Young Earth Scientists Workshop

Leapstart's Young Earth Scientists Workshop is a hands-on S.T.E.A.M camp for curious explorers ages 4.5–11, designed with age-appropriate activities and guided participation. This camp invites children to investigate how our planet works—from weather and water to soil, energy, and natural forces—through experiments, models, and creative challenges.
Campers step into the role of young scientists as they observe, test, build, and experiment. Each day focuses on real-world Earth systems, helping children understand how scientists study and protect our environment.
What Campers Will Explore
Tornado in a Bottle
- Create a spinning vortex and learn how air pressure and motion create tornadoes.
Cookie Mining Challenge
- Mine "resources" using tools while learning about geology, land use, and responsible extraction.
Edible Soil Layers
- Build and taste soil horizons while learning what makes healthy ground.
Oil Spill Cleanup Lab
- Test different materials and methods to clean up an oil spill and protect wildlife.
Cloud in a Jar
- Make a cloud and explore condensation, air pressure, and weather formation.
DIY Water Filtration System
- Design a working filter and learn how clean water solutions are created.
Sedimentary Rock Sand Art
- Create layered rock formations and understand how rocks form over time.
Water Wheel & Wind Power Models
- Build simple models to explore energy, motion, and renewable power.
The Water Cycle in Action
- Bring evaporation, condensation, and precipitation to life through interactive models.
Activities are collaborative, tactile, and engaging—encouraging curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Campers learn not just what happens on Earth, but why it matters.
Why This Camp Stands Out
- Strong S.T.E.A.M alignment
- Real-world environmental relevance
- Highly hands-on (less lecture, more doing)
- Clear progression from weather → water → earth → energy
Young Earth Scientists Workshop helps children see the planet as a living system—and themselves as capable explorers who can understand and care for it.