From our Earth’s atmosphere to the outer reaches of our solar system, this hands-on program for children entering kindergarten through fifth grade sends them on a quest for exploration! Comets, planets, stars and more are all waiting to be discovered. Learn about the four forces of flight, the challenges of space travel, and even participate in a rocket launch!

Ever dream of becoming a secret agent? We'll start with the basics: From decoding messages to metal detector and night vision, campers have the opportunity to check out spy tech equipment and take home lots of gadgets like spy glasses! Step into the shoes of a detective as you uncover the science involved in evidence gathering and analysis! Figure out the science of forensics in a hands-on look at crime scenes! Become a super spy and learn clever ways of performing tasks as we take a hands-on investigation of the science that spies use!

Get ready to have fun with science. Become a biologist, botanist, paleontologist, geologist, astronomer, and even a chemist all in one week. Explore the Science Center’s galleries.

3…2…1… Blast Off! Get ready to rocket into orbit and explore things that are out of this world. Visit the exhibits in the James S. McDonnell Planetarium.

Become a junior paleontologist as we uncover the mysteries of these prehistoric creatures. Dig for fossils and learn about them. Discover how dinosaurs ruled the Earth millions of years ago.

Get ready to have fun with science. Become a biologist, botanist, paleontologist, geologist, astronomer, and even a chemist all in one week. Explore the Science Center’s galleries.

Calling all junior engineers! Learn all about the design process and use a variety of materials to tinker, create, and build.

History is full of revolutionary artists. Discover the inspiring artworks and artists who have changed the world of art, and the world as we know it - from Frida Kahlo’s self-portraits to Keith Haring’s street art. Experiment with art techniques, and use Crayola® art supplies to express your ideas. Design a different unique, artist-inspired creation each class. Create the change you want to see in the world!

Join New City’s two science teachers, Tom Rankin and Eric Eskelsen, for a week in the Tom Hoerr Innovation Lab and Kitchen. Campers will get a chance to explore with our tools, laser cutters, and 3D printers as they learn about electricity, coding, and the design process. We will also spend time in the kitchen learning some of the science behind cooking. Makers will also get a chance to create their own solar oven. SUPER COOL!

Roll up your sleeves, put on your makers cap, and get ready to create! This is our most hands-on camp! Who can build the strongest bridge? Can your bridge withstand the shake rattle and roll challenge? Explore the world of birds and beasts. Discover what Hooty the owl had for dinner? Kids will dissect owl pellets and reconstruct Hooty’s dinner. Enter the Mad Science chemistry lab and mix, mash, and brew concoctions! Assemble and control pulleys, levers, catapults, simple machines, and megapinchers! Campers will discover the wonders of light and photography. It’s a week packed with non-stop science fun!

Harnessing the power of arcade tool kits, students will delve into foundational learning while grasping the intricate connections between components. These kits, featuring LED lights, a numerical monitor, LED Display fan, music notes, and more, o“er a secure and stimulating environment for hands-on exploration. Through the assembly of these elements, students are encouraged to unleash their creativity and build personalized arcade machines. This experiential approach merges theoretical with a practical application, providing a dynamic learning opportunity that nurtures innovative engineering skills.

Embark on a week of exhilarating robot exploration made just for kids! Get ready to be awed as we delve into the fascinating world of robotics. Get hands-on as you make gears and set things into motion. Unite as a team to craft your very own circuits, unveiling the intricate web of connections that power robots. Delve into the mesmerizing world of sensors and witness how robots use them to navigate and interact with their surroundings. Discover the countless roles robots play in our daily lives. Experiment with sound-sensing marvels, master linetracking wonders, and so much more! Throughout the week, you’ll accumulate a wealth of knowledge and skills which you’ll use to create your own working robot to take home with you. It’s a week filled with exploration, excitement, and the chance to become a budding robotics expert!

Join former New City Artist-in-Residence (and frequent Visual Art substitute teacher!) Michael Holohan and NCS alum Lillian Stephen for this week-long sewing and fundamental ceramics camp. Campers will make ART you can USE, like bags, pillows, mugs, and usable pots. And that’s just the beginning!

Grab a magnifying glass and begin to collect and categorize the living world through characteristics by close inspection. Campers will explore local ecosystems to learn about Missouri’s variety of biological, ecological, and environmental topics.

Educational summer camp with aquatic emphasis programs 7-12