Elementary & Middle School Summer Camps 2024 (Grades K–8)

Located in the heart of Fell’s Point, TNCS offers Rising K to Grade 8 students a summer filled with fun, adventure, and exploration. All K-8 summer camps are open to both TNCS and non-TNCS students, and we welcome children from Baltimore and beyond.

Our week-long summer sessions focus on themes like theater, art, STEM, world cultures, language immersion, and health and fitness. Camp begins Monday, June 10, 2024.

See the full calendar and detailed descriptions below.

 

Whether your child loves STEM, art, dance, theater, or fitness, there’s something for everyone at TNCS camps.

2024 Summer Camp Overview

Summer camps at TNCS are fun, varied, and educational. Note that Rising K students can choose from specific sessions or opt for Primary Fun Camp, which runs the entire 10 weeks of summer camp. Please check the camp weeks carefully; you may not enroll your child in more than one camp in the same week. When a camp reaches capacity, you will be added to a wait list.

See below for detailed descriptions of each session or register now.

 

K–8 Summer Camps: 2024 Week-by-Week Calendar

Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 6 Week 7 Week 8 Week 9 Week 10
6/10-6/14 6/17-6/21* 6/24-6/28 7/1-7/5* 7/8-7/12 7/15-7/19 7/22-7/26 7/29-8/2 8/5-8/9 8/12-8/16
Pathways & Possibilities
1st–5th
World Adventure
1st-5th
Passage to India
1st–6th
Chinese Immersion:
Fable Theater
1st–6th
Spanish Immersion:
Colombian Games
1st–6th
Science of Magic
1st–6th
Ecosystem Explorers
1st–6th
Culinary Chemistry
2nd–8th
Lost City
1st–6th
Journey to South America
2nd–8th
    Yinjas Jr
K–2nd
Fun with Improv
3rd–8th
Hip Hop & Jazz
1st–6th
Shakespeare 3rd–8th Warriors of Wellness
K–2nd
Having a Ball
1st–6th
Campfire Kids
K–3rd
Yinjas
1st–6th

Modern Masters: Masks & More
1st–8th

Modern Masters: Masterpieces in Art
1st–8th
Modern Masters: Mermaids
& Monsters
1st–8th
  Modern Masters: Ancient Civilizations
1st–8th

 

Modern
Masters Jr: Under the Sea
K–2nd

Micro & Macro: Art  Marvels
1st–6th
Stuffed Toy Making
K–3rd
Modern Masters: World Festivals
1st–8th
Puppet Palooza
K–2nd

*4-day camp week: Week 2—No camp on Wednesday, June 19, 2024
*4-day camp week: Week 4—No camp on Thursday, July 4, 2024

Tuition: K–8 Camps—$375/wk; 4-day weeks prorated

Add-Ons: Before Care from 7:30 am—$35/wk; After Care until 5:00 pm—$60/wk; After Care until 6:00 pm—$70/wk; Lunch—$40/wk

Early Bird Discount: Register before March 1, 2024 and save $20/week.

See below for detailed descriptions of each session or register now.

2024 K–8 Summer Camp Highlights

Camps are led by experienced TNCS instructors, local experts, and third-party providers. 

  • In Weeks 4 and 6, local actor and teacher Alex Hewitt hosts two workshop-style theater camps for Rising 3rd to 8th grade.
  • Mr. B. is back with three full weeks of STEM fun and learning with sessions on: The Science of Magic, Culinary Chemistry, and Ecosystem Explorers.
  • YogaMouth Studios is back for 3 weeks! In Week 10, there’s the very popular Yinjas camp—and for younger students, there’s Yinjas, Jr. available in Week 3. There’s also Warriors of Wellness, new for summer 2024, in Week 7.
  • Our language immersion camps in Weeks 4 and 5 feature two new highly skilled instructors that bring a wealth of knowledge about their respective language and cultures.
  • Modern Masters Art Camp with local artist and teacher Hilary Christian is back for 6 weeks. While most sessions are geared to 1st to 8th, there’s a special session in Week 6 “Modern Masters Jr.: Under the Sea” for Rising K–2nd.
  • Tippi Toes Dance will be on campus in Week 5 to lead a session on Hip Hop and Jazz for Rising 1st to 6th.
  • Join experienced TNCS staff as they lead some very unique camps this summer. Themes include: Pathways & Possibilities with Jia Liu in Week 1, Stuffed Toy Making with Nameeta Sharma in Week 8, and Puppet Palooza with Devin Martin in Week 10.

