Once upon a time, in the majestic, frost-kissed state of Alaska, lived a tenacious group of kids who were not only known for their love of snowball fights and husky races, but also their absolute dedication to STEM/STEAM activities. The state, draped in a stunning cape of pure white snow and embroidered with glittering ice crystals, was their icy playground, their laboratory under the Northern Lights. Let me introduce you to their team leader, Sammy the Spectacled Snowman. Sammy, with his carrot nose and twiggy arms, was unlike any ordinary snowman. He was the brains behind all the STEM/Steam activities and the one who sparked curiosity in the kids' hearts and minds. With Sammy’s help, they built snow igloos using principles of geometry, tracked the shimmering aurora borealis using astronomical observations, and even built their own dog sleds using principles of physics and engineering. No day was dull with him around. "Why don’t we transform snow into steam today?" he would animate, shaking his snowflake spectacles with enthusiasm. And off they would go, little scientists on a mission, turning the whole of Alaska into a magical science experiment. As they learned and explored, they became the masters of teamwork, creativity and innovation, winning every local STEM/Steam competition that came their way. They didn't just live in Alaska; they were a part of it, understanding it by dissecting its beauty through the lens of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. They were not just Alaskan kids anymore; they were the pioneering Polar Protégés, following the lead of Sammy the Spectacled Snowman, one snowflake at a time.
Read morebest stem-steam programs in Anchorage, AK
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.
Our 5 acre private property provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration, from hiking trails to playgrounds. No matter the season or weather, the Joy Greisen JEC provides an outdoor learning experience to all of our students. The Joy Greisen JEC is a non-profit early education center that offers a unique blend of secular and Judaic learning. Our 5 acre private property is complete with trees, hiking trails, and playgrounds, making it a perfect location for outdoor learning experiences. Through our curriculum, we focus on teaching Jewish values and social emotional learning alongside academics. We invite families of all faiths to explore our center and appreciate the values we put into practice. No matter the season or weather, the Joy Greisen JEC provides an outdoor learning experience to all of our students.