Camp Invention: "I Can Invent: Launchitude"

Camp invention is a week-long summer enrichment program for children entering grades 1 through 6. The goal is to promote science, creativity, and learning.

Camp is organized into a series of modules. The first module is called "Launchitude" and challenges the kids to invent the best duck launching machine (rubber ducks, of course). The launcher is built out of parts from small appliances. Here's what the week looks like:

Day One: look for materials to build the machine while disassembling small appliances such as fans and radios. Learn about how the appliances work.

Day Two: take apart continues. Children learn about ballistic science and trajectories as they begin building their launchers.

Day Three: more construction takes place. Students begin taking velocity and momentum into account as the re-engineer their original designs. Based on demonstrating teamwork skills, children earn coins to purchase bonus materials such as rubber bands.

Day Four: teams patent and strategize marketing. The launchers are completed, and students prepare to test them in the final challenge.

Day Five: teams present their marketing campaign to the group and then race to launch the ducks back to their homes.

Students from Dexter and the surrounding communities are eligible to register for this week-long program which runs from June 24 through June 28 at Dexter High School from 9 am to 3:30 pm.  A sample daily schedule is viewable here. Before camp child care from 6:30 am and after camp child care to 6:00 pm is also available for a nominal fee.

The cost of the camp is $230, or register online by May 30th for the discounted price of $210.  A limited number of scholarships will be available based on financial need. To apply, contact Kathy Wilker.  Parents are responsible for their child's lunch and transportation to camp.

Camp Director Kathy Wilker can provide additional information and be reached at 734 424-4100 Ext. 1303 or wilkerk@dexterschools.org

Space is limited. Enroll today at campinvention.org or call 1-800-968-4332. 

Go to http://www.campinvention.org to find a camp near you.

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Invent Now is a non-profit organization dedicated to recognizing inventors and invention, promoting creativity, and advancing the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship. The curricula are STEM-based and align with state standards. All courses include other subject areas such as social studies, literacy, history and art. The skills developed include creative and critical thinking, problem solving, teamwork, and communication. They foster an immersive, hands-on learning environment that encourages participants to take risks, use creative problem-solving techniques, and develop an entrepreneurial mind-set (I can Invent: Launchitude).