East Bay Summer Camp Guide (2018)

Each day at Sarah's Science Camp, kids make and take home a fun science project while exploring complex science topics ranging from physics to chemistry and beyond. Camp also includes hiking, music, art, games, and swimming. For children 5 and up. CIT program begins at age 11.

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What people say:

"My son goes enthusiastically without knowing anyone and comes home talking about the funny counselors that he adores and the new friends that he's made. It's his 'happy place' - the place he would love to be all year long." ~ Sarah's Science Parent

Galileo mixes day camp fun with hands-on projects in science and engineering to the visual and culinary arts. Kids grow from Camp Galileo (pre-K-5th) through Galileo Summer Quest (5th-8th), emerging as confident creators ready to turn their ideas into reality.

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Discount for {510} Families readers

Save $30 off with code: 510FAMILY18

What people say:

"Galileo had my son running more, creating more, thinking more, engaging more than anywhere he's ever been. We'll be back again next year, with my daughter too!" ~ Andrea L, Alameda

Techsplosion programs find the perfect balance between fun and learning. We start with things kids love, like Minecraft and YouTube. Then we use those things as fuel for learning STEM concepts like coding and cinematography!

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What people say:

"The best tech summer camps in the bay. Every session the curriculum has inspired and empowered my son to pursue his passion for technology." ~ Robert Hohman, CEO and Founder of GlassDoor.com

Experience the power of authentic outdoor adventure for entering pre-K - 7th graders of all abilities at Avid4. Through activities like biking, climbing, paddling and hiking, kids build confidence, learn to take positive risks and are inspired to stay active and instill a lifelong love of adventure.

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Discount for {510} Families readers

Save $15 with code: 510FAMILIES

What people say:

"Sending our daughter to Avid4 was one of the single best decisions we’ve ever made as parents. We learned much about her as a person and she felt awesome about herself and her experiences."

UC Berkeley's ATDP offers challenging summer courses for highly motivated young scholars in grades K-11 since 1982. Examples include: Rainforests, Math Magic, and Programming in Java. Elementary division is 3 weeks in Point Richmond; Secondary is 6 weeks at Cal. APPLICATIONS REQUIRED.

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What people say:

"This is such a wonderful program-warm, encouraging, teachers who stoked my daughter’s creativity. Thank you!" ~ ATDP Parent

At Camp EDMO, Pre-K–8th-grade campers' curiosity is fueled by immersing them in maker-infused art, science, technology, and the natural world. Kids build confidence through new experiences and build their compassion through kindness.

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Discount for {510} Families readers

First time families save $50 with code FIRST51018

What people say:

"I loved seeing my child grow socially, emotionally and academically during his weeks at camp." ~ Susan I., Second Grade Parent

Le Camp d'Ete is an extension of Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley. Children from preschool to 5th grade will learn or expand French skills in a nurturing and fun atmosphere on the West Berkeley campus. Previous exposure to French language is not required.

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Monkey Business Camp offers art, cooking, storytelling, nature exploration, treasure hunts, carnival games, singing, and organic food! Expect an exciting week outdoors in Tilden Park with 1 day of swimming. Pre-K program for 3-4 year olds at indoor location near Tilden.

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What people say:

"My children loved being in Tilden Park, playing with friends, trying new projects, swimming, and the fun, caring staff and youth leaders."

Learn to code, design video games, mod Minecraft, create with Roblox, engineer robots, and work with AI at iD Tech. Held at UC Berkeley, St. Mary’s, Carondelet High, Stanford, and 150+ locations. Kids will make friends as they master tech skills, and will join a community of 350,000 alumni.

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What people say:

"We love how every year we come back, the instructors remember Michael—even instructors he had two years ago! The community feels so tight-knit and we love that."

TechKnowHow® Summer Camps focus on STEM Technology, Engineering and Robotics with LEGO® Elements, and Programming/Coding. Week-long camps offer a variety of fun and enriching hands-on projects which teach students how to use technology creatively. Ages 5 to 15.

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What people say:

"My child learned new building techniques and found a new passion for LEGO® motors and robotics." ~ Parent of a 1st grader at our Alameda camp

Unique Summer Camps offering experiential and project-based learning with focus on Social Responsibility. Build innovation and research skills. The Youth Leadership Program offers community service credits customized for Upper Elementary, Middle, and High School.

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Discount for {510} Families readers

Save $80 with code cic-510-2018 (Expires 08/04/2018)

What people say:

"My child attended the pilot program and really enjoyed learning directly from professionals! We are awaiting center opening to join!"

