NEW! Would you like your child to spend less time on their electronic devices and more time engaging in a fun activity that is proven to expand their mind? Did you know that playing chess can help strengthen a student’s memory, improve a child’s decision-making skills, and help instill an understanding of actions and consequences? Kids who play and practice chess regularly often see increases in math skills as well as reading comprehension. Plus — it’s fun — kids love it! Chess class will consist of lessons, chess puzzles, practice games, tournament games, blitz chess (speed chess), chess variations and a look at chess history. Students will learn basic tactics, strategies, and concepts, and they will be given guidance on self-improvement opportunities and tools. Chess sets and other materials will be provided. Class will conclude with a tournament and the awarding of trophies and medals. The chess club is directed by Pat LaVone. LaVone is a highly regarded Minnesota chess coach, with over 28 years of teaching experience. He has led teams to top finishes in U.S. championship events and coached Eden Prairie High School and Breck School teams to Minnesota State Scholastic Championships. In 2004, LaVone was honored as the Minnesota School Chess Association Coach of the Year. He is currently responsible for Scholastic Chess Outreach for the Minnesota State Chess Association an affiliate of the United States Chess Federation. Classes held Tuesdays starting October 13th

Your child will learn how to build a computer bot to compete against other coders. Whether new or experienced, this is the perfect way for your child to explore competitive coding. No previous coding experience is necessary. The Code Championship Series is four online tournaments hosted on Google Meet. If you have a modern browser, no download is required. Players must be able to navigate the internet. The Google Meet link will be emailed two days before the tournament.

Build your own VR games! Start with smaller projects to learn coding and design basics, then construct a full labyrinth with challenges, characters, and immersive exploration. View projects on mobile devices or VR systems like Oculus. If you do not receive your Zoom link at least 5 days before class, please email Home Technical Requirements: Computer: PC (Windows 10 or later) or Mac (OSX) with at least a 2GHz processor and 4GB of RAM. Chromebooks, Tablets, and phones typically DO NOT Work. Internet: Broadband internet. Webcam, Microphone and Speakers. Zoom Installed on Computer, zoom link will be sent before class. Students should be comfortable using a PC, mouse, and keyboard. Additional Technical Requirements: Constructs Website. Constructs Account (sign-up information will be provided before class).

Bring your child out to Granite City Jump for a bouncy good time. They’ll spend time jumping in a variety of bouncy houses and socializing with other kids. This is a great way to expend energy and get a good workout. Adults must accompany children and may jump with them. Arrive anytime between 4-6pm. Upon arrival, please check in with the front desk staff. Feel free to depart when you've had enough bouncing or stay until 8pm. All participants must wear socks. A required waiver must be filled out prior to class at: https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/5e3af3b651bb1/web/

Is your child interested in music? Professional virtual instruction is being offered by Steve Cekalla's Guitar and Music School. This class offers a unique and fun approach for starters, but with the ability to teach styles, theory, and techniques to those with instrument experience. A stable internet connection, some internet savvy (ex. ability to screenshot/print screen), and access to a working printer is helpful. Participants should have their own instrument, but a limited amount of guitars are available. This Community Education package is for three virtual 30-minute group lessons. Only one lesson package per student. Contact information will be given at the time of registration.

Kids will learn what it's like to have a horse for a day! Campers get to ride in the indoor and/or outdoor arenas for 40min-50min (no trails), practice how to steer, stop, turn, and walk on their own. They also might make horse treats, do a craft, and play games. And don't forget the time to meet and care for the horses, which is a big part of ownership! Campers are broken into smaller groups based on similar riding experience and age, which is perfect for both new and more experienced riders. Camps are held rain or shine. Proper attire includes sneakers or boots (closed toe with a heel), long pants and layers, depending on weather. ASTM/SEI certified helmets provided and required to be worn. Signed waiver forms are required and the link will be emailed to participants once they have registered for the camp. Bring to class: sunscreen, bug spray, water bottle, nut-free snack and lunch. Camp is located in Anoka, MN. PARENT Drop-off is at 9am and PARENT pickup is 3pm. Sorry we do not allow parents to stay for the day.

The ultimate Minecraft survival adventure! Team up to explore, gather resources, craft tools, brew potions, enchant gear, defeat mobs, complete quests, and discover the Nether’s secrets. Then jump into world-building with ready-made landscapes. PC/Java edition required. Minecraft is a Mojang Studios trademark and not affiliated with this camp. If you do not receive your Zoom link at least 5 days before class, please email virtual@techacademycamps.com. Home Technical Requirements: Computer: PC (Windows 10 or later) or Mac (OSX) with at least a 2GHz processor and 4GB of RAM. Chromebooks, Tablets, and phones typically DO NOT Work. Internet: Broadband internet. Webcam, Microphone and Speakers. Zoom Installed on Computer, zoom link will be sent before class. Students should be comfortable using a PC, mouse, and keyboard. Additional Technical Requirements: Minecraft Java Edition ($30; more information will be provided before class).

Campers will get to ride a real horse in an arena, meet a number of our different horses at Boulder Pointe and learn about how to groom the horses...all with a focus on safety! In addition, students will do an art project and have an opportunity to make horse treats to feed their new friends. Stations are split into 15 minute intervals to keep everyone engaged. Parents have the opportunity to lead their child on the horse and take photographs as they go. Camps are held rain or shine. There is an outdoor and indoor arena. Proper attire includes sneakers or boots (closed toe with a heel), long pants and layers, depending on weather. ASTM/SEI certified helmets provided and required to be worn. This 2-hour camp is designed for parent/guardian participation. Parent/Guardian is expected to remain with their child during the entire duration of the camp. Signed waiver forms are required and the link will be emailed to participants once they have registered for the camp. Bring to class: sunscreen, bug spray, water bottle and a nut-free snack. Camp is located in Anoka, MN.

Schedule a one-on-one online beginner Spanish lesson for your child. Dates and times will be arranged with instructor and participant. Participants may register for multiple sessions per month. Choose from the following: One 30 minute lesson for $17 OR Two 30 minute lessons or one 60 minute lesson for $30

Hack into the code of classic games! Learn Java while modifying Asteroids, Tetris, Snake, and more. Our staff and students’ favorite coding class; beginners and experienced coders alike love it. Good keyboarding skills needed. If you do not receive your Zoom link at least 5 days before class, please email virtual@techacademycamps.com Home Technical Requirements: Computer: PC (Windows 10 or later) or Mac (OSX) with at least a 2GHz processor and 4GB of RAM. Chromebooks, Tablets, and phones typically DO NOT Work. Internet: Broadband internet. Webcam, Microphone and Speakers. Zoom Installed on Computer, zoom link will be sent before class. Students should be comfortable using a PC, mouse, and keyboard. TinkerCAD Website (Free, login information is provided during class).Additional Technical Requirements: Code editor (set up information will be provided before class)