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Drop-off Centers for Virtual School Help

Drop-off center POD photo

School is starting online all around Houston and parents like us are struggling to figure out how to help our kids and still have time for the rest of our duties.

One option is to get together with a few other families to form a POD and hire an instructor to supervise and help our kids (we can help you with this – see here).

Unfortunately the above does not work for everyone. Another option is to take our kids to a learning center (micro-school or drop-off school pod) where they form small groups of kids and provide supervision and help with their online school programs.

Below we compiled a list of centers all around Houston who offer this service. Of course, they need to take our kids safety seriously, so we’ve asked them to provide info on their COVID-19 procedures. Make sure you inquire about the details and that their procedures match your family’s precaution level.

If you’re a center providing help with online schooling, fill this form to be added to this page (it’s free).

List of drop-off centers

(Greater Houston Area only)

SMART Core Labs (Pearland)

  • Address: 2809 Miller Ranch Rd, Pearland, TX
  • Email: houston@smartcorelabs.com
  • Phone: 832-736-5691
  • Website link
  • Start date:
  • Grades: K – 12
  • Maximum kids per pod: 8
  • Hours: 7am-6pm including after school
  • Price per child: $150+ per week ($20 early drop-off, $40 late pick-up)
  • Services: On-site supervision or help with online school (day-time), On-site afterschool, Virtual afterschool

>>> Watch this video to learn more about our program!

Learning pod, virtual class supervision and help from our teachers. What we will provide:

  • ​Staff (Learning Coach) to answer questions & help with assignments
  • Some who will fulfill the Parent Expectations and Agreements
  • A computer for each student (iPads will not be available)
  • Individual work station for each student 
  • During break times:
    • STEM Enrichment
    • Virtual Reality
    • Robotics
    • Games
    • & FUN!
  • Basic school supplies: pencil, paper, art supplies
  • Access to a printer

COVID-19 Safety Procedures

Read our detailed COVID-19 safety procedures here.

Monart School of Art (Bellaire & Pearland)

Monart is here to help you facilitate your child’s educational progress and success. We are hosting Learning Pods at both our Bellaire and Pearland locations to provide your child with a safe, socially distanced, and monitored learning atmosphere. Each child receives their own table, computer, and supplies. Our schedule is catered to our student’s school schedule. We will be opening our doors as early as 7:15 AM and will end our learning pods at 4:00 PM with extended care options until 6:30 PM

Each Learning Pod has a dedicated teacher that will make sure your child signs into their class on time and completes their courses. We will make sure that all of your school requirements are fulfilled, we want to give you the ability to go to work without worrying about what your child is doing during the school day. Our goal is synchronous learning.

Our price includes all the materials necessary for synchronous learning, a hot lunch, monitored supervision, outdoor exercise, and a safe, socially distanced space for your child. If you are interested in being apart of our Learning Pods, send us an email!

COVID-19 Safety Procedures

All students must wear mask regardless of age. Student’s temperature will be taken before a student is allowed inside their classroom, any signs of sickness and the student will be turned away. Signs of sickness include a high temperature, excessive coughing, excessive sneezing, complaints of nausea, headaches, cold sweats, vomiting, and more. Every student will work at their own table, receive their own computer, and their own supplies. Only students and staff will be allowed beyond the lobby to minimize foot traffic throughout the school. Hand sanitizing stations will be available in every classroom and students will be required to wash their hands before and after they eat their snacks and lunch.

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Rashard Lewis Academy (Cypress)

Register your child for a day of supervision and support while completing the CFISD on-line learning option. Bring your own device. Sports & Fitness provided on breaks and after-school.

COVID-19 Safety Procedures

We have safety protocols in place. Call us for more info.

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Kiddie Academy of Longenbaugh Cypress

  • Address: 17909 Longenbaugh Rd. Cypress Texas 77433
  • Email: longenbaughcypress@kiddieacademy.net
  • Phone: 281-815-0522
  • Website link
  • Start date:
  • Grades or Ages:
  • Maximum kids per pod: 6
  • Hours: 6:30am to 6:30p
  • Price per child per week: $200
  • Services: On-site supervision or help with online school (day-time), On-site afterschool, Virtual help with school work, Meals
  • We pick up from: (when school in session) Hoover elementary, Andre, Postma, Jowell,

Virtual classroom assistance . Educational child care. Before and after school care and activities. Transportation

COVID-19 Safety Procedures

Temperature checks on entry. No entry to anyone except staff and students. Masks for teachers and children over 10 years. Individual serving of food. Small groups and same groups maintained. Daily laundering of soft toys and linen. Frequent sanitizing.

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Code Ninjas SW (Sugar Land – Richmond)

  • Address: multiple locations:
    • Riverstone, Sugar Land (18318 University Blvd. Sugar Land)
    • Greatwood/Riverpark, Sugar Land (17101 Grand Pkwy S. Sugar Land)
    • Aliana, Richmond (10223 Grand Pkwy S. Richmond)
  • Email: RiverstoneSugarLandTX@codeninjas.com
  • Phone: 281-456-3010
  • Website link
  • Start date:
  • Grades or Ages:
  • Maximum kids per pod:
  • Hours: 8:00AM-4:00PM (Middle School Children can stay until 4:10PM)
  • Price per child per week: $335 (see website for fewer days/week)
  • Services: On-site supervision or help with online school (day-time), Coding classes

WE ARE OFFICIALLY AN FBISD LEARNING CENTER: Created in alignment with local schools’ synchronous and asynchronous online school schedules, Code Ninjas BOOST Program provides a school-like safe environment that supports students. We provide parents the freedom to focus on their work. Added bonus; Individual laptops, STEM enrichment & one free week to Essential Workers’ child.

COVID-19 Safety Procedures

Safety protocols are in place. Call for details.

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Code Ninjas League City

Code Ninjas League City is offering a new program to help our parents and community. Let us be the Learning Partner and Tech Support as your children navigate the Remote Learning from their school. We have the space, the equipment, and the Wi-Fi. Designed with STEM + Art (STEAM) and some P.E. activities interwoven through the day, just pack snacks, a lunch, and a headset/mic; we will do the rest!