Mobile adventures start in Berkeley then transport to the best parks and green spaces. Themes include archery, survival, live action role-playing, fishing, homesteading, and more for children entering grades Pre-K through 10th. Youngest campers learn the beginnings of these new skills.

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What people say:

“Trackers was the best camp experience EVER! We heard more stories on Monday evening than we heard for the entire school year! She was happy, engaged and tired at the end of the day.”

Come sing, dance, and play at Berkeley Playhouse’s award-winning summer program! Choose from 4 camp themes inspired by popular titles (The Lion King, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Bye Bye Birdie, and Mary Poppins), plus skill-building classes. Before and after care available.

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Pear Tree is a social justice camp offering weekly themes explored through arts, crafts, cooking, science, sports, and games. Each week ends culminates with a field trip or on-site event. A daily supported academic session prevents summer learning loss.

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What people say:

"We love the engaging Pear Tree staff. My daughter still talks about Magical Creatures week. The site is spectacular!" ~ DJ

Oakland Zoo invites kids to hang out with us for an exciting week of nature discovery, animal adventures, and fun! Activities include zoo tours, interactive stories, puppet play, games, craft projects, science activities and of course, animals up close.

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What people say:

"ZooCamp is not only fun and educational for my child, it's well organized and I feel safe sending my child there."

Su Yun's offers Mandarin-immersion camps blend science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) with language, culture and heritage. Campers learn Mandarin alongside a stage, green screen, makerspace, programmable robots, and more! Each camp registration enters a raffle for a Nintendo Switch.

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Discount for {510} Families readers

Save $20 with code: 510FAMILIES

Coach Ben and his staff are offering a variety of baseball camps for fun and skill building in 2018. Players are rewarded for giving positive reinforcement to each other in both competitive and non-competitive games and drills.

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What people say:

"Our 8 year old has been attending Future Star Baseball camps for years, and always for 3-4 weeks each summer. It's by far his favorite camp! It's well structured and organized, wonderful and supportive staff, excellent coaching, and always a lot of fun."

PlanetBravo gives kids entering grades 2-9 a confidence-boosting environment to develop multimedia skills with their friends from learning to code, making movies, modding Minecraft, modding Roblox or 3D printing. Each day is balanced with a healthy mix of indoor and outdoor activities.

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Discount for {510} Families readers

Save $40 with Coupon Code: 510fampb18; Ends: August 15, 2018

What people say:

"My son went in not knowing anyone and had a great week due to the fun counselors who knew how to keep him engaged." ~ PlanetBravo Parent

Fun weekly and bi-weekly camps with a fantastic summer camp staff. Experienced teachers and camp counselors have a love and understanding of children, excellent communication skills, and lots of enthusiasm, energy, and creativity.

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Discount for {510} Families readers

Save 25% with code 510families

Experience ballet in a fun, challenging, and nurturing environment in 1-3 week sessions at Berkeley Ballet Theater's summer camps. Specialized workshops include ballet technique, pointe, character, and Cuban technique. Something for all levels from age 7 to teen.

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The Kids’ Club features an outdoor play area and an indoor facility filled with games, arts and crafts, books and more. Our experienced childcare attendants ensure your little ones enjoy fun, educational and age-appropriate activities.

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Discover the Outdoors! Campers 4 -16 enjoy the wonders of this lakefront location (Lafayette Reservoir): canoeing, fishing, hiking, nature and more. Swimming and horseback riding lessons included. Free transportation/home pick-up: Oakland, Berkeley, Piedmont, East Bay Neighborhoods. Free extended care.

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What people say:

"Roughing It was a wonderful experience with a variety of amazing activities that helped my daughter grow as a person." ~ Stephanie K., Camper Parent

Looking for a fun-filled summer of science, friendship and nature exploration? Our campers will explore shorelines, hike through forests, kayak on the bay, create nature art, investigate creek life, swim at Lake Anza, enjoy a twilight hike/campfire, and much more!

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What people say:

"Very well-organized. Hiking expeditions and adventures are exciting for the kids. Exactly what’s needed in the summertime." ~ Regina J.

Hands-on, inquiry-based science camps for 1st through 8th graders. Camps are student-driven, active, engaging environments where collaboration allows students to make scientific discoveries for themselves. Mornings are spent in lab and afternoons, students work on applying learnings to their independent projects.

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Discount for {510} Families readers

Save $40 with code 510Families2018 (no expiration)

What people say:

"Kids are "doing" at QC, and not only does this allow them to retain what they learn, but they are excited about learning and discovering what is being taught in the first place." ~ J. Domokos

Aurora campers grades K-6 rotate through woodshop, coding, cooking, gardening, arts & crafts, and sports & games. Small groups mean lots of individual attention! Additional camps offered: Theater Arts, Writing, LEGO Engineering, and Spanish. All camps are open to the public.

