*Photo courtesy of VAI
Michigan’s Van Andel Institute Expands Programming for 2023 Summer Camps with New One-Day and Four-Day Options!
It’s never too early to start planning for summer, especially when you need something to distract you from ice storms and cold fronts. And this summer, Van Andel Institute for Education (VAI) is expanding its summer camps program to reach more students, keep their minds active, and better prepare them for the next grade level.
The camps are a unique experience
where kids learn to think and act like scientists while exploring a range of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) topics that encourage them to make the world a better place.
Traditionally, VAI only offered five-day itineraries to 2nd through 12th grade students, but this year, they’ve expanded in multiple ways to include the needs of more children and their families.
In 2023, VAI will offer one-day itineraries, include options for kindergarten through 1st grade students with expanded offerings for the K-2 age range. VAI made these changes to be more inclusive and support West Michigan’s youngest students as well as parents who have varying time and budgetary needs.
All camps are held in-person at VAI, located at 216 Division Ave in Grand Rapids.
Here are some of VAI’s 2023 Summer Camps options being offered this year:
- The Case of the Missing Bearded Dragon (Grades 2-4): A beloved VAI organism has gone missing. Luckily, the criminal left behind a mysterious powder. Utilizing physical and chemical properties, students will identify the substance left behind and link it to a suspect to help bring the organism home.
- Animal Survivor (Grades 4-5): Explore the world of animal adaptations and the habitats they live in. Students will learn about, meet, and handle a variety of species including invertebrates, amphibians, and reptiles. Then, they’ll study animal behavior, observe structural traits, and discover the unique ways animals survive in the wild.
- Hogwarts in GR: The Science Behind the Magic (Grades 6-8): Calling all witches and wizards! Grab your brooms, or use your Floo powder, and travel to the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry—Van Andel style! Students will immerse themselves in the world of Harry Potter as they get sorted into houses, make a magic wand, and attend courses such as Potions, Care for Magical Creatures, History of Magic, and Broomstick Flying! Then they will use their newfound knowledge to compete in the all-new Triwizard Tournament at the end of the camp.
Registration is now open.
Space is limited and spots are filling up fast. To register your child for a summer of fun learning or learn more about VAI’s 2023 Summer Camps, including a complete schedule, visit vaei.org.