ACE Academy presents:

2023 Summer Camps

Join our summer camps all season long at our Thornton Location.

Summer Camps Overview

 Join our 2023 Summer Camps for hands-on learning that will challenge, motivate, and excite your child!

Whether your child is an expert or a novice, there is something for everyone. Register by the week, or build a custom schedule with day passes!

Learn more about all summer camps below!

Schedule and Hours
June 12-16; June 26-30; July 10-14; July 24-28; Aug. 7-11
Camps are 5 days a week, except for the July 4 holiday. Single day passes available, starting at $75.
9:00 am – 3:00 pm: $295 per week
9:00 am – 5:30 pm: $375 per week

Program Description
This year’s theme: Build a New World.

Future Entrepreneurs, one LEGO project at a time.

Inspire your children to Build a New World by knowing the process of product design and launch using LEGOs to address business challenges in different STEAM arenas.

Project Objective: Students will be presented with two challenges a week. They will have to develop a prototype with LEGOs to address the challenge.

Grade K- 2 – Skills (Product development, STEAM, Computer Science and Storytelling)
• Learn how to analyze a real -life challenge and address it
• Create Design brief – Blueprints, specifications about a product
• Build the product using LEGOs
• Create a marketing pitch for the product – a 15 second pitch
• Ability to understand sequence, create a sequence and describe to peers
• Problem solving through breaking the problem into smaller parts
• Improve conversation skills
• Collaborate with teams

Grade 3- 5 – Skills ( Product development , STEAM, Computer Science) In addition to above mentioned skills:
• Build and code a working prototype
• Create a marketing pitch for the product (by either showcasing how the product works or creating a. short 30 seconds commercial)
• Force and Motion: Understanding of forces and motion , balanced and unbalanced force , predict future motion
• Energy: Understanding of energy, energy transfer and collision
• Designing, testing and troubleshooting

Each week we will look at what today’s leaders and heroes do and challenges they face in different STEAM areas. Students will get to know Entrepreneur Heroes through interesting films and build products using LEGOs to address weekly challenges.

This 5-day camp is a must for all LEGO® enthusiasts. Combining imagination with strategy, learning with play, children will be tasked to engineer a number of bold and innovative builds.
Children will develop fine motor skills and learn effective problem solving as they bring to life a variety of different designs and ideas. Every child attending will also get to take home their scrapbook of creations in their own Journal, containing the blueprints to all their designs and of their final builds .

Encourage your kids to find their passions and pursue them. Imagine the opportunities that will arise when they combine their passion, curiosity, and confidence. After all, modest changes might result in significant ones.

Schedule and Hours
Camps are 5 days a week, except for the July 4 holiday. Single day passes available, starting at $75.
9:00 am – 3:00 pm: $295 per week
9:00 am – 5:30 pm: $385 per week

Program Description
Camp topics vary by week!

Baking Cookies and Puddings
June 26-30; August 7-11
Campers will learn special techniques for baking, including how to cream butter and sugar, how to make different types of puddings, and how to use an oven safely and correctly. Recipes for the week include sprinkle cookies, arroz con leche, bread pudding, chia seed chocolate pudding, and s’mores cookies.

Baking Cakes
June 5-9; July 10-14; July 31-August4
Campers will learn how to construct a cake from start to finish! From sprinkles and decorations to delicious frosting, campers will practice everything to produce their mini three-layer cakes. Campers will start the week by practicing Rice Krispie treats for stovetop skills, then progress into cake-making: how to make sprinkles and special decorations, how to bake the sponge, how to make Swiss buttercream (with hot egg whites and sugar), and how to assemble and decorate a tiered cake.

A Taste of Italy
June 12-16; July 17-21
Campers will learn how to make Italian sauces, practice knife skills, and try flavors of Italy! Recipes for the week include baked ravioli, Caprese salad, spaghetti with meat sauce, tortellini with homemade alfredo sauce, and vanilla bean panna cotta with raspberry coulis.

Farm to Table
June 19-23; July 24-28
Campers will learn where food comes from and how to grow it. Using ingredients from the farmers market and local vendors, campers will produce recipes connected to our community. Our first day begins with a trip to Ardenwood Farm! Recipes for the week include fresh jam with biscuits, garden-fresh spring rolls, apple tarts, and flatbread pizzas.

Flavors Around the World
July 3-7*
Join us for a world tour! Campers will learn recipes from around the world and a variety of cooking and preparation techniques, such as rolling sushi, using a mandolin slicer, and more. Recipes for the week include crepes, fried rice, butter paneer and/or garlic naan, vegetarian (fishless) sushi, and poutine.