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What people say:

“My son LOVES Aurora Camps! The camp instructors are experienced adults who know their craft very well and provide an engaging experience.” ~ Happy mom of a five-year Aurora Camper

Campers explore, investigate, create, and, play in this inclusive, all-outdoors social-justice themed camp. Days are spent sharing community with campers ages 2 - 10, making kids' imaginations reality, connecting with our natural world, and learning how to be freedom fighters.

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Super fun, high energy, singing, dancing, art making, stage design, performance summer camp for kids of all abilities ages 8-12. (some exceptions) Find out why they’ve been voted Best of the Best 5 years in a row. In Rockridge.

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What people say:

"Mr. D's summer camp is the highlight of our daughters summer. She'd go every week if we let her."

Unique and fun camps for exploring industrial art and getting hands-on in blacksmithing, welding, woodworking, glass blowing, and more! Students apply what they’ve learned – creative problem solving, scientific principles, and teamwork – at school and beyond. Ages 8 to 18.

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What people say:

“Lives up to the hype! He's able to spend the whole day working with talented artists and stretch out his learning."

Crowden offers fun and inspiring music camps for ages five and up, and all levels of experience! Try Instrument Discovery Camp, Summer Strings, Piano Partners, All Things Cello, Young Musicians Chamber Academy, & more. Music camps include outdoor play. Before- and after-care available.

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What people say:

"My daughter truly enjoyed Crowden's Instrument Discover Camp. She got very excited about playing the violin!"

The award-winning Best of the Bay after-school program at Classroom Matters is taking on summer fun! Expect lots of free play, community adventures, and a variety of activities to explore. Every camper is sure to find something they'll love.

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What people say:

"We're so glad Classroom Matters is in our community - we can't recommend it highly enough!"

Adventure Day Camp is a traditional day camp for children ages 3-15 years old. Children gain confidence in arts, sports, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, tennis, horseback riding, archery, and more! THREE Oakland bus pickup/dropoff locations.

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What people say:

"You TRULY run an AMAZING summer camp - my husband and I kept saying that it made us wish we could be kids again just to go to your camp!"

Oakland Ballet Company’s summer dance program offers dancers ages 9 and up the opportunity to train intensively with one of the Bay Area’s leading professional dance companies. Daily classes in ballet, pointe, and pilates along with repertoire and a choreography workshop.

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What people say:

"I am so grateful that you helped me tap into my creative mind by choreographing dances. You taught me how to let myself be one with the dance."

Kids, age 8+, code throughout the week and then demo their creations. Programming languages/topics include: Scratch/Snap!, Python, HTML/CSS, Raspberry Pi, Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. Camps Include fun, outdoor activities.

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Discount for {510} Families readers

Use Code CAMPSROCK for $100 off a week (ends 2/28/18)

What people say:

"My child loved Games Are Awesome, he ran into the building every morning. Great camp! Great institution! Very impressed."

Create and Explore with JCAS at Summer Camp! Offering fun, hands-on and creative camps in the arts and sciences for ages 5-12 years old. Campers can play and experiment in classes including visual arts, engineering, ecology, and carpentry.

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Shu Ren Bay Area Adventure Camp is a unique experience for local and international students to discover their own creative potential and artistic voice while exploring the historical, cultural, and natural landmarks surrounding the Bay Area. Offered in English and Chinese.

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At CAMP 510, your child will explore studio art, tinkering, cooking, electronics, building, welding, sewing, crafts, video, music, and more. With the right tools and a participatory community, these projects are led by professional artists and makers. Ages 6 to 14.

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What people say:

"Camp 510 is fantastic, and I can't imagine how hard the staff and counselors must work to teach young kids cooking, leather making, print making, architecture, and more."

Every day at Crestmont Summer Camp combines organized activities along a theme with plenty of time for free play. Themes this year are Space is the Place, Summer Melt Down, Fun in Nature, and Movin' and Groovin'. For kids entering K-6.

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What people say:

"My son has enjoyed Crestmont camp for the past 3 years. He loves all the art projects, getting wet, and meeting new friends!" ~ Crestmont camp parent

EBI, the Bay Area’s first Spanish-English dual-immersion independent school, offers a summer of Spanish language and culture. EBI Summer Camps are open to EBI, and non-EBI students. Campers will explore enriching and dynamic themes in Spanish!

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Doodles campers, age 3-12, grow their creative intelligence (CIQ) through making and art. Engage in weekly themes about basic engineering, renewable fuels, propulsion and others. There is something to inspire every child through building, woodworking, 3D art, sculpting, cooking, sports & games.

