Coding with Python 101

• In Python 101, students cover 4-6 levels in our Python curriculum. Through level four, students learn up through variables, loops, if statements, functions, and begin exploring more advanced data structures like arrays. In levels 5 and 6, students transition into Object-Oriented Programming, the predominant professional paradigm, and take on more complicated challenges such as file I/O. Students that are working on level 5 or 6 will feel comfortable taking either Python 101 or Python 201, while more advanced students should enroll in Python 201. We strongly believe that advanced material should not be hidden from beginner students who wish to explore it, so all of our Python content is visible to students in both classes but other facets of camp — such as class discussions and collaborative projects — are more advanced in the more advanced camp.

Coding continues to gain traction as a key skill that is as important to learn as science or math. Learning to code is highly valued by parents and educators in part because it teaches “computational thinking,” a constellation of skills that encompasses problem solving, thinking logically, and breaking down problems into smaller, more manageable pieces. Python is an excellent starting language for text-based programming because it has more forgiving rules than other professionally-used languages like C++ and Java. Students who complete both our Python 101 and 201 cover most of the topics covered in AP-level Computer Science classes, and have marketable skills with direct real-world applications.

• Expand your coding knowledge by taking Python 101 again or, when you’re ready, stepping up to Python 201. Students who complete both of these courses cover most of the topics covered on AP-level Computer Science classes
• Experiment with Lua another text-based language with Roblox Coding & Game Design
• Learn to debug like a pro with Minecraft Modding with Java

Most days have four periods focused intently on student learning and project creation. Whether they’re coding, designing video games, or sculpting in virtual 3D clay, we believe creativity is essential and is built into the DNA of our program design. We foster collaboration because it’s an essential learning skill and because it increases STEM learning and because making friends with kids with shared STEM interests builds lifelong learning and because it is an awesome part of camp! Outside activities, lunch and breaks provide the balanced no-screen time campers need to thrive and come home composed for the evening. At week’s end, our rock star campers show off their ambitious projects to family and friends.

• Regular day: Empow STEM camps run from 9am-4pm.
• Free early drop-off: Available starting at 8:45am.
• Earlier drop-off with Semi-Private lessons: If you need earlier drop-off or if your child would benefit from even more individual attention, sign up for semi-private lessons at $35/day, available Tuesday-Friday. Availability is limited so act soon. Book as an option during checkout.
• Pre-Camp Jump Start with Two 60-Minute Private Lessons: Get your child ready to get the most out of their camp experience! Whether your child will feel more comfortable starting camp after some individual attention, or wants to get a jump start on learning, our amazing instructors are here to help. Lessons are available online or on campus for select locations. Scheduling is flexible through mid-June with highly limited availability thereafter. Get your summer started early! $119, 40% off our regular private lessons rate! Book as an option during checkout.
  

Empow’s STEM camps are uniquely able to meet the needs of children and young teens and their families.

• Better Instructors for Children & Young Teens. Our instructors are exceptional at working with this age cohort, nurturing their budding passion for STEM, providing compelling tech-savvy role models, developing the social and emotional skills essential for kids and STEM-learning, and making camp fun! Like some programs, many of our instructors are recruited from top colleges, pass rigorous background checks, and are trained extensively. Unlike many programs, because we offer year-round STEM programs, many of our instructors work with us year-round, making them exceptionally capable.
• Exclusively focused on the unique needs of Children & Young Teens. Elementary and middle school students should not be stressing about preparing for college applications or padding their resumes; camps with that focus are clearly designed for older students. Neither should they just be playing video games all day, as many so-called STEM camps have kids do. Rather, Empow camps meet age-appropriate learning and developmental goals: Exposure to STEM in a fun and supportive environment; Foundations for lifelong STEM learning which begin with making campers excited to keep learning more; Self-esteem and self-confidence from by overcoming obstacles, completing ambitious projects, and presenting them to family and peers; Friendships with like-minded local students that embrace their interests and personality; Social and emotional development which has been proven to advance STEM learning at this age in particular; Opportunity to accelerate into high-school level curriculum once they find STEM topics that ignite their passion; and Fun because great things happen when kids love to learn.
• More Convenient, Safer, More Kid-Friendly Locations. Empow offers more camps, in more locations, to make life easier for busy parents. Whether at elite private schools like Milton and Winsor, or at our own year-round studios, our camps run on safe, kid-oriented campuses.
• Year-round Local Programs. If your child finds their passion with STEM, Empow is there as your partner to continue the learning. Unlike STEM camps that are here only a few weeks each summer, we offer programs year-round with local in-person Afterschool Classes, Private Lessons, and camps during school vacation and holidays.
• Lower prices. The best does not have to cost the most. Empow has won more awards for excellence, and is trusted by more local education partners, and still saves you 30% or more compared to some of the big national, summer-only STEM camps.