Summer camps across the state are turning to technology to continue reaching out to kids with virtual camps. The Van Andel Institute's Virtual Summer Camp is among them, and they're prepared to give students the chance to think and act like scientists from the safety of their own home.
VAI will provide all materials necessary for students to participate in the camps from home. While students will be connecting with VAI throughout the day with technology, there will be plenty of time off screen involving scientific experiments and activities.
Students can enroll in the following classes:
Can You Dig It? (Grades 2–3)
June 8–12 | 9 a.m.–12 p.m. | $60
Explore the amazing world of fossils from the comfort of your own home. Think and act like a true paleontologist as you collaborate (virtually) with new friends, make your own fossils, create a fossil sandwich and participate in a unique fossil dig!
Biotech Explorers (Grades 9–12)
June 15–19 | 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. | $100
Immerse yourself in the world of biotechnology from the comfort of your own home! Discover and perform lab techniques used in research facilities around the world. Virtually tour a VAI research lab and hear from a scientist who runs their own lab.
Animal Survivor: Pill Bugs, Newts & Geckos. Oh My! (Grades 4–5)
June 22–26 | 9 a.m.–12 p.m. | $60
In this virtual experience, investigate the world of animal adaptations and the habitats they live in! Each morning you will be introduced to a resident VAI animal and will conduct observational studies to learn more about that species. Participate in offline activities like identifying species in your own backyard and designing habitats.
To learn more, visit VAI’s summer camps website .
