Camp Invention

The kids attended Camp Invention this past week. Tyler went last year and really enjoyed it, although he said this year was even better. This was Danielle's first year. The camp was from 9-3:30 Monday-Friday, so it was quite a full week, especially for Danielle who is not used to going to school all day, every day yet. Danielle sprained her foot Tuesday night and couldn't get around very well 1/2 the week, either. Even so, Danielle said it was the most fun thing she's ever done. I think Tyler really enjoyed having Danielle there. We even got compliments on how nicely the two of them worked together during the week.

They did lots of different activities. They had 5 different modules they attended each day. I don't remember specifics about each one, but I know they learned about fractals, created robotic pets and habitats, created a virtual world complete with aquaducts, stores, and their own avatars, and created an invention out of a broken household item. That sounds simple, but there was so much more to the week.

They were supposed to design a robotic pet for a scientist that couldn't have fur in her lab. I don't remember the entire scenario, but the kids put together motors, learned about different types of energy (solar, wind, etc), and created pets out of recyclable materials that actually moved. It's hard to see the details in the picture, but their "pets" were very cute.

Their inventions were supposed to solve a problem. Danielle's problem was a dirty hamster cage, so she made an invention to clean the cage. Of course, she couldn't resist adding pretty ribbons and other things to make it look girly. I should have taped her explaining the function of all the items on the inside of her invention. It was really quite creative and suprisingly detailed.

Tyler created an invention to do his homework. Again, I should have taped him explaining it. It's neat to hear what the kids come up with.

This is Tyler's avatar. There is a tiny little head in the bubble. Danielle's avatar had pony tails. Again, creative work. I'm very thankful the kids had the chance to go!

I threw in the towel and returned Danielle's hamster. It had a 14 day unconditional guarantee. Danielle found another that is a little younger and seems to be "well adjusted" as far as hamsters go. She has named it Tiny. It looks healthy, doesn't mind being held, and hasn't even acted like it wanted to bite anyone yet. Third time's a charm, right?!? Who knew finding a hamster would be so difficult!!