In recent years, academic and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) camps have surged in popularity as parents seek summer programs that combine learning with fun. These camps are designed to equip children with future-ready skills like coding, robotics, and critical thinking, while also addressing concerns about learning gaps and keeping kids intellectually engaged during the summer. Unlike traditional classroom settings, STEAM camps use hands-on, project-based approaches to make complex concepts exciting and accessible, appealing to parents who want their children to grow academically without sacrificing the joy of summer.
Challenge Camp
Iona University, 715 North Avenue, New Rochelle
914-779-6024
info@challengecamps.com
challengecamps.com
Challenge Camp is an ACA accredited day camp focused on STEM and Arts enrichment for creative children ages 4-15 at Iona University in New Rochelle. At Challenge Camp parents and campers customize a program based on the child’s interests, and students follow their courses for an entire session. Challenge offers over 140 STEM and Arts project-based electives to engage and inspire campers. Courses range from 3D Printing, Art, Chess, Coding, Cooking, Drones, Dungeons & Dragons, Escape Room, ESports, Fashion, Filmmaking, Game Design, Lego, Magic, Minecraft, Photography, Robotics, Rocketry, Theater, and more! Active sports options, including on-site swimming, allow campers to challenge their minds and bodies. Hot lunch and snack are included. Transportation, early drop-off/extended day options available.
The Coder School
969 Central Park Ave, Scarsdale
914-431-8281
scarsdale@thecoderschool.com
thecoderschool.com/scarsdale
The Coder School is transforming the way kids learn technology through hands-on coding camps and classes. Offering courses in Java, Python, AI, game development, robotics, and 3D modeling, students engage in fun, interactive projects that build real-world skills. With a focus on creativity and problem-solving, The Coder School empowers young minds to develop apps, games, and digital creations. Whether beginners or advanced coders, students receive personalized guidance from experienced instructors. By fostering a passion for coding, The Coder School prepares kids for future success in tech-driven careers. From summer camps to year-round programs, it’s the perfect place for kids (ages 7-18) to explore, create, and innovate.
DNA Learning Center
1 Bungtown Road, Cold Spring Harbor, Long Island
516-367-5170
dnalc-camps@cshl.edu
summercamps.dnalc.org
The DNA Learning Center of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory offers fun and challenging week-long camps for science enthusiasts entering 6th to 12th grade. Guided by experienced instructors, students use sophisticated laboratory techniques and online DNA analysis tools to perform experiments several grade levels ahead of their peers. Participate in-person at one of four locations: Long Island, Brooklyn, Westchester, and a new location in New Jersey, or virtually using on-demand kits. Scholarships and other camp discounts offered!
Lumos Debate
Located at SUNY – Purchase College
781-474-3359
info@lumosdebate.com
LumosDebate.com
Lumos Debate is a nationwide educational summer day camp that has helped thousands of students, ages 9-15, develop leadership, critical thinking, and public speaking skills. They have locations in Purchase, Manhattan and Queens, NY. Lumos alumni have earned numerous state and national awards, and the program was recently recognized as a Forbes 30 Under 30 company in Education. Their program is welcoming to both beginner and advanced debaters. Lumos provides students with the opportunity to make new friends, enhance their critical thinking, and practice public speaking all in a fun, low-pressure environment. Through engaging games and activities, Lumos makes learning debate fun. Their friendly and enthusiastic instructors create an exciting and welcoming atmosphere for every student!
Oasis Day Camp Dobbs Ferry
555 Broadway
Dobbs Ferry
914-712-5054
dobbs@oasischildren.com
oasischildren.com/dobbs-ferry/
Oasis STEM program offers an engaging, hands-on learning experience for children, designed to inspire curiosity and foster problem-solving skills. Participants are introduced to the exciting worlds of science, technology, engineering through interactive activities and experiments. The program encourages teamwork, creativity, and critical thinking, as campers explore various STEM topics such as robotics, coding and environmental science. Instructors guide the children through each session, ensuring that the learning process is both fun and educational. Oasis promotes teamwork and problem-solving while ensuring a playful, engaging environment. Campers get the chance to challenge themselves, experiment with new ideas, and develop critical thinking skills.
WCC – Center for the Digital Arts
27 North Division Street, Peekskill
914-606-7300
peekskill@sunywcc.edu
sunywcc.edu/youth
The Youth Arts Technology Program at the SUNY Center for the Digital Arts is a dynamic STEAM initiative blending arts and technology to prepare youth for future academic and career opportunities. With STEM jobs projected to grow 10.8% by 2032 and median annual wages reaching $97,980, the program emphasizes the integration of science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. By fostering creativity, critical thinking, and innovation, the courses inspire self-expression and collaboration. Students will develop both manual and digital skills, culminating in a portfolio project that showcases their work. This program equips participants with the tools needed to thrive in the 21st century while exploring the exciting intersection of art and science.
The Windward School Summer Camp
40 W Red Oak Lane, White Plains
914-949-6968
thewindwardschool.org
thewindwardschool.org/windward-summer-program
The Windward School’s Summer Program is designed for children who could benefit from building their academic skills. The month-long program helps support students with review, reinforcement, and repetition of skills in the areas of reading, writing, math, science, and study and organizational skills. Classes are held at Windward’s Westchester Middle School and Manhattan campuses. Both air-conditioned facilities are equipped with the latest in educational technology. Students can choose to spend either the morning or the full day at The Windward School. The morning session allows students the opportunity to attend two classes for academic support, while the program’s afternoon session allows students to participate in one afternoon activity from choices including sports, drama, art, and technology.
