by Marilyn Anthony
For inquisitive kids who can appreciate the magical aspects of science, it’s hard to imagine a more engrossing summer playground than the Franklin Institute. FI’s summer Discovery Camp boasts, “We have FUN down to a science” and the extensive, imaginative programming seems to support their claim. The Science Adventures program kicks off the summer season on June 13. Other summer themes offer instruction on topics as wide ranging as film animation, animal adaptability, Olympic athlete training, Mars travel and forensic science. Another session, Best of Summer, closes out the long camp season, beginning Aug. 29 and ending on Sept. 2.
Campers explore the museum offerings, participate in hands-on activities, and have opportunities to enjoy IMAX and 3-D films, as well as workshops and presentations by local scientists. There is also time for outdoor play in the FI playscape. FI’s Discovery Camp offers flexibility by allowing daily, weekly or multi-week participation for grades pre-K through nine. The camp day runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with age appropriate activities organized by weekly themes.
To enable broad participation, the Franklin Institute offers camp scholarships recognizing excellence in academics, attendance and leadership as well as financial need. Each scholarship covers one week of camp.
Website: fi.edu/summer-camp
Address: 222 N. 20th St., Philadelphia, Pa.
Email: guestservices@fi.edu
Phone: 215-448-1200