Schedule and Hours
June 5-9; June 19-23; July 17-21; July 31-Aug. 4
Camps are 5 days a week, except for the July 4 holiday. Single day passes available, starting at $75.
9:00 am – 3:00 pm: $295 per week
9:00 am – 5:30 pm: $375 per week

Program Description

An unforgettable adventure awaits! Campers will explore local trails, learn about wildlife and biology, and experience the magic of local ecology firsthand.

Having adventures in nature requires an understanding and respect for our environment. During our hikes, children will learn the basic rules of trail hiking while discovering wild life indigenous to our state. Our special proximity to Coyote Hills Regional Park gives children a chance to discover nature in their own “backyard.”

Ultimately, campers will practice awareness of their surroundings as they grow to be independent, responsible hikers, being safe and having fun in nature.

Schedule and Hours
Camps are 5 days a week, except for the July 4 holiday. Please note that no single day passes are available for the Filmmaking camps, due to the week-long nature of the projects.
9:00 am – 3:00 pm: $295 per week
9:00 am – 5:30 pm: $375 per week

Program Description
Topics vary by week! Explore more below.

Storytelling: Short Films
June 5-9; July 31-August 4
Come join us for adventures in Filmmaking!

Once upon a time, in a small town nestled in the mountains, a group of children gathered for a summer camp focused on short films. The camp was run by a local filmmaker named Leon who was passionate about teaching young people the art of storytelling through film.

On the first day of camp, Leon introduced herself to the group and asked each of them to share their names and something they were excited to learn during the camp. The children were a mix of ages and backgrounds, but they all shared a love for movies and storytelling.

Over the next few days, the campers learned about the basics of filmmaking: how to write a script, use a camera, and edit footage. Leon taught them about different genres of film, from comedy to drama to horror, and encouraged them to experiment with their own ideas.

The children were divided into small groups, and each group was tasked with creating a short film that would be screened at the end of the week. They worked tirelessly, spending long hours filming and editing their projects.

As the end of the week drew near, the campers began to feel nervous about the screening. They worried that their films wouldn’t be good enough, or that no one would want to watch them.

But when the night of the screening arrived, the campers were pleasantly surprised. The theater was packed with parents, friends, and community members, all eager to see what the young filmmakers had created.

One by one, the short films were shown on the big screen. There were stories about time travel, aliens, and even a musical about a magical forest. Each film was unique and creative, and the audience was amazed by the talent and imagination of the young filmmakers.

After the screening, the campers received a standing ovation. Leon beamed with pride, and the children felt a sense of accomplishment that they would never forget. They had learned not just about filmmaking, but about the power of storytelling and the importance of sharing their own unique voices with the world.

From that day on, the children who attended the short films summer camp continued to explore their passion for storytelling, and many of them went on to become successful filmmakers in their own right. And Leon continued to run the camp every summer, inspiring a new generation of young storytellers to find their voice through film.

Let your child experience the joy of expressing themselves through camera and stories!
Day 1: Scripting writing (for children between 6-8 years old, either a written script will be given to them or a instructor will help them write)
Day 2: Storyboarding
Day 3: Camera and Sound
Day 4: Shoot and Edit
Day 5: Show case your film!

YouTube Vlog
June 19-23
Campers will learn how to produce a YouTube vlog! First, they will explore the different styles of YouTube vlogs, and learn how to structure a YouTube vlog from concept to resolution. They will visually design their vlog themes and ideas using camera, colors and lighting. Finally, they will record voice-over, and use editing software to merge together their captured footage, the voice-over and different sound effects, producing a final 1-3 minute YouTube vlog.

Filmmaking: Title Sequences
July 3-7*
In this camp, kids will learn how to create eye-catching and dynamic title sequences that will capture their audience’s attention right from the start. We’ll cover the fundamentals of typography and design, as well as explore various techniques for animation and visual effects. Throughout the week, campers will work on a project of their own choosing, such as a short film or music video, and apply what they learn to create a title sequence that complements their project’s theme and style. By the end of the week, they’ll have a strong understanding of the software and tools used to create title sequences, as well as the creative skills needed to design and animate a compelling title sequence from scratch.

Topics covered may include:

  • The importance of typography and design in title sequences
  • How to use software such as Adobe After Effects
  • Techniques for animating text and creating visual effects
  • Creating custom transitions and overlays
  • Designing titles that match the theme and style of your project

Create a Podcast
July 17-21
Campers will learn the basics of podcasting, including how to develop a concept, write and record scripts, edit and mix audio, and publish their content online. They will work with experienced podcasters who will offer guidance and feedback as they develop their skills.

In addition to learning the technical aspects of podcasting, they will also explore the creative side of storytelling, developing their own unique voice and perspective. They will learn how to structure a compelling narrative, how to conduct interviews, and how to use sound and music to enhance their stories.

