It's Hands-On Science Camp for Summer Fun

Camp experience is enriched by unique resources at the California Science Center

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 27, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Get ready for classes that capture young imaginations, stimulate thinking and showcase science as a fun, everyday tool in life at this summer's Hands-On Science Camp held at the California Science Center, June 20 through August 19, 2011.

With over 80 classes, including more than 20 unique courses to choose from, campers can compare the distinctive characteristics of sea creatures with real fish from the Science Center's own Living Collections, become an inventor by helping to create contraptions and fun toys from simple materials, or learn the technology used to create 3D animation and produce their own DVD during week-long programs for students pre-K to 8th grade.

"Our classes are distinct because we offer engaging classroom activities combined with resources unique to the Science Center, such as a visit to an exhibit or guest appearance by one of our curators," says Ron Rohovit, Deputy Director for the Amgen Center for Science Learning, who is responsible for the Science Center's education programs.

At Hands-On Science Camp, there is a class for every age and stage. Little Learner programs are parent-child classes for the pre-K age group that focus on a scientific theme with exciting hands-on activities and crafts. For example, in "Planet Patrol," young scientists will explore the worlds of our solar system and build a small rocket." Kindergarten classes such as "Pirate Science" invite young campers to examine the science behind keeping a ship buoyant, navigating the seas using astronomy, and more.

There is a full slate of half-day and full-day sessions for students in kindergarten through 8th grades. Highlights include "Rocky AdvenShore," which investigates some of the amazing animals found in tide pools and how they adapt to constant change; "Super Submersibles," where students can design and operate their own submarine ROV (remotely operated vehicle); "Zooniversity" teaches campers how to care for animals as they shadow an animal care technician; and "Skate Science," which invites learners to put their "goofyfoot" forward as they dissect "ollies" and "vert" skating, and design their own skateboard.

Part of this summer's lineup includes a series of inquiry-based workshops for parents designed to reinforce basic science concepts using everyday items at home. Classes include titles such as "Science Experiments for Young Learners," where simple activities will introduce children to the scientific process.

Hands-On Science Camp takes place in the Wallis Annenberg Building for Science Learning and Innovation. The facility offers state-of-the-art themed classrooms and the 32,000 square-foot Big Lab, with its large-scale experiment platforms. Many courses take advantage of the Big Lab's unique features with hands-on investigations involving air flow, buoyancy, gravity, ecology and more.  

Create a schedule to suit the family's summer hours. Courses vary in price with half- and full-day session rates, and some include material costs or special activity fees. California Science Center Foundation members receive a discount rate.  An extended day program is available for kindergarten – 8th graders. Call the Hands-On Science Camp Hotline at (213) 744-7444 for a free brochure, or visit www.californiasciencecenter.org/camp for a complete list of course offerings and registration form.

Be sure to checkout classes for the Science Center's spring break camp, Science in the Park, for students K-5th grade at http://goto.californiasciencecenter.org/springcamp

About the California Science Center

The California Science Center's mission is as follows: "We aspire to stimulate curiosity and inspire science learning in everyone by creating fun, memorable experiences, because we value science as an indispensable tool for understanding our world, accessibility and inclusiveness, and enriching people's lives."

The California Science Center and IMAX Theater are located in historic Exposition Park just west of the Harbor (110) Freeway at 700 Exposition Park Drive, Los Angeles. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Admission to Science Center exhibits is free. For recorded information, including IMAX show times, call 323.SCIENCE (323.724-3623). Parking is available in the guest lot at Figueroa and 39th / Exposition Park Drive at $8 per car, $10 for buses or oversized vehicles. Both the Science Center and IMAX Theater are wheelchair accessible. For further information, please visit our website at www.californiasciencecenter.org.

SOURCE California Science Center