Learn Why Educators Like You Love Teaching at Camp Invention

Another Camp Invention^® season has come and gone, and thanks to our over 9,000 education partners across the country, more than 116,000 campers experienced this hands-on K-6 summer STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) program inspired by the lessons and stories of some of the world’s greatest inventors.

For over 30 years, educators have partnered with the National Inventors Hall of Fame^® (NIHF) to implement Camp Invention, and for good reason!

Support

Camp Invention Instructors gain experience and confidence in teaching STEM subjects and practicing an open-ended, student-led instruction style they can easily transfer to their classrooms. Our NIHF team provides everything educators need for a successful experience including the complete program curriculum, materials, training and dedicated support.

Flexibility

Program materials are packed as classroom sets and districts can customize the program to work with any schedule and meet hour requirements, whether camp is run as part of a larger summer learning program or as a stand-alone experience.

Funding

School districts can choose to implement a parent-paid model or rely on a variety of funding options for which our education programs qualify, including ARP/ESSER, Title I, Title II, Title III, Title IV, 21st Century Community Learning Centers, Migrant Education and Early Learning Challenge funding, as well as state and local district resource funding.

Engagement

Camp Invention Instructors continue to share positive feedback about the program’s ability to spark joy in teaching and learning. Designed for hands-on engagement and open-ended exploration, Camp Invention encourages children’s natural curiosity and creativity while empowering both students and teachers to joyfully experiment, innovate and build confidence.

Read on to find out what a few of our education partners have said about their experience at Camp Invention this past summer!

“Bringing together campers with middle and high school counselors and Instructors is such a meaningful opportunity to extend community building, and remind kids of all who support and care about them. I love finding, organizing and working with every member each year. It is definitely a special opportunity for everyone to shine! The premise of STEM and 21st-century learning in such concentrated form is incredible!” – Kimberly O., Camp Invention Director, Hampton, NH
 

“Honestly, I love the activities and inventions the kids make every day, and the challenges presented to them. It encourages them to see that inventing is not just ‘one and done.’ It is going back to the drawing table over and over to improve their original thought. Love their excitement through it all.” – Yvonne E., Camp Invention Director, Versailles, KY
 

“I enjoy all the teaching materials, which help us to prepare very well. The class is well designed, and I am able to add on my personal touch as well. Love the SEL components and the ‘trial and error’ concepts. My kids enjoy all the units!” – Lily H., Camp Invention Instructor, Houston, TX
 

“I loved digging into the curriculum with my Instructors, getting to do games with the kids after lunch, showcasing the projects to the families on the last day, and having my past fourth graders come back as high school Leadership Interns! It was great to see leadership and learning come full circle, the smiles on campers’ faces, the excitement from the Instructors and the inspiration all around!” – Amanda W., Camp Invention Director, Ann Arbor, MI
 

“We had three students who struggle with emotional control within a normal school day. Although these students are extremely bright, they often miss instructional time and struggle with social experiences because of outbursts and the need for breaks. These kids excelled and flourished at Camp Invention! Not one struggle. No outbursts. They came back every day invigorated and inspired. Makes me tear up just thinking about it!” – Aubrey C., Camp Invention Director, Bismarck, IL

Learn How to Bring Camp Invention to Your District

Looking to bring innovative, hands-on STEM learning to your school? Find out how you can bring Camp Invention to your district by visiting our website