COVID-19 Safety Procedures

The desks, equipment, and center is sanitized. Students 10 and older will wear masks and have their temperature taken upon arrival. Socially-distanced desks will allow us to give you an interactive social experience with limited exposure

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The Artistic Realm of Talentz – The ARTZ (The Heights)

  • Address: 1824 Spring St #124, Houston, TX 77007
  • Email: theartzinfo@gmail.com
  • Phone: 281-972-9147
  • Website link
  • Start date: Sept. 8
  • Grades or Ages: K – 8th grade
  • Maximum kids per pod: 10
  • Hours: 7:00AM – 3:30 PM
  • Price per child per week: $275 per week, $80 drop-in rate
  • Services: On-site supervision or help with online school (day-time), dance and aerial classes
  • We pick up from: schools within 5 miles of our address (for after-school)

The Artz + Academy will offer structured class time, circus games, aerial fitness, arts and more for elementary and middle schoolers. With our program, kids will have access to high speed internet, socially distanced space to complete their work and plenty of fun activities to keep them busy when they are not required to be logged on.

​Aides will be on hand to help any student who needs additional assistance with work outside their live sessions. All students need to bring a lunch, snacks, and a water bottle.

Once their session has ended there will be circus games, aerial training, and arts activities to keep them active!

COVID-19 Safety Procedures

  • All students must wash or sanitize their hands when they enter the space. No students will be allowed to enter without sanitizing.
  • Every student will have their temperature checked twice per day, upon arrival and after lunch time.
  • There will be no sharing of fabrics, or any other apparatus. After each use, fabrics will be removed and cleaned. All other apparatus will be cleaned as well.
  • Students ages 10+ will be required to wear face masks. Masks are required to be worn during break periods i.e in the morning during arrival and afternoon
  • All commonly touched surfaces will be sanitized every 30 mins.  
  • Doors will remain open to reduce the need to touch, allowing for a foot to be used to nudge it open.

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Samson Home School Academy (The Heights)

  • Address: 1703 Heights Blvd, Houston TX 77008
  • Email: info@samsonacademy.com
  • Phone: 713-880-5565
  • Website link
  • Start date: September 8
  • Grades or Ages: K – 4th grade
  • Maximum kids per pod: 6
  • Hours: 9 am to 3 p.m.
  • Price per child per week: $330
  • Services: On-site supervision or help with online school (day-time), in-person instruction in micro-groups (max 6 kids)

Samson Academy offers individual attention in in-person micro-classes. We offer instruction in a full academic program that meets State of Texas education requirements for Kinder through Grade 4, with an emphasis on hands-on learning. We also offer supervision of children with virtual enrollment. Once their online commitment is met, these students join the activities of Samson Academy.

COVID-19 Safety Procedures

Temperature checks, no parents in building, handwashing, desk shields, face shields/masks, frequent disinfection, each class is a POD, separate lunchroom, outdoor activities.

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H-Town Elite Gymnastics (The Heights)

  • Address: 700 W 6th Houston, TX 77007
  • Email: eventdirector@htownelite.com
  • Phone: 713-955-5427
  • Website link
  • Start date: August 17
  • Ages: 3 to 12 year olds
  • Maximum kids per pod: 9
  • Hours: 8 am to 5 pm
  • Price per child per week: $250 Full Day (8am – 5pm) | $195 Half Day (8am – 12:30pm; 12:30pm – 5pm)
  • Services: On-Site Supervision from 8AM-5PM with Gymnastics Instruction after Online Classes are done.

StudyHall+ is a safe and quiet environment for your child’s online education, plus a fun day of gymnastics lessons and activities. Our fantastic staff are here to assist participants with attendance, technological needs*, and remote learning**. Once school is done, participants will enjoy gymnastics, sport fitness and fun activities with our amazing H-Town Elite gymnastics instructors!

COVID-19 Safety Procedures

Social distancing and safety protocols, including sanitized study areas, increased hand washing, temperature checks and disinfecting upon arrival

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iKids Inc. (Greenway Plaza)

  • Address: 3701 W Alabama Street
  • Email: info@ikidsinc.com
  • Phone: 713-665-5200
  • Website link
  • Start date: Sept 8
  • Grades: PreK- 5th Grade
  • Maximum kids per pod: 5
  • Hours: 7:30 am to 6 pm
  • Price per child per week: $300 for 5 days | $240 for 4 days
  • Services: On-site supervision or help with online school (day-time), On-site afterschool, At home Learning Pods

We offer both Center learning pods (enrichment class included) and Home learning pods (enrichment class is extra) where we send an instructor to your home. Contact us for more pricing options.

COVID-19 Safety Procedures

Covid Compliant trained from the state, masks, social distancing, following full CDC regulations.

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ASEC (Galleria Mall)

AIM Program – The Ice at the Galleria Houston makes the most of your child’s day by offering on and off ice active learning opportunities designed to attract and expand young minds and physical well-being. Ice at the Galleria gives your child the opportunity to engage in dynamic play and collaborate on fun projects. Our program supports an academic environment that fosters health and wellness, instills positive social exercise and learning. Ice at the Galleria creates opportunities for children to belong and connect.

COVID-19 Safety Procedures

We are committed to keeping our participants and staff safe and healthy and have implemented rigorous protocols and maintain best practices for all safety measures.

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Texas Rock Gym (Spring Branch)

  • Address: 1526 Campbell Rd, Houston TX 77055
  • Email: roger@texasrockgym.com
  • Phone: 713-973-7625
  • Website link
  • Start date: Sep. 1st
  • Grades or Ages: 7 to 17 years old
  • Maximum kids per pod: 10
  • Hours: 8am to 12pm, 1pm to 5pm
  • Price per child per week: Variable, based on # of sessions.
  • Services: On-site supervision or help with online school (day-time), Monitored study area, Indoor climbing, and other activities.

Monitored study area, Indoor climbing, and other activities.

COVID-19 Safety Procedures

Masks required, temperatures taken at entry, desk dividers, hand sanitizers, etc.

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Code Ninjas Memorial City

In addition to the learning PODs we offer flexible STEM activities on virtual school days.

COVID-19 Safety Procedures

Mask/face covering and/or face shield requirement for everyone. Rigid cleaning after use of classroom equipment. Cleaning breaks in the middle of extended sessions. Hand sanitizing stations.

