About

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We’re here to support families during the challenges of COVID-19, by providing both virtual camp options and socially-distanced, in-person (outdoors) options. We trust that families know what’s best for their kids, and we can help foster scientific inquiry, creative exploration and a sense of community in our campers.

Mission

The mission of Camp Captivate, a program of Science Smart Kids Inc., is to provide quality, hands-on, differentiated S.T.E.A.M. summer day camps that engage children ages 5-13. We foster a positive and nurturing learning environment facilitated by exceptional teachers and staff, the use of quality materials, and the development of 21st century skills.

With S.T.E.A.M. education, we thoughtfully weave together elements of science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics. Our programs include “Camp Captivate” summer day camps, workshops, and corporate “take your kid to work day” events. Hands-on learning is the core of our programing, and we are passionate about igniting the fire of curiosity and creativity in children.

We are proud to be a sponsor of the 2021 Santa Clara Unified (SCUSD) STEAM EXPO and a corporate partner with San Jose Public Libraries (SJPL) and Innovate Public Schools (IPS).

Vision

The vision of Camp Captivate is to provide an exceptional S.T.E.A.M. educational experience. We nurture the “whole child” and provide stimulating and diverse activities to keep kids “captivated.”

Summer Camps

We offer small, intimate camps facilitated by experienced teachers who are passionate about hands-on, project-based learning. We offer 3 summer programs to meet the needs of every age and interest. Our most popular program is the S.T.E.A.M. program and we have added a new S.T.E.A.M. Plus Program for middle schoolers.

Enrichment

We offer enrichment classes for preschool through middle school-aged children. Our dedicated teachers offer interactive and intimate classes where students have a voice, are doing hands-on learning, and are having fun.

Corporate

We have over 85 workshops for kids for “Take your kid to work day” (TYKTWD) or Family Day. Contact us for pricing and workshop descriptions. Workshops serve students ranging from Preschool age to high school. Corporate events can be virtual or in person.

History

The concept for Science Smart Kids and Camp Captivate grew out of a backyard playgroup at the home of Ildiko Stennis, who at the time was an at-home mom and former Science and Math teacher. 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 has been steadily growing since 2009 and offers a variety of programs for children. In addition to summer camps, we have done contract work for the S.E.A.L Grant and Innovate Public Schools both of which are funded by the non-profit Sobrato Family Foundation. The company became incorporated (Science Smart Kids, Inc.) in 2018.

Recognition

2020 Bay Area Summer Camps – Virtual and In-Person
During these unsettled times, when parents are already juggling work and homeschooling, it’s tough to know what will happen this summer. Is summer camp even possible? Some camps have pivoted and are putting their summer programs online.

Peterson Middle School Hosts Pilot Contest for Marketing District’s STEAM Expo
Camp Captivate’s Founder and Director Ildiko Stennis, Science Teacher at Peterson Middle School, discusses Santa Clara Unified School District’s STEAM Expo, and the innovative student competition to create a commercial to be used throughout the district to market the event.

Peterson Middle School’s Bryan Osborne Nature Area Celebrates 50th Anniversary
Camp Captivate’s Founder and Director Ildiko Stennis, Science Teacher at Peterson Middle School, explains the history of the Nature Area.

Pac-12 and CFP Foundation’s Extra Yard for Teachers award over $36,000 to 12 teachers across San Jose area
Leading up to the Pac-12’s sixth-consecutive football championship game at Levi’s® Stadium on December 6, 2019, the Conference and mascots from all 12 universities surprised 12 deserving teachers throughout the San Jose area with awards — including Camp Captivate’s Founder and Director Ildiko Stennis!