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Discount for {510} Families readers

Save $25 per family. Reply to your confirmation email and mention 510 Families. Doodle will promptly issue a $25 refund.

What people say:

"Our daughter's favorite camp this summer. Lots of creative projects. She really enjoyed having a choice of activities."

Bay Language Academy builds on 7 years of educating multilingual children through exploration of languages and the cultures they convey. Activities include artistic workshops and cooking demonstrations for elementary students and intensive language sessions for middle and high school students.

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What people say:

"I am very impressed with what she has learned so far and how much she is enjoying the camp, definitely want to keep that going!"

Bliss Belly Kitchen offers a mindfulness based farm to table culinary education. Beginning each day with yoga and mindfulness, then transitioning into cooking with local, seasonal organic ingredients to make fresh, delicious, nutritious, and healthy creations! Ages 5-13. CIT 14-17.

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Discount for {510} Families readers

Receive $25 off with code 510FAM

What people say:

"We took the Farmers Market and Chocolate camps this year and loved them both. My kids tried new foods and learned healthy recipes that they were eager to make at home."

At BACT Summer Camps, children discover that the same techniques actors use can help them shine in all areas of their lives. Theatre helps children learn leadership skills through empathy and teamwork.

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What people say:

"The programs are astonishing. The kids can learn their lines, learn the songs, learn the dance moves, blocking, have a great time, and put on a very entertaining show in 2 weeks!"

Unique week-long day camp for campers age 8-15. Each day, groups visit the Bay Area’s best museums, parks, galleries, science centers, activities, and attractions. Public transportation is used to explore and teach campers local navigation.

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What people say:

"Best camp for active and curious kids as it combines adventure, travel, exploration and learning! An A++++ of a camp!"

Play-Well teaches kids ages 5-13 the concepts of engineering, robotics, and critical thinking through building and playing with LEGO. Learn about fundamental STEM principles in core and themed camps (Intro to STEM, Jedi Engineering, Mine Craft Build Game, etc.).

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What people say:

"This is our 3rd go around and they are awesome... Way better than expensive camps - the instructor's true love of job shows." ~ Vicki C.

At Camp Bladium Summer Camp, campers experience a variety of games and activities like Rock Climbing, Inflatables, Basketball, Dodgeball, Kickball, Arts and Crafts, NERF, Laser Tag, LEGO, and Inflatable Water slides. Camp Bladium is an adventure kids are sure to love.

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BISA Soccer Academy’s week-long camps provide competitive training for BISA Academy players as well as experienced select/travel players while recreational camps are filled with fun and challenging programs to improve fundamental soccer skills and knowledge.

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Discount for {510} Families readers

Save 10% Off before 3/31; Save 10% for booking 4+ weeks at the same time (after 3/31).

Thingamajigs' team of artists create an engaging arts and music camp designed to expand the young, creative mind. Through interactive workshops that incorporate music, movement, visual art, and science, Thingamakids! campers gain a unique and well-rounded experience in creativity, collaboration, and experimentation.

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Discount for {510} Families readers

$25 discount for using promotion code 510families at checkout

Through music, games, and outdoor exploration, children ages 4.9 to 10 learn about kindness, community and culture. In Tilden park, One Generation features some of the best teachers in the Bay area in Brazilian Capoeira, West African hand drumming, and West African song and dance.

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Education Française Bay Area (EFBA) offers week-long immersion in French, organized by weekly themes for kids aged 4-11 yo to make them explore French-speaking cultures through sports, games, music, art, and more!

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Discount for {510} Families readers

Save $25 (can be combined with other discounts, check it out online!)

What people say:

"EFBA Camp is a wonderful way to get kids to interact with a cultural topic, enhance their French vocabulary all while immersed in the language."

Hands-On! STEAM Camps offer opportunities for tinkering, creating, experimenting, collaborating, constructing, and crafting! Kids will discover that science is real and art is everywhere! And most importantly, science is fun!! Ages 4 to 11.

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We're ready to hike, climb, explore, and roar! Fueled by natural curiosity, children lead the day's discoveries, facilitated by experienced outdoor educators. Teachers support a child's connection with the natural world, while blackberry picking, using tools, and tracking banana slugs!

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What people say:

"Thank you for your infectious enthusiasm, incredibly positive spirit and for holding a space, for kids to just be kids."

Cal Youth Camps offers a variety of camps and sport/outdoor activities including swimming, soccer, skateboarding, rock climbing, gymnastics, martial arts, sailing and more for all ages. Drop-in, 1- and 2-week options available. Payment plan and camp scholarships available.

