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 two 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
Color Me Happy!
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Tami Hritzay
Age Group: 6–8
Cost: $135
Description: During this class, students will learn the basics of creating great watercolor masterpieces while understanding the mixed media arts! First, students will spend a day or two learning how to use watercolors and applying their new skills to create watercolor-themed backgrounds. Next, the students will be introduced to the art form of mixed media and apply colored pencil drawings and sketches to their water-colored papers. Get ready to paint and create animals, people, landscapes, and more in this exciting hands-on art class! 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.
Paper Power! NEW COURSE!
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Beth Kopay
Age Group: 6–8
Cost: $125
Description: Get ready to think big with just paper (and sometimes a little tape)! In this hands-on STEM adventure, students will dive into the exciting worlds of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math through creative problem-solving. Each day presents a new challenge—can you design a structure strong enough to hold a stack of books? Can you create a contraption to protect an egg from a high drop? With only paper as your main tool, you’ll test the limits of engineering, innovation, and imagination. This class is perfect for young thinkers who love to explore, experiment, and tackle real-world problems in fun and unexpected ways. Get ready to build, test, and discover—because in this class, the only limit is your creativity!
The Behrend Band! NEW COURSE!
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Susan Forsythe
Age Group: 6–8
Cost: $125
Description: Join The Behrend Band for a week at College for Kids and become a composer, musician, and performer all in one! In this dynamic class, students will learn how to conceive, create, and express their own musical ideas through singing, playing instruments, and creative collaboration. Throughout the session, we’ll explore the building blocks of music—melody, rhythm, and harmony—while encouraging each student’s unique musical voice. Whether you're a budding songwriter or just love making music, this class is your stage—let’s make some noise! Please note that the experience culminates in an exciting final performance for family and friends on Friday, where students will highlight their hard work and creativity, and invite parents to come see what they learned all week.
*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.
Wonderful Wanderers!
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Jessie Fuller
Age Group: 6–10
Cost: $125
Description: Welcome to the great outdoors at Penn State Behrend! Each day, we will explore and discover a different aspect of the natural world around us. Through games, art activities, stories, and discussions, we will engage with the outdoors in exciting ways. Our adventures will include exploring the weather, plants, backyard wildlife, rocks, and water. Perfect for young explorers and nature-loving kids! Come prepared for an outdoor adventure as we spend most of our time roaming the beautiful campus of Behrend!
Cookie Crush!
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Kristin Tregaskis
Age Group: 6–10
Cost: $140
Description: Do you like cookies? Are you an aspiring baker? Then this is the course for you! Spend a week this summer inside a kitchen learning how to read recipes and bake several types of cookies! In this class, we will learn how to read recipes, measure, prepare items, and safely bake inside a fun and exciting classroom! Come hungry! Leave a baker! Who’s ready to spend this summer whipping up some awesome recipes!?? BEWARE OF FOOD ALLERGENS! This course offers a limited amount of availability and will sell out! Please plan accordingly!
*Due to an increase in the cost of groceries and food needed for this course (specifically eggs), a $15 fee has been added to the class to cover the cost of items the students will use during the program.
The Author’s Club
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Lindsay Hannon
Age Group: 8–10
Cost: $125
Description: Welcome to a world where creativity and imagination come to life! Do you love writing, drawing, and letting your imagination run wild? Join The Author's Club and create your very own children's book! Throughout the week, we'll work on developing our stories, writing them down, and illustrating our unique books. This class combines the perfect mix of reading, writing, and drawing—giving creative and artistic kids the chance to have fun while learning how to craft their own story!
Slime-y Science
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Vicki Saska
Age Group: 10–12
Cost: $125
Description: Calling all slime fanatics! This course is for you! Welcome to a land filled with ooey, gooey SLIME! In this class, we will investigate the science behind slime and make our own concoctions using different recipes and ingredients! In this course, we will expand our scientific knowledge, learn terminology, explore the concepts of thermochromics, and more! Once constructed, we will evaluate our products to see who created the greatest slime concoction and share our creations and recipes with friends and families. If you like science, and you like slime, we welcome you to sign up for this class! This course offers a limited amount of availability and will sell out! Please plan accordingly!
Dance 101 NEW COURSE!
