best stem-steam programs in Charlotte, NC

Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.

At Cedarwood, we are proud to foster an atmosphere in which each child feels valued, accepted, and respected. We strive to provide a learning environment where children can explore their interests and discover new ones. In this supportive atmosphere, our students can build their unique skills and develop their talents. We are confident that our students will benefit from the educational experience we provide and will develop into confident, independent learners.

The Wake Forest Summer Immersion Program gives high school students the tools to realize their ambitions. With a range of real-world experiences, stimulating academics, and a supportive environment, students have the chance to uncover which career path they would like to pursue. The program offers a variety of on-campus activities that fit into any summer schedule. Even if you’re not considering attending Wake Forest, this program is a great opportunity to get a feel for college life. Wake Forest is the ideal place to explore potential majors and make a plan for your future.

At Discovery Place Science, we believe learning should be a fun and meaningful experience. That's why our Summer Camps offer a unique and engaging way for children to learn and explore. Our exciting themes, hands-on activities and field trips make for a summer of exploration and discovery. From building rollercoasters to exploring the depths of the ocean, Discovery Place Science's Summer Camps provide a great way for kids to learn and have fun. Our camps are designed to challenge and engage children of all ages, encouraging creativity and helping them to develop problem-solving skills. At Discovery Place Science, we want kids to explore, experiment and discover the wonders of science. Our Summer Camps are the perfect way for your child to learn and have an unforgettable experience. Enroll now and get ready for an amazing summer of fun and learning!

At Central Piedmont, we’re committed to helping our students develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in the world today. We believe that every student should have the opportunity to unlock their potential and discover their own unique purpose. We strive to give our students the tools and resources to help them reach their goals and redefine their idea of what a college experience should be. Through our innovative approach to education, we strive to empower our students and help them reach their highest potential. Our diverse faculty and staff provide students with an affordable, hands-on education that will help them gain the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the real world. By providing our students with the tools to succeed, we hope to make a lasting impact on their lives and on the community. We are proud to be creating a new generation of thinkers and innovators who will shape the future of our community and beyond.

At Challenge Island, kids won't find themselves stuck in front of a screen like other after-school activities. Instead, they are encouraged to work in teams to use their imagination, think critically, and problem-solve while having fun. Each Challenge Island experience includes a treasure-chest full of low-tech supplies that kids can use to come up with creative solutions to various tasks. STEAM Teams, or Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math, are the focus of every Challenge Island experience. Kids can work together to tackle age-appropriate challenges, while learning the fundamentals of STEAM. This unique approach to after-school learning has been recognized by parents and educators alike. At Challenge Island, your child will have the opportunity to explore new skills and interests in a fun and engaging way. They will get to use their imagination, work in teams, and problem-solve in order to come up with creative solutions to various tasks. Each Challenge Island experience is designed to teach the fundamentals of STEAM in an exciting and interactive way.

At the Mint Museum, leadership, integrity, inclusiveness, knowledge, stewardship, and innovation are all core values that shape the museum's mission to collect, exhibit, conserve, research, publish, interpret, and share art and design from around the world. By fostering an understanding and respect for diverse peoples and cultures, the Mint Museum seeks to inspire and transform the lives of visitors and create a more empathetic world. Through these commitments, the Mint Museum hopes to create meaningful, lifelong relationships with art and design.

The prestigious Mint Museum Uptown is home to an array of artworks and collections from around the world. From American to contemporary and European art, the Mint Museum provides visitors with a diverse selection of works that span many eras and cultures. This impressive museum is dedicated to preserving the integrity of these collections, and its core values of leadership, integrity, inclusiveness, knowledge, stewardship, and innovation serve as a foundation for understanding and respecting the diversity of cultures. The Mint Museum strives to create meaningful connections between visitors and art. By ensuring access to its collections and engaging communities, the museum hopes to inspire and transform lives through the power of art and creativity. With its commitment to creating a more empathetic world, the Mint Museum is a must-see destination for anyone looking to explore the incredible works of art and design from around the globe.

Kids ages 2-18 can explore their creative side at the Ballantyne Arts Center! The Ballantyne Preschool Academy helps young children discover the world around them through art, music, and creative play. Children of all ages can find something that sparks their interest at the Ballantyne Arts Center. From a comprehensive preschool program to professional dance, theatre, and visual art classes, the center provides an array of engaging activities for kids. With classes tailored for each age group, the Ballantyne Arts Center is the perfect place to nurture your child’s creative development. The Ballantyne Arts Center is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for kids to explore their talents and passions. Whether they’re developing their motor skills in the preschool program, perfecting their theatre skills, or creating a masterpiece in the visual arts classes, the Ballantyne Arts Center has something for every child!

At our studio, we are proud to offer Kindermusik, the world's leading provider of music and movement programs for young children! Kindermusik is a 7 year continuum of Whole Child Development classes, for ages 0-7, delivering a high quality, research based, curriculum via music and movement activities. Our classes provide an engaging and fun way for your child to learn, grow, and develop. Trusted. Proven. Educational. And of course, fun! Enroll your child in Kindermusik and give them the opportunity to explore their world through music and movement! Our classes are designed to help build your child's self-esteem, emotional intelligence, physical development, and cognitive skills. Kindermusik is an invaluable learning resource that will help your child grow and develop in a positive, healthy, and creative environment.