest in the engineering fields this campus has to offer! Dive into the world of modern engineering and manufacturing with this dynamic, hands-on class designed for curious minds! Students will get a taste of additive manufacturing through 3D printing, creating custom models and even experimenting with edible chocolate creations for a fun twist. The course will also introduce students to the art and science of sandcasting, where they will mold and pour molten metal to create unique objects. At the end of the week, parents will be invited in for a special event on Friday where students will display their projects and highlight the skills they learned throughout the week.
*Due to the nature of this course, children will be required to wear closed-toe shoes as well as pants during this specific session of College for Kids. Students will be given hands-on experience in the engineering labs within our School of Engineering and Burke facilities during this program.
*If participating in this course, please arrive as early as possible for sign-in each day. Registration will begin at 8:40 a.m. and 12:40 p.m. daily. The METALS program will have a separate line for students in order to get them to the engineering labs in Burke as soon as possible. Additionally, please anticipate delays in pickup times as well. Students will be travelling across campus for class daily.