Discover STEM Phenomena at the All-New Camp Invention 2025

What if you were told that every child is already a scientist? If you’re smiling, then you might already know why this is true. From shooting stars to the sociability of penguins, children are captivated by phenomena found in the natural world. The all-new 2025 Camp Invention^® program, Discover, honors the way children view the world through a lens of wonder. By leveraging their fascination, stimulating their senses and satisfying their curiosity with hands-on experiences, campers can discover even more through phenomenon-based learning. Help children embrace their inner engineer in four versatile experiences as they make remarkable discoveries about STEM and its importance in the world.

Illusion Workshop

In Illusion Workshop^™, children find that things are not always as they appear! From reflection to refraction to visual perception, behind the spectacular illusions that captivate young imaginations is STEM. While discovering the science behind special effects and technology used in theme parks, animated films and theater experiences, campers explore a variety of behind-the-scenes careers through hands-on challenges. Guided by National Inventors Hall of Fame® Inductee Lanny Smoot, campers find inspiration from inventors behind real-life theme park technology to make their own moving pneumatic props, use illusion techniques like “Pepper’s Ghost” and build a Spin-o-scope^™ to demonstrate the illusion of motion.

Penguin Launch

Penguin Launch^™ invites children to embark on an eco-expedition in Antarctica and become penguin experts! Campers are sure to have a blast exploring phenomena as they investigate polymer snow, navigate through penguin colonies and use magnets to lift and move iron filings representing the microplastic pollution that must be cleaned up from their habitat. With help from their team’s small but mighty robotic research assistant, campers develop problem-solving strategies and draw inspiration from penguin flippers to design launchers that propel their very own magnetic plush penguin on planet-saving missions.

In Control

Children channel their ambition as they invent new systems for navigation, and troubleshoot their way around every bump and twist they encounter on the ultimate road trip. In Control^™ grows camper confidence as they assemble their very own custom Control Panel with a transmitter and receiver — complete with decoding Morse code clues! As they experiment with magnetic north using a compass, campers take control of their innovative journey and apply problem-solving skills to complete a rescue mission in a pine forest, detour to fix a flat tire and build stormproof shelters. They even earn badges as they discover that uncharted adventures can be just as rewarding as reaching their final destination!

Claw Arcade

Campers realize their dream of owning their very own claw machine — by building it! In Claw Arcade^™, campers experiment with gravity, balance and stability, and apply the physics and mechanics of engineering to create and operate a cardboard claw machine, gaining hands-on experience with functional design. Drawing inspiration from nature, campers explore the biology of claws and pincers and use this knowledge to create their own unique claws, grabbers and one-of-a-kind prizes. Campers also embrace entrepreneurship as they create marketing materials, pitch their ideas and pursue a trademark-worthy logo to secure a licensing deal.

Bring the All-New 2025 Camp Invention Program to Your District

Camp Invention champions the idea that thinking outside the box is the best approach to making new discoveries. Spark a lasting passion for STEM by introducing children to fascinating phenomena — learn more about Camp Invention Discover and bring it to your district!