Parent/Guardian Information

Registration for our 2025 STEM Kids Camps and STEM High School Camp is now closed.

The following is information that you, as a parent or guardian, need to know about your child's participation in the STEM Kids Camp. An individualized email specific to your family’s participation will also be sent, so please check your inbox. Please read this information carefully, as it may impact your child's participation. Questions? Contact Angela Gross - angela.gross@ndsu.edu or (701) 231-5798.

CANCELLATIONS

Starting July 1, if you need to cancel your child’s attendance to STEM Kids Camp, we will refund 50% of the amount paid.

WHAT TO WEAR

All children need to wear shoes that cover their entire foot. A good tennis shoe is highly recommended. It is also a good idea to ensure your child is wearing socks, as they may need to walk across campus to get to their classroom. The camp sessions are hands-on and have students working with a variety of materials. To avoid slipping, tripping, or other hazards, it is important that your child's feet are protected. Long hair should be tied back so that it does not get tangled or dipped into solutions during camp activities.

FOOD & DRINK

Students are encouraged to bring their own water bottle to camp. Please be sure that it has their name on it. A snack will be provided during each session.

NAME TAGS MUST BE WORN EACH DAY OF THE CAMP

Name tags will be given to your child on the first day of check-in for their camp. The instructor for each camp session will collect your child's name tag at the end of each session. If your child accidentally brings their name tag home, please ensure they are wearing it when they are dropped off at camp the next day.

PARKING FOR DROP-OFF AND PICK-UP

The NDSU Memorial Union parking lot (MU on the NDSU map) is the only lot that parents/guardians are able to park in when picking up and dropping off their children. Parking tickets cannot be waived for parents/guardians who choose to park in another lot on campus. Your child will be greeted by a STEM Kids Camp staff member in the large field near the AG Hill Building (#145 on NDSU map) and the MU lot.

DROP-OFF AND PICK-UP

Please ensure that you drop off your child no earlier than 10 minutes prior to the stated arrival time and pick up your child within 10 minutes of the stated end time for their camp. Our STEM Kids Camp staff is busy setting up and cleaning up after each day and will not be in the parking lot before or after the 10-minute drop-off and pick-up window.

LATE ARRIVALS

If you know your child will be late for any day of the STEM Kids Camp, please contact Angela Gross at (701) 231-5798. Please note, classes will start on time each day, so your child may miss out on some of the camp if they are late to arrive.

CLASSES WITH COMPUTERS

Headphones will be provided, but students are welcome to bring their own.

CELL PHONE/DEVICE POLICY

Students should not be using cell phones or other devices during class unless allowed by the teacher as an optional resource.

LUNCH

Parents/guardians of students who are enrolled in both a morning and afternoon class will receive an email about opting in for a supervised lunch at a cost of $10/child/week. Students need to bring their own lunch and meet the lunch supervisor after their morning class.

CAMP SHIRTS

Campers will receive their camp shirts on Wednesday. Please be sure they wear them on Thursday!

For more information, contact Angela Gross, College of Engineering Outreach Coordinator at angela.gross@ndsu.edu or (701) 231-5798.

Session 1: Monday, July 14 - Thursday, July 17

Morning: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Grades K-2

Creative Computer Coding - FULL

Students will be engaged and have fun learning to code with the Code.org program. This is a hands-on interactive class with immediate results on how to learn the basics behind computer coding with game-like formats. Instruction will be given and often be individualized throughout the camp to help each child feel confident and capable.

Storybook STEM

Students will work on STEM projects related to stories read in class. Some stories will be old favorites, and others will be new stories about kids that are making a difference in the world of STEM. Each day will start with story time and then the students will do an activity related to the book.

Chemistry Chaos - FULL

This STEM course will introduce students to relevant chemistry-based concepts through a series of experiments and activities. These scientists will find that chemistry experiments build friendships while working together and make for fun stories to tell in the future

Grades 3-5

Coding with Scratch - FULL

In this course, students will be learning about computer science using Scratch. They will learn the basics of coding and will design and create their own interactive game. Scratch helps young people think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively - essential skills for life in the 21st century.

Meet Dash

Come explore coding using the fun-loving, interactive Dash Robot. It will take creative problem-solving and critical thinking skills as you collaborate to program Dash through playful puzzles and projects.

Disaster Strikes

Tornadoes, hurricanes, tsunamis, and earthquakes are some of the most destructive forces on our planet. Learn how engineers are using STEM to understand these phenomena so we can predict and protect ourselves from the damage they can cause.

Crime Scene Science

Help solve a mystery by analyzing a crime scene using various forensic science techniques. Learn how to spot the most important evidence then use those clues to identify a primary suspect.