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Code Ninjas West Katy

We have created the perfect program for your child to do their virtual learning with us! Our high-tech and STEM driven framework provides a distraction-free, school-like environment.

Our team will provide the structure and set schedule your child needs to complete their schoolwork and to thrive in this new way of learning. In addition to assisting your child with their virtual schoolwork, we will teach your child new and exciting skills in the world of STEM. Your child will get to interact, collaborate, and tackle team projects in a safe, clean, and sanitized learning space.

We have the tools to make all this happen, which include individual laptops for each child, reliable high-speed WIFI, printers, tablets & more.

COVID-19 Safety Procedures

The following policies and procedures are non-negotiable and will be enforced on a daily basis.

  • We request students and parents to follow the social distancing guidelines of 6 feet distance
  • All Code Ninjas staff will be required to wear masks for the duration of the day.
  • Temperature checks will be enforced for all staff and students prior to entering the dojo.
  • Anyone demonstrating signs of illness or fatigue will be sent home until such symptoms subside.
  • Students will be required to wear masks or face shields when they are at the center.
  • Each Ninja will use a separate laptop and mouse, and we will sanitize the equipment after each use.
  • Hand sanitizer and soap will be available for students to use.

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Cho’s TaeKwonDo Academy (The Woodlands)

  • Address: 27326 Robinson Rd #120, Oak Ridge North, TX 77385
  • Email: chotkd1@gmail.com
  • Phone: 281-367-0101
  • Website link
  • Start date:
  • Grades or Ages:
  • Maximum kids per pod: 20
  • Hours: 8am to 3pm, extended 7am to 5pm
  • Price per child per week: $150
  • Services: On-site supervision or help with online school (day-time), On-site afterschool, On-site TaeKwonDo classes

1) We provide all day care & monitored online classes for students with their respective schools. (must bring own ipad, phone, or laptop.)
2) Includes one TaeKwonDo class per day. (Forms, Self-Defense & Sparring)
3) Engaging Spanish, Math, Art & activities (Sports, educational games & media.)

COVID-19 Safety Procedures

Sanitize before, during & after. Temperature check to enter. Clean and sanitized facility every day. No physical contact allowed between kids.

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Code Ninjas Magnolia

On-site supervision, On-site afterschool. We have created the perfect Center for your child to do their virtual learning with us! Our high-tech and STEM driven framework provides a distraction-free, school-like environment.

Our team will provide the structure and set schedule your child needs to complete their schoolwork and to thrive in this new way of learning. Your child will get to interact, collaborate, safe, clean, and sanitized learning space.

Our center has individual laptops, reliable high-speed WIFI, tablets. Call us for details.

COVID-19 Safety Procedures

The desks, equipment, and center are sanitized. Students wear masks, wash hands and have their temperature taken upon arrival. Socially-distanced desks will allow us to give you an interactive social experience with limited exposure.

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Related:

Three things to know about forming a learning POD

Let us help you find an instructor for your private learning POD or get matched into a pod

Subscribe to our emails to receive updates to this list, occasional news related to school pods, kids activities, and discounts:

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Three things to know about forming a learning POD

Learning POD - Camppedia

Virtual schooling is a reality for at least the first month of school. It may also  be the right choice for some families even after in-person schooling becomes available. Yet virtual schooling comes with significant challenges. One popular option is to form a small group (POD)  with a few families and hire an in person instructor to help kids complete their schoolwork and provide some of that much needed socialization. 

What is a POD?

In the context of virtual school, a learning POD is formed when a few families decide to bring their kids together in a private setting and hire an instructor or learning coach to supervise and help the kids with their online school lessons and assignments.

If you’re thinking about it – here are three things to keep in mind:

  1. It may feel a bit uncomfortable. Some aspects of forming a pod, even with friends, could feel uncomfortable. You’ll have to talk about sensitive subjects and potentially tell somebody  you know that you’re not comfortable with forming a POD with them.  What helps?
    1. Acknowledge the awkwardness and the need for transparency early on with the other families.
    2. Use the Camppedia Family Discussion Guide to collect all the relevant information without any pressure.
    3. Take a deep breath – you’re doing something difficult but necessary to care for your family in the way that you’re comfortable. 
Camppedia Family Discussion Guide PDFDownload
  1. It can be time consuming.  You can DYI the whole thing – just plan to spend a lot of time coordinating. If you hire the instructor directly – you’ll want to think about possible tax implications and may want to find a company or an accountant to help. You can let groups like Camppedia do the legwork for you. Our services are free for parents.
    • If you go your own way, these are 2 of the lowest cost payroll services we found: Poppins Payroll and Wave (both start around $39/month)
  2. It will be worth it. PODs give you significantly more control and customization relative to other options so you can have peace of mind that you are finding the right solution for your family.

Learn more about how we help families form pods and match them with learning coaches on My Learning PODs page.

Let us help you form a POD or find an instructor

Subscribe to our emails to receive occasional news related to school pods, kids activities, and discounts:

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Cancelled Camps for Summer 2020

We are trying hard to keep our Camp Explorer camp finder list up to date for summer 2020. Camps that are confirmed closed are removed from that list and will not show up.

If you are unsure whether a camp is missing from our list or is cancelled, below you will find a list of all camps confirmed cancelled with us:

  • Alley Theatre
  • AFA Summer Music Festival
  • Language Kids World cancelled all in-person camps but offers virtual camps.
  • Boy Scouts of America Sam Houston Area Council
  • Camp Cho-Yeh
  • The Houston Zoo
  • The Kinkaid School
  • Rainard School for Gifted Students
  • Solaris Pediatric in person camps (they offer virtual camp)
  • Sunset Heights Art
  • Yorkshire Academy

Let us know if any other camps are closed this summer.

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Virtual Field Trips and Kids Resources

We are all aware this time at home together is going to continue for a quite a while. Virtual field trips are a great way to teach your kids about other places and cultures without leaving your home. Here are some exhibits, classes, exercises and tours you can visit with your children from the comfort of your kitchen table, or even your couch.

We are prioritizing Houston local organizations and resources to support our community.

Young Audiences of Houston – Creativity Pops Videos

Online videos created to inspire learning at home.