Summer 2024 Camp Descriptions (Grades K–8)

Theater & Dance

Hip Hop & Jazz

Hip Hop & Jazz

Are you ready to move and groove? Using popular music, students start learning dances and choreography as they focus on various dance elements. Come build your skills and enjoy time with friends during this high-energy dance week. Campers will not only develop dance skills but also practice collaboration and communication. This experience is an excellent way for campers to stay healthy while having fun.

Shakespeare Camp

About Shakespeare Theatre Camp

Join actor, storyteller, and teaching artist Alexandra Hewett for a week with The Bard in Elizabethan England. Ms. Hewett is a veteran TNCS Theatre Camp teacher and also teaches at the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company. In Shakespeare Theatre Camp, campers will read sonnets, act out scenes from A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and enjoy their very own version of The Globe Theatre. A field trip to tour the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company is also planned.

For more information about the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company, visit the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company website.

Art & Creativity

Campfire Kids

Campfire Kids

In Campfire Kids, campers will do camp crafts such as tie-dyeing t-shirts and painting rocks. They will get outdoors each day for games, skits, and learning about the natural world. Campers will also make healthy snacks, such as s’mores with graham crackers, bananas, and sun butter. Although they won’t be sitting around an actual fire, they will learn to sing campfire songs!

Micro & Macro Art Marvels

Micro & Macro Art Marvels with Devin Martin

Dive into the fascinating realms of both the tiny and the vast, exploring the magic of micro and macro art. This week, we’ll be focused on art that’s unfathomably large and small.

Modern Masters Art

Modern Masters Art with Hilary Christian

Modern Masters Art is taught by Hilary Christian during both the summertime and the school year. Each session of this popular camp includes a variety of mixed media, such as drawing, painting, sculpting, printmaking, and collage.

This week, campers explore the history of masks from other cultures. They are given the opportunity to design and create their own unique masks—as well as jewelry and other “costume” elements—using a wide range of materials such as beads, fabric, paint, and other art supplies. They can experiment with different colors, textures, and styles to bring their creations to life. Note that topics and cultures covered this week will differ from 2023.

In this session, campers will learn the history of both familiar monsters and mermaids, such as Sasquatch, faeries, and Cyclops, along with potentially not so familiar ones, such as sirens and the Chupacabra. Using mythology and storytelling for inspiration, we’ll explore the history of these creatures and create art based upon them. Activities may include drawing, painting, and paper mâché. Projects will range from creating a dragon or mermaid egg, making a faerie habitat, to creating a map of where these creatures may live.

Reaching back in time, campers will create art projects based on Ancient Egyptian mummies, Mayan sundials, Cuneiform writing, Mosaics, the Aztecs and more. Activities may include paper mâché, clay carving, printmaking, sculpture, drawing, and painting.

In this special session for younger students, we’ll explore life under the sea while using a variety of mediums.  Projects may include painting, drawing, printmaking and sculpture.

Come celebrate the rich diversity of festivals from around the world. Whether you attended World Festivals in 2023 or not, you’re sure to enjoy this fun and festive week. This year’s festivals may include: Burning Man (USA), Harbin International Ice Sculpture Festival (China), Krampusnacht (Germany, Austria, Italy), Mardi Gras (USA), Songkran (Thailand), Mevlana or Whirling Dervish Festival (Turkey) and more. Campers will be inspired by stories and videos that are relevant to the different festivals. The week includes a variety of festival inspired art projects, along with hands-on experiences.

Puppet Palooza

Puppet Palooza with Devin Martin

TNCS art teacher and professional puppeteer Devin Martin is thrilled to bring Puppet Palooza to TNCS. During this week’s workshop-style session, campers dive into the magical world of puppetry. They’ll learn about puppetry as an art form, build amazing and unique puppets, and bring them to life through original stories using various puppetry techniques.

Stuffed Toy Making

Stuffed Toy Making

Get ready for a week of stitching, giggles, and crafting your very own plush pals. Join Ms. Sharma in a workshop to create your own fuzzy companion.

