About Us

Science Smart Kids Inc. (Camp Captivate) grew organically from a backyard playgroup in 2008 at the home of Ildiko Stennis, who at the time was an at-home mom of 3 little ones (ages 4, 2 and 6 months). Ildiko wanted to create a “dream program” for her own kids. When her eldest son started kindergarten, she volunteered for one year bringing weekly hands-on science labs to the kindergarten class. Ildiko is credentialed in Physical Science and Math, and she taught junior high and high school for her career before starting the company. She fell in love with teaching science to younger kids. Eventually, the company expanded, first offering after school science programs at school sites and then shifting the focus to S.T.E.A.M. day camps. Ildiko’s teaching philosophy is that kids learn best when they are engaged in hands-on investigations and are encouraged to be creative thinkers. The company, which started in 2009, became incorporated (Science Smart Kids, Inc.) in 2018, and it has been steadily growing and expanding products to now include: summer S.T.E.A.M. day camps, after school enrichment classes, tutoring, corporate “take your kid to work day” events, birthday parties, and non profit events. Science Smart Kids Inc. stands out as a leader in S.T.E.A.M. education in the Bay Area.

Mission

• We inspire students in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (S.T.E.A.M) by fostering creativity and curiosity.
• Our passionate and qualified educators facilitate positive learning environments rich in hands-on activities and interpersonal relationships.
• Our innovative S.T.E.A.M. programming includes: summer day camps, enrichment classes, tutoring, corporate “Take your kid to work day” events, library workshops and birthday parties.