Young Audiences of Houston Teaching Artists are invaluable contributors to Houston’s arts ecosystem and each commissioned creativity pops video provides financial support to our teaching artists. Stay tuned as we post new videos each week, and enjoy a pop of creativity each day.

Houston Musuem of Natural Sciences

Travel through time and experience the wonder of the Museum anytime and anywhere! HMNS and some of the most loved natural history institutions in the world have partnered with Google to bring you a unique virtual experience. This new online exhibition is available on g.co/naturalhistory and allows people to come face to face with Jurassic Giants and browse through the most spectacular collection of natural history available in one place!

The new collection uses state of the art technology to give a new virtual life to extinct animals and tell fascinating stories about our planet’s evolution over billions of years. Viewers come face-to-face with Jurassic Giants in 360 degree videos, giving a better sense of how these animals lived, and what it might have felt like to be in their presence. Start exploring! Visit – g.co/naturalhistory

Houston Public Library

Visit the Julia Ideson Building! While they are closed,  you can still check out our #ThenAndNow tour this historic building in the past and today. Click the glasses 👓 icons to explore JIB safely from home https://hmrc.oncell.com/en/index.html

Asia Society Texas Center

Through their at-home lesson and activities for young learners, explore the diverse cultures of Asia!  From Japanese school life, food, and writing systems to Korean food, games, crafts, and more. Visit https://asiasociety.org/texas/asia-society-home

Lovre

Travel to Paris, France to see amazing works of art at The Louvre with this virtual field trip. Visit – https://www.louvre.fr/en/visites-en-ligne

Upbrainery

An online learning platform transforming education, has partnered with Texas based restaurant chain Whataburger to provide inventive original curriculum via an online learning program to grades K-12 during the Covid-19 pandemic. Registration is FREE for a limited time. Use Code Whataburger500 to receive the free offer. Click the link below to join their online community and get in on the fun and creativity of learning online. It is for all students K – 10th grade. http://Upbrainery.com/live-online-classes

Houston Public Media Daytime Programming

As part of the Houston Public Media’s mission to ensure that all kids have access to free educational resources at home, TV 8 is offering broadcast programs and accompanying digital educational resources that adhere to Texas Curriculum Standards and provide continued At-Home Learning from tots to 12th graders. Visit home resources site.

Amazon Future Engineer

Amazon supports free computer science courses during these social distancing times. It is for all students grades 2-12 . Visit https://www.amazonfutureengineer.com/free-courses 

Mo Willems Doodles

Around the world, people of all ages join Mo Willems in his studio for weekday LUNCH DOODLES. The three-week run, all 15 episodes and their downloadable activities, are available via this link. Let the doodling continue! Visit – YouTube videos

Mars Rover 360 degree view and WEbVR experiment, All ages – Explore the surface of Mars on the Curiosity Rover. They are updating from WEBVR to WEBXR now, but 360 Mode offers a digital view! 

Google 3D animals, Augmented Reality

Google’s 3D animals have exploded in popularity across the web over the last couple weeks, and it’s likely the result of a perfect storm of circumstances. People across the world are stuck indoors, parents are teaching their grade school children from home, and the Tiger King documentary has dropped on Netflix. Regardless of the reason, people everywhere are making 3D animals an incredibly fun quarantine activity.
How it works, On most popular phones, google a hedgehog, tiger, shark, emperor penguins. Click where it says “View in 3D” and then wait about 30 seconds and – voila – instant animals

Discovery Education

They take learning beyond the classroom and into the real world. A few of the field trip topics include visiting Tundra, STEM and manufacturing, 3rd grade and higher.

  • Polar Bears – Discovery Education has teamed up with Polar Bears International to host a series of shared learning experiences to engage students and inspire their interest in studying the science of polar bears and their Arctic habitat.
  • Visit Boeing and see how they are incorporating sustainable practices and innovations as they pertain to sustainable air travel, natural resource preservation, water quality control, and waste management.  https://www.boeingfutureu.com

Cosmic Yoga for Kids

Yoga, mindfulness and relaxation designed specially for kids aged 3+, used in schools and homes all over the world – Youtube channel

Monart Drawing Studio

During this unprecedented time, Monart School of Art is doing what it can to provide art to your children. They have created dozens of online videos, completely free of charge, for your children to continue their artistic development. Visit YouTube Channel

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HTX Virtual Kids Activities

Our team drawing

As a parent, I’ve been bombarded by ideas and resources for keeping my kids engaged while figuring out how to live at home during this COVID-19 pandemic.

This picture made by my daughter kindled an idea to create a comprehensive list of Houston area businesses and organizations offering virtual services under one platform. Our team at Camppedia have gathered and organized online classes, events, and camps currently available for kids. We are in this together!

If you know anyone who would like to be listed, please send us more ideas through our contact form. (we’ll keep updating this list and the calendar)

NEW:

Browse kids events and classes by day on our new calendar!

The easy way to find events at the right time for your kids.

Table of Contents

STEM, Coding, Robotics, Academics

Languages, History, Culture

Arts and Crafts, Music, Cooking

Physically Active, PE, Creative Movement

Multi-activity and Specialty Providers

STEM, Coding, Robotics, Academics

Challenge Island Houston-Katy

They offer virtual enrichment classes every week . You can choose from online enrichment classes, virtual field trips, online birthday parties and virtual scout S.T.E.A.M. events.

Contact Info: houston@challenge-island.com | 281-901-1034

Idea Lab Kids iCamp

iCamps will be conducted through Zoom video conferencing (Minecraft, 3D printing and omre). Students will need their own computer and internet access. Idea Lab also provides Facebook videos about different science subjects. Kids 3rd grade and higher can do this, younger kids will need parental support.

Contact Info: central-Houston@idealabkids.com | 832- 993-1213

SMART Core Labs (coding)

SMART Core Labs will be offering a FREE online session for our Coding and Video Game Development courses.
We provide a virtual classroom with live sessions with our trained instructors. Our program provides a learning path to mastery in AI and Machine learning. Get a hands on experience in the field of coding and robotics. Learn to code video games, apps, virtual reality and much more.

