Tween Academy Camps

Tween Academy at In the City Camps: A Journey of Discovery, Friendship, and Growth

ITC’s Tween Academy Camps are a special experience just for middle schoolers (rising 6th, 7th, and 8th graders)

At In the City Camps, we understand the unique needs and aspirations of tweens during this crucial stage of their development. As they explore their identities and passions, our Tween Academy offers a nurturing platform that goes beyond the traditional day camp experience. This summer program, tailored for 6th to 8th graders, provides a diverse array of specialized programs that perfectly align with the evolving interests and maturity of tweens. Unlike our Kids Camp, which focuses on daily activity choices, the Tween Academy encourages tweens to choose a specific theme that truly resonates with them, allowing them to immerse themselves in it for a whole week. This approach provides an in-depth exploration and a more fulfilling learning experience.

 
Tween camper holding bag of bagels

About Tween Academy

The Tween Academy at In the City Camps is not just about honing specific skills; it's also about fostering personal growth and building a sense of community. We integrate critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, leadership, and Jewish values into our curriculum. This holistic approach ensures that participants develop not only in their chosen fields but also grow as individuals with strong character. With activities like field trips, team challenges, and real-world projects, the learning experience is both practical and exciting. Additionally, our program structure is thoughtfully designed to balance focused learning with social interaction and fun. Each day, tweens dedicate three periods to their chosen academy theme, guided by experts and supported by two dedicated counselors in groups of 15-20, ensuring personalized attention and a nurturing environment. Alongside these focused sessions, we reserve one activity period for classic camp-themed activities such as sports, field trips, and relaxing times for tweens to bond with friends and counselors. This combination of structured learning and relaxed socializing creates an ideal environment for tweens to form lasting friendships and build a vibrant community with peers who share similar interests.

At In the City Camps Tween Academy, our commitment is to create an inclusive and supportive atmosphere where every camper feels valued, motivated, and part of a community. It's a place where tweens can thrive, explore their passions, and develop both their skills and character. Join us for an unforgettable summer adventure where your tween will not only learn and achieve but also make friends, build a community, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

2024 Tween Academy Programming

  • Available:

    • Week 1

    • Week 2

    • Week 4

    • Week 5

    • Week 7

    • Week 8 

    • Week 9

    Overview:

    The Art Academy at In the City Camps Tween Academy offers a unique and immersive experience for rising 6th, 7th, and 8th graders passionate about the visual arts. Situated in a state-of-the-art facility, our academy fosters creativity, self-expression, and artistic mastery.

    Structure and Curriculum:

    • Expert Guidance: Led by an accomplished adult artist, our small-group setting (maximum of 15 campers) ensures personalized attention.

    • Diverse Curriculum: Every week features a new artistic theme and set of techniques, ranging from traditional painting and sculpting to digital art and photography.

    • Jewish Values and Identity: Integrated within the curriculum are themes that explore Jewish culture and history through art, encouraging a connection to heritage and community.

    • Field Trips and Community Service: Visits to local galleries and art studios, community service projects such as mural painting in public spaces, foster a broader understanding and engagement with art in the real world.

    Benefits for Tweens:

    • Development of critical thinking and problem-solving through creative processes.

    • Encouragement of independence and self-confidence through artistic achievements.

    • Enhancement of fine motor skills and aesthetic appreciation.

  • Available:

    • Week 1

    • Week 2

    • Week 7

    • Week 8 

    • Week 9

    Overview:

    The Sports Academy is designed for middle schoolers who are eager to engage in physical activity, learn new sports, and develop teamwork skills. This academy provides an ideal environment for physical development and sportsmanship.

    Structure and Curriculum:

    • Expert Coaching: Each session is led by a professional coach, providing expert instruction in various sports.

    • Diverse Sports Offerings: The program includes a range of sports such as basketball, soccer, tennis, and swimming, with a new focus each week.

