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3D printing camps near you

We list 3D printing camps and kids programs in cities across Canada. Find your city in the list below and find camps that offer training in 3D printing skills (at the top of the list), with other camps offering introductory 3D printing activities (as part of a broader schedule of the camp’s programming) beneath that. Use OurKids.net's advanced search to discover camps in the following places:

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More than just summer camp

If you want to truly build 3D printing knowledge and skills, you can use OurKids.net to find a variety of ways to immerse yourself in this field. Find a variety of options linked to below.

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What are the benefits of 3D printing camps?

Camps are 2-in-1! Most camps listed above are full-day, offering 3D printing for half the day, and another related activity for the second half of the day. Some camps offer more in-depth learning about code or how to use a microcontroller to design interactive projects such as multiplayer games. Others teach basic block-based code in order for kids to add their own modifications and custom content for their own Minecraft world. Depending on your child’s interests, 3D printing camps offer a variety of experiences to keep them entertained and learning.

Exposure to the world of digital design. 3D printing begins with a design made on the computer. Enrolling your child in this type of camp will not only provide them with a suite of fun 3D-printed souvenirs, it also gives them opportunity to explore digital design. This is a rapidly expanding field, with many applications such as video game design, animation, and augmented reality.

Let their imagination run wild. In 3D printing camp, the sky is the limit in terms of design possibilities. The technology allows for the utmost flexibility and customization, giving kids a blank slate to let their creativity shine. Kids will have the opportunity to tailor their camp experience to their own interests by taking on a design project that is compelling to them.

Future careers. 3D printing is still young, but is redefining many industries, from biomedical science, to auto engineering, to computer science, and beyond! Having skills in this burgeoning new technology could be powerful for future occupations. Not only that. Supplementary skills in 3D printing, such as digital design and coding, are skills in-demand in the current workforce.

Active learning. 3D printing camps allow kids to learn by doing. They apply this in designing a project, as well as experiment with the technology on their own. 3D printing also produces a tangible object. They can see their project through from ideation to completion. Increased interactivity has been proven to help kids retain knowledge.

Creates excitement. 3D printing is still new. Not many people have can access this technology, but many of us have seen its fantastic capabilities. Enrolling your child in 3D printing camp gives them a unique camp experience, unlike conventional day camps focused on sports or arts. It's sure to be a memorable experience for your child, one they're excited to share with friends and family, 3D printed project in hand!

What will your child learn in 3D printing camp?

3D printing tips and techniques. Of course, at 3D printing camp, your child will learn the fundamentals of 3D printing. This begins with designing in computer software, to exporting and printing. Camps are taught by trained educators. Your child will have the benefit of taking on an individual project and learning through trial and error, with a supportive coach by their side. They'll learn some best practices, helping them achieve their desired result.

Tinkercad. Most camps use a modelling program called Tinkercad to design your 3D creations. Using pre-existing shapes, or your own imported shapes, Tinkercad allows kids to adjust, resize and combine shapes to create anything they can imagine. Its simplicity and ease of use means your child can start with the basics, and progress to more advanced, detailed designs. You can even turn your creation into an augmented reality experience.

Basics of coding. Beyond simply designing a 3D object, Tinkercad teaches kids the fundamentals of coding. Using block-based code, kids can make their designs come to life, or learn how to write code that builds designs for them. From there, kids will be able to turn their work into a shareable GIF, or they can 3D print their creation to show off to their friends and family! Coding is a fundamental skill, applicable to the creation of more types of projects. From there, they may take an interest in creating video games, animations and mobile apps, etc.

Visual communication skills. The fundamental goal of digital design and 3D printing is to communicate information and ideas through symbols, colour, and imagery. Through camp, kids gain an increased awareness of the significance of visuals in our society, and how to get a message across non-verbally. They'll begin to think about their audience, or end-user, and how they might interpret or interact with their design. This both encourages your child to think from another perspective, and bolsters their critical thinking skills.

Other camps and programs you might be interested in

STEM camp and/or STEAM camp offers curriculum combining science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—as well as arts, in the case of STEAM.

Robotics camp is one of many other kinds of technology camps that branch out into other interesting fields, for kids who love hands-on tech fun. 

Coding camp and kids’ coding class presents varied learning opportunities and challenges. Our site lists camps teaching many different kinds of languages.

Learn more about 3d printing for kids and teens

"The ultimate guide to 3D printing for kids!" Katie Victoria. teachyourkidscode.com
"3D printing for kids: A parent’s guide to getting children started." Ryan Barone. idtech.com

Frequently Asked Questions

How many 3D printing camps are there?
There are 3 programs specializing in 3D Printing. In addition, there are 33 programs offering 3d printing as an activity. Use the filters to narrow by age and program type, then click on matched programs to see daily activities, dates, rates and registration information.

What are the fees to attend 3D printing camps?
Fees for 3D printing camps range from $250 to $525 per program (program types and lengths vary). Use the filters here to narrow programs by age and type.

What age do 3D printing camps start at?
There are programs available for children aged 9 through 16.

Where can parents meet with 3D printing camps?
Meet with program directors and staff at the Our Kids Camp & Program Expo. The Expo is held annually in February, and is a fun and informative day for parents, kids, and teens. Find event details and free tickets here.