Contact info: houston@smartcorelabs.com | 832 736-5691

Codeverse

Kids can learn to code from anywhere with their highly-engaging, private virtual classes for ages 6-13years. Their motto is Change the world with code. The first virtual class is FREE. A Galleria location is opening in summer. More information on their website.

Code Ninja Memorial City

At Home coding, complete fun activities that put your kid’s ninja coding skills to the test and show off what they’ve learned. Learn by building video games that kids love. Encourage productive and creative screen time. Boost problem solving and critical thinking skills. Receive ongoing support and guidance from our Code Senseis® .

Contact Info: 832- 356-3773

Coder Kids

Virtual, interactive coding classes through ZOOM. Game design in SCRATCH and more, $15 for a 1 hour class.

Contact info: info@coderkids.com | (832) 640-9568

iDTech Virtual Coding Camps

iDTech offers virtual classes, camps and private lessons while schools are closed. They typically offer camps and workshops at Rice University and at the Woodlands Preparatory School. Now you can jump on their at home learning website now, with pricing designed to stretch your family’s budget.

Snapology (Lego Engineering)

Online programs for students 4-14. Adapted curriculum so that your child can make their screen time count with engaging and entertaining STEAM enrichment. All you need for most classes are loose LEGO® bricks.

Contact info: cypress@snapology.com | 832-777-7627

The Knight School – Chess Classes

Bringing zany, super-fun chess to students who may be stuck at home due to COVID-19! High energy weekly classes for ages 3 – 17, beginner to advanced.

Contact info: Coach Justin, cell: (713) 489-8830 | justin@theknightschool.com

Mad Science Houston

Virtual classes, fun science.

Contact info: Operations@madscienceofhouston.com | 713-663-7623

Above Grade Level Tutoring NW Houston

They offer online tutoring options via Skype, Zoom or Facetime. Their curriculum supports material that students are getting from school.

Contact Info: mfossen@abovegradelevel.com| 281-709-4707

The Houston Zoo

Zoo keepers share their animals and how they live in their ecosystem.  Facebook Live every day Mon-Fri, 11am

Best in Class Education Center

A new multifaceted support strategy that utilizes traditional educational methods and technology to enable our students to be tutored and receive homework help remotely. Same instruction, same curriculum in the comfort of your home: Personalized learning plan tailored to your student’s level | Instructional videos online to help your child learn new concepts | Homework support through online video meetings with instructors | Online chat feature to answer student questions in real time. (enter your zip code to find local centers offering distance learning)

Houston Humane Society – Virtual Companion Camp

Virtual Companion Camp answers the need for at-home, fun and engaging learning experiences during the time of social distancing. Our shows target ages 6-15, but are really for anyone who loves animals and wants to learn more. Tune in every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 2 PM Central Time on Facebook Live. Just search @HoustonHumane, no Facebook Account is necessary.

Contact Info: camp@houstonhumane.org | 281-910-5651

Languages, History, Culture

Language Kids World

Connecting children to culture through fun, authentic and meaningful language immersion programs.They are passionate about world languages and multiculturalism, and teaching them to children in fun, authentic and meaningful ways. They are providing free online Spanish classes, language learning videos, printable materials and much more!

Contact Info: info@languagekids.com| 281-565-1388

Writers in the Schools (WITS)

Offers Virtual Workshops & Events for middle and high school students several days a week. They also have recorded lessons – free 15-minute online writing experience for grade K-5 students.

Contact info: mail@witshouston.org | 713-523-3877

Houston Public Library

The Julia Ideson building is closed but HPL is virtual ! Miss Sara reads Leo: A Ghost Story by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Christian Robinson. Many more read alouds like this, visit them on Facebook.

Arts and Crafts, Music, Cooking

Encore Academy of Music

Founded by long time Houston musicians and music school owners, Their goal is to develop a passion for music in students of all ages through personalized instruction. They provide private lessons in piano, guitar, voice, drums and more, as well as group lessons and special classes on a variety of instruments and subjects. Ask them about their specialized early childhood lessons.

Contact Info: lessons@encoreacademyonline.com | 832-604-6750

Bach to Rock

Currently offering many of its popular music lessons, classes and programs in a live, e-learning format. Lessons are available to all students who have access to a device capable of video communication and an instrument with which to practice at their place of residence. Get all of the same features and benefits of B2R, including our curriculum, access to the MyB2R student tracking portal and the wealth of knowledge and experience our instructors have to offer.

Contact info: memorial@bachtorock.com | 877-227-8558

Draw and Paint with Mishta

Mishta Smalley is a trained artist  and offers virtual kids painting classes. She offers weekday sessions for 90min. Pick a theme from baby yoda, butterflies, cherry blossoms or a red dragon.  Pre-drawn canvases are available and supplies for pick up in Cypress from 11am to 1pm. 

Contact her on Facebook.

Main Course Cooking School

Free virtual class for kids every Thursday. From crepes to donuts, join them and have fun cooking ! Visit them on Facebook for more details .

Houston Center for Contemporary Craft

Join HCCC on Facebook and Instagram every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, at 1:00 PM, for fun art-making activities you can do at home (Mondays and Fridays) and exclusive exhibition content (Wednesdays), artist studio tours, and more.

HITS Theatre

Offering live, online Dancing Tots classes to introduce little stars (and their grown-ups) to the wonderful world of dance! In this live, interactive workshop, dancers will work on age-appropriate gross motor skills, coordination, and dance basics.

Contact Info: info@hitstheatre.org | 713-861-7408

PMT Productions – Theater classes

The Spring Online Series will include a performance-based course (called YAS! Online Camp) and mini courses that focus on developing specific theater-related skills.

Contact Info: info@pitchmethis.com | 832-516-9167

Nutrition Education from Texas A&M AgriLife

Learn how to improve your and your family’s health, save money at the
store and discover basic nutrition tips. Texas A&M AgriLife educators have the resources to conduct EFNEP nutrition education classes at a distance. Taught one-on-one or in small groups, for both adults and youth.

Physically Active, PE, Creative Movement

Motion Dance Center

LIVE Private Group Classes for you or your kids ( Ages 3+)  Give them a call to schedule a spot. Cardio, Yoga, Stretching, Hip Hop, Ballet, Tap & so much more!