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Alicea Chludzinski
Age Group: 8–12
Cost: $125
Description: Interested in dance but unsure where to start or which style suits you best? Dance 101 is the perfect class to find out! Each day, we’ll explore a different dance style, beginning with the history of jazz dance and the lively rhythms of jazz music. Next, we’ll dive into ballet, answering the classic question: 'How do ballerinas stand on their tiptoes?' We'll also explore hip-hop, discovering its origins and the culture behind the dance. Finally, we’ll express emotion through lyrical dance and learn how Broadway stars can sing and dance simultaneously. In each class, we’ll not only cover the history and influential figures of each style, but also experience the dances firsthand with warm-ups, stretching, basic steps, and short routines. While dance attire (leotards, tights, ballet slippers, jazz shoes, or dance paws) is welcome, it's not required. Students can also wear comfortable athletic clothes with socks and sneakers. Get ready for a week filled with excitement, movement, and discovery!
Mixed Media: The Lost Forms of Art! NEW COURSE!
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Lauren Galle-Boyko
Age Group: 10–12
Cost: $125
Description: When you think of art, what comes to mind? Is it a classic painting or a detailed drawing? What if we told you there’s a whole world of art beyond the traditional canvas? In this exciting week-long course, students will step outside the ordinary and explore creative art forms that push the boundaries of imagination. Each day, they'll discover a new type of art, get hands-on experience with unique techniques, and create something special to take home! PLEASE NOTE: This class can get MESSY, so it’s a great idea for your child to wear CLOTHES THAT ARE OKAY TO GET DIRTY!
The Science Behind Magic! NEW COURSE!
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Joe Hohman
Age Group: 10–14
Cost: $125
Description: Welcome to a course designed to introduce you to the captivating world of sleight of hand magic with cards! In this week-long session, students will learn foundational techniques such as card controls, false cuts, false shuffles, and a variety of impressive magic tricks, all while mastering the art of audience interaction. The course will also explore the science behind trickery and laughter, with a special focus on the psychology of misdirection and timing. Along with the essential sleights, students will be taught several classic, show-stopping tricks. Detailed, illustrated notes will be provided by the instructor, ensuring students leave with a solid understanding of card magic and a few dazzling tricks to wow family and friends!
Made in America! NEW COURSE!
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
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.
Photography 101
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 9:00 a.m.–noon
Instructor: Hazel Peel
Age Group: 12–14
Cost: $125
Description: Welcome to a world of new-aged photography! In this course, students will develop their capabilities to capture the perfect image on today's devices! Students will use their own electronic device, such as a tablet or cell phone to capture, produce, edit, and create photographic masterpieces of Penn State Behrend and their week at College for Kids! Once students capture images, they will use email and campus computers to download, revise, edit, and print selections to document their summer at the program. The course is designed to teach students how to capture the perfect image on their phone, and how to turn their images into works of art they can cherish forever.
*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.
*Due to the nature of Photography 101, cellphones will be permitted to be brought to campus for use during this specific class. However, cellphones are permitted for instructional purposes ONLY. If a student participating in Photography 101 is an all-day participant, their phone will be collected at the end of class, and it will be placed in the College for Kids office for pick up at the end of the day. Cellphones will not be permitted at camp during the program this summer, and failure to comply with this policy or the misuse of devices during the instructional processes will result in the student being removed from the program without refund. Penn State Behrend and the College for Kids program or Youth Education Outreach are not responsible for any damage that occurs to a device, or if the device is lost or stolen. Please sign the student up for this course at your own risk while being prepared to adhere to the policy described above. Thank you for understanding. We appreciate your patience regarding this matter.
Afternoon Classes: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
The Sketchbook!
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Tami Hritzay
Age Group: 6–8
Cost: $135
Description: Designed for younger students, this class helps students draw more realistic, life-like pieces revolving around landscapes, animals, and people. Media used in this class will include pencil, colored pencil, and ink pen. Improve your drawing techniques over the course of the week and create some delightful works of art! 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.
Prima Ballerina NEW COURSE!
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
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!
The Behrend Band! NEW COURSE!
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Susan Forsythe
Age Group: 6–8
Cost: $125
Description: Join The Behrend Band for a week at College for Kids and become a composer, musician, and performer all in one! In this dynamic class, students will learn how to conceive, create, and express their own musical ideas through singing, playing instruments, and creative collaboration. Throughout the session, we’ll explore the building blocks of music—melody, rhythm, and harmony—while encouraging each student’s unique musical voice. Whether you're a budding songwriter or just love making music, this class is your stage—let’s make some noise! Please note that the experience culminates in an exciting final performance for family and friends on Friday, where students will highlight their hard work and creativity, and invite parents to come see what they learned all week.
