Child 1 Age 6 - 7 (Male)
Program(s) focused in Robotics, Technology, LEGO
Child 2 Age 6 - 7 (Female)
Program(s) focused in Robotics, Technology, LEGO
(5) Overall experience
My kids request camps at Ontario Tech every year. We been to a few but the accessibility to cool technology and knowledgable staff/students running the camp keep them excited to go back every year. The camps are well organized and the themes are interesting. The staff is friendly and willing to answer any questions. The environment is clean and inviting. There's a good balance of outdoor and indoor time. My kids look forward to each day in the summer. We can't wait to attend this year.
(5) Reason for choosing the camp
I love the learning experience of the camp. The technology used is expensive and kids may not have otherwise had the opportunity to use or learn. In my opinion, the cost is worth it. It pays for a safe place and a full day of activities that they are interested in. The summers get hot and kids appreciate the air-conditioned rooms as well.
(5) Program quality and activities
There's a low staff-to-student ratio, so they are able to monitor and provide clarifying instructions. We enjoyed the LEGO camps that allowed them to build and then use a computer to instruct it to move. Coding camp introduced them to different programs. On the last day, parents are presented with all the interesting things they've learned throughout the week.
(5) Social dynamics and experience
My kids have made new friends every year. My kids were usually the youngest in the class and had no problems interacting with the instructors and other kids. There's outdoor play time with easy guided activities. I appreciate that my kids get fresh air and got to know their instructors. It was a good balance of indoor and outdoor. We haven't had issues with bullying.
(5) Skills and growth
I get a sense of their confidence developing from attending camp at the University. They are very interested in engineering activities and coding and I attribute that to spending time at camp. Coding new games brought out their creative side and on the last day, they were so excited to display all that they learned. They still talk about it.
(5) Staff/Instructors/Counsellors
The staff are easily accessible. Instructions are clear and are sent a week or two before camp starts. They are willing to answer questions. Every morning you get to meet the instructors at drop off and pick up. They check their lists and your ID to make sure that the child is safe. The first year we attended, I asked them questions about how my kids were taking to full-day camps and I received positive feedback which allowed me to sign them up for more.
(5) Advice and tips
If your child is able to take instruction and is interested in the theme, sign up! My kids attended other STEAM camps [and] were left alone with iPads and art supplies. At the University, they will learn and grow. They are well run/ organized. There are various themes and all are wonderful; however some are very popular so sign up early.