STEM GOATs

Learn about the Greatest Of All Time (GOATs) in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) and conduct hands-on activities and experiments related to each GOAT’s area of expertise. The GOATs will come from a wide variety of STEM fields and backgrounds to showcase the many opportunities available in STEM.

Grades 6-8

RxPlore: A Hands-On Pharmacy Experience

Explore the world of pharmacy through lotion, lip balm, and hand sanitizer compounding, plus experiments on how pills dissolve and how to protect them. Participants will test their problem-solving skills in a pharmacy-themed escape room and compete in the Pharmacy Olympics, where teamwork and knowledge take center stage. Whether you're passionate about science or curious about a career in healthcare, this session is your prescription for adventure!

Mini-golf Course Design

In this session, your child will be challenged with creating their own unique mini-golf course hole. Students will explore physics, math, and the engineering-design process to bring their dream mini-golf hole to life. At the end of this session, each hole design will be compiled into one big mini-golf course for parents and children to play.

Advanced Roller Coasters

Students will learn more physics concepts associated with creating their own paper roller coasters. They will review the concepts of energy and motion and then put advanced theories into practice resulting in paper roller coasters with intricate pieces and complex designs. Previous paper roller coaster building is helpful, but NOT required. This class is similar to the More Roller Coasters class offered last summer.

Afternoon: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Grades K-2

Creative Computer Coding - FULL

Students will be engaged and have fun learning to code with the Code.org program. This is a hands-on interactive class with immediate results on how to learn the basics behind computer coding with game-like formats. Instruction will be given and often be individualized throughout the camp to help each child feel confident and capable.

Storybook STEM

Students will work on STEM projects related to stories read in class. Some stories will be old favorites, and others will be new stories about kids that are making a difference in the world of STEM. Each day will start with story time and then the students will do an activity related to the book.

Chemistry Chaos - FULL

This STEM course will introduce students to relevant chemistry-based concepts through a series of experiments and activities. These scientists will find that chemistry experiments build friendships while working together and make for fun stories to tell in the future.

Grades 3-5

Rockin’ Robots - FULL

Dive into the world of robotics using the LEGO Spike Prime kits! Students will use their creativity to design, build, and code robots to solve a variety real-world problems from simple life hacks to complicated human movements.

Coding with Scratch

In this course, students will be learning about computer science using Scratch. They will learn the basics of coding and will design and create their own interactive game. Scratch helps young people think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively - essential skills for life in the 21st century.

Meet Dash

Come explore coding using the fun-loving, interactive Dash Robot. It will take creative problem-solving and critical thinking skills as you collaborate to program Dash through playful puzzles and projects.

Intro to Roller Coasters

Students will learn physics concepts by creating their own paper roller coasters. Not only will they be introduced to concepts such as energy and motion, but they will also get to practice their planning, design, and creation skills to implement their unique ideas.

STEM Adventure by ND Gateway to Science

Students will explore different activities and careers relating to STEM concepts through structured activities and experimentation in an interactive and engaging environment. Each camp day is a new STEM adventure, filled with exciting projects and activities that guarantee fun and learning.

Grades 6-8

RxPlore: A Hands-On Pharmacy Experience

Explore the world of pharmacy through lotion, lip balm, and hand sanitizer compounding, plus experiments on how pills dissolve and how to protect them. Participants will test their problem-solving skills in a pharmacy-themed escape room and compete in the Pharmacy Olympics, where teamwork and knowledge take center stage. Whether you're passionate about science or curious about a career in healthcare, this session is your prescription for adventure!

Mini-golf Course Design

In this session, your child will be challenged with creating their own unique mini-golf course hole. Students will explore physics, math, and the engineering-design process to bring their dream mini-golf hole to life. At the end of this session, each hole design will be compiled into one big mini-golf course for parents and children to play.

Computer Creations

Students will be using CAD software and working with a team to solve problems in all areas of engineering. 3D printing will bring these design solutions to life!

Session 2: Monday, July 21 - Thursday, July 24

Morning: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Grades K-2

Creative Computer Coding

Students will be engaged and have fun learning to code with the Code.org program. This is a hands-on interactive class with immediate results on how to learn the basics behind computer coding with game-like formats. Instruction will be given and often be individualized throughout the camp to help each child feel confident and capable.

Shoot for the Stars - FULL

Come explore the many wonders of space! Our travel will take us throughout the Milky Way galaxy with stops at the moon, the sun, the stars, and beyond.

Engineering Adventures

This course will allow students to explore the fundamentals of mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering. This class will consist of many hands-on activities to help students learn more about engineering, building, and creating.

Grades 3-5

Intro to Roller Coasters

Students will learn physics concepts by creating their own paper roller coasters. Not only will they be introduced to concepts such as energy and motion, but they will also get to practice their planning, design, and creation skills to implement their unique ideas.