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What people say:

"Kept our son excited, stimulated and active. He attends the camp throughout the summer, and he has a great day EVERY day."

Unleash your child’s creativity this summer with immersive visual art practice at the RAC. Choose drawing, painting, printmaking, textile arts and sculpture. Whole and half-days available. Camp is for ages 5-13; teen-focused Summer Art Lab for ages 14-17.

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Discount for {510} Families readers

Save a little bit with code CAMP18

Elementary-age kids will learn Spanish for the first time or further their existing Spanish in this summer camp based on having fun. Activities include dance, yoga, baseball, soccer, games, art, and cooking. 9am-3pm with before care available 8-6pm.

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Sticky Art Lab has an exciting array of art-based maker camps throughout the summer, with different themes and lead artists each week. With a focus on reuse, each day offers a balance of structured teaching and free-build for creative exploration!

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Herbal Medicine: Learn to identify plant families and create herbal medicines from local plants! For girls entering grades 3-8.

Seedlings Camp: Girls explore the magical realms of nature, build fairy homes, and learn wilderness survival skills. For girls entering grades K-2.

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Discount for {510} Families readers

use code 510families for $50 off

Campers take half-day morning math instruction followed by fun activities in the afternoon. Class topics range from number theory, algebra, geometry, combinatorics, graphs, and logic. Instructors use games, magic tricks, and paradoxes to boost kids’ interest and confidence in STEM.

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Cara Goldstein inspires kids to create their own stories and artwork based on their ideas. Cartooning Camp teaches students to create an original comic book. Creativity & Imagination Camp inspires creative mixed projects modeled after illustrators, fine artists, and art movements.

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What people say:

"Cara's Cartooning Camp was my daughter's favorite Camp of last Summer, so she couldn't wait to take it again this Summer."

Cooking, learning, eating, making friends, and having a delicious Summer. Children learn cooking skills while experiencing flavors and cultures from all corners of the world. Activities include language education, cooking demos, engaging slideshows, folktales, and a rendition of the show “Chopped”.

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Calling young engineers, astronauts, explorers, makers, and problem solvers! Campers entering grades 1-6 choose from four different science and engineering themes: Mars Adventure, Camp Create, Operation Lunar Base and Eco-Animation. Expect fun, immersive, hands-on experiences in science, engineering, and outdoor exploration.

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What people say:

"My daughter absolutely loved this camp and was filled with information and experience to share with me on the ride home everyday!!! A+++"

This 5-day camp dives into the world of digital photography while venturing out of the classroom to experience new environments, learn new photography skills, and tell visual stories in photos. Campers learn how to use light to make incredible images. Parent drop-off in SF and Berkeley.

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Discount for {510} Families readers

Save 10% with Code: 510FAM

What people say:

"I really enjoyed the independence camp afforded the campers, the various locations and the different aspects of photography it covered. The week met them at their developmental age levels."

Children sing, dance, and explore our environment with a focus on building friendships and expanding interests. Camp Tzofim celebrates community-based Jewish values and welcomes campers of all backgrounds. Extended care is available.

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Offering Mini Matisse Camps (ages 4-5), Art Camps for Kids (ages 6-9), Weeklong Workshops (ages 10 & up), and a CIT Program (ages 14-18). The studio is light-filled with a lovely garden and patio where campers enjoy lots of outdoor time.

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Campers enjoy hands-on activities like cooking, drawing, crafting, engineering, and puppeteering. Children get into the habit of using and speaking Mandarin by engaging with native Chinese teachers throughout the day and learning Chinese vocabulary related to the theme.

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Discount for {510} Families readers

Save $10 when you email us after registering and mention code HW510FAM

What people say:

"I appreciated Hanwen's multi-modal teaching style - some classroom time each day and lots of learning Chinese through doing, interacting, and playing."

Go Girls! educates, inspires, and activates girls to take center stage! At Go Girls!, girls learn how to love themselves and stand up for each other through theater, acting, music, visual arts, and media.

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What people say:

Go Girls! has been instrumental in my daughter’s evolution...helping her foster a strong sense of self and a bold, brave spirit.

Girls and gender nonconforming kids ages 9 to 13 take fun field trips via public transportation and enjoy food, movement, and maker activities. Empowering girls to be bold and compassionate is a goal of this award-winning program, part of Monkey Business Camp.

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What people say:

"We were amazed at how happy Girls on the Go Camp made our daughter, how much confidence she built, and the fears she overcame surrounded by the power of the girls in the group."

Boys and gender diverse kids ages 9 to 13 explore the Bay Area with field trips via public transportation. Empowering boys to be curious, confident and compassionate is a main goal of this program, a part of Monkey Business Camp.

