Robotics for kids brings together science, engineering, and technology to create something incredible. Kids learn the basics of coding and programming robots and smart devices, as well as explore artificial intelligence. The best robotics summer camps online offer valuable learning opportunities providing a strong foundation in robotics, coding, and STEM principle, in addition to a secure and safe environment, and hands-on learning. So today, we'll reveal a selection of robotics summer camps that stand out due to their comprehensive and engaging curriculums for learning robotics, experienced instructors, and positive reviews from participants.
Already, robots are widely used in manufacturing, transportation, agriculture, hospitals, and even in our homes. Here are some of the top companies that build or use robots.
Explore Robotics Summer Camps
Explore Elementary and Middle School Robotics Summer Camps
1. Free Fun with Snap Circuits Event
Beginners, Grades 2+, Live online
This fun large group live online monthly event is led by an expert. It's a great safe way to learn electrical engineering, like sensors, circuits, and more. Students build several fun projects, while they learn what a circuit is, how circuits work, how to create one, and how to add more parts in a circuit to make sounds, light, and more. They will also learn different components of circuits, and how they can be put together to create a fun system. The best part is that it's free!
2. Junior Robotics
Beginners, Grades 2+, Live online
This live online camp provides a dynamic, interactive learning experience where kids can explore the exciting world of robotics using the innovative VEX VR platform. With a curriculum designed by expert educators from Stanford and MIT, your child will engage in hands-on projects that develop their coding, engineering, and problem-solving abilities. Children learn how to train robots to do tasks: Code your robot to move, sense, lift, and more - all in virtual worlds! Plus, with small camp sizes and personalized attention from experienced instructors, your child will receive the support they need to thrive.
3. Robot Adventures
Intermediate (need Scratch coding experience), Grades 4+, Live online
In this engaging and hands-on camp, your child will delve into the world of robotics by building and programming their own VEX robots. They will learn key concepts such as sensor integration, mechanical design, and coding. These activities are designed to develop their problem-solving abilities, enhance their critical thinking, and foster creativity. Additionally, they will work on exciting projects that simulate real-world engineering challenges.
4. Lights & Beats for Micro:bit
Intermediate (need Scratch coding experience), Grades 2+, Live online
This live online camp teaches kids to program a Micro:bit. It can inspire your child to be a future rocket builder! This little device packs very powerful capabilities: LED lights, speakers, a temperature sensor, a microphone, and even an accelerometer. Coding is done in a simulator that works just like the physical Micro:Bit, so your child doesn't have to have the physical device to take the camp.
5. Smart Devices: Arduino for Kids
Intermediate (need Scratch coding experience), Grades 4+, Live online
Children can start learning about circuits through this live online robotics camp led by an expert instructor. Kids learn about smart devices, and discover how to program an Arduino using a simulator. Students will design simple electronic systems for alarms, home sensing, motor controls, etc, as well as create code to control these systems. This camp does not require a physical device.
6. Sphero Bolt
Beginners, Ages 7-12, Online or in-person
Learn to program a coded robotic ball, Bolt, that can be operated by an app! This camp offers a unique, hands-on learning experience where kids can explore the full potential of Sphero BOLT robots. Throughout the camp, your child will learn to program their Sphero BOLT using JavaScript and block-based coding, gaining valuable skills in logic, problem-solving, and computational thinking. They'll engage in fun, interactive projects such as navigating mazes, creating games, and designing innovative robotic tasks.
7. Bricks 4 Kidz
Beginners, Ages 5-13, In-person
Bricks 4 Kidz offers fun and educational summer camps in person that combine LEGO bricks with robotics and coding. Their camps are designed to inspire creativity and critical thinking while making learning enjoyable with interactive and hands-on activities using LEGO robotics kits. There are programs tailored to different age groups and learning stages, as well.