Coding with Scratch

In this course, students will be learning about computer science using Scratch. They will learn the basics of coding and will design and create their own interactive game. Scratch helps young people think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively - essential skills for life in the 21st century.

Budding Biologist

Are you fascinated by the world of living things? Expand your knowledge and have some fun by exploring organisms both large and small. Students will build critical thinking skills as they study and observe animals, life cycles, and so much more.

Crime Scene Science - FULL

Help solve a mystery by analyzing a crime scene using various forensic science techniques. Learn how to spot the most important evidence then use those clues to identify a primary suspect.

How to Become a Math Spy

Shapes and numbers are invisibly intertwined in our modern lives. Through hands-on activities and interactive games, students will learn how to decipher images and numbers by playing the roles of artists, explorers, and traders using concepts from arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. By the end of the week, your child will be a True Math Spy.

Grades 6-8

Disaster Strikes Back

What does it take to recover from a natural disaster like a flood or tornado? Learn how engineers use science and technology to not only restore our roads, bridges, and buildings after an event, but also improve these structures in case a disaster strikes back.

Exploring the Cosmos

Life on space stations, rocket paths and missions, planetary bodies, extraterrestrials, and even unmanned rovers on Mars…it seems like everywhere you turn people are talking about space. Come find out what the big deal is in this interactive session full of hands-on activities about our modern-day exploration of space.

DNA Detective

In this session, your child will explore the fascinating world of DNA and biotechnology. DNA is the genetic blueprint of all living organisms. Children will learn about the structure of DNA by creating 3-D models, extracting DNA from living cells, and using biotechnology to better understand how each person’s DNA is like a fingerprint. By the end of this session, your child will use their knowledge of DNA and biotechnology to complete a crime scene investigation.

Afternoon: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Grades K-2

Creative Computer Coding

Students will be engaged and have fun learning to code with the Code.org program. This is a hands-on interactive class with immediate results on how to learn the basics behind computer coding with game-like formats. Instruction will be given and often be individualized throughout the camp to help each child feel confident and capable.

Nature Navigators: Journey through Biology - FULL

Dive into the wonders of biology as you explore the world around you. Little scientists will observe and study a variety of fascinating creatures that will surely satisfy and grow their curiosity of living things.

Engineering Adventures - FULL

This course will allow students to explore the fundamentals of mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering. This class will consist of many hands-on activities to help students learn more about engineering, building, and creating.

Grades 3-5

Rockin’ Robots - FULL

Dive into the world of robotics using the LEGO Spike Prime kits! Students will use their creativity to design, build, and code robots to solve a variety real-world problems from simple life hacks to complicated human movements.

Budding Biologist

Are you fascinated by the world of living things? Expand your knowledge and have some fun by exploring organisms both large and small. Students will build critical thinking skills as they study and observe animals, life cycles, and so much more.

Coding with Scratch - FULL

In this course, students will be learning about computer science using Scratch. They will learn the basics of coding and will design and create their own interactive game. Scratch helps young people think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively - essential skills for life in the 21st century.

Crime Scene Science - FULL

Help solve a crime by analyzing a crime scene and learning about forensic science techniques. Learn how to do fingerprint analysis, blood spatter analysis, blood typing, bite mark analysis, powder analysis, and more.

How to Become a Math Spy

Shapes and numbers are invisibly intertwined in our modern lives. Through hands-on activities and interactive games, students will learn how to decipher images and numbers by playing the roles of artists, explorers, and traders using concepts from arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. By the end of the week, your child will be a True Math Spy.

Grades 6-8

Advanced Roller Coasters

Students will learn more physics concepts associated with creating their own paper roller coasters. They will review the concepts of energy and motion and then put advanced theories into practice resulting in paper roller coasters with intricate pieces and complex designs. Previous paper roller coaster building is helpful, but NOT required. This class is similar to the More Roller Coasters class offered last summer.

Computer Creations - FULL

Students will be using CAD software and working with a team to solve problems in all areas of engineering. 3D printing will bring these design solutions to life!

DNA Detective

In this session, your child will explore the fascinating world of DNA and biotechnology. DNA is the genetic blueprint of all living organisms. Children will learn about the structure of DNA by creating 3-D models, extracting DNA from living cells, and using biotechnology to better understand how each person’s DNA is like a fingerprint. By the end of this session, your child will use their knowledge of DNA and biotechnology to complete a crime scene investigation.

High School Camp: Monday, July 28 - Thursday, July 31

9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Grades 9-12

Exploring Engineering

This week-long camp introduces students to the different disciplines of engineering. Mornings will be spent on campus working with NDSU faculty in the labs and in the afternoons students will be going out on engineering industry visits. Each day goes from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. and lunch is included.