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What people say:

"At Boys on the Go, my son grew a lot, became independent and made real friends outside of his school."

Youth Cartooning Camp (ages 7 to 13): Invent cartoon characters and storylines through inking, coloring, lettering, and detailed backgrounds for all skill levels. Portfolio Camp (ages 12 - 17) provides the foundations of life-drawing, portraiture, perspective, and developing a concentration.

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What people say:

"In the month that Cara worked with K, her skills improved exponentially."

Jumpin' Gymsters offers 3 camps at Lake Temescal: Sports and Science; Sports and Legos; Sports and Arts. Sports include soccer, baseball, gymnastics, hiking and obstacle courses.

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In Roleplaying Adventures, kids explore a magical world through classic roleplaying games. Kids design their own characters and go on a quest together, fighting monsters and finding treasures. Roleplaying games help develop reading and math skills, teamwork, listening and problem-solving.

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What people say:

"Our kids love Roleplaying Adventures! They always come home excited to tell us about the day's stories!" ~ Sarah

Hello Stitch provides a supportive, fun, and stress-free atmosphere for exploring adventures in sewing. Learning to sew is a life skill your camper will never forget. Camp Stitch provides all the tools and materials needed to complete the projects.

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Located on SJND’s campus in Alameda, Summer Discovery offers athletic and enrichment activities for students in grades 3-9 with sports clinics, theater, art, engineering, field trips and more. There’s something for everyone at Summer Discovery!

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What people say:

"The summer camps at SJND are really fun! You get to meet new people, learn new skills and make new friends!" ~ Ava B., 6th grader and Summer Discovery participant

Habitot offers week-long camps with themes like Space Station, Treasure Island, and Dinosaur Dig, each with indoor art, science, cooking, and dramatic play. Habitot visits, Mon-Thurs afternoons. Outdoor recess. Snacks included. Camps limited to 12 children, 2.9-5.0 yrs.

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What people say:

"My child really enjoyed the creative activities! He starts preschool next fall and this was the perfect intro to a preschool setting and to other children and teachers."

It's cool to make art when it's hot outside! Join an innovative, hands-on arts activities for children and youth, ages 6-12. MOCHA campers work on a variety of engaging projects based on weekly topics.

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Cal Sports Camps offer the opportunity to learn from amazing coaches at Cal’s world-class facilities. Both for novices and those working to take that next big step in their game. Programs include baseball, volleyball, golf, water polo & lots more.

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What people say:

"The friendly and encouraging staff made the camp a great experience." ~ Baseball parent

Camp Friendship offers weekly full-day camps for children ages 6 to 12. Campers venture out on a different field trip each Tuesdays and Thursdays. With a different theme each week, your camper will never get bored.

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RATS is an affordable, play-all-day summer day camp for girls and boys entering grades 3-8. Kids of all ability levels are encouraged to participate.

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Campers get close to animals like owls, opossums, and snakes in a serene park; weeks are based on a different theme. Half day 9am-12pm for ages 3 1/2 to 5 or until 2:30 pm for 5-13. Extended care available select weeks.

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Rainbow Day Camp (ages 4-12) is for gender diverse youth and their allies. Expect innovative projects, new friendships and an affirming space where everyone belongs.

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Students can let their imaginations soar. Dancing Paintbrush teaches the fundamentals of fine arts skills and basic techniques, while nurturing creativity and individuality in a relaxed atmosphere.

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Adventurous cooking camps for kids, ages 9 – 18, in Emeryville commercial kitchen. Designed to give kids the culinary confidence to cook for themselves.

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My Yute Soccer's FREE Camp takes place June 11-15, 2018 at Oakland Technical High for children ages 7-12. More details on website.

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Gymnastics, dance, trampoline activities, arts and crafts, and strength training for ages 4 to 14. Morning extended care included in rate.

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A vast array of full- and half-day camps. You name it: sports, crafts, ballet, bugs, circus, knitting, carpentry, science, tumbling, swimming, cooking, and it is different each week! Beginning at age 3.

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Head-Royce Summer Program is proud to serve students representing over 150 schools in K-12 programming. Through both morning academic and afternoon enrichment, they focus on improving self-advocacy and cultivating resiliency skills.

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Daruma no Gakko is a 4-week summer program designed for children in grades K-6 to learn about their heritage through the program’s unique Japanese American curriculum to develop strong, positive self-images and identities.

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Square School offers unique and joyful one week design camps this summer. Spend time in the studio and time outside recharging. Each week has a different theme: Game Design, Fashion Design, Minecraft Architecture, and Circuit Playground.