Fitness & Wellness

Having a Ball

Having a Ball with Raphael Gonzalez

Get ready for a week filled with excitement, teamwork, and skill-building in flag football, volleyball, and soccer. Whether your child is a seasoned player or trying these sports for the first time, they’ll find the perfect balance of fun and skill development. Campers will also participate in team-building activities, friendly competitions, and learn life skills that extend beyond the playing field. Come improve your hand-eye and foot-eye coordination with experienced player and coach Raphael Gonzalez.

Warriors of Wellness

Warriors of Wellness

All the best parts of gym class come to summer camp! Campers work with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt Fell Jenkins and mind body therapist Kristi Jenkins to play and explore movement in creative and mindful ways. Warriors of Wellness is great for kids that love to move, jump, run, and play. Friendly competitions, group challenges, wellness education, and mind-body science experiments are a part of every day. We’ll learn basic movements for self defense, practice yoga and meditation, and play creative movement games. We’ll also learn how to relax, slow down, and unwind after a day of play! This camp spreads the message that wellness and self care starts with joyful play and a love of movement that can build the foundation for a lifetime of well-being.

Yinjas & Yinjas Jr

Yinjas & Yinjas Jr

Become a Yinja (or Yoga Ninja) in this playful and engaging camp that combines the fascinating science and history of mindfulness, the martial art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and social emotional learning opportunities to build inner strength and compassion. In this session,  Yinjas work to challenge themselves physically and mentally to build self awareness, self control, and resilience.

There are opportunities every day for campers to practice yoga, meditation, mindful crafts, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu drills, and live rolling matches. The last day of camp everyone has an opportunity to participate in “The Yinja Games.” That day, campers have options to join the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu tournament, the meditation master challenge, and playful challenges to earn rewards and celebrate what we’ve learned! We emphasize emotional self defense and non-violence as the foundations of our program.

This session is led by Mind Body Therapist Kristi Jenkins and Black Belt Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instructor and yoga teacher Rafael Jenkins.

Children must have completed Kindergarten to join Yinjas camp; Younger campers should join Yinjas Jr.

Creative Academic & STEM

Culinary Chemistry

Culinary Chemistry with Rob Brosius

Culinary arts and chemistry go together like spaghetti and meatballs. Even before humans understood the molecular nature of our universe, they were performing advanced chemical reactions around campfires and in subterranean clay jars. Cooking, baking, and fermentation allowed us to not only survive, but thrive. When it comes to food prep, the use of fire and microbes solved a slew of problems for our species!

Science and food also both help bring people together. Join us this summer as we explore the intersection of these disciplines through hands-on activities that will certainly saturate the senses and excite the mind.

Ecosystem Explorers

Ecosystem Explorers with Rob Brosius

Our planet consists of a collection of ecosystems that work together much like members of a community. Join us this session as we explore the diverse ecosystems that we find around the TNCS campus and our surrounding neighborhoods. We will look at interactions between biotic and abiotic factors, plants and animals, fungi and plants, and fungi and animals. We will experience hands-on activities while learning about why it is important to think outside yourself and appreciate the importance of change.

Pathways & Possibilities

Pathways & Possibilities with Jia Liu

Pathways & Possibilities is an engaging and educational session designed to introduce children to various career paths in a fun and interactive way. Through a mix of hands-on activities, games, and guest speakers, participants explore a range of professions, from astronauts to chefs, sparking curiosity and broadening their understanding of the world of work. The camp fosters creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking skills, while also promoting early career awareness. With age-appropriate activities tailored for first to third-grade students, this session will inspire a sense of curiosity and excitement about future possibilities!

Science of Magic

The Science of Magic with Rob Brosius

Ever wondered how some things seem like magic? Our senses sometimes play tricks on us, just like in mind-bending magic tricks. Imagine the awe and wonder when our ancestors first discovered “the magic” of creating fire—or just think about the last time you saw a magic show! When our scientific tools reach their limitations, humans often create explanations based around their senses in an effort to describe cause and effect relationships.
 
This week, we’re diving into the realm where science meets magical mystery! We explore the intersection between science and magic by investigating monumental scientific discoveries while learning magic tricks of varying complexity. Campers will leave each day excited to share their new discoveries with anyone who is willing to watch and listen!

