February 15, 2024
Unique Summer Camps Offered at Edison and Ford Winter Estates
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 15, 2024) — Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering several summer camp options for children in grades K-5. Students are separated into groups according to grade level (K-2 and 3-5). The camps are educational and focus on science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM), and incorporate fun activities. Campers get to invent, design, build, and learn in the same location where famous inventors Thomas Edison and Henry Ford invented some of the world’s best-known products. Summer camp starts on June 3 and runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.
Most of the camps are available for both age groups; camps for younger students are less complex. Summer camp is sponsored by Captains for Clean Water, Fred and Gingy Quinn, Scientists’ Society of Southwest Florida, and TriCircle Pavers. Additional sponsorships are available. Camp options are listed below.
CAMPS:
Kitchen Chemistry
June 3-7
Ordinary kitchen ingredients will be used to conduct science experiments and campers will learn about chemistry and reactions.
Fundamental Physics
June 10-14
From the sound waves of the phonograph to the mystery of light in a bulb, this camp explores the wild world of physics. Campers will learn how to conduct experiments and learn about the world around them.
Wired Wizardry
June 17-21
Students will learn why Edison was called “the Wizard of Electricity” in this exciting camp. In this crash course of electronics, campers learn about watts, amps, volts, and the power of circuits. The week concludes with campers designing a light system in their own miniature model house.
LEGO Explorers
June 24-28
Campers will explore rapid prototyping and mechanical designs using LEGOs. They will also begin to explore robotics using modular LEGO parts.
Space and Rockets
July 1-3
This camp is part space science, and part rocket science. Campers will learn about their place in the universe as they design and launch a water-powered rocket.
Roving Robotics
July 8-12
Campers will combine mechanics with code as they solve a variety of challenges. K-2 Campers will design interactive moving models using motors, lights, and savvy coding. Campers in 3rd-5th grade will tackle the most recent LEGO competition field as they learn alongside Edison Ford robotics coaches who will teach the tricks of the trade.
Innovation and 3D Design
July 15-19
Students will learn how to design anything by using CAD (computer aided design) and a 3D printer. They will learn how to think and design in 3D
Summer camp students perform a chemistry experiment at Edison and Ford Winter Estates.
as their creations take shape.
Mechanical Marvels
July 22-26
Campers will learn about simple machines, mechanical advantages, and gear systems in this fast-moving camp.
Art and Creativity
July 29 – August 2
Students will unleash their creativity through various art forms such as painting, sculpting, and mixed media. They will also create their own art exhibition.
Code Camp (Grades 3-5 only)
August 5-9
Campers will explore the world of code as they develop their own program in Scratch, a word block coding language. They will learn new skills each day that can be added to their library of code, allowing them to develop their own original programs.
Eager Engineers (Grades K-2 only)
August 5-9
This camp is focused on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. It offers a range of activities and experiences designed to spark curiosity, foster creativity, and develop critical thinking skills.
Camp Pricing:
Three-day camps are $135 for Edison Ford members and $150 for non-members. Five-day camps are $225 for Edison Ford members and $250 for non-members.
Scholarships Available
Support from private donors make it possible for the Estates to offer one scholarship for each camp. A committee will determine scholarship eligibility based on financial need so that underprivileged children can experience camp. The deadline to apply for a scholarship is two weeks before the desired camp. Parents or guardians can apply online.
Throughout the year, other camps and classes are offered when school is closed, including one-day camps and spring and winter break. Edison Ford members receive a discounted rate. For registration and additional information, visit edisonford.org.
Back to Press Releases