Contact Info: karen@ballroomdanceco.com | 956-312-7388

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Westchase

The instructors train body, mind and spirit through the highest level of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Their instruction is a vehicle for individual development and the strengthening of the family spirit, going beyond the ‘winning-losing’ or ‘contest’ philosophy.

Contact Info: info@gbwestchase.com | 713-903-9118

Moving-Body

Amanda Barrett Hayes, a Movement Director, Teacher and Facilitator focuses on teaching, directing and nurturing creative arts activities, dance and actor movement for young people as well as adults. Her creative moves class is currently running Facebook classes on Tuesdays & Thursdays at 10am!

Contact Info: amanda@moving-body.com | 832-712-7339

Kinetic Vibez

Come and join Kinetic Vibez for their Youth Hip-Hop & Mindfulness Livestream! Students will participate in fun, creative, and mindful activities that will get the kid’s mind and body moving. Check out the streaming schedule on Facebook and go to their website for more information about accessing the live stream.

Contact Info: info@kineticvibez.com | 832-559-2311

Mad About Hoops

Free online mini-classes on Facebook Live. Mondays and Fridays 11 a.m. Central. Also offering private lessons and interactive classes.

Contact Info: HTX.madabouthoops@gmail.com | 832-233-1531

Bay Area Arts Conservatory

Bringing the classroom content to you virtually! Committed to provide the same quality performing arts education as in our facility: acting, ballet, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Tap, and Voice.

YMCA of Greater Houston

Looking for ways to keep the kids active while at home? The Virtual YMCA page has new ideas and challenges every day! Featuring twelve 5-minute challenges each day, these fun activities are sure to cure boredom and get the kids moving!

Multi-activity and Specialty Providers

Upbrainery

A Houston based online learning platform transforming education, has partnered with Texas based restaurant chain Whataburger to provide inventive original curriculum via an online learning program to grades K-12 during the Covid-19 pandemic. Registration is FREE for a limited time. Use Code Whataburger500 to receive the free offer. Click on their website to join their online community and get in on the fun and creativity of learning online. It is for all students K – 10th grade.

Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Scouts BSA

The Houston area Sam Houston Area Council website has posted online events that scouts can make use of to continue scouting at home. There are some great ideas to use at home to keep your Scout’s skills sharp! Share with friends about these great options for at-home fun and learning for Scouting families and non-Scouting families alike. Visit

Girl Scouts

Girl Scouts live by the motto “be prepared” and that includes when the unexpected happens. While all members continue to follow the guidance of the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and their local health officials and cease in-person meetings, the Houston area Girl Scouts San Jacinto Council website deliver the opportunity for Girl Scouting to continue at home.  

Solaris Pediatric Therapy

Occupational therapy, physical therapy, and yoga therapy with a focus on helping children develop the skills they need to handle day-to-day activities and be comfortable in normal, social environments.
Therapy services are provided via telehealth while the Stay Home-Work Safe order is in place.

Contact Info: solaris@solarispediatrictherapy.com | 832-727-3771

The Children’s Museum

The museum hosts a Daily Virtual Learning broadcast: check out their Facebook page for details and live-streams, such as virtual workshops in art, coding, and more. These run every day (M-F) between about 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. (Example: O Wow Moment of the Day – Apr 1 through Apr 30, 10:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m)
The museum also has a large collection of videos on home activities and educational topics. See them on the museum website here.

Lone Star College – Tomball Community Library

While the library is closed, the librarians are creating amazing virtual programs for all their customers! Weekly programs for kids, teens and adults on their Facebook page. The Tomball branch has a detailed virtual programming calendar on their Facebook page.

Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center

Offers a variety of virtual activities for families and adults (wellness classes, family engagement, children’s movement and more.

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Childcare options in Houston during school closures

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Our thoughts are with you and your families during this difficult time.

While schools are closed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, day care facilities have been designated an essential service and some continue to operate.

We know that not all families have the option to stay at home with their children. To help families, especially those in critical service jobs, we are compiling a list of operating childcare facilities and camps. Please follow health recommendations and make your own decisions when sending your kids. We do not endorse or recommend any of the facilities we list, but try to provide a community information service.

If you know of any other open facilities, please use our contact form to let us know or comment on our Facebook page.

[idea Lab Central Houston]

From Idea Lab Central Houston:

Our current plan for next week is to offer camp days with before care and after care options to a limited number of participants.

Dates: March 23-27 (possibly the following weeks as well based on interest)
Schedule: 9-3pm ($60/day)
Extended care: from 7am ($15/day) and until 6:30pm ($20/day)
Ages: 5-12 years
Location: 5410 Bellaire Blvd, Bellaire, TX 77401
Contact: 832-993-1213 | bellaire@idealabkids.com
Direct registration link

Also see their summer camp offering on Camppedia here.

At this time, we are taking registrations through our online system, but we are not taking any payments. Our goal is to generate a list of interested families and also allow for as much flexibility as possible.

If you choose not to attend after making your reservation, or we are required to close our doors, you will not be charged. We will charge your account only for the days you attend.

IDEA Lab Kids is open to serve Bellaire, the Texas Medical Center and the surrounding communities. We are following the guidelines laid out by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission which oversees us.

Now also offering tutoring and homework
assistance

IDEA Lab Kids Bellaire is pleased to announce that we are now offering tutoring and homework assistance at our campus! 3 or 6 hour sessions where students can receive individualized or group homework assistance. Call for more info.

Health Precautions

We have been given clarification with regard to our facility: as long as our classrooms do not exceed 10 individuals (students and instructors) we are in compliance.

Our new ratio will be 1 instructor to 8 students. We also will not be executing any cooking curriculum, and have adjusted our gym game rules to allow for appropriate social distancing.

In addition, we are following strict protocols for surface cleaning, hand washing, small groups, and are requiring all students to bring their own snacks, packed lunches and drinks. We also require travel, health and temperature screening for each student.

Each staff member is committed to social distancing outside of work. We have remained local during this time and are all in good health. We intend to have daily check-ins with regard to this, and any staff member exhibiting any sign of illness or fatigue will be asked to remain home.

If you have any questions regarding our Health and Safety Plan, or with regard to any of our new procedures and registration policy during this time, please do not hesitate to call or email us.