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Learn to skate or improve your skills. Unique camp experience where you’ll master new tricks at the place where YouTube magic happens! Registration spots are very limited.

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This three-week morning camp gives children who are interested in writing the time and opportunity to explore many different paths in their writing. Teen camp also available.

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Many sports and recreation options: baseball, basketball, chess, gymnastics, LEGO Engineering, On the Water (w/ Cal Adventures), skateboard, and soccer.

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ONE WEEK ONLY. Hands-on engineering activities for girls. With Berkeley staff and students as the teachers, campers will learn firsthand about the exciting world of engineering! Applications due March 1. Program is limited to 250.

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A variety of fun dance camp options for dancers of all ages. This summer, we offer half-day mini camps for 5-7 y/o, full day camps for 8-11 y/o, and teen choreography workshop intensives.

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Campers learn or improve their Spanish language skills with interactive games, music activities, and craft projects around a theme. Camps are half-day or full-day sessions for children ages 5 – 10 years.

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Y camp is a place for everyone to feel safe, supported, and included. Age-appropriate adventures including on-site and field trip programming from K to 8th grade.

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Have fun learning Chinese culture through arts and crafts, Mandarin language, martial arts, brush painting, singing, musical instruments, cooking, field trips, and more.

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Mixed media art camps are divided into age groups and skill levels. Camps for 1st - 4th include figure drawing & sculpting and BIG ART. Camps for 4th - 7th include craft party and painting.

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Campers ages 11+ can try this unique, growing sport with the Berkeley High School Crew coaches and current team members. No experience is necessary, and camp size is limited to 30 participants.

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Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Tumbling, African Dance, Drama, Art, and lots of fun with flexible scheduling. Multi-week/ sibling discounts. Before/after care available. Creating more confident kids for 28 years.

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Martial arts summer camp that kids love with hours that working parents love.

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Baseball After Little League, BALL, is a camp for boys and girls who love baseball and outdoor playtime.

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Explore the world of ceramics this summer. Kids will create sculptures and functional work in a relaxed and friendly environment. Each session is limited to eight campers and meets in Dianne's Berkeley ceramics studio in the Elmwood.

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Celebrating Jewish traditions while welcoming a wide variety of cultural backgrounds, families and faiths. Two 4-week sessions: June 25 – July 20 or July 30 – August 24.

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Led by professional museum educators, campers explore the urban outdoors, make posters, check out the Bay Area’s mural scene, and curate an exhibit. Two one-week programs.

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This morning drop-in camp focuses on Parkour and acrobatics. Get ready to jump, vault roll, flip, land and go through creative obstacle courses. Ages 5-13. Mini camp starts at age 3.

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Campers from ages 7-13 (Players), 12-18 (Upstart Crows) and 13-18 (Advanced Shakespeare Workshop) are trained in acting, text, and stage combat. Two-week camps meet in various Bay Area locations and culminate with a live performance.

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Circus arts day camp includes clowning, trapeze, juggling, acrobatics, climbing, and aerials.

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Week-long camps offer hands-on cooking in restaurants, camper cook-offs, blindfolded palate play. Locations vary based on the restaurants in the rotation. All East Bay locations. Ages 7+.

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Campers learn an entire musical in these 2-week camps. The cost includes snacks, crafts, scenery creation, costumes, camp t-shirt and more.

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Intro to chess first two weeks only. Afternoon intensive chess camp from 1pm-5pm or All-day camp including sports and games in the morning, combined with chess in the afternoon.

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Animal Camp is the purr-fect fit for campers who are passionate about pets and want to make a difference for shelter animals. Campers will participate in hands-on activities, animal interactions, pet-themed games, and crafts. Scholarships available.

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Offering half- and full-day programs in a range of movement styles with younger ages offered for a SINGLE WEEK only. Magical Story Ballet is ages 4-6.

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Discover Sailing Camp two-week course is a great introduction for beginners and those with less experience on the water. Campers learn the basics of rigging, launching, and sailing a small boat.

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Writers will craft their own original short stories, plays, graphic novels, and/or poetry. Our goal-oriented method helps students set and achieve their writing goals and become confident, fluid writers.

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Offers single subject focus camps with topics such as public speaking, leadership, engineering, writing, and broadcasting. All programs are based around projects that make learning exciting.

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Supervised recreation care for ages 5 to 11. All activities are geared toward a weekly theme. Activities include cooking, crafts, games, drama, nature, swimming, and walking excursions. Optional field trips COST EXTRA.

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Make movies, play sports, sew, play with robots, learn to code, bake bread, and make music. Campers choose what they want to do from moment to moment. Lunch, snacks, and all materials are provided. A drop-in camp.

