Frequently asked questions
Why choose Camp Brainiac?
At Camp Brainiac, we design camp with a focus on STEM. We ask parents to share more about their child's interests and learning habits before camp starts so we can make adjustments to our curriculum as needed so everyone gets the most out of Camp Brainiac. Our goal is that by engaging them in creative learning opportunities throughout the day, they’ll be so focused on the fun, they won’t even realize all the learning that is also happening!
Do you offer refunds if our plans changes?
We partner with schools, and parks and recreation program who often run registration on our behalf. Please check with them on their refund policy. When Camp Brainiac manages registration, we offer full refunds, less a $25 transaction fee through May 31 as long as we have a camper able to take your child’s place. Switching weeks or locations is okay as long as we have space.
What does a typical day look like?
8:30-9:00 Check in, get settled and start day.
9:00 Morning discussion of the theme and a group activity to get our brains and bodies warmed up.
9:45 Small group stations with grade level appropriate activities.
10:15 Snack & free time
10:45 Theme week workshop
11:30-12:30 Lunch and playtime outside
12:30 Special projects every day. Based on the theme, campers will take on challenges and projects to build or create something. They will use problem solving and team work skills to complete the project. One day might be an escape room challenge, and the next a science experiment or a cooking challenge, Everyday will be different and new.
2:30 Book talk & game choice time.
3:15 Free time
4:30 Camp day ends
I have more questions.
Please email campbrainiac@gmail.com if you still have questions.
What does my child need to bring to camp?
Just a few things!
Who is behind Camp Brainiac?
Andrea Hansen, a local mom in the Des Moines area, partnered with a teacher in 2018 to launch Camp Brainiac to help her own kids combat the summer backslide in learning. Since then more Iowa licensed teachers have become involved and today, Andrea handles the administrative details so camp teachers can focus entirely on creating a great curriculum each session. It's a great partnership. We introduce our teachers each summer over social media. You can follow us there!