From IDEA Lab Kids Energy Corridor:

We are having School Days Off Camps! NCI Accepted. We will also be assisting with homework. Lunch will also be offered.

Dates: ongoing
Schedule: 9am – 3pm ($55/day)
Extended care: from 8am and until 6:30pm
Ages: 5-12 years
Location: 14520 Memorial Dr. Suite 50, Houston, 77079
Contact: (832) 672-7932 | energycorridor@idealabkids.com
Direct registration link

Also see their summer camp offering on Camppedia here.

Health Precautions

Nothing is more important than your health and safety, and the need to protect those most vulnerable. As the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to develop,  we are taking the following precautions to protect You and Your Child’s Health:

  • We are only running small classes. 
  • We will require to pick up and drop off of children outside of the campus to minimize health risks unless there is a legitimate need for you to enter.
  • We will require all of our customers to fill a travel declaration form on where they have traveled to in the past 3 months.
  • We are no longer hosting any cooking camps until further notice
  • Make sure to wash your and your child’s hands with soap and water for 20 seconds; use alcohol-based sanitizer if no water is available.
  • We’re doubling down our efforts to clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces in our campus.

From Mariner Montessori:

The school remains open during this time:

Dates: daycare facility open M-F
Schedule: 7am – 6pm
Ages: 6 weeks to 6 years old
Location: 6018 Fairdale Ln, Houston, TX 77057
Contact: 713-783-7490 | info@marinermontessori.com
Website link

We offer 20% discount on tuition during this critical time for parents in critical jobs. We also waive the half-month tuition deposit. Our tuition includes AM/PM snacks, healthy lunch, milk. Each class room is lead by Montessori teacher, our program is Montessori and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) combined.

While weekday tours are cancelled for now, parents can schedule a school tour during the weekend by calling or emailing us.

Health Precautions

  • we measure the temperature of the kids and staff everyday before entering the school. We deny entry to any person who meets any of the following criteria:
    • a temperature of 100.4F or above
    • signs or symptoms of a respiratory infection, such as a cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, and low grade fever
    • in the previous 14 days has had contact with someone with a confirmed diagnosis of Covid-19; is under investigation for Covid-19, or is ill with a respiratory illness
    • in the previous 14 days has traveled international 
  • we perform extra sanitizations in each classroom, toys, common areas, high touch surfaces everyday. During this time, only staffs and children are allowed to enter the classrooms.  
  • our teachers to students ration is lower than the standard requirements. Each classroom has at least 2 teachers

Adventure Kids Playcare

We understand that most of their centers continue to operate for daily and weekly drop-ins. Please call the individual locations for specific hours and limitations.

Dates: open Monday – Saturday
Schedule: 7am – 10pm (call each location for current hours)
Ages: 6 weeks to 12 years old
Locations: website link with all locations (Memorial, Katy, Sugar Land, Woodlands)

Other Childcare Resources

The STEM Babysitting Company

Location: in home
Schedule: 24 hours / 7 days
Website: https://www.stembabysitting.com/

Fully vetted, trained, experienced nannies will curate days of educational fun for your little ones. Our Nannies arrive with all the materials to do exciting, hands-on STEM projects and activities that are tailored to your children’s learning and developmental milestones.

  • We offer parents in-location, educational childcare services. Our Nannies and Babysitters arrive to parents’ homes equipped with exciting, hands-on STEM projects and activities.
  • We offer parents a detailed matching process, free 30-Minute Consultations, and for parents in critical jobs (nurses, doctors, firefighters, etc.) 25% off their first 15 appointment hours. Our rates are:
    • One child: $23/hour,
    • Two children: $25/hour,
    • Three children: $28/hour

We will begin offering Home-School Kits delivered to parents’ doorsteps filled with our signature STEM projects and activities. To receive updates about our Home-School Kits, visit: www.stembabysitting.com/homeschool

Health Precautions

We are ensuring the health and safety of every family we care for. Please view our COVID-19 Care Guide for more information. Our Nannies are:

  • Practicing social distancing.
  • Washing hands upon arrival and frequently throughout every
  • appointment.
  • Equipped with disinfectants approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as effective against the COVID-19 coronavirus and using these to sanitize personal and experiment materials.
  • In any instance that a caregiver feels ill, we require a doctor’s note of clearance to verify that they do not have COVID-19 coronavirus before returning to work

Other Schools and Daycares

Click2Houston has also compiled a large list of open daycares – see it here.

We have also heard that the following schools are continuing to operate, but we don’t have more detailed information at this time:

Kipling Street Academy | Montrose area | 713.529.4472

Christian School of Northwest Houston (Preschool and Elementary) | email Lucila at csnwh@sbcglobal.net

Montessori Preschool at Copperfield, Cypress Creek, and North Cypress | email Kevin at kevin@montessoricopperfield.com

Excelsior University for Children | Seabrook, TX | call the school at (281) 474-4788

If you have any detailed information on the above schools please let us know.

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Find careers you love after pausing for parenthood

Anna McKay - Parents Pivot

For all the moms out there, we would like to introduce our friend, Anna McKay, the Founder of Parents Pivot. She helps women find careers they love after pausing for parenthood.

If you’re a stay-at-home mom trying to re-enter the workforce, the odds are stacked against you … I’d like to change that.

After a decade in the corporate world, I began my coaching journey in 2008 helping others find careers they connected to and could excel at in addition to doing some leadership coaching. I moved to the Philippines and China on expat assignments with my husband, had 2 kids, and decided to focus on being a mom while coaching on the side. We moved to Houston in 2013. Over all these years, I met so many other parents, mostly women, who were transitioning from high-powered careers to expat spouse and/or mother. After “opting out” of the workforce for a few years to devote to their children, many of these women were now ready to get back to paid work but found that they felt lost, isolated, and didn’t know where to start.

That’s why I decided to start Parents Pivot, where we help parents find careers they love after a career pause. Through 1-on-1 coaching, the THRIVE return to work program for individuals, targeted workshops on resumes, LinkedIn, and salary negotiation, facilitation, return to work programs, placement services, and onboarding coaching we help stay-at-home-parents tackle a lot of those fears and anxieties and position themselves better for the current job market. It’s incredible to see our clients transform into confident women who are able to carve out a new identity for themselves as working moms. That makes it all worth it!

