51AV

Board Game Design

Students study, analyze, and then create their own games based on a topic/subject of their choosing, with the intent of furthering literacy, art, critical thinking, problem solving, research, and cooperation skills. The game development process has been proven to deepen abstract and critical thinking skills. By creating their own Roll & Move game, students may also be better equipped to tackle problems in their own lives or communities, interrogate choices they and others have made, and probe difficult subjects in ways previously unavailable to them.

Life Skills Lab

A holistic approach to prepare young folks for the challenges of adulthood. Covering twelve essential modules, including financial literacy, job application strategies, and effective communication, the program integrates theoretical knowledge with hands-on training. By fostering practical application and soft skills, our initiative aims to empower students with the comprehensive tools needed for successful adulting in both academic and personal spheres.

America250: Kentucky's Role
Unlock history through games! This camp invites students to dive into American history as we celebrate 250 years of America in an exciting, hands-on way. Using game-based learning, campers will explore significant events like the American Revolution, women’s suffrage, and the Underground Railroad, as well as the Mississippi Flood of 1927 and historic games spanning 250 years. Through interactive activities, primary sources, and project-based learning, campers will gain 21st-century skills like creative problem-solving, collaboration, and empathy. By designing their own game inspired by Kentucky history, they’ll discover that resilience grows through trial and error. The week concludes with a presentation of their original games to peers and family.

Storytelling Through Comics
Students examine and explore comic literature with the intent of furthering literacy and introducing students to book culture in the larger scope. Campers will not just enhance their reading and art skills, but engage in discussions about the texts that may help them tackle problems in their own lives and local communities.

Creative Inspiration
Designed to spark curiosity and cultivate innovation as participants explore creativity in “work.” Students will learn new skills through activities that span the creative arts.

Science of the Human Body - Morning - Grades 4-6
The Science of the Human Body camp dives into the basics of bodily functions such as the mechanics of movement, senses like sight and sound, the balance of internal systems working together and automatic responses to the external world. Students learn the wonders of the body with activities like running for one minute, measuring heart rate and calculating approximately how much energy was expended. In addition, students learn the importance of refueling the body with proper nutrition after physical activities. Maintaining health and fitness is a lifelong endeavor, and this camp is the perfect introduction for students to learn the basics!

Science of Superpowers - Afternoon - Grades 2-3
Many of the world most famous superheroes modeled their identities after creatures with unique abilities by using engineering and design techniques. Students will be given an opportunity to dissect these skill-sets and uncover the science behind such super skills. With 12 hands-on lessons, biology, engineering, and technology concepts are discussed through the lens of comic book heroes!

Not only does this camp explore the science aspect of superpowers, but dives into what makes a true hero in the community. Who in your local community is a hero and what do they give back to the community like a superhero does? Sometimes heroes are as close as the room next door. Through
collaboration and a community awareness students identify these real-life role models!

Pair these programs with half-day programs at CINSAM!

Emerging Leaders Camp
Campers spend the week developing their unique leadership style by learning about the elements of leadership, assessing their own strengths, and learning about leaders throughout history. Campers participate in service-learning projects to benefit local community partners. 

Vikings & Valkyries
Explore the history of the people who inspired NKU’s mascot Victor E. Viking. Make Viking age crafts and play games. Learn about Norse mythology and make your own stories inspired by the Norse.