We believe that podcasting is a powerful medium for sharing stories and ideas, and we’re committed to helping each camper find their voice as a storyteller. Whether they’re interested in news, culture, entertainment, or something else entirely, this camp will give them the tools and skills to create engaging and thought-provoking content.

Schedule and Hours
Camps are 5 days a week, except for the July 4 holiday. Single day passes available, starting at $75.
9:00 am – 3:00 pm: $295 per week
9:00 am – 5:30 pm: $375 per week

Program Description
At Sports Camp, children will have the opportunity to work with experienced coaches who will help them develop techniques, strategies, and teamwork skills in both soccer and basketball. They’ll learn the fundamentals of dribbling, passing, shooting, and defending in soccer, as well as the basic rules and strategies of basketball.

In addition to training and skill-building, they’ll also have the chance to play games and matches against other campers, putting their new skills into practice in a competitive setting. They’ll work with their teammates to develop effective game plans and strategies, and learn how to communicate effectively on the field or court.

We believe that sports are about more than just winning or losing. They’re about building confidence, developing leadership skills, and fostering a sense of teamwork and camaraderie. So come join us this summer and let’s work together to become better athletes and teammates!

Note: These group sessions, mainly geared towards beginners, are focused on exposing campers to these two sports and will hopefully instill a love (or at least a curiosity!) for both. Since each week of camp is a separate session, with a mix of new and returning campers, these lessons will focus on new skills and fun, but will not progress strongly in level over the course of the weeks. Lessons will incorporate as much variety as possible – ensuring that all campers remain engaged – whether they are at camp for one week or for the full summer. When possible, campers will be broken into smaller groups for more individual attention.

Schedule and Hours
June 12-16; June 26-30; July 10-14; July 24-28
Camps are 5 days a week, except for the July 4 holiday. Single day passes available, starting at $75.
9:00 am – 3:00 pm: $295 per week
9:00 am – 5:30 pm: $385 per week

Program Description
If your child is interested in working with clay and wants to explore the art of handbuilding, this camp is perfect for them!

Campers will learn the basics of working with clay, including techniques for shaping, molding, and sculpting. They’ll also learn about different types of glazes and and how to use them to achieve different effects and finishes.

In addition to honing their technical skills, they will explore their creativity and express themselves through art. They’ll work on a variety of projects, ranging from functional pieces like cups and bowls to decorative sculptures and figurines.

We believe that art is a powerful tool for self-expression and personal growth. We’re committed to creating a supportive and inspiring environment where campers can explore their creativity and develop their skills.

Projects will include coiled and pinched pots, sculpted planters, quilted trays, and textured vases.

Schedule and Hours
Camps are 5 days a week, except for the July 4 holiday. Single day passes available, starting at $75.
9:00 am – 3:00 pm: $295 per week
9:00 am – 5:30 pm: $375 per week

Program Description
Camps vary by week! Explore more below.

Improv
July 17-21
Campers will learn the fundamentals of improv comedy, including character development, scene work, and how to think on your feet. They’ll also get the chance to collaborate and work together to create hilarious and entertaining sketches. Our experienced instructors will guide you through a variety of games and exercises designed to build your confidence and help you develop your comedic instincts. You’ll also have the opportunity to perform in front of your peers and receive feedback to help you improve your skills.

At this camp, we believe that laughter is the best medicine, and we’re committed to creating a fun and supportive environment for everyone. So get ready to laugh, learn, and make some great memories!

Monologue
July 31-August 4
If your child has a passion for acting and wants to develop their skills in creating captivating monologues, this is the camp for them! Campers will work with experienced instructors who will guide them through the process of developing and refining their monologue performances. They’ll learn how to analyze scripts, build characters, and create emotional depth and connection with your audience.

In addition to honing their acting skills, they will collaborate with other campers and build lasting connections with like-minded individuals. They will receive feedback on their performances from their peers and instructors, and have the opportunity to watch and learn from other talented actors.

We believe that every individual has a unique voice and perspective, and we’re committed to helping your camper find theirs. Whether they’re a beginner or an experienced actor, this camp will challenge them to push their limits and take their skills to the next level.

Why Choose ACE Academy's Summer Camps?

Conveniently located in Newark, CA, we are proud to serve the children of the East Bay. Our calendar aligns with the NUSD and FUSD school districts, but our curriculum goes above and beyond! Kids at ACE Academy Summer Camps love exploring topics and activities that are outside their day-to-day experience.

Looking for other opportunities?

Browse the rest of our suite of K-6 offerings, including ACE Academy After School Care and ACE Academy Tutoring. For the younger crowd, we offer a Montessori toddler program, Little Scholar Preschool, and Flex PlayCare passes!