    • Jewish Values in Sportsmanship: Incorporating Jewish teachings about respect, teamwork, and perseverance, the academy emphasizes character building on and off the field.

    • Field Trips and Social Action: Sports-related outings, such as visiting local stadiums, and participation in community sports events, instill a sense of civic engagement.

    Benefits for Tweens:

    • Improvement of physical fitness, coordination, and athletic skills.

    • Enhancement of teamwork, leadership, and communication abilities.

    • Promotion of a healthy lifestyle and lifelong appreciation for sports and physical activity.

    General Benefits of Tween Academy Programs at In the City Camps:

    • Tailored to meet the developmental and emotional needs of middle schoolers.

    • Emphasis on developing independence, grit, curiosity, and a strong sense of identity.

    • Opportunities for social action and community engagement, in line with the Jewish value of Tikkun Olam (repairing the world).

    Join us at In the City Camps Tween Academy for an enriching summer experience where your child can grow, learn, and thrive in their areas of interest!

  • Overview:

    3D Design Camp is an innovative and creative program for tweens interested in the world of three-dimensional design and printing. This camp offers a hands-on learning experience that takes students from basic cardboard constructions to sophisticated computer-aided design (CAD) and 3D printing techniques.

    Structure and Curriculum:

    • Step-by-Step Learning: Beginning with simple cardboard modeling, advancing to digital 3D design using CAD software.

    • Real-World Applications: Focus on designing and printing miniature world landmarks, enhancing understanding of global architecture and engineering.

    • Progressive Skill Development: Suitable for beginners and returning students, with advanced challenges available for those who have mastered the basics.

    • Take-Home Projects: Campers will bring home their 3D-printed models, showcasing their learning and creativity.

    Benefits for Tweens:

    • Development of spatial awareness, design thinking, and technical skills.

    • Encouragement of creativity, precision, and attention to detail.

    • Exposure to modern technology used in various professional fields.

  • Overview:

    Shark Tank Camp is an exciting and educational program tailored for rising 6th, 7th, and 8th graders interested in entrepreneurship and business. This camp provides a platform for young innovators to pitch their ideas and learn the ropes of starting a business.

    Structure and Curriculum:

    • Expert Mentorship: Guidance from experienced entrepreneurs and business leaders in a small-group setting.

    • Dynamic Curriculum: Each week focuses on different aspects of business, such as idea generation, marketing, finance, and pitching, encouraging campers to enroll for multiple weeks to gain comprehensive business knowledge.

    • Jewish Values in Business: Integrating ethical business practices and Jewish principles in entrepreneurship.

    • Real-World Experience: Activities include developing a business plan, creating marketing materials, and at the end of the week, pitching their ideas to a panel, mimicking the 'Shark Tank' experience.

    Benefits for Tweens:

    • Development of critical thinking, financial literacy, and entrepreneurial skills.

    • Enhancement of public speaking, persuasion, and leadership abilities.

    • Encouragement of creativity and innovation in a supportive environment.

  • Overview:

    Game Design Camp is perfect for tweens who dream of creating their own video games. This camp teaches the fundamentals of game design, starting with basic programming and advancing to professional game development software.

    Structure and Curriculum:

    • Foundation Skills: Learning game design basics with Make Code Arcade.

    • Advanced Software Training: For those ready to progress, training in Unity Software, used by professional game designers.

    • Personalized Game Creation: Campers design and develop their own games, showcasing their creativity and technical skills.

    • Collaborative Environment: Encourages teamwork, as campers share ideas and learn from each other.

    Benefits for Tweens:

    • Acquisition of valuable programming and design skills.

    • Fostering logical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.

    • Understanding the gaming industry and potential career paths.

  • Overview:

    Survivor Camp is designed for tweens who love adventure and challenges. Based on the popular 'Survivor' theme, this camp focuses on outdoor survival skills, team-building activities, and healthy competition.

    Structure and Curriculum:

    • Skilled Instructors: Led by experts in outdoor education, ensuring a safe and enriching experience.