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Gymnastics and parkour camps offered throughout the entire summer for every age, interest, and level. Half day camps for boys and girls ages 4-5.

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Day camp program for kids 4+ offers gymnastics and circus arts, plus playground games and arts + crafts. Offered to preschool and school-aged kids.

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Offering adventurous and challenging camps, like Lil Ninja Warrior, designed to promote self confidence and build trust. Half- or full-day of games, activities and fitness with a unique and fun camp experience.

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What people say:

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Small, supportive groups for middle and high school students who love to write, wish to regain a love of writing, or want to build confidence with writing. Lively writing activities and time to write what most interests them.

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Differentiated basketball skills camps for ages 6 to 14. Signature camp teaches students of all skill levels how to dribble, pass, and shoot.

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Weekly music camps on different topics such as piano, guitar, or rock band. Attend one or all eight. Ages 5 to 16.

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Raskob Institute offers a half-day of academic enrichment through individual educational therapy, small group instruction, and multi-sensory teaching. Speech and Language Therapy is offered for an additional fee.

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Integrated, hands-on, experiential themes based on real-world science applications. Camps covers biology, chemistry, coding, engineering, and mathematics through fun, interactive labs. Camps offers a separate topic for morning and afternoon lab.

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Camp at Chabot Park campers discover nature, hiking, arts & crafts, singing, and more. Campers entering K+; CIT grades 10 to 12; Jr Counselors age 17.

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Carnival Science Camp offers a STEM twist on carnival favorites: balloon engineering challenges; force and balance in games of skill; and the science behind your favorite treats.

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Instructors are not only talented chefs but mentors and parents who love to share their passion for food. Teens gain valuable and meaningful cooking skills they can build on as young adults.

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Join Bay Area Disc this summer to play ultimate frisbee for ages 8-14 years old (other ages can contact staff for consideration).

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Children ages 5-13 explore our local parks with supervision including Tilden and Berkeley Marina and one beach usually on Friday.

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Little Theater Company offers drama day camps for kids ages 5-11 that uses play based methods to enhance your kids' confidence, character and creativity!

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Fiddleheads activities promote sensory integration, emotional regulation and empathic connections. Camp is inclusive and honors neuro-diversity. Ages 5 to 12. Sign up for 2-week session required.

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ABSC soccer camps are open to all players aged 4 to 19. Under-5 players join half-day morning session. Full day camp spends one afternoon per week swimming.

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"Gan Izzy" offers an exciting array of activities, swimming and trips in a joyful Jewish atmosphere for ages 4 to 11. CIT program for ages 12-14.

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Half-day and full-day tennis programs from beginners to advanced. Lunch can be purchased on site.

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The Learn to Row camps are for Middle School rowers of all abilities and for High School athletes who have not rowed before. Morning sessions held at San Pablo Reservoir in El Sobrante begin at 8:30am or 10:30am.

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Campers ages 3-10 get a taste of organic farm life in Berkeley with farming, crafting, building mud forts, and preparing meals with Jewish values guiding their experience.

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Afternoons in French include thematic adventures. June 16-20 and 23-27 are for ages 6 to 9 with no prior French needed. June 30-July 3 and July 6-10 are for 10-14 year-olds with intermediate/advanced French.

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Science meets water play at the City of Emeryville camps for ages 5 to 11. Middle school camps include field trips. Note: Entering Kinders must have been enrolled in an official TK program in the previous school year.

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Incoming 4th through 6th grade girls can enjoy dance, music, sports, science, poetry, art and crafts, games that include a creative component, group work, and opportunity for self-reflection.

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Positive developmental experiences that encourage children to forge bonds while building confidence through skill-building activities suited to their age.

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Explore, investigate, discover, and invent with summer camps at the Lawrence Hall of Science! With camps covering topics ranging from marine biology to robotics, you will find the perfect camp for your children aged 4 years old through 12th grade.

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Slime, sticks, and tinkering is just the beginning. 8 special themes make camp different each week. Mini camp for Tiny Twirlers age 3 to 6 is 9am to noon.

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A captivating beginner horse camp in the Oakland hills for campers ages 7 to 10 with 2 riding lessons each day. Intermediate & advanced camps also available for older kids.

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Swimming, arts & crafts, group games, and exciting trips will pack the summer days with unforgettable experiences for campers of all ages. Field trips vary each week.

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Youth ages 7-17 come to Lake Merritt for boating adventures. Younger children use boats and learn about ecology and older kids learn to sail. Advanced sailors go to the Oakland Estuary. (scroll way down for PDF about camp)

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