Explore High School Robotics Summer Camps
8. Python for AI
Intermediate, Grades 5+, Live online
Python is one of the most popular programming languages for professional engineers, and an essential building block to creating more advanced robotics. In this engaging and interactive camp, kids will learn the fundamentals of Python. They will start with basic concepts such as variables, loops, and conditionals, and gradually progress to more advanced topics like functions, lists, and error handling. Through fun, hands-on projects, your child will develop problem-solving abilities and logical thinking skills. The course emphasizes creativity and practical application, allowing kids to create their own games, animations, and even simple apps.
9. AI Creators Camp
Advanced, Grades 6+, Live online
This live online camp is an exceptional way to introduce your child to the fascinating world of robotics and artificial intelligence. AI Creators provides students with the opportunity to create simple and practical AI apps using a variety of tools - from the Python coding language and open source packages to commercial AI. By the end of camp, students will achieve a firm foundation in key technical concepts used in coding AI, and creating models representative of a variety of data, including medical imaging datasets (pneumonia, Covid-19, and the like), and so much more.
10. Electricity & Electronics
Advanced, Grades 9+, Recorded videos online
In this hands-on, on-demand Udemy course, high school students will learn the essentials of analog electronics, including understanding circuits, components like resistors and capacitors, and how to use tools like multimeters. They will also delve into the principles of robotics by building their own robotic projects from scratch. Through engaging, step-by-step instructions, students will gain a solid foundation in designing and assembling electronic circuits, programming microcontrollers, and integrating sensors and actuators to create functional robots.
11. Robotics Specialization
Advanced, Grades 9+, Recorded videos online
This on-demand Coursera virtual summer camp teaches the foundations of a future career in robotics, preparing students to consider a career in the robotics field. Kids will learn the fundamentals of robotics, including kinematics, control, and programming. They will explore how robots perceive their environment, make decisions, and execute actions. Through engaging video lectures, hands-on projects, and interactive quizzes, students will gain practical experience in designing, building, and programming robots. Key topics covered include motion planning, robotic vision, and machine learning, providing a robust understanding of how robots interact with the world.
Explore Additional Resources for Further Learning in Robotics for Kids
Local Robotics Clubs, Programs, and Competitions
A global robotics community preparing young people for the future through engaging, hands-on STEM experiences.
Under strict rules and limited time and resources, teams of high school students are challenged to build industrial-size robots to play a difficult field game in alliance with other teams, while also fundraising to meet their goals, designing a team “brand,” and advancing respect and appreciation for STEM within the local community.
The VEX Robotics competition prepares students to become future innovators with 95% of participants reporting an increased interest in STEM subject areas and pursuing STEM-related careers. Tournaments are held year-round at the regional, state, and national levels and culminate at the VEX Robotics World Championship each April!
- Robotics Workshops at Local Libraries or Community Centers
Many local libraries and community centers offer workshops or clubs focused on robotics and coding.
Explore more robotics competitions.
Recommended Tools and Kits
VexIQ is one of the most popular robots for middle school competitions, and many elementary school students start learning robotics using it as well. However both are fairly expensive. The New York Times published a review recently where this robotics kit is one that stands out the most.
Meccanoid is very cool, though its mobility is pretty limited. One of the key areas of the overall robotics field is electronics. A great place to start learning is Snap Circuits.
Older kids can learn Micro:bit and Arduino. Get started with the ArduinoUno, an entry-level product that's easy to use and ready to power your first creative projects.
Explore more robotics kits.
Activities to Support Learning
Encourage Participation in Competitions: Encourage your child to participate in robotics competitions like the FIRST LEGO League or VEX Robotics Competitions. These events provide practical experience and inspire teamwork and innovation.
Visit Science and Technology Museums: Take trips to science museums or technology exhibits where your child can see real-world applications of robotics and engineering.
By providing these resources and support, you can help your children continue their journey in robotics, fostering a lifelong interest and potentially a future career in STEM.
Join Robotics Camps This Summer
As you consider what virtual robotics camp your child should attend, consider their age, interests, and preferred modality of learning. There are so many excellent options! Next, learn how to code a micro:bit animation.
Written by Lauren Mauel, a Create & Learn instructor with 8 years of teaching experience. She also has a BS in Mathematics, an MS in Analytics, and is a PhD candidate. She loves seeing kids' creativity come alive.
