CAMP EXPLORE 2026: Full STEAM Ahead at The Westport Library!
Camp Explore returns in Summer 2026 for its seventh year of STEAM exploration. Workshops kick off June 30 in The Westport Library’s Trefz Forum. These are cumulative programs; as such, for multi-day programs, participants are requested to attend all days. Registration required.
These are free programs for those who attend. Because of the limited number of students, you will be charged $25 upon registration for each Camp Explore workshop. Your deposit will be refunded less credit card processing fees upon attendance or notification of inability to attend sent to [email protected] a week before the program starts AND if we can fill your spot.
Camp Explore is made possible by the continuing generosity of Roz and Bud Siegel.
Additional Summer Learning Clubs are available for Grades 1-8
TurtleArt and ArtLogo: From Blocks to Text-Based Programming
This three-day workshop offers a brightly visual method to learn coding basics. Learn TurtleArt, a block-based programming environment where we explore geometry and art and learn to program algorithmically, expressing a design that changes as the design repeats.
After learning techniques and familiarizing ourselves with Logo, we will move to ArtLogo, a text-based version of Logo that runs in a browser, where we will learn the proper syntax and refine our programming skills in text, not blocks.
Your Instructor: Josh Burker is the Creative Technology Teacher at Marymount School Upper Middle Division in New York City. He has taught both public and private schools for more than 20 years, working with Logo programming, robotics, fabrication, electronics, and art. He writes books, holds workshops for teachers, and consults on educational projects that he finds inclusive and disruptive. He is the author of The Invent to Learn Guide to Fun and the Invent to Learn Guide to More Fun, both of which inspire makers of all ages to explore the intersection of crafting and technology through whimsical, creative projects.
Flight!: Flying Mechanics With Gliders and Flight Simulator
Learn the mechanics of flying with gliders and a flight simulator! Students will build and fly Flite Test Gliders to learn aerodynamics fundamentals. Putting their knowledge to the test, participants will then pilot a virtual aircraft to practice takeoffs, landings, and flying patterns over realistic terrain, all projected on a large screen for everyone to follow along.
Your Instructor: Craig Lombardi with Engaging Presentations offers a diverse range of interactive and innovative programs in computers, technology, and STEM. His mission is to empower individuals of all ages to discover, learn, and excel in the world of technology. A Connecticut native currently based in Providence, Rhode Island, he has more than 35 years experience as an IT freelancer, consultant, software designer/coder, and systems integrator through his business, Ergonomic Solutions. In 2024. after four years as the IT Manager and Technology Programmer at Danbury Public Library, he resigned to dedicate himself to developing and presenting educational workshops.
Stained Glass Art: Butterflies and Dragonflies
Learn the basics of creating beautiful stained-glass art from scratch, from selecting glass to cutting to soldering. Solder and bring home your very own stained glass butterfly or dragonfly!
Your Instructor: Dawn Bailey established DAB Stained Glass in September 2008. She has more than 18 years experience in the art of stained glass, beginning her love for stained glass in high school, where a terrific teacher introduced Dawn to the colorful world of glass. Dawn specializes in custom pieces and makes everything from the basic suncatcher to the much more complex window panels and lampshades. She also repairs stained glass of all kinds.
Chemistry of Cooking: Pizza, Pasta, and Ice Cream!
Learn the science behind making pizza, pasta, and ice cream and test out your hypotheses! Make, take, and taste — You'll be an expert chef in no time! Aprons suggested, appetite required.
Your Instructor: Matthew Yanarella spent 20 years working as a children's librarian in Naugatuck, Connecticut, before branching out to develop programming and put on events around the state. He has presented more than 400 cooking classes in libraries, where he teaches kids of all ages the fundamental of cooking. His events are lively and informative, and everyone leaves full and ready to try out their new skills at home.
Questions on any of these programs? Please contact Margaret Pastel at [email protected]