*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: June 16–20
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Jessie Fuller
Age Group: 6–10
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!
Piezano Pies!
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Hazel Peel
Age Group: 6–10
Cost: $135
Description: This pizza oven went viral on TikTok last summer, and as a result, our pizza-making courses sold out! Welcome to another exciting summer of Piezano Pies! In this week-long course, students will explore the history of pizza, learn about assorted styles and toppings, and master the art of creating the perfect pie. Each day, they will experiment with various pizza types, try new toppings, and work on perfecting their own personal pizza creation. Along the way, students will learn how to measure ingredients accurately, safely bake their pizzas, and write their own recipes—all while using the viral Piezano Pie Pizza Ovens featured on TikTok! It is the perfect course for anyone who loves to cook or enjoys pizza! BEWARE OF FOOD ALLERGENS!
**Due to an increase in the cost of groceries and food needed 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.
Slime-y Science
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Vicki Saska
Age Group: 8–10
Cost: $125
Description: Calling all slime fanatics! This course is for you! Welcome to a land filled with ooey, gooey SLIME! In this class, we will investigate the science behind slime and make our own concoctions using different recipes and ingredients! In this course, we will expand our scientific knowledge, learn terminology, explore the concepts of thermochromics, and more! Once constructed, we will evaluate our products to see who created the greatest slime concoction and share our creations and recipes with friends and families. If you like science, and you like slime, we welcome you to sign up for this class! This course offers a limited amount of availability and will sell out! Please plan accordingly!
Storm Chasers 101
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Tom Atkins
Age Group: 10–12
Cost: $125
Description: Welcome to an introduction to storm chasing! Do you like thunderstorms? Have things like tornadoes and lightning always fascinated you? In this course, we will learn about severe weather and how people like storm trackers and meteorologists chase and predict these storms! The class is perfect for the students who like all things weather-related, or for anyone who may want to become a meteorologist when they are older! Come spend a week with Erie’s very own Tom Atkins and learn about all that is weather-related! This course offers a limited amount of availability and will sell out! Please plan accordingly!
Story-Based Games NEW COURSE!
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Lauren Liebe
Age Group: 8–12
Cost: $125
Description: Do you love video games? Have you ever dreamed of designing your own interactive story? In this exciting class, you'll combine game creation with creative writing to build your very own playable adventure! Using Twine, an HTML-based game engine, you'll craft choose-your-own-adventure stories filled with twists, turns, and player-driven choices. Along the way, you'll pick up essential coding skills in HTML, CSS, and a touch of JavaScript, while also exploring key programming concepts like variables and macros. Plus, we'll dive into what makes a story truly engaging in the world of gaming. Get ready to bring your imagination to life—one choice at a time! This course offers a limited amount of availability and will sell out! Please plan accordingly!
The Author’s Club
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Lindsay Hannon
Age Group: 10–12
Cost: $125
Description: Welcome to a world where creativity and imagination come to life! Do you love writing, drawing, and letting your imagination run wild? Join The Author's Club and create your very own children's book! Throughout the week, we'll work on developing our stories, writing them down, and illustrating our unique books. This class combines the perfect mix of reading, writing, and drawing—giving creative and artistic kids the chance to have fun while learning how to craft their own story!
Introduction to Robotics
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Paul Semrau
Age Group: 10–14
Cost: $125
Description: Come explore the fascinating world of robotics, where robots are found everywhere—from toys and industrial machines to those used in space exploration. Discover how the science behind these incredible creations impacts your everyday life. Through hands-on experimentation and design, you will build robots using the LEGO® Education SPIKE™ Prime Set, Jitter Bot, MiP, Edison, and more to tackle exciting projects!
*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.
Mixed Media: The Lost Forms of Art! NEW COURSE!
Dates: June 16–20
Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Lauren Galle-Boyko
Age Group: 12–14
Cost: $125
Description: When you think of art, what comes to mind? Is it a classic painting or a detailed drawing? What if we told you there’s a whole world of art beyond the traditional canvas? In this exciting week-long course, students will step outside the ordinary and explore creative art forms that push the boundaries of imagination. Each day, they'll discover a new type of art, get hands-on experience with unique techniques, and create something special to take home! PLEASE NOTE: This class can get MESSY, so it’s a great idea for your child to wear CLOTHES THAT ARE OKAY TO GET DIRTY!
Made in America! NEW COURSE!
Dates: June 16–20
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.