World Cultures

Journey to South America

Journey to South America

In Journey to South America, campers explore the beauty and culture of the South American continent–all without leaving Fell’s Point. Along with music, dance, singing, and crafts, hands-on activities include learning about the continent’s varied geography and preparing and enjoying food.

This camp is a great complement to Spanish Language Immersion Camp (Week 5). However, Journey to South America is conducted in English, and campers without Spanish language knowledge are most welcome to join.

Lost City

Lost City

Embark on a thrilling journey through time and discover the mysteries of ancient civilization in Colombia. The Tairona Civilization flourished in northern Colombia between 200 CE and 1600 CE. Campers will learn about the Lost City (“La Cuidad Perdida”) and the rich history and culture of the region. Join us for a week where the wonders of ancient civilizations in Colombia come to life.

This camp is a great complement to Spanish Language Immersion Camp (Week 8). However, Lost City is conducted in English.

Passage to India

Passage to India with Nameeta Sharma

In this popular camp, students experience a lively week of Indian culture. Students will explore India’s rich history, diverse traditions, and major festivals. They’ll get active learning Indian dance moves to the beat of Indian music. They’ll also explore the arts (including coming home with henna-ed hands), yoga, puppet making, and Bollywood movies. And let’s not forget about Indian cuisine—this session includes preparing and enjoying delicious Indian food!

World Adventure

World Adventure with Joan Cui

Welcome to World Adventure, where the thrill of global exploration meets the joy of discovery. This camp is designed to transport campers on a journey around the world, all without leaving the sunny confines of Fell’s Point.

Each day we experience our destination through a range of fun hands-on activities. We might dive into local music, learn some dance moves, work on a collaborative presentation or project, create arts and crafts, or play games. But the adventure doesn’t stop there! Culinary exploration is also a part of this fun week. Campers roll up their sleeves and have the opportunity to prepare and savor delicious dishes from various countries. Join us for a week filled with laughter, learning, and the excitement of a World Adventure!

Year of the Dragon

Year of the Dragon

In Year of the Dragon, campers will explore Chinese culture through arts and crafts, singing and dancing, playing traditional games, and even through their palates! Students will practice martial arts, hone their Chinese culinary skills, and create beautiful arts and crafts. Many of the week’s activities will help students cultivate patience and mindfulness.

This camp is a great complement to Chinese Language Immersion Camp (Week 4). However, Year of the Dragon is conducted in English, and non-Chinese language speakers are more than welcome to join.

Language Immersion

Chinese Language Immersion: Fable Theater

Chinese Language Immersion: Fable Theater with Liu Laoshi

This year’s Mandarin language immersion camp is “Fable Theater: A Journey Through Chinese Drama and Culture.” Led by Liu Laoshi, this unique camp allows children to learn Mandarin and immerse themselves in Chinese fables and cultural values through theatrical performances. A highlight of the program is that all dialogues and arrangements will be conducted entirely in Mandarin. Students will significantly enhance their Mandarin language skills through role-playing and acting in a lively, interactive setting. Campers will also have the chance to collaborate in creating props for their performances, adding an extra layer of engagement and creativity to the experience.

Spanish Language Immersion: Colombian Games

Spanish Language Immersion: Colombian Games

This year’s Spanish language immersion camp will feature an exploration in traditional games played in Colombia. Led by Colombian native Señor Gonzalez, campers will build the tools of the game, learn how to use the Spanish language to communicate during play, and enjoy time competing with their friends.

Add Extended Care

TNCS offers Before Care beginning at 7:30 am as well as After Care until 6:00 pm. You can add these options during online registration.

Add Lunch

Let us provide lunch! You can add our healthy, delicious school lunch during online registration.

2024 Additional Information

  • All K-8 summer camps are open to both TNCS and non-TNCS students.
  • TNCS camps are led by experienced staff and third-party providers. Certain K-8 camp sessions may also have a counselor in training who helps facilitate activities under adult supervision.
  • Camps must meet a minimum enrollment. If The New Century School cancels a camp for low enrollment or other reasons, families will receive a full refund.
  • Registration and payment for all TNCS Summer Camps is managed through CampDoc. Register by April 15, 2024 to set up a monthly payment plan. See full payment terms here.
  • To receive the Early Bird discount, you must register before March 1, 2024; the discount is automatically applied.