    • Weekly Challenges: Each week offers a new set of survival skills and challenges, like shelter building, orienteering, and teamwork tasks, ideal for campers who wish to attend multiple weeks.

    • Jewish Teachings on Nature and Environment: Lessons on the importance of nature in Jewish tradition and stewardship of the environment.

    • Adventure and Teamwork: Activities include obstacle courses, team challenges, and nature exploration, promoting physical fitness and camaraderie.

    Benefits for Tweens:

    • Acquisition of practical survival skills and appreciation for nature.

    • Development of resilience, teamwork, and leadership skills.

    • Fostering a sense of adventure and self-confidence in challenging situations.

  • Overview:

    Robotics Camp introduces tweens to the fascinating world of robotics using the VEX Robotics System. This camp is designed to teach the fundamentals of robot design, engineering, and programming in a hands-on and interactive environment.

    Structure and Curriculum:

    • Introductory and Advanced Levels: Beginners start with basic robot design and engineering, while advanced students take on more complex projects.

    • Task-Oriented Learning: Focus on building robots capable of completing specific tasks and challenges.

    • Continued Skill Development: Ideal for returning students, with each week offering new challenges and advanced learning opportunities.

    • Team Projects: Emphasis on teamwork and collaborative problem-solving.

    Benefits for Tweens:

    • Development of engineering and programming skills.

    • Enhancement of critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.

    • Exposure to technology used in modern robotics and potential future careers.

    Unique and Engaging Summer Experiences:

    • Campers are encouraged to attend multiple weeks, as each week offers new and exciting challenges, ensuring a fresh and engaging experience.

    • All programs are designed to be fun and interactive, fostering a love of learning and exploration.

    • Campers make new friends, develop new skills, and gain confidence in a supportive and inspiring environment.

    • At In the City Camps Tween Academy, your child can dive into the world of technology and innovation, creating memories and skills that will last a lifetime!

Daily Schedule for Tween Academy

At In the City Camps' Tween Academy, our daily schedule is thoughtfully designed to blend focused thematic learning with fun, camp-wide activities. This approach ensures that tweens remain fully engaged and enjoy a diverse, well-rounded camp experience. Click below to view more details about a typical day at the ITC Tween Academy!

  • Morning Gathering: Tween Academy campers kick off their day with their group and counselors, focusing on community building, social skill enhancement, and discussing the day's agenda, setting the tone for the themed activities ahead.

  • First Morning Peulah (Activity Session): Campers dive into the first activity of the day, engaging in immersive activities tailored to their selected academy theme, such as art, sports, or robotics.

  • Snack Time: A well-deserved break for one free snack per day ( included in tuition) and restroom use, plus an iPhone break for campers to relax and recharge.

  • Second Morning Peulah (Activity Session): Continuing with the theme, tweens participate in another session, further exploring and developing their skills and interests.

  • Lunch Break: A period for campers to enjoy their lunch, socialize, and rejuvenate for the afternoon's activities.

    • First Afternoon Peulah (Activity Session): Post-lunch, tweens delve back into their themed activities, deepening their learning and engagement.

    • Second Snack Break: This is an additional short break where campers can re-energize, enjoy a snack, and prepare for the upcoming activities. Please note that the cost for this second snack is not covered in camp tuition. 

  • Camp-Themed Peulah: This period is all about relaxed, camp-wide activities. It's a chance for tweens to enjoy fun experiences like water slides, participate in a collaborative art project, or spend quality time outdoors, blending leisure and creativity.

  • Wrap-Up Gathering: The day concludes with campers and counselors coming together to reflect on the day’s experiences, share achievements, and look forward to the next day's adventures at Tween Academy.

Tween camper learning carpentry from counselor
 

 FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Scholarships are available to help make camp more affordable for everyone! The scholarship application opens February 4, 2024. Scholarships are given on a first come first serve basis. You must apply for camp to be able to apply for a scholarship.