Our signature program is the THRIVE Like a Mother 4 part return to work program for individuals. You will build CONFIDENCE in your professional skills, find CLARITY around job options or what’s next, and build CONNECTIONS with a COMMUNITY of other parents returning to paid work. Learn more about THRIVE in person and online programs on my website.

If you want to stay updated with helpful tips for working parents and parents returning to paid work, receive discounts on our latest programs and online workshops, and start your journey back to paid work off on the right foot with the Ultimate Checklist for Moms Returning to Work, then sign up here and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Parents Pivot also has a membership page where you can fill out your job preferences and be contacted when we have job postings that fit your interests.

If you are an employer, then we can connect you to these talented parents, help you develop a return to work program, and provide onboarding or career transition coaching for employees returning to paid work. Click here to learn more.

We want to be the bridge for talented parents returning to paid work in Houston! We would love to have you as part of our community!

www.parentspivot.com

facebook: https://www.facebook.com/parentspivot/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/parentspivot

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parentspivot/

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Sunset Heights Art Studio Camps Nurture Students’ Creativity as Artists

Camppedia was founded by parents for parents, and one thing we have heard over and over again while talking to other parents was that they want to know more about the camps they are sending their kids to, and there isn’t a third-party rating system for camps. We took this request to heart and decided to interview representatives from as many camps as possible in the Houston area to learn more about the camps and start developing a rating system that parents could rely on.

Our goal with these interviews is to showcase the transformation of kids going through a camp’s program, as well as provide parents with extra information that isn’t always available on the camp’s website.

Students learn a variety of art techniques and develop new skills through hands-on learning experiences in an intimate, small-group setting at Sunset Heights Art Studio’s summer classes. The classes each run as five-day summer camp sessions, and topics vary each week and according to students’ age groups. During these sessions, students meet daily for two and a half hours and participate in a mix of indoor and outdoor activities.

Children from 6 to 8 years of age may choose from camps that explore nature, portraits, bugs and creepy crawlies, and art through literature. Activities for this age level include things such as exploring famous landscapes, sketching in an outdoor garden, molding animals out of clay, making collages, and exploring shapes and patterns.

Camps for children from 9 to 13 years of age feature drawing, using mixed media, color expression through painting, and elements of design. Activities for this age level include wet and dry drawing techniques, making handmade paper, learning color psychology in painting, and exploring the underlying structure of objects to use them in their artwork.

The structured curriculum focuses on building vocabulary, developing an art skill-set, and learning to appreciate drawing and painting. As students have fun creating art, they learn observational skills, critical thinking, and creative expression, and they improve their confidence in their abilities as they become more comfortable with painting and drawing. By the end of the camp, each student leaves with two or three pieces of finished art.

The art instructor and owner of the studio is an experienced, practicing artist and has taught students, from elementary to college, for 30 years, so you can be confident that your children are learning from a professional who is experienced in working with children and teens.

In addition to these weekday camps for children, the studio offers Saturday classes for teens and adults.

Unique things about Sunset Heights Art Studio camps include:

  • The camps are run by a highly skilled professional who is a practicing artist and educator with 30 years of experience who has had her work displayed in various galleries. She currently teaches at an Episcopal high school in the area, and she started these camps during the summer to encourage students who love art and want to be creators.
  • The 1:10 teacher-student ratio means that students learn in an intimate environment, which provides them with the attention and individualized instruction they need to develop their skills.
  • Students with disabilities or conditions, such as ADD, ADHD, autism, and learning disabilities are welcomed at these camps.
  • Students learn to tap into their creative genius as they develop their skills in a fun and structured learning environment.
  • At the end of the week, students participate in a fun paint-throwing activity. They throw paint onto a large canvas, and each student gets to take a piece of the finished product home with them.

Check out Sunset Heights Art Studio for more information.

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Children Learn How to Be Responsible Pet Owners at Houston Humane Society Camps

Camppedia was founded by parents for parents, and one thing we have heard over and over again while talking to other parents was that they want to know more about the camps they are sending their kids to, and there isn’t a third-party rating system for camps. We took this request to heart and decided to interview representatives from as many camps as possible in the Houston area to learn more about the camps and start developing a rating system that parents could rely on.

Our goal with these interviews is to showcase the transformation of kids going through a camp’s program, as well as provide parents with extra information that isn’t always available on the camp’s website.

Children who participate in the Houston Humane Society’s camps leave with a deeper appreciation for animals, greater empathy, knowledge of how to treat animals humanely and be a responsible pet owner. Children from the ages of 7 to 13 can choose from Companion Camps during the summer and a Winter Holiday Camp during students’ winter breaks from school.

The summer camps are one week long and run throughout the summer months. During this camp, children learn about animals through interactive show-and-tell sessions with expert guest speakers, observations, veterinarian lessons, crafts, and games, as well as hands-on interaction and free-play with the shelter animals for two hours each day. Topics and speakers change each week and may include therapy dogs, animal cruelty investigators, dog trainers, wildlife rescue, horses, or reptiles.

The structured curriculum is designed to provide children with opportunities to learn about, appreciate, and love animals. This includes outdoor games and activities in the morning and indoor games and activities in the afternoon. The two hours of play time are split up with one in the morning and the other in the afternoon, and they encourage children to learn how to interpret cues for animal body language. Children may choose to watch a spay or neuter surgery at the end of the week.

The Humane Society has offered summer camps for more than 20 years. According to the camp director, children often want to stay longer when their parents come to pick them up.

During the Winter Holiday Camp, children learn about animals, just as they do in the summer camp. The difference is that the Holiday Camp is one day shorter, and the children use some of that time to make holiday crafts. You can choose to sign your children up for all four days of the camp or individual days, so it is flexible enough to fit into busy holiday schedules.

Unique things about Houston Humane Society’s camps include:

  • There are multiple opportunities for learning through interactions with animal experts and hands-on play time with shelter animals.
  • Students may choose to watch an actual spray or neuter surgery.
  • In addition to summer camps, there are camps during winter breaks that offer flexibility to accommodate busy schedules.

Check out Humane Society’s camps on Camppedia or their website.