Nerd Camps: Engaging the Left Brain

Nerd Camps

Nerd Campsby Kelley Schaefer-Levi

Young Nerds, we love you! Does your kid thrive in math or science? Do they use the words infinitesimal and theorem in their every day vocabulary? If so, it may be an undertaking to keep them engaged during the summer months. Gaming at home may seem like the only option, but why not send them to a camp where they can meet like minds and have fun? There are plenty of camps where campers can think strategically, apply Lego physics or learn platform gaming.

BITS, BYTES & BOTS
A great choice for kids who love anime, robotics or platform gaming. Campers have a blast while learning skills that will help them in school and beyond. Options span robotics and programming to Game Maker, Anime and Brick film making. For beginners and advanced campers aged 6-16. bitsbytesbots.com

CHESS ODYSSEY
Strategic thinkers and game lovers can refine skills or learn the basics of chess at Chess Odyssey. Each camp features substantial instruction in a fun and exciting environment. Campers are divided into study-play groups where they explore the techniques, shortcuts, and methods used to win game after game in practical play. For players aged 6-16. chessodyssey.com

ENGINEERING FOR KIDS
Engineering camps inspire children to build on their natural curiosity by teaching engineering concepts through handson learning. For kids ages 4 to 14, junior, apprentice or master campers take to the skies in an aerospace camp, learn the ins and outs of electrical engineering and game creation or learn the basics of environmental or industrial
engineering. engineeringforkids.com

ID TECH
Intensive 1-week, pre-college academies for teens ages 7-17. Experience personalized learning with a maximum of eight students per instructor, and use the best brand name products from industry leaders like Adobe, Apple, Autodesk, Google, and Microsoft. https://www.idtech.com/locations/oregon-summer-camps/portland/id-tech-lewis-clark-college/.

LITTLE ENGINEERS
With a tech and engineering focus, little (and not so little) engineers have fun while learning new things including Lego, electronic, Minecraft and animation basics. For ages 3-12. little-engineers.com

OES
Explore Archimedes’ work with volume, construct a giant math bubble or learn the basics of algorithms. OES Chess, Math and Science camps are designed to engage beginners and advanced students. Campers can choose from math game and construction camps, learn about famous mathematicians or create science concoctions. For kids Kindergarten through 6th Grade. oes.edu

SATURDAY ACADEMY
Young engineers and mathletes will love Saturday Academy’s STEM and TAG camps. Campers can learn and develop skills in computer programming; build Rube Goldberg machines, apply Lego physics, invent an app or spend some time in the chemistry lab. Programs and camps are open to kids grades 2 through 12 and camp instructors are community experts who inspire kids to develop their interests in the STEM fields. Locations vary. See website for details. saturdayacademy.org